What to do in Havana when you are a gay tourist

Jan. 09 2014

by Marc Dedonder

Not who wants to enter Cuba. If you are American, it will be impossible to enter this country. This impediment has existed for many years. That is why Cuba is turning to Canadian tourists to improve their economy.

In recent years, the Cuban government has softened their stance towards homosexuals. In 2010, Fidel Castro even apologized for the harm he caused to gays and lesbians in his country, especially during the 1960s.
Even before Castro's apology, this had never prevented gay tourists from visiting Havana. Even though Havana is far from being Puerto Vallarta or Sitges, it still attracts many gay tourists.

During the winter, Havana can have very warm temperatures, to the delight of northern tourists. Just like Florida, it also happens that the temperatures become cooler. This can sometimes spoil swimming at the beach. This is one of the reasons why this destination offers much cheaper packages compared to Mexico and Costa Rica. Among the other reasons why Cuba is sometimes less expensive than other sun destinations, there is no doubt that the situation between the United States and Cuba favors Canadian tourists to get a better price in order to attract a larger number. There are also many departures every day to Havana, but also to some seaside resorts.

Havana is a port city that also serves as the island's commercial capital. Famous all over the world for its music, dance, alcohol, old cars and politics, Havana is a must-see at least once in a lifetime. The architecture of Havana is quite unique. You will discover a setting of a distant era with that of a much more current building.

Here are five activities and tourist attractions for gays and lesbians who travel to Havana, Cuba:

Havana's gay nightlife
Many gay and lesbian tourists claim their specific places after dark. Havana doesn't really have a gay party place like a crowded discotheque in some European cities. You are probably better off finding a small local bar and experiencing the local entertainment the Cuban way. The locals will make you want to live their way and party. Havana is not like a commercial city; authenticity is very much present. However, if you are looking for a nightclub for gay men, there is the Fiesta de Diez Pesos which opens every weekend. There are other bars like Centro Habana where you can enjoy watching a show of female impersonators.

Living the Cuban way
Since the new government, locals can afford to rent a room to tourists. This is a unique way to live the Cuban way. This government project seems to have been very popular and more and more rooms are being made available to tourists. The cost of renting a room is much lower than renting one in a hotel. However, Havana offers the service of all-inclusive, which is sometimes to be evaluated. If you take the option of a guest room, ask the owner to show you the cultural dishes. This is a great way to discover the local flavors.

Smoking the Cuban cigar
One of the images associated with Cuba is undoubtedly that of its cigars. It is a unique moment for you to discover how the Cubans proceed to its manufacture. There are guided tours that will take you directly to the best places on the island where the famous Cuban cigar is made. Cubans are proud of their product and will happily explain the manufacturing process. If you want to pay less for this product, there is the more economical solution: directly from the factory. Of course, it's up to you whether you want a more artisanal or factory-made cigar.

Old Havana
The beach, the sun and the cocktails: we would like time to stop and not think about our return. Take a day of your time to discover something unique, different from your favorite beach. Walk through the old streets of Havana. You will discover colorful and lively neighborhoods. It is not uncommon to hear music coming from a house or from someone humming. The music is so present in the districts of the capital that it makes the charm of this country.

The Capitol of Havana
Once you have taken a day of discovery, you should not miss your walk in front of the Capitol of Havana. El Capitolo is both a planetarium and offers three different museums. If the museums are not really interesting for you, take the time to walk around and admire the architecture of the Capitol. This gigantic building dominates Havana and is a copy of the one in Washington!

As you can see, there's more than just the beaches to discover in Havana. There is a typical culture that emanates from this people. If your next trip takes you to Havana, take the time to live it their way. If you have chosen a Cuban destination such as Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo, Holguin or Varadero, take a day of your time to get to Havana. There are several means of transportation at good prices to go back and forth every day. You will then be able to understand the country's slogan which is Viva Cuba!