by Natalie | Published on May 30, 2020 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Blog
This post is all about photos of Cuba.
Cuba’s vibrant colors are what I remember most about my 7-day journey through this stunning country.
From vintage cars that defy the test of time to the rhythmic moves of salsa dancers, we’ve captured so much in this Cuba photo diary.
By the end of this post about photos of Cuba, I can assure you, that you’ll be planning your Cuban vacation!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Buildings here are like a crayon box on steroids, with every shade imaginable. From pastel pinks to sun-bleached yellows and bold blues. It’s like someone turned the entire city into a work of art.
Havana is a gigantic melting pot of colors and architectural influences from around the world. The styles of buildings that largely make up this city are Colonial, Spanish Baroque, Neoclassicism, and Art Deco.
Some of the architecture in Havana was oh-so colorful and symmetrical, it reminded me of something that would be seen in a Wes Anderson film.
Everyday Struggles for Cubans
Havana’s colors are bright but perhaps it is a distraction for tourists from the everyday struggles of Cubans.
Cuba has undoubtedly had a long history of fighting battles both outside and inside the country.
Most Cubans really struggle to make ends meet as the average monthly wage for a state worker is $20 – $30 ($USD). Many Cubans work constantly, pulling second jobs in the tourist industry working for tips or for private companies.
Old Havana or Vevado?
Havana is divided into two parts; Old Havana and Vevado.
Old Havana is likely what you envision Havana to be – bright colors, cobblestone streets, and those dreamy classic cars. However, with that being said, it’s definitely where all the tourists are. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing!
Vevado is the business district and more urban neighborhood of Havana. Likely, where more authentic Cubans live and spend more of their time. Click here for a more in-depth breakdown by a Cuban of the Havana neighborhoods if you are stuck choosing between the two!
We stayed near Old Havana and I am pretty happy with our decision. Vevado is rather far and spread out and I don’t think we would have gotten the experience we envisioned Havana to be.
The Famous Restaurant in Havana – La Guarida!
I LOVED getting to experience dining at La Guarida.
La Guarida is one of the most famous restaurants in all of Havana. It is known for a filming location in a classic film, Strawberry and Chocolate.
Making reservations weeks in advance is highly recommended. You can check out my full restaurant review of La Guarida, here.
La Guarida Restaurant Havana
Spend an evening watching the incredible Tropicana show
Tropicana is a classic Cuban MUST! The Tropicana is a world-famous cabaret show dating back to the late 30s.
Some of the tricks performed are jaw-dropping, and it’s an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to dress up! The recommended dress code is “casual elegance,” meaning women shouldn’t wear shorts and men should wear long pants and a collared shirt.
After you’ve spent some time exploring the city, consider booking an Airbnb experience to go beyond Havana.
We booked an Airbnb experience that took us on a day trip to stunning Viñales.
The tour was so lovely; we enjoyed the few hour’s journeys in a classic car, horseback riding in the valley, and learned how to make Cuban cigars.
VINALES
Vinales is a slice of paradise tucked away in the Cuban countryside.
Immerse yourself in the land of horses, lush greenery, and tobacco farms.
Why you should book an Airbnb experience
Your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency (that are often run by the communist government!)
This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally.
Your money goes directly to the people, rather than larger corporations. Also, it is way more of an authentic experience.
This tour was so much fun, that we were completely exhausted when we returned to Havana. Luckily, our next destination in Cuba was a relaxing oceanfront town called Cojimar.
COJIMAR
Cojimar is a small fishing village on the Cuban coast. Filled with colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and salty sea breezes that instantly put you at ease, Cojimar is the perfect place to relax.
If this hidden gem sounds familiar, it’s because it is where Hemingway once lived and was inspired to write, Old Man and the Sea.
This sleepy ocean-front town is located just a 15-minute drive from Havana’s old town.
It’s a total change of pace from bustling Havana, and we were ready for somewhere a bit more low-key.
We stayed in an incredible Airbnb that was right on the water. It was way cheaper and more modern than any of the BNBs located in the city center of Havana.
