HAVANA MUSIC TOURS JOURNAL
Cuban music, culture & travel
Stories and practical perspectives from the musicians, guides, and collaborators who bring us closer to Cuba’s music.
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FEATURED READ · OCTOBER 2026
Cuba Travel Update, October 2026: What We Saw and Our Plans for 2027
Chaz Chambers shares a firsthand update after his October 2026 humanitarian trip to Cuba, and explains how music, independent businesses, and long-standing relationships are shaping HMT’s return in 2027.
Latest stories
New perspectives on Cuba, its music, and what travelers should know.
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What It’s Really Like to Experience Jazz Plaza in Havana
Read story →: What It’s Really Like to Experience Jazz Plaza in HavanaWhat does Jazz Plaza actually feel like in Havana? A look at HMT’s 2026 experience, from…
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Cuba Travel Rules for 2027: What U.S. Travelers Need to Know
Read story →: Cuba Travel Rules for 2027: What U.S. Travelers Need to KnowUpdated October 2026 guidance on current OFAC Cuba travel rules, Support for the Cuban People, festivals…
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Cuba Travel Update, October 2026: What We Saw and Our Plans for 2027
Read story →: Cuba Travel Update, October 2026: What We Saw and Our Plans for 2027Chaz Chambers shares a firsthand update after his October 2026 humanitarian trip to Cuba, and explains…
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A Musical Route Across Cuba: How the Island’s Regions Shaped Its Sound
Read story →: A Musical Route Across Cuba: How the Island’s Regions Shaped Its SoundA listening route through Cuba’s regional traditions, from changüà and son in the east to rumba…
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Cuban Music Quick Guide: Son Cubano, Rumba, Timba, Jazz and More
Read story →: Cuban Music Quick Guide: Son Cubano, Rumba, Timba, Jazz and MoreCuban music has never been one single sound. It developed across different regions, communities and periods…
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Havana Jazz Festival 2027: Why Jazz Plaza Is One of the Best Times to Visit Cuba
Read story →: Havana Jazz Festival 2027: Why Jazz Plaza Is One of the Best Times to Visit CubaEvery January, Havana becomes one of the most important places in the world for Cuban jazz.…
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May 2026: Travel, Cultural Exchange, and Our Work in Cuba
Read story →: May 2026: Travel, Cultural Exchange, and Our Work in CubaHistorical context — reviewed September 2026: This post reflects conditions and commentary at the time it…
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March 2026: Our Work and Travel News in Cuba
Read story →: March 2026: Our Work and Travel News in CubaHistorical context — reviewed September 2026: This post reflects conditions and commentary at the time it…
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The History of Jazz Plaza: A Celebration of Music, Culture, and Unity
Read story →: The History of Jazz Plaza: A Celebration of Music, Culture, and UnityJazz Plaza is one of Cuba’s most important music events. Known internationally as the Havana Jazz…
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