Cuban Cigars and Vintage Cars: A Guy's Guide To Planning The Ultimate Trip To Cuba

4.75 million tourists traveled to Cuba in 2018 alone. While that may seem like a staggering number, there's a reason why so many people want to venture towards this remarkable Island. In addition to wanting to get there before the embargo potentially lifts, there are countless things to see and experience on your Trip to Cuba.

If you're looking for a vacation to remember, read on for important tips on what to incorporate into your Cuban vacation.

What to Know Before Taking Your Trip to Cuba

There's quite a bit of controversy and speculation around if it's legal to travel to Cuba, for whom, and under what circumstances.

The reality is that whether or not it's legal to travel to Cuba depends on the country you live in and the reasons why you're traveling to Cuba. Currently, Americans can travel to Cuba if traveling for educational purposes, with a work visa, or with a specifically licensed guided tour.

There is also some family loopholes that can be used to legally enter Cuba, however, there are a number of regulations that go with this type of Visa.

Then, of course, there are those who simply choose to visit neighboring locations such as Mexico or the Caribbean before entering Cuba. We will leave this at your own discretion.

What to Eat While in Cuba

While Cuba, in general, is a feast for the senses, we will begin with its food. There are some remarkable dishes that must be tried by any traveler venturing to Cuba.

To start,  Lechon Asado is one decadent national dish that will literally melt in your mouth. You will also find side dishes like congris, fried yuca, and tostones can be offered inexpensively at a number of restaurants and eateries.

If you're looking for an even more authentic feel, head directly to the local run vendors and their stalls to buy your meals directly from the source.

While it’s likely you're already tasting your icy cold Cuba Libres and mojitos, you’ll want to get these drinks at iconic Cuban establishments as well.

Cuban Treasures like La Bodeguita del Medio and La Floridita received their accolades thanks to famous author Ernest Hemingway and his love for local women and drinks. 

Finally, if you're looking to get your hands on some Infamous Cuban cigars take your time and be a little picky. Since you're in Cuba every cigar is a Cuban cigar, so it's best to choose labels that are known for their quality for a true Cuban cigar experience. Try out a Cuba cigar tour to find the ultimate handcrafted Cuban cigars.

Where to Stay in Cuba 

Depending on which area of the island you choose to stay in, there are a number of Hotel and Resort options available for tourists. You can, for instance, make Cuba hotel reservations through an agency like Umbrella Travel and stay at one of the top-rated Old Havana hotels or Cayo Coco beach resorts, or you could instead choose to stay in the infamous Hotel Habana Libre, where Fidel Castro briefly set up shop after the victory of the 1959 revolution.

Another option is to rent a place through a platform like AirBnB. This way, you might be able to forge a relationship with your loving and lively hosts and find that they are willing to share with you some useful local knowledge and even the occasional ride.

You'll quickly find that there is "locals Cuba" and "tourists Cuba", and that in order to experience the best the country has to offer, you want to take some time to get to know it's people.

You'll find that the people of Cuba are not only warm and welcoming, but they're also incredibly talented in all areas from art to music and everywhere in between. In fact, if you're able to stop by local jazz clubs or salsa clubs to experience some live music the event will be truly unforgettable.

Enjoy a Beer at the Malecon

The Malecon is the essential hot spot for locals. Stretching along the Waterfront of the Cuban Isle, here Cubans will swim, drink, sing and chat from sunrise to sunset.

Which is why it's the perfect place to bring a cold beer and a fresh Media Noche sandwich to enjoy on its Rocky Coast.

Traveling in Style

You'll find the hitching a ride in an iconic vintage car is not as difficult as it may seem in Cuba. In fact, the majority of cars in Cuba are classic iconic cars. However, like most tourist destinations you'll find taxis are only willing to pick you up in more Central areas.

If you're being bold and venturing into more local territories, chances are you need to stick to public transportation like the bus, which can take you virtually anywhere.

The Cultural Side of Havana

It would be a shame to visit Havana and to miss the numerous cultural exhibits and art fairs that are on display.

Take some time to look into the local calendar and see what events are occurring. Typically these events are free and feature a wide collection of artists and performers with talented, unlike anything you've seen.

This is also the perfect place to go art shopping as you'll find outstanding work at a more than fair price.

Everything You Need to Know for the Ultimate Guys Trip

Whether your trip to Cuba is for a bachelors party or simply to enjoy some time with the guys, you'll find this location has everything to offer from beautiful women to great rum. You'll also find that in every man there's a little Cubano hidden deep down.

Chances are, you may even make friendships with the locals that can last a lifetime. Trust us when we say this is one trip you don't want to miss. For more information on travel and creating the perfect bro trip, check out our blog for everything you need to know.