Honestly, there is not much to do in Cojimar aside from visiting Hemngway’s house.
Unless you are setting it as your home base for your Havana trip, I would only spend two days here max. We filled our time by taking a taxi to Santa Maria Beach, which I highly recommend!
A few more photos of Havana.
It’s too beautiful of a city not to capture every corner of it.
Thanks for reading! I hope these 41 photos of Cuba will convince you to plan a trip of a lifetime.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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This post is all about a 1 week Morocco Itinerary.
1 week in Morocco can seem daunting, especially if this is your first glimpse of Africa. I can assure you though, with 1 week in Morocco you will have a wondrous trip you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Morocco is a truly captivating North African gem. It’s no wonder why travelers are flocking to such an enchanting country that offers diverse landscapes, vibrant markets, and the warm embrace of its hospitable people.
I’m sharing with you the ultimate 1 week Morocco itinerary which will give you a bit of adventure in the city, desert, and beach all in one trip – offering a true taste of what Morocco has to offer.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Why You Must Visit Morocco
Just saying “Morocco”, I can nearly smell the mint tea and hear the snake-charming music erupt from Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Morocco is one of the most magical places I have explored.
With just 1-week in Morocco, you will wander through ancient medinas filled with vibrant colors and the intoxicating scent of spices. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Atlas Mountains and Sahara desert, where you can ride camels and camp under the starlit sky. And of course, visit the picturesque city of Essaouira.
Planning your trip
My trip to Morocco is one of my most memorable. However, to make this trip as epic as it was, it took quite a bit of research. If you could take any bit of information from this post, it is these 3 words right here:
MOROCCO IS BIG.
The most common mistake I hear is people get stuck riding in between destinations nearly their entire trip because they didn’t study the distance between them.
Even if you really narrow your trip down, you will likely be riding in a car for a while. This trimmed-down itinerary will have you in the car for about 23 hours total throughout your 1-week Morocco trip.
Don’t Forget Your FREE Marrakech Printable
Here’s your free Marrakech printable to take with you on your Morocco trip so you don’t miss a thing.
While I’ve heard so many varied comments on if female travelers have felt safe in Morocco, I personally felt very safe and found Moroccan people to be so lovely.
My best friend and I traveled at the age of twenty to Morocco together. We did get a lot of unwanted attention while walking the streets, especially in Marrakech, but it wasn’t anything we couldn’t handle. Plus, we did our research and knew exactly what to expect.
If you are a solo female traveler going to Morocco, know that you will get attention, be verbally harassed, and maybe get an arm around your shoulder. These people may be annoying, but the odds of them harming you are slim.
Like most countries. the biggest danger is theft!
Tips on safe travel in Morocco:
Here are some extra precautions I take while not just traveling in Morocco, but really anywhere.
Carry your bag in front of you, and/or secure locks on your bags. Little children are the ones you have to especially look out for in Morocco. They are smart, quick, and incredibly adorable!
Men WILL come up and catcall you. Most of the time they are harmless, just annoying.
Set yourself a curfew. We actually didn’t do this, some of our Riads enforced an 11 pm curfew.
Stay where people can see you. This is my #1 rule when traveling anywhere. There are lots of private tours offered in Morocco for cheap prices but perhaps opt for the group tours where you will be surrounded by a few other travelers. I tend to think there is safety in numbers, especially if you are alone.
Establish a set price BEFORE you get into a taxi. All of our taxis were pre-booked before our trip. Meaning our Airbnb Riad’s had their own taxi arrangements set up for us, with a reasonable fare we agreed upon beforehand.
Marrakech is a vibrant jewel nestled in the heart of Morocco. The city entices travelers with its display of colors, bustling souks, and enchanting blend of tradition and modernity. Wander the streets and weave through the historic medina, where the aroma of exotic spices mingles with the allure of intricate architecture. Marrakech’s soul comes alive in its bustling marketplaces, where artisans showcase their intricate crafts and the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Where to stay in Marrakesh
Marrakesh is filled with some of the most beautiful accommodations. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan home or palace with an interior courtyard/garden and is most likely what you’ll be staying at during your trip.
