Cuba. Famous sights and hidden corners

We arrive in Havana and check into a home hotel. We rest, talk to our friendly hosts and begin to get acquainted with Cuban cuisine. In the morning we go for a walk in old Havana. This is the oldest quarter of the city, built in 1519 by the Spanish colonialists. Nothing remains since that time, as in 1555 French pirates captured and burned Havana. But buildings that are several hundred years old are not uncommon in the Cuban capital! 

We will walk along the streets between colorful houses, and then rent bright retro cars and drive along the picturesque seafront. We will park at the Capitol and explore this grand palace where the government of the country was located before the revolution of 1959. Next we head to the colonial fort built by the Spaniards in the 18th century and walk along the Revolution Square. This is the place where all the most important events of the country take place, for example, Fidel Castro always gave his famously long speaches here. 

Last but not least - tasting of local coffee, rum and mojito. These drinks flow like water in every cafe and bar! And lots of music - from performances in every cafe to improvised concerts of street musicians. We will try to learn a few steps of the most popular local dances - bachata and salsa. Cubans are knows as the best dancers, but they are also great dance teachers! Fans of Ernest Hemingway will be happy to visit his favourite places in Havana. 

In the morning we go to the town of Vinales (about three hours by rented transport). It is located near the valley of the same name, which is considered the most picturesque place of the island and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here karst rocks rise above the bright fields and jungles, and the locals in the villages grow tobacco, keep cattle and lead a very traditional life, preserving their traditions and culture. We will enjoy a traditional dinner of local fish and lobsters. Delicious!

We will visit the tobacco plantations and cigar factory and see all stages of production of the world famous Cuban cigars. You can also try to roll your own cigar! 

Next day we explore the valley, visiting small traditional villages and farms. This is very different, non-touristic Cuba, where life flows slowly, like a local river