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DESTINATIONS Cuba DESTINATIONS Cuba W ith the door to Cuba on the verge of opening to American tourists and investment, there may not be much time left to see the island before it inevitably changes. For now, it's still possible to watch farmers plow their fields with yoked oxen, talk to a cabby about how he keeps his classic American car running smoothly, and discover socialist propaganda on roadside billboards. For these and more authentic Cuban experiences, read on. Discover Cuba's capital Say hola to Havana with a ride along the city's famed Malecón boardwalk in a vintage car that may be older than you are. Sure, it's almost a cliché, but these cars are for real and so are their owners, like Sergio Nieto. He and two friends paid 25,000 CUC (about $33,000) three years ago for their pink and white 1953 Ford Victory with an image of Fidel Castro, the country's iconic leader for almost a half-century, on the driver's door, and co-revolutionary Che Guevara on the passenger side. While Nieto drives you along the seawall, honking his horn and running the occasional red light, you'll see Havana in all its gritty glory while learning what it's been like for Cubans to live under the thumb of Castro for so long. Take in historic Revolution Square, the White House-lookalike El Capitolio, and the vibrant Vedado neighourhood. Cuba AUTHENTIC 16 BCA A .COM WINTER 2015 (left) Ed Gifford/Masterfile The memorable sights and sounds of Havana include (clockwise from above) bustling marketplaces; streets filled with vintage American cars; lively musicians and dancers; and al fresco dining outside picturesque spots like the historic San Cristobal Cathedral. There's still time to explore the island nation in all its gritty glory before American influences forever alter its character BY SUZANNE MORPHET

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