When searching for accommodations, I recommend you find one near Jemaa el-Fnaa Square (the main square) and read reviews very thoroughly to be sure you are getting the best value.
Spending 2-3 days in Marrakech offers a perfect window into the city’s captivating essence.
Getting From the Airport to the Medina
Stepping outside the Marrakesh Airport can be chaos, so get ready to wear your poker face and haggle taxi prices! Don’t pay more than $15 (150 MAD) max for a taxi to the Medina, however, try to talk them down to $10 if you can. The taxi ride should take about 15-20 minutes.
If you’re arriving late and don’t want to worry about haggling, you can book a taxi through your riad beforehand, though this may be slightly more expensive.
Alternatively, you can take the bus from the airport. The number 19 bus will take you to the airport, medina, and city center for around $5 (50 MAD) and takes about 40 minutes.
After you get settled, explore the city.
Be sure to pin your accommodation on your phone/map, or make sure it comes up on Google Maps. You WILL get lost in the Medina, and you’ll have to find your way back.
Day 2 – Marrakesh
After you’ve had a delicious brunch at your riad, explore the shops in the medina and take in Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Be sure to stop in some of the cafes to have delicious Moroccan tea or fresh juice.
Make your way to the wondrous Bahia Palace to lose yourself in elaborate architecture and lush gardens.
After the Bahia Palace, lose yourself in exotic goods and traditional handcrafts in the winding alleys of the famous souk street, Souk Semmarine.
Marrakesh, Morocco
When you’ve found all your special treasures, enjoy a gorgeous dinner at Nomad Restaurant. I highly recommend making reservations in advance as this is quite a popular restaurant!
Embarking on a Sahara Desert tour in Morocco is an essential adventure that promises to transport you to a realm of boundless sandscapes, surreal beauty, and cultural immersion. From camel treks across iconic dunes to starlit nights under the vast desert sky, this journey offers an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.
Read all about my 3-day Sahara desert tour experience here.
This will be the second day of your Sahara Desert tour. Depending on the tour you book, it will likely include Dades Valley, Tinghr, and camping in the Sahara. Glamping in the Desert was one of the most magical experiences. Dancing to the beat of the drums, catching shooting stars, and sledding down the dunes at midnight were just a few of the highlights.
Berber Home – Sahara Desert TourSahara Desert Tour
Day 5 – Back on the road to Marrakesh
Sadly, this is the last day of the Sahara Desert Tour.
I arrived back in Marrakech around 10 pm from my tour.
We chose to stay this night in Marrakech just because we were unsure of our arrival time. Alternatively, you could also schedule a late-night taxi to Essaouira that evening.
Did You Know Going is My Secret to Scoring Insanely Cheap Flights?
Day 6 – Marrakech to Essaouira
It’s time to leave the bustle of the city and the serenity of the desert to the charming and postcard-picturesque city, Essaouira.
How to get from Marrakech to Essaouira
There are loads of different options for your 2-hour journey from Marrakech to Essaouira. You can book a private taxi service such as MED TAXI, a day trip tour, or a bus.
As always, if you book a taxi service to Essaouira – negotiate the price beforehand and clarify it is total and not per person.
This beautiful beach city of Essaouira was something we nearly overlooked, as we read from many other travelers that it was best as a day trip, or not really worth seeing.
Contrary to expectations, Essaouira left an everlasting impression on us – we were thoroughly enamored by its charm. This quaint fishing village provided the ideal respite following the vibrant energy of Marrakesh and the fatigue of our desert trek. The journey to Essaouira, a mere two hours from Marrakesh, proved to absolutely be worthwhile, offering a rejuvenating escape that perfectly ended our Moroccan adventure.
Essaouira, Morocco
Day 7 – Essaouira
To experience all of what this lovely city has to offer, check out my full travel guide to Essaouira.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Looking for the best things to do in Essaouira Morocco? Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Morocco’s picturesque coastal town, Essaouira.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
My Essaouira Essentials
This post is all about the best things to do in Essaouira.
About Essaouira
Once a popular trading point founded by ancient civilizations, Essaouira is now a popular vacation destination for tourists.
