Exploring the old part was best done on foot as the old quarters were
blessed with an ensemble of old, pre-communist-era buildings. The
best part of the day was spent admiring these old buildings and
investigating the narrow lanes. I would have been foolish not to drive
along the Malecon Sea Drive in an old convertible and I thought the
only thing missing was a bottle of rum.
The following day was spent similarly, but in a different section of
town where beautiful old buildings, several of which had already been
restored, lined the streets. During my walkabout, I encountered
colourful ladies smoking cigars, horse-drawn carriages, and bicycle
taxis (not just for tourists). Along the way, I came across the most
lifelike human statue I had ever encountered. What made it even
more surprising was that he was positioned next to an identical
statue. Only by donating money to his collection box could he come
to life.
Giggling, I made my way along narrow lanes, where front doors led
directly onto pavements and where salsa music emanated from about
every doorway. Music, dance and art were everywhere in Havana, and
it seemed practically everyone could play an instrument.
The waterfront made a perfect spot to snap a few pics and grab a bite
to eat at sunset. With such an abundance to see, one could easily
spend a few days in Havana. I was, however, keen to get going and
planned to return to Havana for a few days before flying out.