The Hornet Guide to Gay Havana
A rich history and culture, stunning architecture, those classic cars and, of course, delicious mojitos. Those are only a few of the things that’ll make you fall in love with Havana, Cuba. And though some don’t know it, the island makes a prime spot for LGBTQ travelers. Just check out this guide to gay Havana.
While strolling along the beautiful Prado sidewalk or the iconic Malecon by the sea you’ll get an up-close-and-personal view of Havana. Obispo Street, the busiest in Habana Vieja (Old Havana), has plenty of souvenir and gift shops and an intense flow of people from day into night. And at Avenue 23, in Vedado, you’ll find a mixed crowd, young and old, socializing together after sunset.
Before your trip to gay Havana
Before booking your trip, here are some tips for planning a stress-free vacation to gay Havana.
Travel to Cuba for Americans is possible, even with Trump’s travel restrictions. To fly to Cuba, Americans must prove they fall under one of 12 approved categories of travel — including as a journalist, humanitarian travel or professional research — or with an established Cuban tour company, like Detours With Matt, a group run by Texas-based gay guide Matt Smith.
If you’re an American who falls under one of those allowable 12 travel categories, you can purchase your flight online and even travel to Cuba from the States. You will, however, need to purchase a Cuba visa either online ahead of time or at the airport. (Airports in the States that fly to Cuba have small kiosks called “Cuba Ready” inside the terminal where you can easily purchase before takeoff.)
There’s also a long list of hotels, restaurants and businesses Americans are not allowed to frequent (meaning spend money) because they’re run by the Cuban military. Find that list here.
Sightseeing in gay Havana
There are plenty of tourist attractions throughout Havana. Have a daiquiri in the gardens of Hotel Nacional with friends. Take a selfie in front of the buildings bearing images of Che Guevara and Cienfuegos at Plaza de la Revolución. Read up on the history of Fidel Castro and his companions in the Museo de la Revolución. Visit the museums and cafes of the beautiful Mercaderes street.
Finally, don’t leave Cuba without enjoying a beautiful sunset on a hotel rooftops. We’ve found it’s the best way to remember Havana.
Do you have a trip planned to gay Havana? We wanna hear about it!
