This post is all about the best things to do in Dubai.
Dubai is one of the most impressive cities in the entire world. With it’s creative artificial islands, the tallest building in the world, and a winter wonderland in the middle of the desert – Dubai is undeniably a unique destination.
If you’re planning the most epic trip to Dubai, you’ll want to take the Ultimate Dubai Checklist with you.
There is truly so much to do in Dubai, that even if you stayed there for weeks, you still wouldn’t see everything.
I would recommend staying in Dubai for no less than five days.
Experiencing Burj Khalifa from the top is a must-do! Standing high at over 2700 feet with 160 stories, visiting the world’s tallest building is certainly a check off the bucket list.
Instead of gazing at the insanely high structure from below, why not go up top?
There are several different ticket packages ranging from $40 – $200 USD depending on the experience you want to have.
The most common, and the one I purchased is the $40 / 149 AED. This ticket includes levels 125 & 124 which offers a stunning view. Click here or below to get your ticket.
2. Take a Desert Safari
A desert safari is another top activity. There are SO many different options and prices. I booked mine on Airbnb experiences, but I would not recommend my specific tour.
Research the most eco-friendly tours and ethical animal use tours.
3. Experience Global Village
Global Village is almost like a permanent world’s fair as it combines cultures of over 90 countries. Entrance is $4 USD.
4. Spend the day at the Dubai Mall
Set aside an entire day to visit the world’s largest mall.
5. Cross the Creek
The Dubai Creek is seen as one of the gateways from the new city to the old. For less than a dollar, you can hop on one of the traditional boats to cross the creek.
6. Ski Dubai
Only in Dubai can you experience a winter wonderland in the desert. Check out the tickets and activities here.
7. Have a Pool Day
We can’t ignore Dubai’s extravagant hotels and not set some time aside to have a chill pool day. Check out my review on the Grand Cosmopolitan Hotel here.
8. Afternoon Tea at Burj Al Arab
One of the most expensive hotels in the world is very hard to get into, even just to look around. To see this insanely exclusive hotel, you can book afternoon tea for around $160 USD. Find more information here for booking your afternoon tea.
9. See the Fountain Show
Located at the Dubai Mall, and set in front of the spectacular Burj Khalifa, the fountain show is an impressive welcome to the city.
10. Check out the Marina
The Marina is a trendy neighborhood with amazing nightlife, restaurants, and beaches. Check out Pier 7 for some incredible dining experiences.
11. The Dubai Frame
The frame represents the past, current, and future of the city. It costs $13 USD to get a photo in front of the iconic picture frame.
Experience old town by visiting traditional souks and markets.
13. Walk the Miracle Gardens
Walk through the most spectacular gardens you’ll ever see at the Dubai Miracle Garden. Entrance is about $11 USD and the gardens are only open from November to March.
14. Dubai Aquarium
If you are interested in marine life, this aquarium is one of the most impressive aquariums in the world. It is located in the Dubai Mall and entrance is $40 USD.
15. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
Swim and slide at the world’s largest waterpark – Atlantis Aquavenutre. Ticket prices range but generally start at $75 USD depending on your date of visit. Check out Aquaventure tickets here.
Truly one of the best bars in the whole city, This secret Irish pub is a favorite among expats. It’s very hard to get into, so arrive early (before 8 pm) and don’t plan on leaving because you won’t get back in!
17. Chill at Barasti Beach Club
Beach clubs are a popular hang out, particularly among expats and tourists. Barasti is one of the best because entrance is free, it has great food and drinks, and offers a shaded pool or beach setting.
These 17 activities were what I personally found to be the best things to do in Dubai. I hope you have an epic time in one of the most advanced cities in the world!
Published on Oct 16, 2023 | Last updated Oct 17, 2023
This post is all about how to day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. About Ninh Binh Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a province in North Vietnam that boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Its stunning landscape is characterized by towering…
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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…
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This post is all about the most epic 3 day New Orleans itinerary.
New Orleans is an eclectic city that sweeps you into every beat (and beignets!)
I’ve created the best 3-day itinerary for New Orleans to help you have a more successful and less stressful trip. Don’t forget to print your FREE New Orleans Printable Checklist so you don’t miss a thing!
