A Musical Route Across Cuba: How the Island’s Regions Shaped Its Sound
A listening route through Cuba’s regional traditions, from changüí and son in the east to rumba in Matanzas and Havana’s urban musical currents.
Category Cuban Culture
Cuban Music Quick Guide: Son Cubano, Rumba, Timba, Jazz and More
Cuban music has never been one single sound. It developed across different regions, communities and periods of Cuban history, producing traditions with distinct musical structures, instruments and social functions. Son cubano, rumba, danzón, mambo, cha-cha-chá, trova, bolero, Afro-Cuban jazz, songo…
Cuba’s New Sound: The Abreu Brothers Take the Stage
ABC News recently profiled Fabio and Diego Abreu, two teenage musicians from Havana who are already reshaping the landscape of Cuban jazz. For me, their recognition on an international platform is both exciting and deeply personal. As a colleague of…
Havana Salsa Festival 2024: Travel Impressions
Looking Back, Looking Ahead at the Havana Salsa Festival Historical festival reflection — reviewed September 2026: This article looks back at the 2024 Havana Salsa Festival. We can build a private custom itinerary around a future festival edition when dates…
Essential Donations for Cuba: Supporting Cuban Families
Donation guidance reviewed October 1, 2026. Ask the receiving organization for its current needs before packing; the Hurricane Oscar account below describes work in 2024. Cuba is a nation rich in culture, community, and resilience. However, many families face daily…
Top 5 Best Restaurants (Paladares) in Havana, Cuba
Best Cuban Restaurants (Reviewed September 2026) Restaurant hours, menus, and availability can change; reservations are recommended. By Chaz Chambers(Musician, Tour Guide Leader, and Director of Havana Music Tours and Musical Getaways) There are many great restaurant options around Havana, Cuba, but these are a…
Cuba: Celebrated as the Caribbean’s Cultural Hub for 2024
We are thrilled to announce that the World Travel Awards have named Cuba Caribbean’s Leading Cultural Destination 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights Cuba’s unique contributions to cultural heritage and the arts, making it an essential destination for anyone interested in…
Why the Havana Jazz Festival Should Be on Your Bucket List
If you love music or enjoy exploring unique cultural events, the Havana Jazz Festival is a must-visit. Held annually in Cuba’s lively capital, this festival truly celebrates jazz, culture, and the enchanting spirit of Havana. Here’s why this remarkable event…
5 Popular Music Festivals in Cuba: Havana, Varadero & More
Music Festivals in Cuba (Reviewed September 2026) Current tour note: Festival schedules and lineups can change. Havana Music Tours currently offers an open-signup Havana Jazz Festival Tour for January 26–February 1, 2027. The other festival itineraries below can be arranged…
Santiago de Cuba: A Musical Journey Through Time and Tradition
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Cuba, Santiago de Cuba stands as a testament to the island’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and music. As the birthplace of the Cuban Revolution and the son musical genre, this vibrant city offers…