When our group arrived in Habana, we quickly realized that our residence was near the happenin' part of town, or Calle 23 (23rd Street). Calle 23 is the main street that runs from Vedado, the older part of town with historic mansion homes, to the famous hotels Habana Libre and Hotel Nacional.
Habana Libre was formerly the Habana Hilton (of the Hilton hotels). However, after the Revolution of 1959, it was re-named the Habana Libre. The hotel was then made famous after Fidel signed the first revolutionary decrees after the Revolution from this location. Hotel Nacional is famous for its majestic entrance, outdoor patio and bar overlooking the sea, and let's not forget...the scene from the Godfather. But most importantely, it makes argueably the best mojito in town.
While walking Calle 23 from end to end, you will pass La Riviera movie theater and La Yora movie theater (across from Habana Libre on a section called La Rampa). For a live show, you can attend the Cabaret at Hotel Nacional for 30 CUC, which blends showgirl style with Cuban dance.
La Copellia, an ice cream park, is conveniently located amongst all these attractions. La Copellia is every child's dream, with about five different ice cream stands to choose from. And this ice cream is unique to Cuba.
So while you can find a fabulous mojito or pina colada just about anywhere, some specific places are an especially good time. The jazz club La Zorra y El Cuervo features live jazz music in a small intimate venue. As a plus your cover charge includes two drinks. Fresa y Chocolate (named after the movie of the same title) is another lively cafe that features a different type of music/DJ each night.
To conclude, there is no shortage of activities in downtown Habana. Between the theaters, hotels, clubs, and coffee shops (for a cafe con leche), there is more to do than hours in the day. And Habana nights are something special...who needs sleep anyway?
By Melissa Moreland, Second-year SIS IC Graduate Student
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