Exploring the Colorful Streets of Trinidad, Cuba

Arrival in Trinidad: A Step Back in Time

After a long journey from Frankfurt, with a layover in Havana, Maximilian and I finally arrived in Trinidad. The scenic drive from Havana was a great introduction to the Cuban countryside, but nothing could have prepared me for the explosion of color and energy that is Trinidad. I’m excited to share my first day in this UNESCO World Heritage site with you all!

Our arrival was a bit of a whirlwind. After navigating the Havana airport and collecting our bags, we hopped into a pre-booked taxi for the four-hour drive to Trinidad. The landscape transformed from bustling cityscapes to rolling green fields dotted with palm trees. It was a welcome change of pace, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building as we approached our destination.

As we entered Trinidad, the cobblestone streets and brightly painted colonial buildings immediately transported us to another era. The city felt alive with music, laughter, and the rhythmic clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages. I could already tell that this was going to be a special place, a place where history and culture intertwined to create a truly unique experience. The October weather is warm, with average temperatures ranging from 73°F to 88°F. The humidity is noticeable, but there's a refreshing breeze that makes it bearable. The forecast predicts occasional showers, but I'm hoping we'll have plenty of sunshine to explore the city.

We checked into our guesthouse, a charming casa particular just a few blocks from the main square. Our host, a warm and welcoming woman named Elena, greeted us with a refreshing glass of guava juice and a wealth of information about the city. The guesthouse is simple but comfortable, with a lovely courtyard filled with colorful plants and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city. Staying in a casa particular is something I highly recommend, as it provides an authentic glimpse into Cuban life and supports local families.

Trinidad is more than just a destination; it's an immersive experience where every corner tells a story and every moment is filled with vibrant life.

After settling in, we ventured out to explore the city center. Our first stop was the Plaza Mayor, the heart of Trinidad and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The plaza is surrounded by beautifully preserved colonial buildings, including the Church of the Holy Trinity and several former mansions that have been converted into museums. The architecture is simply stunning, with intricate details and vibrant colors that reflect the city's rich history.

As we wandered through the plaza, we were serenaded by the sounds of live music emanating from nearby bars and restaurants. It was impossible not to feel swept up in the lively atmosphere. We stopped to admire the Church of the Holy Trinity, a magnificent building with a rich history and stunning interior. The church is a testament to the city's colonial past and a reminder of the important role that religion played in the lives of its people.

For lunch, we stumbled upon a charming little café tucked away on a side street. The café was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the traditional Cuban cuisine. I ordered a plate of ropa vieja, a flavorful shredded beef dish served with rice, beans, and plantains. Maximilian opted for the grilled chicken, which was equally delicious. The food was simple but incredibly satisfying, and the prices were very reasonable. It was the perfect way to fuel up for an afternoon of exploring.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the city, getting lost in the maze of cobblestone streets and admiring the colorful buildings. Every corner seemed to offer a new photo opportunity, from the vintage cars parked along the streets to the locals chatting on their doorsteps. We visited a local art gallery, where we admired the works of talented Cuban artists. The art was vibrant and expressive, reflecting the country's rich culture and history. I was particularly drawn to a series of paintings depicting scenes from everyday Cuban life.

In the late afternoon, we made our way to a rooftop bar overlooking the city. We ordered a couple of mojitos and settled in to watch the sunset. The view was breathtaking, with the colorful buildings of Trinidad stretching out before us and the Caribbean Sea shimmering in the distance. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky was painted with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, and I felt incredibly grateful to be experiencing it with Maximilian.

For dinner, we chose a romantic rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. The restaurant was dimly lit and decorated with candles, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. We started with a selection of tapas, including croquetas, empanadas, and olives. For our main courses, I ordered the grilled lobster, while Maximilian opted for the seafood paella. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Trinidad.

After dinner, we couldn't resist the lure of the live music spilling out from a nearby bar. We joined the crowd and danced the night away to the infectious rhythms of salsa and son. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike letting loose and enjoying the music. I even managed to pick up a few new salsa moves, thanks to the patient instruction of a friendly Cuban dancer. It was a night to remember, and a perfect introduction to the vibrant nightlife of Trinidad.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the city was quiet and peaceful. The stars twinkled overhead, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of jasmine. I couldn't help but smile as I thought about all that we had experienced in just one day. Trinidad had already captured my heart, and I knew that the next two weeks would be filled with even more adventure and discovery. I am also excited about tomorrow where we will visit a local craft market to explore what Trinidad has to offer.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the local craft market and immerse ourselves further in the city's culture. I'm particularly excited to sample some Cuban street food for lunch and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a seafood restaurant. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to our family and friends in Germany. I’m also hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to our family and friends in Germany. I’m also keen on visiting Playa Ancon, one of the most famous beaches in Cuba, to enjoy the white sands and light blue ocean.
Stay tuned for more updates from our Cuban adventure! I can't wait to share all of our experiences with you. Until then, ¡hasta luego!