CTS: What time is the best time to go to Cuba?

Danae: My favorite time to go is during the holidays.. New Years Eve in Cuba is like a street party all around Old Havana, it’s so wonderful. 

CTS: What is one thing you prepare yourself for before travelling to Cuba?

Danae: You have to be prepared to disconnect. I’ll have times when I know I have online access, so I leave my work I need to get done for those times. Otherwise, I know I’m not going to have wifi unless I sit at the public parks. It’s changed a lot the last couple of years, but you can get wifi at hotels and other public spots these days.

CTS: What are your favorite spots to eat and drink?

Danae: If you’re going to Cuba for the first time, you have to go to the capital, my absolute favorite place is Old Havana. There’s a restaurant in Old Havana which is called Dona Eutimia, which I have to go to every time I’m there. They have the best mojitos and black beans in all of Havana. I’m vegan so there’s a lot of things I can’t eat but they are very accommodating.

If I’m craving pizza, the best pizza in Cuba in my opinion is Cinco Esquina, their pizza is New York Style and made in brick pizza ovens. The restaurant next door, Restaurant Antojos is also really good. It’s trendy and the interior is beautiful and very Cuban. The terrace there at night is super fun too for drinks and soaking up the Havana nightlife. 

CTS: Can you get around if you don’t speak Spanish?

Danae: The thing about Cuba is that everybody is super open and welcoming, so you can talk to a random person and they will be happy to help you. In Old Havana lots of people speak English and at hotels and restaurants you will definitely find people that will speak your language.

CTS: What’s the best way to get around?

Danae: For me, I prefer to take taxis instead of getting a rental car as the roads are different than I’m used to. Even if you want to go between different provinces, taxis will be happy to take you. 

CTS: Finally, what makes Cuba such a special to you? 

Danae: Cuba is my roots, my culture, where I come from. I love going back and experiencing it in a different light. I love that in every corner there is somebody dancing or playing music. They have so many different dance companies and cultural things that are very innate to Cuba so it’s definitely something to experience. There are a lot of misconceptions about travelling there but the county is truly unique and beautiful.

In contrast to the Western world, coffee is considered a luxury in Cuba. Due to government restrictions and shortages, Cubans typically have access to coffee through monthly rations. Therefore, coffee is consumed in small amounts in little cups called ‘tacitas’, typically brewed at home. Espresso makers, known as ‘Moka’ pots, are a household essential. ‘Tacitas’ of ‘Café Cubano’ are often sold from Cuban homes through window shops called ‘ventanillas’, to locals and tourists. In Cuba, the moment of drinking ‘una tacita de cafe’ is one to savor and share with your loved ones.