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Cuba Resources

With so much to see, hear and experience, planning a trip to Cuba can be a bit overwhelming.  Take some time to get oriented before you depart, or, enjoy a fresh new perspective upon your return by spending some time immersed in some of our favorite Cuba-themed books, movies and music.

Movies about Cuba

Get a sense for Cuba through film.  These selected movies and TV shows offer you a glimpse into some of Cuba’s famous icons and paint a picture of the Cuba in present day.  Some of the scenes were actually filmed on site (Four Seasons is a particularly wonderful collection) in Havana and gives an honest view of life in the city through a dramatic lens.

Available on DVD, Netflix, Amazon Prime and other streaming services.

Books about Cuba

Famed photographer Heidi Hollinger’s brilliantly brings the spirit of our city alive in the second edition of her master travel guide, 300 Reasons to Love Havana.  Filled with the plenty of great photography and insight from a self-professed Cubaphile, this book will whet your appetite for the trip of a lifetime.

Jewish Cuba is our specialty and no one has better perspective on our shared history than Ruth Behar, who grew up with our founders and whom we consider a personal friend.  Her collection of novels, children’s books and memoirs of her life in Cuba will transport you to a different time and allow you to experience what it was to live in Jewish Cuba during its golden age.  

With so many great books about Cuba it is impossible to choose, but here are some of our favorite selections.  From classical works by Cuba’s most famous adopted son to more contemporary fiction by Nelson DeMille, there are plenty of choices to whet your appetite and prepare for a unique journey to the world’s most fascinating island.

The Music of Cuba - Past and Present

Music is at the heart of the Cuban soul.  From jazz to big bands so salsa and reggaeton, Cuba’s passion for music is unrivaled.  With historical influences from Spain, Africa, Cuban music provides a unique soundtrack for any visit to the island.  Below are some of our favorite selections.  Check out the Havana Music Tours blog for more ideas!