Trinidad is a city in the Sancti Spirítus Province on the south coast of Cuba. Cigar making, fishing and sugar cultivation have traditionally been the backbone of Trinidad's economy but these days tourism is becoming more and more important.

Trinidad is a beautifully preserved example of colonial Spanish architecture and has achieved a spot on UNESCO's World Heritage List. However, most travelers probably come to Trinidad for its' lively music and nightlife scene as well as easy access to Ancun Beach some 15 kilometers to the south.

Horseback riding is still a common means of transport in Trinidad .

Playing cards on the street is a popular way of spending the afternoon in most Cuban cities.

These boys prefer a game of baseball, however.

Mother with her children enjoying the afternoon.

We had a pleasant chat with these railroad workers.

The main church in Trinidad

Ruins of an old church.

Trinidad seen from a hill

No visit to Trinidad is complete without a visit to Casa de la Musica (The House of Music). It has free shows on most nights of the week.

After the show locals and travelers enjoy a night of dancing and drinking in Casa de la Musica.

This disco has been built in a cave. It is situated behind the church ruins and requires some climbing on an un-lit dirt path to get to.

La Boca is only 20 minutes from Trinidad by taxi but feels like it belongs in another time gone a long time ago.

It is really just a little village on the seafront, but it makes a nice change after the somewhat touristy and crowded Trinidad. There were no hotels when we visited La Boca but it had some very nice casa particulars (bed and breakfast places).

Ancun Beach can be reached by taxi or by bus in 30 minutes from Trinidad. It has several expensive "all-included" resorts but the beach with its' clean white sand and inviting turquoise water is accessible for anyone and there are also some restaurants and cafeterias that cater for independent travelers.

You can find all our photos and stories on Cuba at Cuba photo series and travel stories.