Another side of Santiago de Cuba

On our first day in Santiago de Cuba, we found Elliot, a cool guide who promised to show us the non-touristy spots the next day—a start wild and full of promise. At sunrise, I wandered alone through Santiago’s streets, raw and curious, before meeting up with Elliot after breakfast—a contrast between solitude and company.

Encounters with history and culture

First, we visited a 94-year-old woman who grew up right next to Fidel Castro and still lives in the same house—a conversation about the past, enriched with photos from Fidel’s last visit in 2002, a spectacle of history and closeness. Then Elliot introduced us to the Afro-Cuban religion of Santería, showing how it blends with Catholicism—a dance of tradition and syncretism. We wandered through various neighborhoods up to Chicharrones, the poorest and not exactly safest area—fascinating to see how people live and chat with some locals, a moment of authenticity and challenge.

Sunset with mojitos

At sunset, we returned to the city center and enjoyed a few mojitos from a rooftop terrace—a relaxing end. Definitely a worthwhile, authentic glimpse into local life—anyone interested can get Elliot’s contact details from me!