Music Salons of Santiago, Cuba, is the ideal place if you are a lover of music and all the energy it transmits. Get ready to live an unforgettable experience in the second-largest city in Cuba. Along with the more sticky rhythms, you will see music as the soul of life and it will become part of your day to day.
Things to do
Santiago de Cuba
Although Santiago is known for different reasons, nothing beats the beautiful musical culture that characterizes the city. You can walk through the streets and listen to everything from mambo to salsa in the various music clubs that you can find in the city. In addition, we cannot leave out the Trovas, wonderful ballads that combine the Spanish guitar and the African percussion. This type of music contains very passionate lyrics that reflect everyday life on the spicy island of the Caribbean.
Trova House
In the Heredi Street or also known as the Bourbon street of Cuba, due to the innumerable clubs and its link with music, you can find the Casa de la Trova. This is a national institution that has been responsible for creating and training the great stars of Cuban music in the last century.
In this place, there are presentations every evening and evening, by solo artists and in groups. Therefore, it is normal for you to be attracted to the sound of the music that comes out the windows towards the street. If you decide to enter, you will see how at first everything seems very quiet, until the band starts playing and the attendees stand up to dance and sing to the rhythm of the music.
House of Traditions
Also known among the locals as “La Casona”, this is a cultural center that is characterized by performing different social and cultural activities. In the afternoon you can stop by and talk to the neighbors and have a good time. However, the best happens at night, when the place comes alive with Cuban music concerts. In addition, from time to time they also have dance shows.
How to get there
In Santiago is the Antonio Maceo International Airport or the International Airport of Santiago de Cuba (SCU). There are at least three daily flights from the capital, Havana, it is a journey that takes about 90 minutes. Other transportation options from Havana are the night train or a 15-hour bus trip.
When to go
November to February is the best time when the hurricane season ends and there is a constant sea breeze to keep the temperature and humidity low.
How long
Plan your trip in at least three nights, so you can enjoy all the good vibes and energy that this charming city transmits.
Opening and Closing hours
Trova’s house opens its doors around 8 am and you can enjoy concerts and different activities throughout the afternoon. Also, it has night hours from 7:30 p.m. at 9:30 p.m.
Planning
The elegant and old Hotel Casa Granda is located at the corner of Heredia Street and Céspedes Park, in the heart of the old town, book in advance. For more modern excavations, try the Meliá Santiago in the suburbs of Vista Alegre, where the terrace bar on the 15th floor offers endless views and live music.
Inside information
It is best to leave equipped with caps, sunscreen, and very light clothes because it is hot throughout the year. In addition, take into account the requirements of each country to travel to Cuba. The most common is that they ask for a tourist visa, which lasts 30 days and you can get it in the descent of Cuba from your country or in a travel agency. On the other hand, it is mandatory to have medical insurance to enter the country.
History
Santiago de Cuba is known for many things, including its role as the birthplace of the 1959 revolution. However, the passion for music is also born with the foundation of the city. By the 16th century, Miguel de Velázquez, a priest, was responsible for instilling in the neighbors to listen to the music coming from the chapel and the cathedral. Years later, Esteban Salas turned that chapel into a conservatory. Because of this, Estaban is considered by some to be the father of Cuban cult music. On the other hand, one could also say that Cuban music is a mixture of music from Spain and that of African slaves. The vihuelas and guitars were joined together with the drums and rattles to give life to a new rhythm.
Websites
Other nearby attractions
Havana
Without a doubt, if you visit Cuba, it is mandatory to stop in the capital, Havana. This is the smallest province in the country, but it is also the most populous. Its inhabitants spend the day between music and dances, so be prepared to get the best of Cuba, its beautiful culture and traditions, its people and its amazing architecture. On the other hand, you can plan a city tour, attend the different events that take place during the year and taste exquisite Cuban cuisine.
Trinity
Also known as “the museum city of the Caribbean Sea”, Trinidad is one of the most beautiful cities, along with its incredible architectural complexes, the historic center of this city was declared cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO. In addition, it has wonderful natural beauties such as the Topes de Collantes Natural Park. There are different activities, including diving, safaris, beaches, clubs or just watching a sunset.
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