Honest thoughts on Cuba after my first visit

First time in Cuba and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Santiago de Cuba was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best mojito I've ever had. Trinidad Cobblestones was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: food quality in state restaurants disappoints, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: incredible vintage cars, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.