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Shore thing – 5 of the best excursions in Cuba

Classic cars and Cuban culture – discover five of the best excursions in Havana.
It’s National Cruise Month, so we’re taking you on a 14-day virtual cruise to our top destinations, giving you the lowdown on everything you can do. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history buff or a cocktail-enthusiast, we’ve got it covered. Today’s port of call is Havana…

Havana, a colourful city trapped in time, is truly like no other. Draped in Spanish colonial 16th century architecture intertwined amongst the sherbet-coloured twisting streets, Cuba is as enchanting as it is exciting. Drift through the capital and unwind on the famous seafront promenade, or feel the restless spirit of an open-air bazaar, with salsa music ricocheting off buildings. When you stop at this Caribbean charmer, prepare to be immersed in bold colours, vibrant sounds, and a whole world of passion – it’s a #ShoreThing in Havana.

1. DIVE INTO THE DELIGHTS OF HAVANA

For a taste of Cuban charm – and to sample the real rum-and-cigar authenticity of Havana – don’t miss a tour of its streets filled with mile-high murals of revolutionary icons and cruising vintage American cars. To explore the true gems of the city, begin your day in the modern quarter with sights like El Capitolio and the Malecon, before exploring the Plaza de la Revolución. And don’t forget to cap your adventure off with a jaunt to Havana Old Town – no trip would be complete without a visit to the cigar shop or sip of a Cuba Libre cocktail.

2. SHIMMY AND SHAKE AT A PARADISE UNDER THE STARS

After a busy day of sightseeing, now’s the time to let loose. Grab your dancing shoes and enjoy the bright lights of Havana’s world-famous Cabaret Tropicana. This epicentre of glitz and glamour has been delighting crowds since 1939, and is an absolute must for all cabaret enthusiasts. Enjoy the glittering spectacle as singers, dancers, and musicians get the party going within the surroundings of lush tropical greenery. This tour not only guarantees you a seat, but also includes a splash of Havana Club rum and a glass of sparkling wine.

3. TAKE A LEAF OUT OF HEMINGWAY’S BOOK

In the early 1930s, Ernest Hemingway made Havana his home and ingrained himself into the capital’s history. Now, the author is as synonymous with the city as the parked Cadillacs that line the streets. Follow in his footsteps and take a scenic drive through Cojimar, the fishing village that inspired his novel The Old Man and the Sea. Pay a visit to the author’s one-time home in Finca Vigia, and head to two of Hemingway’s favourite bars, including the birthplace of the mojito. With this trip, it’ll be easy to discover the literary inspiration embedded within the city.

4. UNEARTH CUBA’S NATURE

Calling all wildlife lovers, are you ready for a full day of paradise discovery? Beginning at Montemar Great Natural Park, explore a sanctuary housing hundreds of species of birds and thousands of plants. Sail away to a life-sized replica of a Taino Indian village, depicting how the island’s first inhabitants lived, and make your trip a little snappy with a visit to the croc farm. You’ll have time at the end of the excursion to stroll along the coast, take a dip in the Caribbean, or just kick back and relax under the stunning blue skies.

5. STRUT YOUR STUFF THE CUBAN WAY

If a little va-va-voom sounds right up your street, then a night on the town is in order. Prepare to be whisked away in a classic car to Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a favoured watering hole of none other than Hemingway. Sample the tasty treats on offer before cruising along the city’s famous seafront, the Malecon. And then, the lights of the world-famous Tropicana beckon. Dance the night away amongst the dazzling spectacles and soak in the zealous atmosphere, while you sip a tumbler of one of Cuba’s most famous exports – Havana Club rum.
Book your trip to Cuba.

Author: Marella Cruises

Last updated: 16.09.2015

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