Are you the traveler who travels to historic towns to see how things were in the past and learn about the history? Well when you visit Havana you will literally feel as if you have gone back in time and actually living in that past era.
Upon visiting the Cuban capital you feel that the city came to a stop in the 1950's, the buildings, cars, and old machinery are all artifacts of the past era.
Many Cubans living in cramped poorly maintained housing, but despite the poverty, the visitor will not see anyone starving or wearing rags, this can be observed during a brisk walk (during the day because at night can be dangerous!) in Central Havana.
When the revolution swept the country in 1959, the wealthier stayed in their homes which many of them turned them into guesthouses, known in Cuba as "private houses." These houses are a cheaper option of housing for tourists not looking for luxury or backpackers.
The warm Caribbean weather is present throughout the year; take time to visit the museums of the city, which despite having a median infrastructure and often far from nationalist point of view is a great opportunity to unravel some of the historical sites of the island. Visit the Plaza de Armas, where, besides being able to browse and buy used books; a conversation with the seller can give you a lot of information about the local culture and current political situation in Cuba.
To better understand how the island's communist system, it's also worth asking the Cubans themselves: they will love to explain. The generally older folks, who witnessed the Revolution, are the ones who advocate communism.
Exercise caution when shipping and paying for goods/services. Don't be fooled by the Cubans who make up the costs of services according to what they think you are able to pay. Try to negotiate everything.
Women traveling alone or in groups of women should be prepared to receive an array of compliments and looks from the local men. Cubans never lose the opportunity of approaching tourists.
If you have a few days in city visit the Plaza de la Revolucion, where it is impossible not to feel the strong power of the communist revolution on the island. The square is home to a tower of 129 feet at its center and where you have the best view of the building of the Interior Ministry, with a gigantic picture of the Argentine leader Che Guevara and the phrase "Hasta la Victoria Siempre".
Do not leave Havana without attending a performance of dance or music at the Gran Teatro de la Habana. The traditional Cuban jazz is also a must. The Cubans have a passion for art is infectious and these shows human beauty is unforgettable.
Book a full day to get lost in the streets of Old Havana, an ice cream sitting on the park bench and walk along the Malecon at sunset. After all, the main attraction of Havana is the city itself. Take time to talk to Cubans, learn, discuss communist politics, put aside prejudices and simply live it all.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