So, you’re taking a trip to the Big Easy? Here are the recommendations I swear by to have a fantastic trip in NOLA!
Here is the BEST 3 day New Orleans Itinerary.
3 Day New Orleans Itinerary (the short version)
Day 1 – Check into your hotel. Walk around the French Quarter and have a beignet. Stop by Jackson square and St. Louis Cathedral. Visit Hotel Monteleone and have a drink at the carousel bar.
Day 2 – Explore the Garden District and Magazine Street. Brunch at the Ruby Slipper Cafe. Take a cemetery tour. Dinner and drinks on Frenchmen Street.
Day 3 – Book a fancy jazz brunch. Explore more of Bourbon Street. Dinner at Galeries. See Fritzel’s jazz band. Have a drink at the Dungeon. Enjoy your last night in Nola!
3 Day New Orleans Itinerary (the detailed version)
Day 1
Check into your hotel and get ready to explore the French Quarter.
Stop and have a beignet and cafe au lait. Cafe Beignet on Royal Street is what I recommend over the famous Cafe Du Monde.
Stroll through the beautiful Jackson Square and admire the St. Louis cathedral.
Enjoy walking in and out of thrift stores and various shops in the French Quarter. I encourage you to venture beyond bourbon street, as there are so many beautiful and interesting corners of the quarter.
Visit Hotel Monteleone and have a drink at the famous rotating Carousel bar.
Day 2
Start your day off on Magazine Street. Have brunch at the Ruby Slipper Cafe and explore the many shops lining Magazine street.
Next, admire the beautiful houses in the Garden District. Some famous houses to see are the home of Anne Rice and the filming location for American Horror Story Coven.
Book a cemetery tour to see the famous cemeteries of New Orleans. Due to the swampy terrain, graves are buried above ground which makes for a unique sight to see.
After you’ve covered the garden district, head on over to Frenchmen street for dinner and drinks.
Day 3
Your last day in NOLA! Begin with a fancy jazz brunch. I recommend Commander’s Palace, Court of Two Sisters, or Broussards. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
We opted for Broussards, as it was suggested by a local. It was incredible!
Spend your last day back in the french quarter. Walk Bourbon Street and explore some of the hole-in-the-wall bars. Be sure to have a drink at the Dungeon!
After eating a scrumptious dinner at Gallier’s, go to Fritzel’s Jazz Club for an enchanting performance that captures New Orleans perfectly.
Have an Awesome Time in NOLA!
That concludes the most epic 3-day New Orleans Itinerary covering all the highlights and my personal favorite stops.
Published on Oct 16, 2023 | Last updated Oct 17, 2023
This post is all about how to day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. About Ninh Binh Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a province in North Vietnam that boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Its stunning landscape is characterized by towering…
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…
Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
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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…
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Attention fellow travelers and cinephiles! If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the mesmerizing, offbeat worlds of Wes Anderson’s films, you’re not alone.
His distinct style, a blend of whimsy and precision, has a way of capturing our hearts and imaginations. But what if I told you that there are actual places out there, beyond the silver screen, that could be straight out of a Wes Anderson movie?
Grab your pastel-colored turtle neck and a bottle of bubbly and let’s dive into these 25 Real-life places that totally belong in a Wes Anderson movie.
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.
Here are 25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
1. Edificio España | Madrid, Spain
The Edificio Espana opened in 1953 and is the 8th tallest skyscraper in Madrid. The historic building has 25 floors and incorporates 20th-century Spanish architecture in the neo-baroque style.
While the building is a hotel, the complex has a mix of offices, shops, and apartments. Designed by architect Julian Otamendi, it was “the symbol of prosperity” during Francisco Franco Bahamonde’s rule.
Address: Plaza de España 1, Madrid, Spain
photo by @poealan via @accidentallywesanderson
2. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine | Kyiv, Ukraine
The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine is one of the largest libraries in the world. It serves as the main library and science information center for all of Ukraine. The building has 27 floors and contains about 15 million items.
Wheelers Oyster Bar prides itself on being “the oldest restaurant in town!”
This quaint, family-owned Oyster Bar has been passed through the owner’s family for generations. While the building is gorgeous, their delicious seafood is rumored to be worth the hype!
