Finding Community on the Road: My Trip to Cuba

A year ago, in March 2024, I packed my backpack and flew to Cuba—a country full of life, rhythm, and an energy that you can feel in the air. I started my trip in Varadero, spending a couple of days soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful beaches before heading to Havana, where a different kind of adventure awaited me.

In Havana, I joined an organized trip with a group of strangers. I didn’t know what to expect, but as the days went by, I realized I had met the right people for that moment. That’s something I’ve always felt while traveling—sometimes, I don’t meet many people, and other times, I cross paths with exactly the ones I need. With our fantastic guide leading the way, we explored Viñales, visiting a tobacco plantation, then moved on to Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and Santa Clara before returning to Havana for a tour in the capital.

Beyond the breathtaking landscapes and colourful streets, what truly made this trip special was the sense of community that formed between us. For those days, we were a small, happy family—our guide, our driver, and every single one of us in the group. We shared meals, stories, and endless laughter, creating a bond that made the journey even more meaningful.

And then there was the music. As a salsa dancer, I felt completely in my element in Cuba. Every day, live music filled the streets, the restaurants, the bars—it was impossible not to move to the rhythm of it all. One of the girls in the group was also a salsa dancer, and we instantly connected, going out dancing almost every night. There’s something magical about dancing in a place where the music is alive, where it’s part of the culture and the people’s way of life.

Looking back, I realize how powerful that feeling of connection is. Traveling isn’t just about discovering new places; it’s about the people we meet along the way and the sense of belonging we can find, even far from home. Whether for a night, a week, or longer, these moments of community remind us how much we need each other.

So, if there’s one thing I took from Cuba—beyond the music, the sunsets, and the mojitos—it’s the reminder that we’re never truly alone. There’s always a place for us to connect, to belong, and to share the journey, because life is richer when shared, and that applies far beyond travel.

Until the next adventure,

Teresa