Probably the most iconic image of Cuba- the classic car.  These timeless beauties are literally everywhere in Cuba!  If you’re an automotive enthusiast (or even if you’re not) you’ll love seeing these vintage beauties roll through the streets.

While much of the infrastructure around the island is crumbling, there are a number of neighborhood revitalization projects.  Most noteworthy among them is Fusterlandia- a colorful oasis outside Havana created by local artist Jose Fuster.

Music is such an important part of the Cuban culture, and there’s no better way to see it than with the Buena Vista Social Club.  Becuase of it’s popularity, make sure to get there early for a good seat, and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Callejon de las Tradiciones is a neighborhood steeped in culture.  Visit for the chance to see dances in traditional garments with customary instruments.  While you’re there, don’t miss the incredible artwork as well!

Cuba boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.  Consequently, when Canadians are looking for somewhere to unwind they often choose this island nation.

Walking the streets of Old Havana is like stepping back in time 90 years.  The cobblestone streets, the vintage cars, the building facades… it’s like nowhere else on earth.  As a result, Cuba has quickly become a new favorite for Americans fascinated by the vintage feel of our island neighbor.

Another common sight is the propaganda for the Cuban government.  Almost every block has a “Viva Cuba Libre”, along with pictures of national heroes Che Guevara and Fidel Castro.  And Hemingway.  Lots of Ernest Hemingway.

The biosphere of Las Terrazas is a community supported almost entirely by ecotourism.  Because of it’s vast variety of plants and flowers, it’s one of the most beautiful areas on the island  (and a UNESCO World Heritage site!)  Seems like walking into a postcard!

Another neighborhood revitalization project.  Many areas around Havana were decorated with this type of art – jaw dropping expressions depicting the color and vibrance of Cuban life.

Probably my favorite piece of street art I’ve seen on my travels. I just love the colors in this!

What can I say, I’m a sucker for artistic graffiti.

Smoking a Cuban cigar in the back of a red classic convertible because… when in Cuba.  And one more experience checked off the ol’ bucket list.

I met some of the loveliest people while in Cuba.  They are so excited to have Americans visiting and despite not having much, they’re always smiling.  Here are a couple ladies I ran into at an organic market.

Talk about culture shock!  Coming from America where you have no less than 563 choices for what type of potato chip you want, it was strange to walk into a Cuban grocery store and see an entire aisle of one type of cookie.  One.  “Do you want the blue one, or the blue one?”  “Uh… the blue one?”  “Perfect!”

The Christopher Columbus Cemetery (or el Cementerio de Cristobal Colon) in Havana has over 800,000 graves and more than 1 million interments.  If you visit, make sure not to miss the 75-foot monument to firefighters who tragically lost their lives in 1890.  It’s heartbreakingly beautiful.

Live music is everywhere in Cuba.  Everywhere!  In addition to mojitos.  If you’re thinking that sounds like a little slice of heaven let me tell you, it is.  Finally, a place where drinking before noon is encouraged!

The Terminal Sierra Maestra San Francisco has seen a massive influx of US cruise ships now that relations between America and Cuba have started to thaw.  Consequently, gone are the days when this square wasn’t a sea of people snapping selfies.  Seems like even Cuba can’t escape the wave of smartphone glamour shots.