The Heart of Cuba: Music, Community and Tradition

Cocotaxi along the Malecón

When I think about Cuba, I think about a culture rich in tradition and filled with stories that go beyond the postcard images.

I just returned from leading a group tour to Cuba, and when I reflect on the moments that felt the most meaningful to me, what sticks out the most isn’t the rum cocktails or the classic cars. While these elements are certainly part of Cuba's charm and history, what really stood out to me was a culture deeply rooted in community, heritage, and a daily connection to the past.

What most defines Cuba for me is its people. In every conversation, there was a sense of warmth, openness, and resilience. Despite the many hardships they endure, the Cuban people remain steadfast in valuing human connection above all else. However, the US embargo exacerbates their struggles, limiting access to essential resources and opportunities for economic growth.

Through these encounters, I realized that the heart of Cuba isn’t found in the popular tourist attractions or the souvenir shops. It’s in the quiet, everyday moments of human connection—the laughter shared over a meal, the spiritual practices passed down through generations, and the sense of community that pervades every corner of the island.

Cross Cultural Journeys has taken Americans to Cuba since it first opened up legal travel from the United States under the Clinton administration in 1997. The current political climate between Cuba and the United States is fragile, and there is no telling what the new administration might do to once again limit the possibility of traveling there. That being said, if Cuba is on your bucket list, and you’re seeking a deeper, more authentic experience, I invite you to visit Eastern Cuba with us this May. The journey is co-led buy former diplomat to the US interest section in Havana, Chip Barclay, and or top guide in Cuba, Jesus Noguera.

Arturo Mesa another one of our favorite guides, with over 20 years leading in-depth intercultural experience in Cuba, wrote an article about what makes Eastern Cuba such a cultural gem. You can read his blog post here.

The Cuba I had the privilege of experiencing was one where family-owned restaurants open their doors to welcome groups of strangers, inviting them to experience the warmth of local food and the artistry of home-cooked meals. One such meal was “Ajiaco,” a hearty stew that not only comforts the body but also tells the story of Cuba’s diverse history. The dish is a literal melting pot, much like the Cuban people themselves, blending flavors and ingredients from Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. As we prepared it together, the recipe felt like a metaphor for the unity and resilience of the Cuban spirit.

Another unforgettable experience came when we had the opportunity to visit with a babalawo, a high priest of Santería, an Afro-Cuban religion that plays a profound role in the lives of many Cubans. We were welcomed into his home, a place where centuries of spiritual tradition and wisdom are passed down from generation to generation. Learning about the history, teachings, and beliefs of Santería gave us a glimpse into a side of Cuban life that is often hidden from tourists but is incredibly important to understanding the island’s soul. It was a humbling reminder of how deeply spirituality is woven into the daily fabric of Cuban existence.