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.
EXPLORE BY SUBJECT
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.
-
10 Must-Know Cuban Salsa and Timba Bands That Keep the Island Dancing
Read story →: 10 Must-Know Cuban Salsa and Timba Bands That Keep the Island DancingCuba doesn’t just play music — it breathes it. Especially when it comes to salsa and…
-
A Snowy Morning, a Spinning Record, and the Rhythms That Took Me to Cuba
Read story →: A Snowy Morning, a Spinning Record, and the Rhythms That Took Me to CubaBy Chaz Chambers, Founder of Havana Music Tours It’s a snowy spring morning in Colorado—the kind…
-
Havana Salsa Festival 2024: Travel Impressions
Read story →: Havana Salsa Festival 2024: Travel ImpressionsLooking Back, Looking Ahead at the Havana Salsa Festival Historical festival reflection — reviewed September 2026:…
-
Essential Donations for Cuba: Supporting Cuban Families
Read story →: Essential Donations for Cuba: Supporting Cuban FamiliesDonation guidance reviewed October 1, 2026. Ask the receiving organization for its current needs before packing;…
-
Supporting Cuban Music: Donations for Music Students and Local Musicians
Read story →: Supporting Cuban Music: Donations for Music Students and Local MusiciansCuba is a country where music flows through every street, home, and heart. Its vibrant rhythms,…
-
Top 5 Best Restaurants (Paladares) in Havana, Cuba
Read story →: Top 5 Best Restaurants (Paladares) in Havana, CubaBest Cuban Restaurants (Reviewed September 2026) Restaurant hours, menus, and availability can change; reservations are recommended.…
-
The 40th Havana Jazz Festival (2025): A Look Back
Read story →: The 40th Havana Jazz Festival (2025): A Look BackPast festival archive — reviewed September 2026: This article covers an earlier edition of Jazz Plaza.…
-
Hidden Music Venues of Santiago de Cuba
Read story →: Hidden Music Venues of Santiago de CubaSantiago de Cuba, often overshadowed by Havana, offers an authentic and profound musical experience. The city’s…
-
Varadero Josone Music Festival 2024: A Look Back
Read story →: Varadero Josone Music Festival 2024: A Look BackHistorical festival article — reviewed September 2026: This post covers the 2024 Varadero Josone Music Festival.…
Discover Cuba with the people who know its music
Learn more about our music-led tours and cultural experiences.