There is a popular phrase among foreigners: “You’ve got to visit Cuba now before it changes!” We say: “Visit Cuba now because it’s changing!” Cuba is at a fascinating inflection point economically, culturally, and socially, where Cubans are pushing back on the romanticized idea of living in a land “stuck in time”.
Whether it’s the island’s evolving culinary and cultural scene, its unexplored corners waiting to be discovered, or simply connecting with the local people and their fledgling businesses, Cuba is a very exciting and stimulating travel destination for 2024.
Soak up Cuba’s Cultural Movements.
For a small island nation, its cultural output, whether it’s music, art, dance, film, or photography is staggering. Young Cuban creatives are increasingly looking outward as well as inward to infuse their art with modern influences. Now you can listen to DJs playing electronic tracks mixed with Afro-Cuban beats and watch contemporary dancers move with African dance roots pulsating through their bodies. You can also go to an exhibition and see how Cuban photographers have mastered this technological art form with little more than a fourth-hand old camera, tireless trial and error, and natural talent.
Traverse Unexplored Regions and Unspoiled Landscapes.
Cuba is known for its stunning natural wonders, from the best beaches in the world to lush rolling countryside and subtropical forests. The lack of development in the country has meant that many of these areas have remained relatively untapped by tourism. Explore less-visited regions such as el Oriente (the East of the island) to experience Cuba at its most unexplored. Delve into untouched wild landscapes, virginal beaches, and local secluded communities.
Engage with Cuba’s Burgeoning Entrepreneurs.
With recent economic reforms, there’s a rise in entrepreneurship in Cuba, making it an interesting era in the post-communist country. Now is the ideal time to support local businesses such as private restaurants, boutique accommodations, local events, and artisan stores. We recommend the female-owned fashion brand and café Ama, Havana’s best brunch spot El Café, quirky antiques shop Casa Belkis (Calle 22 e/25 & 27, Vedado), and electronic event nights Organik and Tucan Sessions.
These businesses exude boundless creativity and resilience in the face of difficult market conditions. Your visit can contribute to the success of these enterprises and provide a unique perspective on the country’s changing economic landscape.
Learn about Cuba’s Fascinating Recent Transformations.
For better or for worse, Cuba has been undergoing major economic and social shifts in the past few years. From the rise of private businesses to the acceleration of the informal economy and the current mighty migration wave, visiting now offers the chance to witness and understand the impacts of these changes on the local communities and the country as a whole. It’s an opportunity to engage with locals about their perspectives on the evolving landscape.
Taste Cuba’s Transitioning Culinary Scene.
Cuba’s culinary scene has come on leaps and bounds from the days when only dusty state-owned restaurants were legal. Now, food in Cuba is evolving, especially in Havana. Take a trip to the island to savor the unique fusion of Cuban cuisine with its indigenous, African, Spanish, and Chinese roots and how these traditional flavors are being blended with modern international influences. Go to private restaurants such as Lo de Monik, Otra Manera, and Al Carbon, where Cuban chefs are experimenting with new culinary styles. Explore local markets on a food tour and tuck into the mouthwatering home cooking in your casa particular.
Connect with Locals.
Forget the beaches and cocktails, the best thing about Cuba is without a doubt its people. Cubans are known for their charisma, passion, and fighting spirit, and the travelers who make an effort to meaningfully connect with locals come away from their trip having made genuine bonds that keep them returning to the island again and again. Visiting Cuba now will allow you to gain insights into their storied past, their daily lives, their traditions, their struggles, and their aspirations.
These reasons to visit Cuba speak for themselves but this article may have left you wondering: this all sounds great but how do I reach these far-flung locations, how do I find out about the cultural and culinary happenings taking place during my trip, and how do I meet interesting local Cubans eager to share their stories and perspectives?
We at Cuba Unexplored can make all of the above happen for you and more. Take a look at our current tour and experience offerings or get in touch for our custom service.
Cuba Unexplored 