Essaouira is a coastal city located in the western part of Morocco, along the Atlantic Ocean. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Marrakech. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts and music scene.
Essaouira’s Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a well-preserved walled city with narrow winding streets, bustling markets, and stunning architecture. I personally found the shopping in Essaouira even better than in Marrakesh!
If you love water sports, the city is also known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers.
Is Essaouira worth a visit?
Essaouira is certainly worth a visit! In fact, Essaouira was one of the most memorable points of my Morocco vacation.
The historic architecture, picturesque blue boats, and fresh seafood left me craving more time in this beautiful city.
While I spent a few days in Essaouira, many tourists just visit for a day. Hey, if that’s all you have time for I say go for it! Even if you can only see Essaouira for a few hours, I can almost bet you it will be worth it.
How to get to Essaouira
There are a few different ways to get to Essaouira.
Fly to Essaouira Mogador Airport (International).
Take a 2-hour taxi ride from Marrakesh. I booked Med Taxi and would highly recommend them. As always with transportation abroad, establish the flat rate before booking the taxi.
While April & May are technically the best months to visit, Essaouira can truly be a pleasant visit any time of year.
I personally visited in December, and while the wind caused it to be chilly in the evenings, it was gorgeous weather and we felt like the only tourists there.
Fall (September & November) is also an ideal time to explore Essaouira due to the mild weather.
If you’re new to learning about Moroccan culture, you’ll likely want to stay in a Riad.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior courtyard or garden. These traditional homes are typically found in historic medinas in big cities such as Marrakech, Fes, and Essaouira.
Riads are characterized by their unique architectural features and typically have intricately designed courtyards and decorative tile work. They offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Morocco.
In recent years many boutique hotels in these famous Moroccan cities blend riad aspects so if you get confused about hotels vs riads – odds are it may be a little of both!
The best location to stay in Essaouira is in the old town.
Gusto Italia is not traditional Moroccan food, but offers some delicious Italian, which you may be craving after eating traditional Moroccan dishes all week!
Triskala is another fantastic option. This restaurant is beautifully decorated and offers tasty traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Gusto Italia – Shrimp Fettuccine Triskala – Falafel Platter
What to do in Essaouira
Whether you are looking to explore the historic medina, marvel at the local art, or bask in the sun, Essaouira has something for every type of traveler.
1. See the Essaouira Citadel
This iconic landmark of Essaouira is a historical fortress that was constructed during the 18th century. Located at the northern entrance of the city, it was initially built to protect the city from potential attacks by foreign invaders.
Consisting of thick stone walls, watchtowers, and cannon emplacements, this picturesque building is one of the most prominent landmarks of Essoauira and now stands representing the city’s history.
Essaouira, Morocco
2. Visit the Port
Sardines, crabs, lobsters, oh my!
Essaouira’s fishing port is a bit smelly but wow is it exciting, If you’re a lover of all things fish, try buying a fresh catch from one of the fishermen. You can even have it cooked at one of the nearby open cooking stalls on the port.
3. See the Famous Blue Boats
Essaouira’s famous blue fishing boats are perhaps the most known aesthetic of Essaouira.
While these vibrant blue boats are beautiful, they aren’t just for looks! The bright blue color is supposed to offer protection to fishermen from any evil spirits, and also bring good luck to the fisherman during their expeditions. Additionally, the beaming color makes it easier to see the fisherman at sea.
Essaouira, Morocco
4. Shop in the Medina.
Wander through the narrow cobblestone alleys of Essaouira’s historic Medina.
Visitors will find an array of vibrant souks offering handwoven rugs, carved wooden treasures, colorful ceramics, and so much more. Not sure what to get? Moroccan scarves are beautiful and classic souvenirs to remember your trip by.
5. Visit Moulay Hassan Square
Located just steps away from the historic medina and the picturesque harbor, is Moulay Hassan Square. Known for its European architecture, the square is famous for its creperies and cafes.
6. Go to the Beach
Essaouira is known for its tranquil and windy beaches. They are the perfect city escape from the bustle of the city whether you are looking to kite-surf or people watch.
