Since President Barack Obama eased travel restrictions to Cuba and allowed Americans to travel there for the first time in nearly half a century, Americans jumped at the chance to finally visit the Caribbean nation. With the island’s touristic future in question pending decisions by the current administration, Americans may not have much time left to explore the capital city, Havana, a gem stuck in time since the 1950s. Get a full glimpse of antiquated Havana in one day by taking part in the following.
Start the day in Havana Vieja before the crowds come out. Spend a few hours weaving in and out of the streets of downtown while passing the Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de Armas, the fresh fruit markets and finally ending up with a mojito in Plaza Vieja, the perfect place for people watching. Pop into Restaurant Van Van, a hole in the wall that serves up authentic and affordable Cuban and Latin dishes.
After lunch, walk west to the Gran Teatro de la Habana, a stunning structure that dates to 1908 and is even more inspiring after dark. Tours of the magnificent interior cost $5.
As the sun sets, make your way to El Malecon, a waterfront walkway that does not offer much as an attraction but does serve as a peaceful setting for a cool drink and a quiet evening watching and hearing the small Caribbean waves splash against the shore.
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