Journeys & Discoveries

Tips, stories, and journeys from my travels

recent posts

about

  • My Trip to Cuba: Beaches, People, Cars, and Everyday Life

    My trip to Cuba in 2019 was a mix of beautiful views, friendly people, and interesting experiences. The island has a lot of charm, but also some things that travelers should know before visiting – especially when it comes to prices and tourist areas.

    Beautiful Landscapes and Beaches

    Stunning turquoise waters of the Cuban sea

    Cuba has many beautiful places to explore. The countryside is full of green valleys, small farms, and old colonial towns. The beaches are just as impressive, with white sand, clear blue water, and palm trees everywhere.

    Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Playa Ancón are well-known beaches and great for swimming or relaxing. But if you prefer quieter spots, you can also find smaller, less crowded beaches that are just as nice and usually cheaper to visit.

    The Classic Cars and Their History

    Classic cars in Havana – a moving piece of history

    One thing that stands out immediately in Cuba is the number of old American cars. You’ll see colorful Chevrolets, Buicks, and Fords from the 1940s and 1950s driving all around.

    Because of trade restrictions after the Cuban Revolution, Cubans weren’t able to import new cars for decades. Instead, they became experts at fixing and maintaining the ones they already had. Many of these classic cars are still used every day – some as taxis for tourists. Taking a ride in one is a fun experience, but make sure to agree on the price before you get in.

    Friendly and Welcoming People

    The people in Cuba are very friendly and social. Even if you don’t speak much Spanish, it’s easy to connect with locals. They’re usually open to conversations and happy to share their stories. Music and dancing are a big part of life in Cuba, and you’ll hear live music in bars, on the streets, and in small restaurants almost everywhere you go.

    Taxis and Getting Around

    Taxis are one of the easiest ways to get around in Cuba, but prices can vary a lot. Many drivers start with a high price when they see tourists, so it’s best to ask a few drivers before choosing one or to bargain a little. That said, some taxi drivers are very friendly and will suggest good local places to eat or visit – sometimes those tips are worth more than the ride itself.

    Tourist Prices and How to Avoid Overpaying

    When I visited in 2019, there were two currencies – the Cuban peso (CUP) for locals and the Cuban convertible peso (CUC) for tourists. Everything priced in CUC was a lot more expensive, so tourists often ended up paying higher prices.

    Now Cuba has only one official currency, but prices in tourist areas are still high. In many restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops near tourist spots, you’ll notice that the prices are aimed at foreign visitors.

    If you want to spend less, it’s better to go to less touristy places where locals eat and shop. You’ll find better prices and often more authentic food and experiences. Always ask about prices before ordering, and don’t be afraid to bargain or check a few places first. It’s common for people to ask for higher prices from tourists, so comparing or negotiating can save you quite a bit. Sometimes it does feel like tourists are seen as “walking wallets,” but being polite and aware helps a lot.

    Hotel Stays in Cuba

    During my trip, I stayed at two different hotels, each offering a unique experience. First, I stayed at the Meliá Habana, which I would rate 4 out of 5. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and nice overall, but it wasn’t particularly special. Its location is a bit outside the city center, so getting to central Havana required a decent drive. While we enjoyed the rides, it could get a bit expensive if you’re staying for a long time.

    The second hotel was Sol Palmeras, which I would rate 3 out of 5. It’s located on the Hicacos Peninsula, a narrow strip of land extending into the sea that is full of resorts and hotels in the popular Varadero area. This makes it ideal if your main goal is to enjoy the beach. Sol Palmeras is a large resort with various activities available for guests, including water sports and entertainment programs. The bungalow we stayed in was decent, with everything we needed. However, the food wasn’t always fresh, and the free alcoholic drinks were of poor quality. Overall, Sol Palmeras is best suited for travelers who want easy access to the sea and resort-style activities, but for food, drinks, and comfort, I would consider trying another hotel on a longer stay.

    Souvenirs and Cigars in Cuba

    Cuba is a great place to pick up souvenirs, and the variety is impressive. In cities like Havana, Trinidad, and Varadero, you’ll find markets and shops selling handmade crafts, paintings, jewelry, small musical instruments, and colorful items made from recycled materials. Prices can be higher in tourist areas, so it’s worth looking around or bargaining politely when possible.

    Of course, Cuban cigars are the most famous souvenirs. Many farms and factories are open to visitors, allowing you to see the entire process – from growing and drying the tobacco leaves to rolling and packaging the cigars by hand. Visiting these places is both educational and memorable, and you can often buy cigars directly from the source, which ensures freshness and authenticity.

    Some visitors prefer to combine souvenir shopping with cigar experiences. For example, while exploring local markets, you might find handcrafted wooden boxes, paintings of classic cars, or musical instruments alongside small cigar shops. Many shops offer a mix of items, so you can pick up a few keepsakes while also learning about Cuba’s famous tobacco culture.

    When buying cigars or souvenirs, it helps to know a few tips: check quality before purchasing, compare prices in multiple shops, and don’t be afraid to ask for a small discount. Local vendors are used to tourists, so polite bargaining is normal. For cigars, it’s best to buy from recognized shops or directly at farms or factories to ensure authenticity.

    Visiting cigar farms or factories also gives insight into the Cuban lifestyle and traditions. Many of the farms are family-run, and seeing the workers hand-rolling cigars, sorting leaves, and managing the drying barns is a glimpse into a craft that has been passed down for generations. Combining this experience with a bit of souvenir shopping makes for a rich, memorable visit.

