Cuba is the kind of place that takes your breath away from the moment you arrive—think vibrant streets, classic cars, live music at every corner, and a rich Afro-Cuban culture that runs deep. When I reunited with my Sankofa Sisters for this 4-day escape, I knew it was going to be special. From dancing Kizomba with locals to celebrating JD’s birthday in true Cuban style, every moment was packed with unforgettable experiences, soulful connections, and let’s be real—plenty of delicious food.
If Cuba has been on your bucket list, consider this your sign. Let me take you through every detail of our trip so you can plan your own Cuban adventure and soak up everything this magical destination has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival and Dancing the Night Away
After landing in Havana, reuniting with my Sankofa Sisters felt like a joyful homecoming. We hopped into a $40 SUV taxi (because trust, we came with all the bags) and headed straight to our gorgeous Airbnb in Vedado. With three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the city, it was the perfect home base.
Starving from the journey, we grabbed lunch nearby—simple chicken, rice, and salad for $7 each. While the food wasn’t anything to write home about, it held us over until dinner. After a quick rest, we headed to our first activity: a Kizomba dance class. Learning the moves took a minute, but dancing with locals made it so much fun!
Dinner that night was at Casa Mia, and y’all, this place set the bar high. From mango ceviche to lamb Casa Mia style, every dish was a 10/10. Add live Cuban music, and it was the perfect first night in Havana.
Day 2: Afro-Cuban Culture and Birthday Celebrations
Sunday was all about immersing ourselves in Afro-Cuban culture. We started with a powerful tour exploring Cuba’s history of slavery, religious practices, and even participated in a cleansing ceremony of negative energy that might be attached to us. It was a deeply moving and educational experience that I’m so happy we experienced together.
The day only got better when we had a wholesome home-cooked meal and danced to live Cuban music with drummers and singers. Post-tour, we hit the shops for African-print attire, a Sankofa tradition for every trip, because we love getting things that remind us of the countries we traveled to, and then treated ourselves to a much-needed massage at a beautiful tropical spa. The spa even surprised JD with a birthday cake and wine, which was such a sweet touch!
Dinner at Habana 5 Rooftop was another highlight—delicious ropa vieja, live saxophone music playing Afrobeats, and the staff surprising JD with dessert to celebrate her birthday. We ended the night dancing at Fabrica de Arte, a museum-meets-nightlife spot and rang in JD’s birthday at midnight.
Day 3: JD’s Birthday in Style
Monday was JD’s big day, and we kicked it off with a photo shoot in a classic baby-blue Cuban car. Driving through Havana’s iconic spots while switching outfits felt like we were in a classic Cuban movie. Plus can we talk about how epic these photos came out? I think the Visit Cuba Tourism Board might need to hire us!
After the photoshoot, we had lunch at Antojos, a rooftop spot with amazing food and cocktails. Empanadas, croquettes, tostones—every bite was a hit! Then we spent the afternoon soaking up the sun at a rooftop pool, celebrating the birthday girl.
Happy hour at Cha Cha Cha Restaurant was just as impressive, with mind-blowing dishes and cocktails. For dinner, we wore lavender (birthday girl's request) and headed to La Guarida Restaurant. While the food and ambiance weren’t as impressive as other spots, we made the best of it and ensured JD felt celebrated.
Day 4: Cigars, Music, and Final Adventures
Tuesday started with a cigar factory tour where we learned the fascinating process of cigar making. At a nearby café, we tried our hand at smoking cigars dipped in rum. Let’s just say, we weren’t exactly pros, but it was an experience to remember!
In Old Havana, live bands led us through the streets, and we even dressed up in traditional Cuban attire for photos. Heads up: it’s not free—each woman charges $30 for the experience. Our final meal was back at Casa Mia, because why not end the trip on a high note?
Cuba was nothing short of magical, and the memories will stay with me forever. If you’ve been dreaming of your own Cuban adventure, Queenie my Sankofa Sister, is hosting two group trips next year to Havana. One trip is completely sold out and there are only three spots left on the 2nd trip! Don’t wait—click here to secure your spot.
As for me, I had to headed back home early to be with my fiancé because we were hosting our first-holiday party of the season. Life as a fiancée has been such a joy, and I’m sharing all the behind-the-scenes moments, from wedding planning to everyday life, over on Instagram. Make sure you’re following along so you don’t miss a thing!
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