Through the Lens of Havana: A Journey with Cuban Soul in Pictures
By Raiza Arango Medina
There is a way to save and take the soul of Havana with you and it is through the Cuban soul in pictures experience. When I decided to book, I never thought I could feel like a model and enjoy it that much. This is precisely what Manuel offers you through his lens: professional photos in very unique places of Havana.
What’s so special about it? The images are made in places that are not in the traditional touristy of Havana. 19th-century doors, portals, balconies, and cobbled streets make each photograph a unique experience.
The tour begins on the outskirts of the Capitolio Nacional. From there, the walk starts with anecdotes and descriptions of each of the streets marked on the route. The perfect moment to interact with the other guests in the group. Yes, because the experience is also about that; to meet people from anywhere in the world. If you are by yourself and would like to book it through Airbnb, up to 3 other travelers could join you. At first, I was undecided about this, but the chemistry that we had in the group was incredible, and we ended up partying together that night.
In addition, you can reserve for groups of friends or families up to a party of eight. The photos are personal or collective, but the important thing for Manuel is that you always enjoy the most and this is reflected in the snapshots.
With just one outfit, the most beautiful and comfortable possible, I did not need anything else, but in case you want to make a small change of clothes, Manuel will be ready to find the perfect place to do it. The diversity of colors, the confluence of various types of architecture, and the different scenes make each shot unique, and you do not have to struggle to take that selfie that never comes out as the moment deserves.
But if the walk through the streets of the Old Havana is magical, it is even more prodigious to travel the entire coastline of the Havana seawall in a Ford convertible from the 1950s, a once-in-a-lifetime vibe.
To conclude, Manuel reserves the best; take us to enjoy a refreshing drink on an amazing rooftop in the heart of the city. I was lucky enough to hear his experiences on the terrace of the Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski. And I don't need much more to define that moment as one of my favorites.
The time (2hrs) was enough for me to assume Cuban soul in pictures as one of the most complete experiences in the world of photography. Of course! The fact that Manuel offers the tour in Spanish, English, or French and is a graduate of the University of Arts in Havana, makes travelers regularly recommend him within the Airbnb platform (more than 900 five stars reviews so far).
You will receive your photos within five days of the experience, via a Google Drive or Dropbox link. The photos can then be shared on social media, as well as printed. You will get a minimum of 25 beautifully edited photos.
An authentic side of Havana that you can keep forever: that is Manuel's invitation. Thousands of travelers from all over the world have already experienced it… What are you waiting for?