Around the World in Reality: Havana, Cuba

It has been an eventful year of travel for the Priests, and our adventures are just beginning. Among the destinations on my long-awaited list was a place that held a special significance: Cuba. This particular trip held even greater significance as it marked the first time I embarked on a journey with my mom as an adult. Throughout my upbringing, I observed the unwavering support my grandma and mom extended to others, instilling in me a deep-rooted desire to do the same. It became a part of who I am. Thus, when researching potential destinations for our trip, I discovered that visiting Cuba and supporting its people aligned perfectly with my values. With this realization, I knew that Cuba would be the ideal destination for my mom and me, and I couldn’t have been more right.

Day 1 – Friday, May 12

HIGHLIGHTS: Habana Blues

Our adventure began bright and early on Friday morning as we made our way to the airport. Filled with excitement for our first mother-daughter adventure, we embarked on a journey to the beautiful island of Cuba. The flight from ATL to MIA was smooth and pleasant, and during our layover in the Delta Sky Lounge, we treated ourselves to delicious snacks and refreshing drinks. Boarding our second flight to Havana, we were delighted once again to find that we had been upgraded to first class for the short 55-minute journey. I must say, my Platinum Medallion status is truly proving its worth this year.

Upon our arrival at Jose Marti International Airport, our driver greeted us warmly and pointed out notable sights along the way as we made our journey to Vedado, a vibrant neighborhood in Havana. Our chosen accommodation for the trip was a charming casa particular, where our amazing host family welcomed us with open arms. Settling into our newfound home away from home for the next couple of days, we took a moment to freshen up before embarking on our first highlight of the trip: dinner at Habana Blues.

As the sun began its descent, we found ourselves stepping into Habana Blues, a lively restaurant adorned with beautiful decorations and staffed by entertainers who skillfully balanced their roles as servers. We were directed to a unique back room that had a distinct aesthetic, reminiscent of a cave, and showcased a large fish tank brimming with colorful fish.

For dinner, I opted for the fish with lemon salsa (8) accompanied by a serving of delectable rice and beans (10). While the fish was good, it was the outstanding seasoning and delightful flavors of the rice and beans that truly impressed me. As we savored our meal, soulful melodies filled the air, providing the perfect soundtrack to our evening. It was a captivating introduction to the vibrant energy that permeates Havana.

Day 2 – Saturday, May 13

HIGHLIGHTS: Art Class, 5 Sentidos, Cigar Class and Virgo Cafe

Eager to delve further into Cuba’s rich artistic and culinary heritage, we began the day with a hearty breakfast at our casa particular. The meal was not only filled with amazing conversation but also provided us with a deeper understanding of life in Cuba.

With our bellies full, we decided to take the scenic route and walked along the Malecon toward Old Havana. Yes, we chose to walk, even though it was a good two-mile stretch. It was a healthy choice that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the surroundings.

After our leisurely stroll, we found ourselves at La Ubre, an art studio run by two incredible artists who not only created their own works but also taught classes to share their artistic expertise. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to learn from these talented local artists and express my own creativity by crafting a piece that I could bring back home with me.

Following our art-filled morning, we headed to 5 Sentidos for lunch. The culinary experience at 5 Sentidos left us in awe of Cuba’s food culture. After conversing with our waitress, I decided to try the citric red snapper (10), and it turned out to be an excellent choice. The dish was incredibly fresh and cooked to perfection. For dessert, I indulged in a lemon cream (7.5) that brought back memories of my grandmother’s lemon pie. It was a delightful treat and the perfect size to satisfy my sweet tooth.

The day continued with a fascinating cigar class at Cigars Rum Coffee: The Cuban Trilogy. We delved into the intricate process of cigar making, learning about everything from the cultivation of tobacco leaves to the art of rolling the perfect cigar. Additionally, we gained practical knowledge on how to appreciate rum and coffee in tandem with cigar tasting. This newfound knowledge deepened our appreciation for this iconic Cuban tradition.

Since my mom wasn’t particularly hungry, I decided to stay at the cafe and have a snack. Although I initially wanted the tuna, they were unfortunately out of stock, so I settled for a cheese sandwich (6) and fries. While it wasn’t anything extraordinary, it provided just enough to round off the day.

Day 3 – Sunday, May 14

HIGHLIGHTS: New Havana and Old Havana Tour, Salsa Lessons, Los Mercaderes, Cocktail Class and Cafe Laurent

Sunday marked Mother’s Day in both the US and Cuba. In our research on Cuba and our exploration of ways to support the Cuban people, we were diligent in bringing items with us to provide assistance to those in need. During our conversation with our host family that morning, we inquired if there was a specific place where we could donate these items. Our host family gladly accepted them, expressing gratitude for what I considered a small gesture. It was a moment of appreciation that will forever remain with me.

Following another delightful breakfast at our casa particular, we were greeted by our tour guides in a beautiful red 1950s Chevy convertible. Our tour commenced with a leisurely drive through Vedado and Centro, allowing us to marvel at the captivating blend of Spanish colonial and Caribbean influences that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Eventually, we arrived in Old Havana, where our tour continued on foot. It was during this portion of the day that we truly immersed ourselves in Cuban history and culture, gaining a deeper understanding. It was a fantastic start to the day.

To fully embrace the vibrant Cuban culture, we then proceeded to salsa lessons. With a passionate instructor guiding our every step, we learned the fundamental movements of salsa and put them into practice. This was my second salsa lesson, and I felt a significant breakthrough during this session. Our instructor was an exceptional teacher, and I eagerly anticipate applying my newfound skills in the future. It was an incredible experience.

Lunchtime led us to Los Mercaderes, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of Old Havana. Here, we indulged in the flavors of authentic Cuban cuisine while immersing ourselves in the lively ambiance of the surrounding streets. I opted for the lobster with mango salsa (8), which was not only a generous portion but full of delicious flavors. I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

As the afternoon unfolded, we ventured into a delightful cocktail class, immersing ourselves in the art of crafting traditional Cuban cocktails. Our mixologist demonstrated his recipes and provided each of us with the opportunity to try our hand at mixing behind the counter. We created and savored iconic drinks such as the canchanchara and daiquiri. For my final cocktail, I chose the caipirissima, as I have always had a fondness for caipirinhas, while my fellow classmates opted for mojitos. It was an educational and flavorful journey into the world of Cuban mixology.

For dinner, my mother was still full from the day’s activities, so I embarked on a solo adventure to find a place to dine. I stumbled upon Cafe Laurent, which offered a rooftop with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Basking in the warm sun, I treated myself to a mojito, since I didn’t try it during our class, and enjoyed a delectable octopus dish (9) for dinner. The rooftop wasn’t crowded, allowing me the opportunity to engage in conversations with the server. I cherish these moments as they provide insights into a place in a way that nothing else can. After dinner, I made my way back to the casa and called it a night. It was the perfect way to conclude the last full day in Havana.

Day 4 – Monday, May 15

On the last day of our visit, we bid farewell to our gracious hosts and made our way to Jose Marti International Airport.

As we boarded our flight back home, we carried with us cherished memories of vibrant streets, passionate music, delectable cuisine, and the warm spirit of the Cuban people. Our trip to Cuba was an unforgettable journey into a world steeped in history, art, and culture.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on our adventures, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this opportunity. Cuba holds a special place in my heart, leaving an unforgettable mark on me. The Cuban people we had the privilege to interact with were bursting with life, love, and gratitude in a way I had never experienced before. They taught me to pause and appreciate the blessings and opportunities I have been given. With that in mind, I encourage you to do the same.