Good morning! The skies were clear, and Havana’s energy was palpable as I woke up for the first time. After settling into our residencia, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast. Tropical fruits like papaya, pineapple, and guava paired perfectly with thick bread, fresh coffee, and a savory omelet with ham and cheese. Among the fruits, the vibrant pineapple and guava stood out, their sweetness bringing a refreshing start to the day. As I sat with my peers, enjoying the morning light, I felt a surge of excitement for the adventures ahead.
A Glimpse Into Ocha-Ifá (Santería)
After breakfast, we hopped on the bus, and our driver, Santiago, took us to Parque Trillo, our first stop. We delved into Ocha-Ifá, or Santería, a spiritual tradition blending African practices with Catholic elements. In this practice, each practitioner is believed to have a unique connection to an oricha, a divine energy that shapes their personality and path. To help us understand better, our guide explained the basics of this rich tradition. We saw the bóveda, a sacred space adorned with water-filled glasses and candles, offering a sense of calm and reverence. Nearby, a crucifix stood, used for offerings and prayers, connecting the divine with everyday life. These orichas, anthropomorphized embodiments of cosmic energy (Aché), link human existence to nature and the sacred.
The highlight was meeting a Santería priest. He welcomed us, where a corner shrine held candles, offerings and a bóveda. The priest’s warmth helped us connect with this deeply spiritual tradition.
A Visit to El Ajiaco Urban Farm
After we waved goodbye to the priest and guide, the day continued with a visit to El Ajiaco Urban Farm. Hidden behind what seemed like an ordinary home on Havana’s outskirts, the backyard revealed a vibrant organic farm bursting with life. The air was fragrant with fresh herbs, and sampling raw garlic chives and salad greens made the experience unforgettable.
Our friendly guide shared the farm’s story, showcasing organic methods like natural composting. He also explained their unique pest control technique using painted bottles. These bottles were coated in pork fat. The diversity of crops, from herbs to plantains, reflected efficient land use. Sampling fresh oregano brought laughter as we all reacted to its strong, earthy taste—a lighthearted moment in this inspiring visit.
Lunch at El Ajiaco
For lunch, we visited Café Ajiaco, the restaurant that owns the farm. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. Knowing the leafy greens and herbs on our plates came from the garden made the meal special. We started with a rich pumpkin and squash soup. The main course featured rice, yuca, beans, salad, and various meats—each bite full of flavor.
As the meal came to a close, dessert arrived: a unique dish of sweet coconut surrounded by shredded cheese. The combination was unexpected yet delightful, providing the perfect ending to a truly memorable meal
Exploring Cojimar
After lunch at Café Ajiaco, we visited Cojímar, a peaceful fishing village outside Havana. It inspired Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. The soft waves and salty breeze set the tone as we explored the coastline. We saw the remains of a colonial fortress and admired the turquoise Gulf waters. In the village square, we viewed the monument and bronze bust dedicated to Hemingway. We took a group photo to commemorate the moment. Walking through the village, we admired its pastel-colored homes and warm residents. Although we couldn’t visit La Terraza de Cojímar, a stray cat greeted us hello. Our journey continued to Old Havana. We were passing landmarks like Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the ornate National Capitol.
Salsa at Casa del Son
After touring Old Havana, we arrived at Casa del Son for our salsa class. The space, part bar and part dance studio, was warm and welcoming. As we settled in, a shy cat caught our attention, but quickly hid from our eager admiration.
At first, I wasn’t excited about dancing, but the instructors made us feel at ease. They led us through the basic steps. We stumbled and laughed, but soon found our rhythm. Partnering up made things trickier—and funnier—as we stepped on each other’s toes. The instructors gave helpful tips, and some even tried spins and advanced moves.
Welcome Dinner
Our first evening in Cuba was special with a welcome dinner at El Idilio, a cozy restaurant. The lively chatter and aroma of sizzling meats set the atmosphere. Tables were adorned with checkered cloths, and a random cat wandered by, adding charm to the meal. We enjoyed a traditional Cuban feast with rice, black beans, roast pork, and an appetizer. I had ropa vieja with yuca, and the rich flavors matched the relaxed vibe of the evening. An additional nice moment is meeting the API team. The restaurant’s warmth and staff made it a memorable night.