Havana—the capital of the Republic of Cuba—will host the Chanel Cruise 2017 collection show on May 3rd. While Karl Lagerfeld has flung attendees across the globe twice a year to showcase the French fashion house’s Métiers d’Arts and Resort collections in cities such as Rome, Salzburg, and Dubai, this marks the first time that a Chanel show will unfold in Latin America.
With the anticipated arrival of Chanel in Havana, we’re taking you on a tour of the vibrant city. A window to the past, Havana boasts old cobblestone streets lined with classic cars and candy-colored building façades. The travel hotspot—which has been difficult to access since the revolution in 1959—is now on the brink of a transformation due to the United States and the Republic of Cuba’s restored diplomatic relations and lifted travel sanctions. As guests gear up for the Chanel extravaganza in Havana, we highlight six must-see places in the Cuban capital.
HISTORY IN THE MAKING
Stop by the Museo de la Revolución and brush up on all things Fidel Castro. A former presidential palace, the building boasts a grand marble interior decorated by Tiffany & Co.
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ONE FOR THE BOOKS
Pay a visit to the home of Ernest Hemingway. Known as Finca La Vigía, the house-turned-museum is where the celebrated American novelist wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls and The Old Man and the Sea.
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A HOT TROPIC
Sitting amid lush foliage is Tropicana. A must-visit for its dazzling cabaret shows, the open-air show opened in 1939 and hosted the likes of Carmen Miranda and Nat King Cole during its glory days.
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JAZZ THINGS UP
If jazz music is more suited to your style, then make some time to explore the array of venues sprawled across the Vedado district.
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Head to La Guarida for an evening of fine dining. The three-story historical mansion-turned-restaurant presents a vast selection of Latin dishes, and it once served as a backdrop for the 1993 Oscar-nominated film Strawberry and Chocolate.
