The Fábrica de Arte Cubano, Havana’s cultural center, is one place you absolutely must visit. What was once an oil factory has been transformed into the island’s coolest and most dynamic location in the hip Vedado district. It quickly became a group favorite. FAC is the only place where you can find art, fashion, theater, food, and music all in one location. It is a trendy but unpretentious entertainment maze. It is truly unique in that it places a strong emphasis on socialism and community.

The club is also an art gallery with several floors, so you can look at the latest Cuban art while sipping a minty mojito frappé (our favorite drink on the menu). If that isn’t enough, there are numerous bars, restaurants, and electrifying live music performances to choose from. One memorable time, the brass band on stage brought their instruments into the crowd, interacted with our group, and invited us into their work.

Go to the dancefloor to exchange moves with some of the city’s most fashionable residents for an additional immersive experience. It won’t break the bank, and entry costs just 2CUC (2 dollars). The club is open Thursday through Sunday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., but it closes for renovations every three months (in January, May, and September).