Havana, capital city of Cuba

The capital city of Havana is one of the most extraordinary places in the world. Trade sanctions with America have left it frozen in time – the buildings are the definition of ‘faded grandeur’ and the 1950s Cadillac cars (and the much later Ladas) can’t be seen on the road anywhere else. Architecture fans can tour the city looking at the Spanish colonial styles – some of which are being lovingly restored, some of which look as if they could collapse at any time. And look out for the brutal Russian influences in the more modern buildings – it’s political history in bricks and mortar.

As you walk the streets of Havana you’re almost guaranteed to be approached by some friendly locals who are determined to take you to the very bar where Buena Vista Social Club was filmed, or where the likes of Ernest Hemmingway wrote one of his most famous works. When you get there you’ll find the mojitos are pretty expensive – especially as you will be buying for everyone – and the location might not be quite as authentic as you had hoped. But if you relax and go with the flow you can still enjoy it. Havana, like most of Cuba, is a safe and friendly place for tourists.