It’s been a few days since Irma and a week since I left Cuba and my thoughts and prayers are with those putting their lives together after Irma’s destruction. Looking through my holiday photos I am reminded at how amazing Havana is. The Cuban people are strong and will recover but they will need tourism to rebuild. Here are my suggestions for spending a day in Havana.

Famous garden in Miramar My Classico driver and his baby Approaching Revolution Square El Malecon Ministry of the Interior Belgium Embassy

A One or Two hour tour in a classic 1950s Chevy will take you along Malecon with amazing view of the Atlantic and the old Havana Casinos. Exit Malecon through the tunnel into Miramar and enter into the age of old money Havana. Old mansions now house most embassies from countries around the world. Meander through the streets and finish up in revolution square.

Historical Tour of Old Havana – Old Havana is marked by four major squares. Explore them slowly and take in the details of the architecture.

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Plaza de la Catedral – The Religious Square is home to La Catedral de la Virgen Maria which is surrounded by stately homes which function as hotels, restaurants and museums.

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Government Square – This is the original site for colonial rule. Havana orignial seal can still be found on the cobbled pavements of the square. The key symbolises Havana’s geographic and economic importance to Spain in the Americas.

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Plaza de San Francisco – Commercial Square with the Basilica San Francisco de Asis which is now used as a concert hall, Terminal Sierra Maestra – still used for porting cruise ships and the commerce building built by the US government during its occupation of Havana. This plaza also has an interesting hotel across from the old convent. The hotel is built in an old monastery and today the owners have maintained the monastery style and feel with the exception of the fully euipped liquor bar. All employees dressed are dressed as monks.

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Plaza Vieja – Old Square is dotted with modern sculptures. Across from Cafe el Escoral you’ll find a Lady on a rooster with a fork!

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Cigar and Rum tasting with salsa music at the Plaza de Armas

Beach Day at a resort or beach club.

Cool off with afternoon drinks on Rooftop of Hotel Ingleterra