Day 31 – 32 : Havana City

I wasn’t suppose to be coming back into Havana city, but due to unforeseen circumstances, I am back again!

The moment I arrived, I wasted no time at all and set out to do what I had not when I was first in Havana, and all within 24 hours.

1. Almacen San Jose

This was a scenic walk along the Marina (opposite direction of Malecon), where it took me past a view of the forts, the ferry terminal, and a surprising find of Almacen San Jose, a HUGE market, selling all sorts of souvenirs, artefacts and paintings.  There must had been at least 100 stores in this huge warehouse building, with most of the stores offering repetition of items.  Great for shopping!

Saw a store which made Pina Colada from fresh pineapple, and I just had to have one too!

Also came across a painting which I really like – the cost CUC180.  That is expensive! 

I had a chat with the vendor, and he shared that all the drawings are done by his uncle. 

When I asked him how long it takes for him to do 1 painting, he responded that most drawings are done within 1 day, with the more complex ones taking up to 3 days.  The one that I like takes just 1 day!!! OMG!  That is super fast!!!

2. Ceremony of “el cañonazo de las nueve”

This ceremony takes place at the fortress of La Cabaña, which was completed by 1774 and made Havana the most fortified city in the “new world”.

The ceremony starts at around 8.30pm, and ends off at 9pm sharp, with a cannon fire – a practice since the 18th century as a warning to close the doors of the walls surrounding the city, in order to protect it from the pirates and enemies.

During the ceremony, soldiers are dressed in traditional costumes of the 18th century.  The ceremony felt gimmicky, but hearing and watching a cannon being fired live in front of me was awesome! 

There was a short moment of silence when the cannon went off, as the sound of the cannon boom was extremely loud and caught everyone by surprise, followed immediately by loud cheering from the crowd. 

Great views also from the Fort, and best to arrive to catch the sunset.

It is recommended to take a ferry to Copacabana, followed by a short 15 mins walk to the Fort.  There are also a number of interesting armoury and weapons that were used during the Revolution, displayed in an open ground enroute towards the Fort. 

While on the island, I met an Indian guy, Jay, who was in Havana only for 4 days.  We ended up chatting and watching the parade together at the Fort before sharing a taxi back to Havana Vieja. 

3. Museum de la Revolution

Housed in the old Presidential Palace, the building was very significant as it was the location where members of the Revolutionary Directory, armed organisation of the University Students Federation, tried to execute the dictator Fulgencio Batista.  One can still see the holes in wall which were made during the attack as one takes the stairs leading up to the exhibits.

Split over 2 levels, the museum contained a number of exhibits and write up that provided an overview of the Cuban Revolution. 

By chance, I came across this exhibit, located round the back of the building, which showed a side of Cuban humour, and gave a glimpse and summary of what led to the Cuban Revolution.

4. La Bodeguita del Medio

La Bodeguita del Medio was where Mojito was created, and the bar opens from 10.30am to 10.30pm.  As a Mojito fan, and not having tried it the 1st time I was in Havana, I made it a point to do it this time. 

Honestly, I was rather disappointed with the mojito served.  It tasted diluted, and I had much better mojitos in Cuba. 

The Mojito costs CUC5 – fairly expensive for Cuba, but it’s probably a once in a lifetime experience, and something I can now check off the bucket list!