    Overall, Cuba offers plenty of opportunities to bring home meaningful souvenirs, whether it’s a handmade craft, a bottle of rum, a local painting, or a box of cigars. Exploring markets and visiting cigar producers lets you experience both the culture and creativity of the island firsthand.

    Final Thoughts

    Cuba is a unique country with a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. The beaches are beautiful, the old cars are impressive, and the people are warm and welcoming. But it’s also important to be smart about where and how you spend your money.

    If you explore beyond the main tourist areas, you’ll not only save money but also get a more real and local experience of the country. Overall, Cuba is definitely worth visiting – just go with an open mind and a bit of awareness.

  • Falling for Prague: Cobbled Lanes, Cosy Cafes and Quiet Charm

    There are cities you visit and cities that stay with you. Prague clearly belongs to the second kind. For a few days, I let myself be carried along by its cobbled lanes, its striking architecture and its atmosphere that is both lively and peaceful. Here is why the Czech capital has become one of my favourite destinations, and why I warmly recommend a visit.

    A beauty that catches the eye at every turn

    From your very first steps, you understand why Prague is nicknamed the city of a hundred spires. Gothic sits beside baroque, art nouveau answers medieval facades, and every street corner looks like a postcard. Charles Bridge, with its statues and its view over the Vltava, is a must, especially early in the morning when the light is soft and the crowds are still absent. A little higher up, Prague Castle looms over the city and offers a panorama I will not forget any time soon. The visit inside, on the other hand, left me a little disappointed: there were huge crowds and you move through it assembly-line style, without much chance to take your time. Personally, I would not do it again, but the site and the view alone are worth the climb.

    The view over Prague from up by the castle, a panorama well worth a few tourists in the foreground.

    The charm of an old town out of time

    What won me over most is the charm that radiates from the old town. You happily lose yourself in its little streets, stumbling upon a square, a hidden courtyard, or the astronomical clock that chimes the hour before an attentive crowd. The Malá Strana district, just below the castle, has a romantic and quiet side that makes you want to wander with no particular destination. It is the kind of place where you take your time.

    The astronomical clock on Old Town Square, a little show every hour.

    A surprisingly calm and pleasant city

    Unlike other major European capitals, Prague keeps a soothing pace. Some tourist spots are busy, of course, but you only need to move a little away from the centre to find calm again. Districts like Vinohrady, with their cafes and parks, feel like a city where life is good. Prague is also known for being safe, which makes evening strolls very pleasant. If you are looking to travel without the stress and bustle of overcrowded metropolises, it is an ideal destination.

    Eating and drinking well, a real pleasure

    Let’s talk about the food, because Prague pleasantly surprised me on this front too. Czech cuisine is hearty and comforting. I loved svíčková, that beef served with a creamy sauce and bread dumplings, as well as goulash paired with its local beer. And speaking of beer: the Czech Republic is a real paradise for enthusiasts, with high quality brews and prices that make you smile. For those with a sweet tooth, trdelník, that rolled and grilled pastry, is sold on nearly every street corner.

    A good comforting goulash, perfect after a long day of walking.

    Where we stayed and our favourite cafe

    We stayed at the Michelangelo Grand Hotel, and it was an excellent choice. The room was comfortable, quiet and impeccably kept, and the location was ideal: a few minutes’ walk from the centre, with the tram right next door to reach the rest of the city easily. In the mornings, being true late risers, we were in no hurry: since the cafe only opens at eleven, it worked out perfectly for heading over to enjoy our hot chocolate at a leisurely pace and easing into the day.

    A few streets from the hotel, heading up toward the old town, we found our ritual: Choco Café, a small cosy cafe on Liliová street entirely devoted to hot chocolate. Seated around its big wooden tables, we savoured it in a whole range of variations, thick and generous, exactly the kind of comforting break we wanted after a morning of wandering. We went back more than once, and for that alone, it is worth the detour.

    Our favourite ritual at Choco Café: a thick, indulgent hot chocolate.

    A destination that stays affordable

    Another nice surprise: Prague remains very reasonable on the budget front, especially compared with Paris, London or Amsterdam. You can eat well, sleep comfortably and enjoy the city without breaking the bank. It is a real plus for a weekend as much as for a slightly longer stay.

    A wealth of culture and history

    Prague is also a dense and fascinating history. Between the Jewish quarter of Josefov, the classical music concerts offered just about everywhere, and the many museums, there is plenty to feed your curiosity. We especially enjoyed the Kafka Museum, which I warmly recommend for diving into the writer’s world and the Prague that inspired him. Even walking with no set plan, you constantly come across buildings steeped in history.

    A city best discovered on foot

    One last thing I really appreciated: Prague is easy to explore on foot. The main districts are close to one another, and walking remains the best way to take in the mood of the place. When your legs get tired, the trams are handy and full of charm.

    A romantic getaway, ideal for couples

    If I had to sum up Prague’s atmosphere in one word, it would be romantic. The cobbled lanes, the bridges over the Vltava, the small cosy cafes and the evening lights make it a perfect destination for two. Once night falls, you only need to wander to come across beautiful views, like the illuminated Saint Wenceslas monument watching over its great square. And to enjoy it fully, I recommend going off season: with fewer people and softer light, the city reveals an even more intimate charm. It is the kind of place where you want to stroll without rushing, hand in hand.

    The Saint Wenceslas monument lit up, watching over its square as night falls.

    So, should you go to Prague?

    Without hesitation, yes. Prague brings together everything I look for in a trip: beauty, charm, a calm and romantic atmosphere, good food and a reasonable budget. If you are still hesitating over your next destination, let yourself be tempted, especially off season and as a couple. You will surely come back, like me, wanting to return.