Here are a few of the best beaches in Essaouira:
Plage d’Essaouira: This is the main beach in the city, easily accessible from the medina and the main square.
Sidi Kaouki Beach: Located about 25 kilometers south of Essaouira, this beach offers a more remote and peaceful setting.
Cap Sim Beach: This beach is known for its rugged cliffs and stunning natural beauty.
Iftane Beach: For those looking to escape the crowds and find a more secluded spot, Iftane Beach is just a short drive from the city.
7. Watch the Sunset
Of course, no list of ‘best things to do in Essaouira’ would be complete without a few recommendations on where to find the most epic sunsets in Essaouira.
Here are some of the best sunset-watching spots in the city:
Beach
Taros Rooftop Bar
City Walls
Salut Maroc Hotel Bar
Essaouira Ramparts
8. Get a traditional Hammam
Book yourself a massage and traditional hammam to end your busy trip feeling relaxed. A traditional hammam is a classic cleansing technique of Middle Eastern culture.
Azur Spa was so beautiful! You’ll be greeted with delicious mint tea while you gaze at rose petals and fountains decorated throughout the lobby.
9. Go Kite Surfing
Essaouira is one of the top kite surfing destinations in Morocco, attracting kite surfers from around the world due to its consistent winds and stunning coastline.
10. Roam the Essaouira Ramparts
The Essaouira ramparts (city walls) are one of the city’s most iconic features and serve as a significant historical and architectural landmark.
Did You Know Going is My Secret to Scoring Insanely Cheap Flights?
After I discovered Scott’s Cheap Flights (now officially called GOING) I have never paid more than $600 for a roundtrip international flight. Take advantage of their free trials and you will be obsessed! This is the only way I ever book flights and how I am able to budget travel so efficiently.
What NOT to do in Essaouira
This might be a controversial addition to my ultimate best things to do in Essaouira travel guide. However, as this is my blog and my voice, I thought it would be worth a friendly mention:
1. Don’t Ride the Horses and Camels
While I, of course, have unknowingly participated in animal tourism in the past due to my own ignorance, I have since learned that most of the time it is not ethical for tourists to ride ANY animal. The grim reality of animal tourism: horseback riding, tiger parks, elephants, etc. is animals are being exploited and overworked for a flashy Instagram post to please tourists.
2. Don’t Wear Revealing Clothes
As anywhere in Morocco, wear breathable clothing that covers your skin to respect the local culture.
3. Don’t drink the tap water
The tap water is not safe for tourists to drink in Essaouira. In Essaouira and many other parts of Morocco, tap water is not purified to make it safe for consumption.
4. Don’t Pay Full Price
When shopping in the medina and markets, never pay the first price offered! Bargaining is a big game here (especially with the tourists). It will take a few tries to get good at it, but you’ll get the hang of it.
5. Don’t Support the Goats in the Trees
One of the most famous photo ops near Essaouira is unfortunately inhumane towards animals. At the time when I saw the goats in the trees, I was young and ignorant not thinking about the reasoning behind how the goats got there and why I was being asked for money for taking photos of them.
If you look closely, you can see the goats are roped into the trees so they can’t move. How cruel! Can you imagine being tied to a tree all day not moving and having people take photos of you?
This photo is just for reference and education so I hope you will ignore the photo op when you see it. As I stated I was so uneducated at the time of animal tourism and do NOT support it.
I hope you found this list of the best things to do in Essaouira helpful! Click here for more Morocco travel tips.
This post was all about the best things to do in Essaouira.
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
Researching your trip to Vietnam and find yourself wondering, ‘Is Halong Bay Worth it?” Here’s everything you need to know about visiting one of the most famous natural wonders of Vietnam. Halong Bay is said to be one of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous places on…
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This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
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Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023 | Asia Travel, Blog
This post is all about how to visit the Hanoi train street. Photo by Thijs Degenkamp on Unsplash All Aboard! The Hanoi Train Street is the most buzzing street in Vietnam’s capital. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and thrilling…
Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine? As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and…
