FROM HAVANA,WITH LOVE — LIFE WITH DANI

Cuba has always been on my bucket list for a few reasons; the people, the food, the music and the beautiful juxtaposition of merging the old and the new.

My journey began as I grew frustrated with various group trips and wanted to explore cities on my own time and at my own pace. This was my first solo trip and admittedly I was scared! I started to think about what city/country I could visit for a weekend that was safe for women, affordable and full of character. Cuba came to mind and after a little hesitation, I bought the ticket on American Airlines.

A few days passed and it finally hit me...I was going to Cuba! Alone! I started researching activities, accommodations and what to eat and drink *wink*. Most of my inspo and ideas came from the Black Travel Movement page on Facebook. I definitely recommend this page and searching the Havana and Viñales Valley hashtags on Instagram.

Here are a few things I did in Cuba and a few tips I found useful during my vacation:

Day 1 -

A Cooking Class in Havana - This was such an amazing experience! I had a great time preparing beans, pork, tostones and mojitos. The class was very interactive and I got the opportunity to practice my Spanish and learn more about the Cuban culture. Later in the evening, I went to Fabrica de Arte which is a museum that plays music, has live bands and alcohol at night.

Here’s the link to the cooking class : https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/98628

Day 2 -

A Horseback Riding Tour in the Viñales Valley - I got to Viñales by taking a Taxi Colectivo from Havana for $25USD. These taxis usually leave at about 8:30 am after picking up enough passengers which depends on the size of the car. The tour included a stop at a local tobacco farm and samples of a cuban cigar, rum and coffee. I spent the night in an Airbnb where the host, Daynelis and her husband were so welcoming and made really delicious meals! I would definitely recommend staying there if you have a group of 4 or less.

Here are the links to the tour & the Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/20904906

https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/147789

Day 3 -

A Photo Tour in Havana - The photographer and the group roamed the streets of new & old Havana, met locals and drove around the Malecon in a classic car. This was my first photo tour and they’ve become somewhat of a staple since then, it’s like the best of both worlds! After the tour, the guide took us for drinks at The Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski Hotel which was gorgeous and had the most handsome bartender I’ve ever seen.

Link to the photo tour : https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/78119

Quick Tips -

1. Think about your Budget - In total I spent $740 on my trip for 3 days/ 2 nights. This included accommodation, activities, food, the flight from Dallas, taxis and souvenirs. A travel visa is required to enter Cuba which was an additional $85 through American Airlines and I traveled under the “Support for the Cuban People” category. If you’re coming from the US, consider changing Dollars to Euros before converting to CUC as the rates are better.

2. Traveling Solo - To be completely honest, my biggest fear was not safety but having to meet people and spark conversations. I am the furthest from what you would call a social butterfly. You know that one weirdo who would sit in a corner and not say anything unless someone said something first? Yeah, that’s me. This trip really pushed me to be more outgoing and engage with others; whether it was the people I shared cabs with or the other folks on the tours I took. I really surprised myself to be honest! Your girl was out here making friends and ish. #NewCountryWhoDis? As it concerns safety, be cognizant of your surroundings and let someone know where you’re going and when you get there. I asked my Airbnb hosts to organize my transportation so it was someone they knew and trusted. Don’t be nervous, I promise it will be easier and more exhilarating than you’ve ever imagined.

3. Aprender algunas palabras y frases básicas en Español - Learn some basic Spanish words and phrases. Even if you’re struggling, people will be more inclined to help and are more friendly if they see that you’re trying to immerse yourself in the culture. Download the Google Translate App.

4. Take A Good Book - Internet access in Cuba is very limited, you have to buy a WiFi card for $2/1 hr to connect and some Airbnbs do not have WiFi available. Reading is a good way to pass time especially before bed, since you’re probably used to scrolling on the gram until you fall asleep. My suggestion; We’re Gonna Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union - hella funny, hella serious when the situation calls for it and hella relatable…well... except for, you know, Gabrielle being a millionaire, an actress and married to Dywane Wade…so relatable-ish.

5. Soak Up The Culture - Cuba is a unique country filled with so much history - classic cars and buildings, some of the most hospitable people, delicious food and the best mojitos ever. #yum. To reiterate my point above; use this as an opportunity to disconnect, unwind, and enjoy the moment.

6. Take Pics - I love taking pictures & there’s something about scrolling through your camera roll and reminiscing on the time you rode a horse in Cuba, learned to cook a cuban meal, smoked a real cuban cigar and walked the streets of Havana. You can also share with friends and family to inspire them to travel and experience it for themselves.

What I Wore:

Day 1 - Dress : https://www.amazon.com/Floral-Shoulder-Bodycon-Evening-X-Large/dp/B01LL152CM/ref=sr_1_4

Day 2 - Something I whipped up from my closet!

Day 3 - Dress : https://www.amazon.com/Milumia-Womens-Contrast-Ruffle-Crochet/dp/B07G74JSJ2/ref=sr_1_1

My shoes were from Amazon as well but they’re currently unavailable.

Cuba was everything I hoped it would be and a little bit more. I would love to share additional details if you’re interested so please reach out!

Until the next journey...¡Viva la Cuba!