The Real Havana

Written by '74Escape

Traveler: Camila Falquez – Photographer & Film

What is your most unforgettable escape? Havana, Cuba.

What was the purpose of your travel? I needed to understand in a deeper way that mysterious culture I had been inspired by all my life. Their music, literature, art and social history has always fascinated me; it was time that I went and experienced it with my own two feet.

With how many people did you travel? I travelled on my own, and I went to visit my really good cuban friend, the poet Armando Suarez Cobián.

Where did you stay? At his mom’s house, “La Casa de Fina”.

What did you most like about the trip? I felt extremely lucky to experience Cuba next to someone who grew up there and who was able to show me the real Havana. It was truly an honor.

Could you share an unforgettable memory about the trip? Just sitting in the Street with my friend’s beautiful family with the breeze and Los Van Van as the soundtrack.

Your most surprising find during the trip? I bought a tiny nacar chair, that is so beautiful!

Favorite restaurant(s) or food you have tried during your trip? I was living the “local” life, so restaurants where out of the question. After a long day of walking the streets of Havana, the biggest reward was a plate of Rice, beans and tostones by Fina.

What are the must tries of the city? The city has to be walked from end to end. Every corner is full of that magic that only Havana has; Ruins of buildings that used to be palaces, great salsa music, people chitchatting …. Havana is alive, and that is what every traveller should experience.

Any hidden gems you could whisper to us? In mira-mar, at the end of calle 26, the Sea-fed swimming pools, where all the locals go swim on the evenings.

Would you go back? I even want to move there.

Could you list a few of your favorite finds you came back with? My pictures and a good bottle of Ron Santiago; because there is not much more you can buy there.