During your trip to Cuba, there are a number of things you can do to experience the culture of the island. You can take a tour of the National Capitol Building, learn about the Salsa dance, visit the Vinales Valley, or spend time in the famous Hemingway House.
Salsabor dance school
EFCH is the place to go for a one on one lesson in the nuances of Cuban dance. They have a well rounded staff and significant number of collaborators. There are many reasons to choose EFCH over any of the other salsa clad clubs in town.
While most dance schools have a standard tuition fee, there are some special deals aplenty. The cheapest lesson in the biz goes for just under a hundred dollars. The school also makes its presence known by organizing fun and games, including a weekly dance night out. The student body is comprised of a who's who of Havana's movers and shakers.
National Capitol Building
Among the many buildings in the Cuban capital, the National Capitol building in Havana is the most popular. The building is located on San Jose and Dragones.
The building was constructed in 1926, but was not finished until 1929. It was designed by Raul Otero and Eugenio Rayneri Piedra, who drew inspiration from the US Capitol in Washington, D.C. It is made of Capellania white limestone and block granite.
El Capitolio Nacional is the symbol of the Cuban government. It was completed in 1929 during the rule of Gerardo Machado. It is similar to the Capitol in Washington, DC, but is longer and wider. It took three years to build, and cost about 17 million dollars.
La Catedral de La Habana
Located in the heart of La Habana, the Catedral de San Cristobal de La Habana is an important cultural and religious landmark in Cuba. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a Catholic church that is dedicated to the Virgen Maria of the Inmaculate Conception. It was built in 1748. It was designed by Italian architect Francesco Borromini.
The Catedral de San Cristobal de la Habana is the largest example of baroque architecture in Cuba. It was built on land purchased by Felipe Jose de Tres-palacios y Verdeja.
Vinales Valley
Located in the Sierra de los Organos, Vinales Valley is one of Cuba's most scenic and interesting locations. The UNESCO world heritage site has a lot to offer, including its rich soil and the best tobacco in Cuba. The area is also well-suited for farming and livestock raising.
A great way to see the region is by horseback. You will have the opportunity to chat with local farmers as you ride through their fields. This is a great way to learn about the local culture, which includes the process for making Havana cigars.
Hemingway's house
Visiting Ernest Hemingway's house in Havana is like getting an insider's glimpse into the life of the legendary author. Hemingway lived in Cuba for the last two decades of his life and it's easy to see why he loved it so much. The house is filled with thousands of objects he accumulated during his time there, including a bell at the front door and a Pablo Picasso ceramic medal.
Hemingway's house is now a museum. He bought the property in 1940 and stayed there for the next 20 years.
Free walking tours of Old Havana
Taking free walking tours of Old Havana is a great way to get to know this historical Cuban city. You'll discover the best places to see and eat in the region.
The tour is run by an English-speaking guide who will take you through a maze of streets in Old Havana. He will explain the history of the city, show you a number of landmarks and tell you about some of the myths and legends associated with it. You can also expect to have a lunch at the guide's favorite restaurant.
Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Located on the Malecon seawall, the Hotel Nacional de Cuba is a historic landmark in Havana. It was constructed in 1930 in eclectic Art Deco style. Its eight floors provide panoramic views of the sea and the city. It has been declared a National Monument.
The hotel is surrounded by extensive gardens. Its lobby is adorned with beautiful artwork and antiques. It is one of the largest hotels in Havana. The rooms are decorated in antiques and antique furniture. They still have the original white wooden plantation-style louver doors.