Chocolate Paradise

Jasmine Goodwin

Reporting from Havana

HAVANA, Cuba - During a tour of the numerous plazas and shops located in central Havana, we had the opportunity to make a stop at the Museo Del Chocolate. It was by far one of my favorite, delicious food moments during my Cuban adventures. 

The Museo Del Chocolate specializes in chocolate - and only chocolate. I visited the shop three times during my time in Havana, and each time there was a chance to view the chocolate being made into various shapes, sizes, or even flavors being added for unique candy and other treats. 

My favorite menu item was a simple drink called "cold chocolate." It tasted similar to a melted chocolate milkshake, and it also came with a friendly price tag: just one CUC per glass. To learn more about the Museo Del Chocolate, view the video below:

Why it changed the way I eat:

Experiencing cold chocolate has set a high bar for any future consumption of chocolate milk or milkshake. 

Modern Fare, Modest Price

Jasmine Goodwin
Reporting from Havana


HAVANA, Cuba - La Xana was a trendy restaurant specializing in Italian food and was located just a few blocks from our hotel. It ended up being a go-to restaurant for our group due to its location and great food, with good prices.

There were few times we saw expensive food in Cuba, however La Xana was unique because it provided the ambiance of a high-priced eatery, without the high price tag. 

Bougoris on a Budget

Jasmine Goodwin

Reporting from Havana

HAVANA, Cuba - Staying on a strict budget was very important during our trip because we were not able to use any credit cards - just the cash that we entered the country with. 

Life on the edge

by Arianna Kemis

Havana, Cuba

I have never been so comfortable to walk in a city. Furthermore, I have never seen a balcony lifestyle anything like that which is in Havana.

Do you like Pina Coladas?

Jasmine Goodwin
Reporting from Havana


HAVANA, Cuba - On our way to visit the beach in Veradero, our tour guide made a special stop for us at an outdoor shop that only sells on thing - pina coladas. I was under the assumption that I did not like pina coladas because one of the major ingredients is coconut, which is not a food I am a fan of in the slightest.

A Taste of Luxury in Xanadu

Jasmine Goodwin
Reporting from Havana


HAVANA, Cuba - The trip included an array of pre-planned meals, including lunch at the Xanadu Mansion. It was easily the most beautiful meal we had. The mansion was just steps from the beach, and the house itself was breathtaking with flawless craftsmanship and timeless decor.

We dined outside on the patio of the house, which also overlooks the beach at Veradero. 

The First Mojito

Jasmine Goodwin
Reporting from Havana


HAVANA, Cuba - We were taken to a local hotel to exchange our Canadian currency into Cuban pesos. It is possible to exchange American dollars into Cuban currency but expensive as the Cuban government charges a penalty of up to 15 percent, therefore we needed to transfer a set amount of cash into Canadian currency, which would then be transferred into Cuban currency.