Polaroid of the Week: Immersing in Authentic Cuban Life in Historic Trinidad
The standout highlight of my Cuba journey wasn’t Havana, but Trinidad—a Spanish-founded city from 1514, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I questioned the long trek there, smack in the island’s center between northern Havana and southern Santiago—a 6-hour bus ride from Havana. Yet, adding it after Havana and Viñales proved unforgettable.
Trinidad feels frozen in the 16th century: colonial homes line cobblestone streets, Spanish churches grace plazas, and horse carts outnumber cars. If Havana channels the 1950s with vintage rides, Trinidad whisks you to the 1500s.
With four nights here, we deeply absorbed Cuban culture—salsa dancing in squares and bars nightly, locals chatting or sipping rum on plaza benches, artists sketching in galleries.
Each wander uncovered character-filled streets, weathered churches, museum-like shops with chalkboard signs and vintage scales. Rolling hills and nearby Playa Ancón beach (just 8 miles away) enhance this gem. Don’t miss Trinidad on your Cuba trip!




