A record-setting 4.8 million people visited Cuba in 2018. And that number is expected to grow to 5.1 million by the end of 2019.
Even with the influx of visitors, Cuba is still considered a unique vacation destination for many people. The best part of visiting this Caribbean country is that it’s still easy to travel like a local.
Do you want to know how you can truly get off the beaten path and experience Cuba as the locals do? Then keep reading to learn more!
Get Away from Touristy Areas
Perhaps the easiest way to experience the authentic charm of Cuba is to stray away from touristy areas. There are tons of local cities, like Vinales, Baracoa, and Holguin that are absolutely beautiful and untouched by tourists.
However, that doesn’t mean you should count Havana out. Consider staying in some less touristy neighborhoods to gain access to tons of culture without dealing with flocks of tourists.
Opt for a Local Guide
There’s so much to see and do in Cuba that it can be hard to fit it all in. But try to skip any large tours that carry dozens of tourists or any companies that aren’t local to the area.
Instead, find a private or small tour with a local guide. They’ll be able to give you an insider’s view of the area, and with fewer people on the tour, you’ll be able to enjoy a more personalized experience. Feel free to ask questions and get recommendations on the best places to eat and drink for locals.
Of course, you can still find some unique and unforgettable local tours. Cuba is known for its vintage cars, so consider taking a classic car day tour to really feel like a local.
Learn Some Spanish
If you plan to spend most of your trip off the beaten path, learning a little bit of Spanish can go a long way. You’ll find that many people know English in the larger cities (even in non-touristy neighborhoods), so you can still communicate and get by without much Spanish. But even saying a simple “hello” and “thank you” in Spanish shows that you’re making an effort and can help you feel like you’re getting a more authentic experience.
Of course, those few key phrases may not get you very far if you can’t find anyone who speaks English. So, download a translation app that still works offline to help you out in rural areas.
Know How to Dress
In order to feel like a local, it helps to look like one. Cubans typically dress more casually, so leave your expensive jewelry and designer clothes at home.
However, you also don’t want to dress too casually. Sundresses are a great staple for women, while most men wear jeans or cotton pants with a t-shirt. However, make sure you bring a nicer outfit if you plan on doing anything a bit more formal during your trip.
Find a Casa Particular
When it comes to Cuban accommodation, forget about hotels and opt for a casa particular instead. This is when homeowners rent out a room to travelers.
Not only can you snag some affordable accommodation, but you can learn a ton by talking to your host, so don’t be afraid to spend time in common areas. You can also purchase food from the owners to get a home-cooked meal.
Go to Local Markets
While you’ll likely want to spend some time visiting the touristy sites, don’t forget to squeeze some markets into your itinerary. These are often areas where locals gather, and you can find some authentic souvenirs as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. You can even find street food stalls where you can enjoy great food at a reasonable price.
Dance the Night Away
While researching for your Cuban vacation, you likely came across salsa dancing time and time again. And that’s because it really is a huge deal in Cuba!
To really experience dancing like a local, consider asking a tour guide or casa particular host where they enjoy dancing. If you’re not the most graceful dancer, consider taking some salsa lessons before you go. Although you may not be as good as the locals, a lesson can go a long way to help you feel more confident to get your feet out on the dance floor.
See a Baseball Game
If you’re a big baseball fan, we have good news for you! Baseball is very popular in Cuba, and seeing a game is a great way to get the local experience.
Of course, you can’t forget to load up on snacks. Be sure to try a pork sandwich or ask one of the locals what they’d recommend.
Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
Perhaps the best way to ensure your trip to Cuba is a success is to get out of your comfort zone. Whether that’s skipping the fancy hotels, staying in a local area, or getting out on the dance floor, there are tons of ways you can make your trip more authentic.
Don’t be afraid to ask locals questions or for recommendations. The atmosphere is very social and friendly in Cuba, and many of the locals are happy to share their culture.
Traveling Like a Local in Cuba
Although tourism is growing, there are still plenty of ways to visit Cuba like a local. From learning some Spanish and packing the right outfits to staying in a casa particular and opting for a local guide, getting an authentic Cuban experience is easier than you think!
Do you want to experience the hustle and bustle of the city as well as the relaxing beach? Then check out our Varadero beach day tour from Havana today!