Forget everything you ever heard, read, or thought about Cuba. The warmth, the light, and the feeling of life here are unlike anything you have ever experienced before. Our journey to Havana with Havana Club was an invitation to step behind the curtain of this vibrant city, immersing ourselves in its liquid history, rich culture, and dynamic art scene. This wasn’t just a trip — it was an adventure into the heart and soul of Cuba, guided by the people who make it truly extraordinary.
From the moment we set foot in Old Havana, we were drawn into its enchanting streets, where every building whispered stories of its colonial past. The Havana Club Rum Museum offered us a glimpse into the island’s most celebrated spirit, tracing its journey from sugarcane fields to the finest aged rums. Above the city’s rooftops, we savored lunch at Loft Bahia Terrace, a hidden gem with breathtaking views.
The afternoon led us to Factory Design Habana and Clandestina, where Havana’s creative spirit flourished through bold, contemporary designs. As the golden hour bathed the streets in warm light, we weaved through the city in Coco Taxis, stopping at legendary bars like La Bodeguita Del Medio, the stylish Sibarita Habana, and El Floridita — one of the world’s 10 best bars. It was here, in this iconic establishment, that we experienced a moment of pure indulgence, sipping on a Daiquiri made with Havana Club rum, a drink that embodies the essence of Cuba in every sip.
Immersing ourselves further into the craftsmanship behind Cuba’s finest rum, we stepped into the San Jose Distillery, where Havana Club’s artistry came to life before our eyes. From there, we ventured to Rodolfo’s Farm, where a feast of traditional Cuban dishes awaited, each bite infused with the soul of the land. At Casa Italia Boutique, we explored the delicate balance of classic and contemporary cocktail-making, savoring every sip. The melodies of Cuban choral music greeted us at Casa Adela, where the Cuban Vocal Quartet filled the air with their rich harmonies. The evening drew us to Antojos, where we dined beneath the stars, surrounded by the flavors and rhythms of Havana’s past and present.
The artistic soul of Havana revealed itself as we visited the studio of Cuban painter Vicente Hernández, where vivid, dreamlike works brought the city’s spirit to life. At the home of Beatriz Márquez, a legendary singer, pianist, and songwriter, music became a language of its own, connecting past generations to the present. Sculptor José Villa Soberón’s workshop immersed us in a world where metal and stone told stories of Havana’s cultural icons.
Later, the prestigious Habanos Moment Festival at Meliá Cohiba Hotel celebrated Cuba’s finest cigars, rum, and luxury craftsmanship. That evening, the doors of the Grand Havana home of Pamela Ruiz and artist Damián Aquiles in Vedado opened to us, where a fusion of art, culture, and conversation made for an unforgettable gathering. The night’s energy carried us to La Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC), where music, art, and creativity pulsed through the air, embodying the very essence of Havana.
Throughout the trip, we indulged in the full depth of what Havana Club has to offer, including the exclusive Iconica Collection, with tastings of Selección de Maestros (45% ABV), Gran Reserva Añejo 15 Años (40% ABV), Máximo Extra Añejo (40% ABV), Tributo 2025 (43% ABV). In addition to these offerings, we also sipped Havana Club’s core range, showcasing their commitment to tradition and innovation, which includes 7 Años (40% ABV), Añejo 3 Años (40% ABV), Añejo Especial (40% ABV), Cuban Spiced (35% ABV), and Havana Club Smoky.
As our journey neared its end, we embraced the rhythm of island life at Playa Megano beach, where the turquoise waters and golden sands set the scene for a relaxed picnic and cocktails. A leisurely afternoon led us to La Reserva, where we indulged in an exquisite tapas lunch, each dish thoughtfully paired with handcrafted cocktails — one last toast to a journey that had been nothing short of extraordinary.
Every moment in Havana was an experience to be felt, tasted, and cherished — a deep dive into a world where history, craftsmanship, and culture blend seamlessly, leaving an indelible mark on all who visit.
Learn more about Havana Club at havana-club.com and follow them on Instagram at @HavanaClub.
cuba photography. Matthieu Garçon
words. Raoul Keil
