Traveler: Salvo Nicosia – Publicist
What is your most unforgettable escape? La Havana CUBA.
What was the purpose of your travel? Leisure and curiosity.
With how many people did you travel? A friend and I.
Where did you stay? Varadero in a colonial mansion owned by the eccentric French entreprenuer Mensiur DuPont and La Havana.
What did (do) you most like about the trip? Getting to know the story and culture of this amazing island and its beautiful people.
Could you share an unforgettable memory about the trip? Arriving in a stormy night in Casa DuPont in Varadero, opening the window of the balcony and hear the waves and the rain.
Your most surprising find during the trip? A wooden statue of St Cristobal in a local market.
Favorite restaurant(s) or food you have tried during your trip? All the Paladares , family owned restaurant only recently legalised by Raoul Castro were an amazing gastro experience . My favourite are Paladar St Cristobal, Ivan Justo Chef and La Grada where few scenes of the cult movie Fresas y Chocolate was filmed.
What are the must tries of the city? Definitely wonder around Havana Vieja and discover colonial architecture mixed with examples of Cuban Baroque and Deco buildings. Most of them are run down and they would need renovation but this patina of history is what’ makes the city charming. Also the palette of pastel colours in Havana is pretty striking.
Any hidden gems you could whisper to us? Not to be missed La Guerida a restaurant in a run down Palazzo from 1800 whic is the most amazing settings and food.
Would you go back? Of course I would and I cannot wait!
Could you list a few of your favorite finds you came back with? These can be anything from traditional finds to airport finds to hotel creams! Coffee, raw sugar (Azucar Moreno) and some religious objects sold in the Cathedral in Havana Vieja and cigars for those who are into and rum.
Any tips that might be useful to know before going there? Not to expect anything and let yourself go and blend with the locals.
Next stop you would like to visit? Costa Rica for its nature and beauty.
Salvo Nicosia
Publicist
