La Havane

A mythic town of Latin America, La Havane has slowly been shaped by its 500 years of fascinating history to become the cultural and historical pearl it is today. Founded in 1519 by the conquistadors, the Cuban capital has been a place for pirates, a fortified port for Spanish slavery, a town of prized gambling by the North American mafia and the communist revolution theatre.

La Habana Vieja, the old part of town, seems to be a place designed for taking the pulse of the metropolis. Start by taking a walk on Malecon, a large avenue around the bay, before heading down the streets that will reveal a magnificent architecture of baroque and neoclassical buildings. During your visit, you can discover the Capitolio, an extraordinary replica of the capitol in Washington, and the Revolutionary Museum, located in the ancient presidential palace of dictator Batista. On the banks of the canal, a number of fortresses are visible, one being the Castillo Del Morro, an admirable construction. Close the loop by going to the National Hotel of Cuba where many world renowned artists have stayed such as Frank Sinatra. Relax and enjoy the view of the bay while enjoying the taste of a refreshing mojito.

Why not go back in time and continue your visit on the town in beautiful Cadillac from the 50's. The Colon Cementario, one of the largest cemeteries in the world, is a veritable museum in the open air. It's at this same place that Korda captured the Guerrillo Heroico, the famous photo that inspired the iconographies of the Che. Want some space? The Revolutionary plaza and John Lennon Park are places that will satisfy your needs. Cuba also has its classics. The epicureans certainly want to buy the Partagas cigars after visiting the plant. A tour around the Havana Club plant permits you to demystify the fabrication processes of famous brand rum.

La Havane offers a unique cultural and nocturnal life which has long been the envy of major cities around the world. A cabaret show is definitely a must-see. After all, it's La Havane who's popular for salsa and mambo! The famous Tropicana Club vibrates from the catchy rhythms of Cuban orchestras. For dance fans, Capri, Caribe, Copa and the Parisien are other clubs worthy enough.

So, throw yourself into the fray and let the effervescent life of La Havane take you!