As a North American, I had always thought of Cuba as being a resort destination. This is where those on their holidays would spend a week at an all-inclusive beach resort, while laying on pristine sand and sipping endless mojitos. However, after returning from a 3.5 week backpacking trip to the largest islandĀ in the Caribbean, we now know what it has to offer independent travellers: Everything.
Cuba is a mix of African, Latin and Caribbean cultures, all of which are fascinating and all of which offerĀ lively music, spicy dancing and beautiful people. The landscapes range from mountains to jungle to beaches, while the architecture in the cities feels lost in time. The streets of the colonial townsĀ are bustling, while the rural countryside seems to stand still. The history of this nation is fascinating, while the struggles that the people face are very real. Although the sights may be incredible, meeting the locals and hearing their stories will be a highlight of any trip to Cuba.
Our camera was overworkedĀ during our trip ā we actuallyĀ needed to clear off our memory cards a couple of times!Ā Check out these 31 unique photos which show an interesting side to this photogenic country.
A graffiti-ridden wall in Central Havana. Payphones are commonplace in Cuba, as the cost of using a cell phone is extremely expensive.
Ā
A rust-coloured road leading to a bright blue home in the countryside of ViƱales.
Ā
A friendly street game of Dominoes in Cienfuegos ā no cheating!
Ā
CamagĆ¼ey is known as being Cubaās Catholic Soul. Numerous cathedrals and churches can be found around the city. This is the gothic styleĀ Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral.
Ā
The stunning Playas del Este beach is just a 20 minute bus ride outside of Havana.
Ā
A cycle taxi rests against the curb in Trinidad. This is one of the more popular modes of transport.
Ā
Pastel coloured buildings line the streets ofĀ CamagĆ¼ey.
Ā
Men hanging out on the streets of Central Havana.
Ā
The sun setting behind theĀ mogotesĀ in ViƱales. Find your own private to watch this colouful display.
Ā
Cannonballs resting in perfect formation at theĀ Fortaleza de San Carlos de la CabaƱa in Havana.
Ā
An at-home business. This man was deaf and sold popcorn on the street, just outside of his front door.
Ā
Wood brick street in Old Havana, the only remaining street of its kind in the country.
Ā
An empty street lit up at night in CamagĆ¼ey .
Ā
Tobacco leaves drying from the ceiling of a barn in ViƱales.
Ā
A night of Flamenco dancing, poetry reading and Spanish cuisine in Cienfuegos.
Ā
A cycle delivery owner takes a break in CamagĆ¼ey .
Ā
Colourful paintings in Trinidad.
Ā
A game of football on the streets of Central Havana.
Ā
Dried-upĀ mangroves on the shores ofĀ Cayo Jutias.
Ā
Live music on the streets of Old Havana.
Ā
A gift for Motherās Day inĀ CamagĆ¼ey.
Ā
A friendly man in the countryside surrounding ViƱales town.
Ā
Theatre Street in CamagĆ¼ey.
Ā
A typical fruit & vegetable market in Central Havana.
Ā
A peso shop in Central Havana selling guarapo juice (sugar cane) for 1 peso ($0.04) a glass. Cold, cheap and refreshing.
Ā
Reflections on the water in Cienfuegos.
Ā
Fishing along the Malecon in Havana.
Ā
An outdoor symphony inĀ Parque Ignacio Agramonte Plaza in CamagĆ¼ey.
Ā
In a cloud of cigar smoke at a tobacco farm in ViƱales.
Ā
Early morning coffee in Trinidad at a peso shop.
Ā
Playing for tips along the Malecon in Havana.
Ā
Ready To Go?!
With travel restrictions for American citizens easing, many people are now talking about this island nation, which sits just 530 kilometers off shore from Miami. If all of the buzz about Cuba, and these 31 photos doesnāt make you want to visit, nothing will! I hope you enjoyed seeing another side of Cuba, one which doesnāt include the typical photos of classic 1950ās cars (although, we did photograph them as well!) Tell us which one is your favourite shot in the comments below š
Disclaimer: Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers.