Cuba In 5

Day 1

Arrivals: The Cuban airport has 3 terminals. Like many U.S. airports the terminals are far apart. But you won’t find any plane trains here! So, if you are planning to meet people arriving from different cities, make sure you know ahead of time the terminal where they will be landing. It’s an approximately 15-minute taxi ride between each terminal.

Exploration: Take Day 1 to get acquainted to the neighborhood where you are staying. Our group stayed at an Airbnb in the Vedado area right on the waterfront. Once all 10 of us arrived. We walked around our neighborhood, ate at a nearby restaurant and then enjoyed rooftop music, dancing and of course mojitos at Hotel Capris.

Day 2

Breakfast: Since we opted for an Airbnb instead of a hotel, we were able to get homemade breakfast for 5 CUCs per person. Many Air BnB hosts offer this. It was a light meal consisting of eggs, bread, fruit, smoothies and coffee.

Old Havana Bike Tour: Whew! Let me say that again. Whewwwwwww!! This bike tour was tough. Amazing, but tough. The four hour expedition took us from Old Havana to the Christ Redeemer statue (400 meters all up hill, yikes!). While I would likely cut this tour short if

I participated again (not happening lol) I don’t regret it. You get to see so much and really feel the energy of the city and its people. The bike tour took up the entirety of our day but here are some other activities to consider if you have the time.

Dinner: We started with drinks at the world famous Flordita. Limon daquari anyone? The drinks were tasty and strong but take note, if you’re arriving late, like we did, some ingredients will have run out. They were out of mint for mojitos and many options including lamb on the menu. Still, the amazing band and raucous crowd made up for any missing food items.

Dancing: After Flordita we made our way over to the Monserrate Bar. It was in walking distance and offered a band that had every person in our group up on their feet. In fact, they were so good, we went back a second night to see them. Food here was so-so but the drinks were spectacular, strong and like most places in Cuba cheap!

Day 3

Rise and Shine: With the help of our Airbnb host we were able to book transportation to and from Vinales, Cuba for 20 Cucs per person. Pick up was 8 a.m.

Let’s Ride: Our transportation was by way of a historic car. It held eight people with three people per row and reports from the backseat were that it was not comfortable! It’s a 2 hour trip so prepare yourself mentally especially if your car isn’t the comfiest. We stopped twice before our official first destination. First, at a roadside cafe for a little breakfast that was underwhelming. Second at Hotel Los Jazmines (Km 25, Carretera a Vinales, Vinales 22400, Cuba) for a spectacular view, the best pina colada I’ve ever tasted (like seriously, and only 3 CUCs!) and a lackluster grilled chicken sandwich.

Tobacco Farm: This family run farm makes hand rolled organic cigars. They provide a short tour, a rolling lesson and give each guest one honey dipped cigar to smoke. You can purchase your own in increments of 10, 15, 20 etc. The cigars start at 20 CUCs for 10.

Horseback Riding: We mounted our horses at the farm for a ride through the countryside. We stopped at another farm that produces honey, coffee and rum. There we got a tasting of all three and were able to purchase any of the items we chose. There’s no water there so bring your own but they do provide small glasses of juice with or with out alcohol for 4 CUCs.

Caves: Our last stop was a tour of Cueva del Indio which ended with a boat ride. I would say it was the least impressive part of the trip but it only cost us 5 CUCs so no real complaints here.

Dinner: Once back in Havana, we got gussied up and headed to dinner at the gorgeous Paladar La Guarida (our cover shot was taken on the famous steps that lead up to the restaurant). Try to get a seat on the patio. Menu recommendations include the Ropa Vieja, Sweet Plantains, and the best Yucca I’ve had in my life!

Day 4

Rise and Shine: This was our earliest wake up. We had to be in the lobby of Hotel Capri by 6:15 a.m. A air-conditioned bus (hallelujah) picked us up for the 2 hour drive to Varadero.

Life’s a beach baby: For 74 CUCs we got transportation and about 7 hours to a Resort in Varadero. The all-inclusive destination provided all you can eat and drink along one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Dinner: Once back in Havana our group split up. Some opting for a quieter night in the neighborhood. Others decided to head back to Monserrate Bar to hear our new favorite band. We then strolled over to Cha Cha Cha’s for a late night bite to eat.

Day 5

Departures: Some in our group had later departures and opted to visit Old Havana one last time to catch up on anything they missed. The Airbnb arranged for a taxi to pick others up for 30 CUCs. I suggest finding your own if you are near a busy street. You’ll probably get a better rate and a larger car.

Airport: Arrive 3 hours early. Seriously. There are no self service kiosks and lines are long. You have to check in your bag and go through customs and security. If you have any cucs left spend them at the airport on some small souvenirs. The money is no good once you return to the U.S.

Final Words Cuba will be unlike anywhere you've ever been. Free Wifi? What's that?! Use your trip as an opportunity to unplug and unwind. Be appreciative of the people, the culture and the wonderful country!