Address: 8 High St, Whitstable CT5 1BQ, United Kingdom
photo by @tonia.fest
4. Royal Oxford Hotel | Oxford, United Kingdom
Built in the 1930s, the Royal Oxford Hotel screams Wes Anderson with its bright mustard yellow paint and symmetrical details. When I studied in Oxford, I adored walking past this hotel frequently.
Address: Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HR, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
5. Pfunds Molkerei | Dresden, Germany
“The World’s Most Beautiful Milk Shop.” In the 19th century, a farmer traveled from Reinholdshain with his wife and six cows to Dresden in order to supply the city with healthy milk. Through this journey, Pfund dairy was established and is still serving fresh milk to this day.
The interior of this humble beginnings milk shop is elaborately decorated with hand-painted Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles, all accented in blue and gold.
Pfunds Molkerei is actually a real filming location that was used in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel for the interior of Mendl’s Confectionery.
Photos are not allowed in Pfunds, unless you are press and have been granted special permission.
Address: Bautzner Str. 79, 01099 Dresden, Germany
photo via interior.gamersta
6. Húsavík Lighthouse | Husavik, Iceland
Húsavík Lighthouse was built in 1956. It is located on the Húsavík cape and stands at 49 meters, or 160 feet, above sea level.
With its bright yellow structure and desolate background, this lighthouse definitely belongs in a Wes Anderson film.
Address: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík, Iceland
photo by @Matthjsvmierlo via nylon
7. American Radiator Building | Manhattan, New York City
Built in 1924 by architects Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihoux, the American Radiator Building is a 23-story landmark building located in Midtown, Manhattan.
The structure is actually based on the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago but with a Gothic Art Deco twist. With its unique color, it’s rumored to symbolize coal. When it lights up at night it is said to look like a giant ball of glowing coal.
Although black isn’t technically a color Wes Anderson would embrace, I think the style of the building is undeniably something that would pop-up in one of his films.
Address: 40 West 40th Street Manhattan, New York City
photo via designyourtrust
8. Stylenanda Pink Hotel | Seoul, South Korea
Despite the misleading title, the Stylenanda Pink Hotel is actually a 6-level store, designed as a hotel.
This popular pink store is located in Seoul and is filled with wondrous rooms of makeup, clothing, accessories, and “Instagrammable” set-ups such as fake pools or an art-deco hotel lobby.
Address: 37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
9. Bloom & Bean | Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bloom and Bean is a quaint coffee shop in Liverpool decorated from the inside out with chic pale pink and forest green. This little shop looks like the ultimate Wes Anderson cafe experience!
Address: 6a Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom
10. Miami Beach | Florida, USA
Iconic South Beach lifeguard towers have become staple landmarks of Miami Beach.
The classic art deco towers started popping up in the 1990s shortly after hurricane Andrew hit. The towers were part of the effort to revive the area from the devastation. Many more have been constructed since the first few by Architect William Lane.
These towers symbolize the rebirth of the city.
Address: Various towers along the coastline of Miami Beach from the tip at South Pointe Park up to 87th Street.
photo by @mijookim_studio
11. TWA at JFK Airport | New York, USA
The Trans World Flight Center was constructed for Trans World Airlines by Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen.
The design of the terminal represents a flight wing and incorporates a Neo-futuristic style. Googie, and Fantastic. While the terminal was originally built in 1962 it has since been renovated and is now owned by the TWA Hotel.
Address: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, New York 11430; United States
photo by @mikeraz212
12. Muzeum Narodowe | Warsaw, Poland
Muzeum Narodowe, or the National Museum of Warsaw was constructed in 1862, and was unfornately damaged and raided by Nazis in WWII. It has since recovered and is one of the largest museums in Poland.
photo by @tantejohannes via @accidentallywesanderson
13. Moritzburg Castle | Saxony, Germany
Moritzburg Castle is a Baroque-style palace built in 1546 in the state of Saxony, near Dresden.
The castle features 4 round towers and was built on a symmetrical artificial island. Originally, the palace was a hunting lodge for Moritz of Saxony, the then Duke of Saxony.
Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany
photo by marie_ohh_marie via @accidentallywesanderson
14. Eastern Columbia Building|Los Angeles, California
The Eastern Columbia Building was built in 1930 by Claud Beelman. It is known as the “benchmark of deco buildings in Los Angeles.” and the “Art Deco Jewel of the West.”
It was originally built as the flagship building for the Eastern-Columbia Department Store until they went out of business in 1957. It is now more commonly known as “Eastern Columbia Lofts.”
You may recognize it as one of Johnny Depp’s penthouses or from the TV show, iCarly.
With prominent glossy turquoise, gold trim, and symmetrical features this statement building is perfect for a Wes Anderson film.
Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
photo by @elizabethdaniels01 via @accidentallywesanderson
15. Hawa Mahal | Jaipur, India
The Hawa Mahal is a pink and red sandstone palace in Jaipur, India. This five-story pyramidal-shaped palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.
Its famous honeycomb latticework was originally built to allow royal ladies to observe the daily life of the city from above without being seen since they could not go out in public without face coverings.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
photo by @wesleympeterson
16. The Ultimate Picture Palace | Oxford, United Kingdom
The Ultimate Picture Palace opened in 1911 and is the only surviving independent cinema in Oxford. The historic theater has gone through a series of owners and renovations over the years.
In 1996 it’s neoclassical facade was restored and it officially opened under the name as The Ultimate Picture Palace.
The theater is known historically in England for being “a rare surviving example of a simple early cinema.”
Address: Jeune Street, Oxford OX4 1BN
photo by @pursesandplanes
17. Sands Club | Treasure Cay Abaco Island | Bahamas
The Sands Club is a chic farm-to-table beachfront dining experience in Treasure Cay. It’s iconic long dock with pale pink accents make it a Wes Anderson wannabe classic.
photo by maryschlacter via @accidentallywesanderson
18. The Bathrooms in the British Library | London, United Kingdom
The British Library is the national library of the UK, and has the largest number of cataloged items in the world. These mustard colored walls and sink symmetry are the perfect stylized film aesthetic!
Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
19. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is decorated throughout with Baroque and Art Nouveau style buildings. While these are the most obvious architectural styles, you can also see eclectic, gothic, and soviet influences throughout the city.
Several monuments in Budapest are famous for their unique architectural styles such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and The Fisherman’s Bastion.
photo by @zsolt_hlinka
20. The National Gallery of Ireland | Dublin, Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and opened when it had just twelve paintings. A must-see in Dublin, this gallery is nearly as beautiful as the artwork it contains with its stunning symmetrical layout, pastel colors, and minimalist design.
photo by @pursesandplanes
21. Grand Hotel Europa | Innsbruck, Austria
The King of Bavaria called it “the finest hotel in Innsbruck.” The Grand Hotel Europa was established in 1869, making it the most historic hotel in Innsbruck. Golden colored walls and ornate chandeliers decorate the interior of this glamorous hotel.
Address: Südtiroler Pl. 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
photo by @joemanderton via @wesandersonplanet
22. Havana, Cuba
Havana is a melting pot of several different architectural styles. When you walk around the city, you will see just how different all of the buildings are – but I that’s what makes Havana so unique!
Havana’s bright-colored buildings largely come from Spanish Colonial influences. Other known styles in Havana are Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Havana architecture
23. Gellért Thermal Baths | Budapest, Hungary
Gellért Hotel was one of the main inspirations behind the design of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel.
When the hotel opened it’s doors in 1918, it’s iconic Art-nouveau architecture and panoramic mirror entrance quickly made it known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Hungary. The hotel’s ancient thermal baths have been used since the middle ages.
Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
24. Estádio do Pacaembu | São Paulo, Brazil
The Estádio do Pacaembu is an Art Deco stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of São Paulo. The stadium was established in 1940 and named after the national celebrity Paulo Machado de Carvalho.
Address: Praça Charles Miller – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010, Brazil
25. James Smith & Sons | London, United Kingdom
James Smith & Sons is a historic umbrella store founded in 1930. It’s classic Victorian style storefront makes it a classic dreamy Wes Anderson feel.
Anderson undoubtedly is inspired by European Baroque, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Although he and his designers do incorporate a lot of these styles, I don’t think they restrict themselves. Neo Classicalism, Gothic, and other influences can also be seen in his work.
