A place of many contrasts, with an admirable people who live life with passion. For many in our group, this was a trip of a lifetime and a journey of introspection, reading into the lives of Cubans through their history—from Spanish colonialism to the Revolution and, finally, to the present day. Although they live with hardships, lacking basic goods and facing many restrictions, they experience daily life with dignity and joy, in a place where time seems to have stopped half a century ago. A country with vast production of sugar, cigars, and coffee, Cuba is trying to find its place in the global order while remaining steadfast in the principles and values of the Revolution that began in 1959.
We began with a road trip to the Viñales Valley, famous for its cigars and prehistoric murals, where we experienced our first yoga practice. Havana had it all: a historic journey through Revolution Square, the Rum Museum, rides in vintage cars, and visits to the favorite haunts of American author Ernest Hemingway—the Floridita (for a Daiquiri) and the Bodeguita del Medio (for a Mojito). Our walks to the historic Hotel Nacional always took us along the world-famous Malecón seaside boulevard.
We continued our route to Guamá, visiting the crocodiles and the indigenous village, where we practiced yoga under the palm trees. Our next stops were Cienfuegos and Trinidad on the Caribbean side, with their unique colors. There, we enjoyed another special practice right by the deep blue waters of the Caribbean.
Before our final stop at the resort of Cayo Santa Maria, we visited Santa Clara—the city of Che Guevara—where the decisive battle of the Revolution took place. On the Atlantic side, with its powdery sand, we relaxed and dedicated time to a series of practices, culminating in a Yoga Nidra session at sunset, right by the sea. One of the highlights was a day trip by catamaran, where we swam at a dreamlike beach, played with dolphins, and, of course, danced on board.
While Cuba is not primarily known as a gastronomic destination, we found the opportunity to taste the local lobsters. I would like to thank my team for sharing this special yoga retreat with its many changes of scenery and emotions—but above all, for their intention to give back to the children of Cuba by bringing notebooks, stationery, and sweets. This is the true philosophy of Yoga! The children reciprocated with smiles, hugs, and kisses.
Highlights of the Cuban Journey:
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Cultural Depth: Exploring the transition from colonial history to Revolutionary values.
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Iconic Havana: Vintage cars, Hemingway’s spots, and the energy of the Malecón.
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Spirit of Giving: The group’s donation of supplies to local children as a core yoga practice.
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Nature: From the prehistoric Viñales Valley to the turquoise Caribbean and the Atlantic’s white sands.
This retreat clearly moved beyond physical exercise into true humanitarian connection.
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