One place on the planet that I’ve always wanted to visit is Havana, Cuba (or “La Habana” as the locals refer to it). It is a city that has combined Spanish colonial architecture with art deco… and it has been 50 years since the Cuban Revolution happened.

Anne and I decided to finally visit this city.  And, if I can summarize our experience in one word, it would be “unbelievable.”

We stayed in Habana Centro on the border with Habana Vieja which was an amazing location – we had easy access to all of Havana’s main sights and also got to interact with several Habaneros (no, not the pepper, but the people).   For a photographer, Havana is a feast for the eyes… the architecture is simply stunning, especially with its art deco accents.  It was also sad on some level for me as many of the buildings have not been maintained for decades and are in a major state of disrepair, although that is slowly changing.

Habaneros are very friendly people: many approached us to simply say hello and find out more about Canada… others wanted to sell us cigars (I had at least 100 offers to do so) and other trinkets.  Havana is a very safe place although you do need to be aware of some who want overcharge tourists for tours, etc.  (that was the exception and not the rule)

So, would we return to Havana?  In a heartbeat.  It is one of the loveliest places I have ever visited and I know we will return soon.  And yes, I almost coughed up a lung trying to smoke a cigar… but that is nothing that some fine Cuban rum or a Mojito couldn’t remedy!

Hasta la vista.