For something to belong in a Wes Anderson it can’t just be a cool looking building. It has to have a story. The beauty of architecture is that it oftentimes reflects the struggle and/or prosperity of a city.
And there you have it! 25 Real-life Places That Belong In a Wes Anderson Film.
The style that Wes Anderson carries into his films is unlike no other. It’s worldly, historic, and it’s all in the details.
I would love to know, have you been to any of these places? And are you as obsessed with Wes Anderson films as much as I am!?
Published on Oct 16, 2023 | Last updated Oct 17, 2023
This post is all about how to day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. About Ninh Binh Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a province in North Vietnam that boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Its stunning landscape is characterized by towering…
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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…
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A Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana was the perfect solution to a problem I commonly have when planning trips – never enough time!
Originally, we wanted to stay in a Casa Particular in Viñales for a few days, but we just didn’t have the time in our limited seven days in Cuba. We were so happy we found this Airbnb experience that offered a day trip.
Where is Viñales?
Viñales is a town in Western Cuba home to lush fields, tobacco farms, rock climbing, and so much more. Just a couple hours away from bustling Havana, Viñales makes for a perfect day trip to enjoy life at a slower pace!
Why book an Airbnb Experience?
Because most of the tourism is run by the communist government, booking Airbnb experiences is the most direct way to give Cuban people money to support them for their services.
Most Cubans must work government jobs that only pay a monthly average wage of $20-40 USD (a month!) To make ends meet, many Cubans work on the side in the tourism industry.
By booking an Airbnb or Airbnb Experience, your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency. This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping locally. Your money goes to the people, rather than larger corporations.
Also, it is way more of an authentic experience!
Now that I’ve briefed you on Cuban geography and politics, let’s get to it!
– Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana –
Depart from Havana around 8 a.m.
We were picked up in this awesome classic car from Havana around 8-9 a.m.
Honestly, nobody is on time in Cuba, so if you have a tour booked and they are running behind – that is totally normal! Patience is key, as keep in mind internet is not always readily available here.
The 2.5-hour drive to Viñales was really enjoyable. Make sure to bring your passport everywhere with you in Cuba, as cops will often flag you down when you are leaving city limits.
Horseback Riding through Mogotes Valley.
The first stop on our tour was riding beautiful horses through the lush valley.
Anytime I think of engaging in tourism with animals, I always do some research into the specifics of how the animals are treated.
We almost booked a different tour in Viñales before coming across this one, however, there were a number of reviews of how badly the horses were treated. Luckily on this tour, the horses seemed to be very well taken care of.
This photo doesn’t do the views of the valley justice, it was so stunning!
The Art of Cuban Cigars
This was unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of the tour! Smoking a Cuban cigar in Cuba is definitely a bucket list moment worth all the hype. You learn where the tobacco grows, how to roll it, and of course how to smoke it.
Bring cash with you so you can buy cigars and other souvenirs! If you personally don’t want them, they make excellent gifts to give away back home.
Say hello to the little farm animals
After the horseback riding and cigar demonstration, you just get to chill and hang out with the farmers while smoking cigars. It honestly feels like you’re visiting your family’s farm! It was so nice, and all the animals were so adorable.
Horseback, cigars, and now caves – oh my! This tour has quite a variety, which always kept things interesting. We enjoyed a nice boat ride through the beautiful caves of Viñales.
Enjoy a late lunch with a view.
On your way back to Havana, you will stop at a delicious restaurant with an incredible view. I ordered the Cuban Ropa Vieja, which is the National Dish of Cuba. It was incredibly delicious!
That concludes a full-day trip Tour to Viñales.
While Havana is a great place to base yourself during your time in Cuba, I highly recommend venturing out beyond.
You can book this Viñales Day Trip Tour on Airbnb here.
Published on Oct 16, 2023 | Last updated Oct 17, 2023
This post is all about how to day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. About Ninh Binh Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” is a province in North Vietnam that boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Its stunning landscape is characterized by towering…
Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Last updated Sep 14, 2023
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Published on Sep 4, 2023 | Last updated Sep 5, 2023
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…
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…
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 Oct 16, 2023 | Last updated Oct 17, 2023
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