Havana Through the Lens of Rico Marcelo

Cuba is more than a destination—it’s a story waiting to be told. Through the eyes of photographer Rico Marcelo, we see Havana not just as a place, but as an experience woven with history, artistry, and human connection.

Rico’s first visit to Cuba was made possible by A Culinary Society, a fully immersive travel agency that curates one-of-a-kind experiences designed to take travelers deeper into places they may think they know. As one of Tribe Caribe’s valued partners, A Culinary Society brought together a select group to experience Havana through the lens of food, culture, and creativity. The trip was led by Chef Sam Diminich, whose love for Cuban cuisine runs deep. Over the course of the visit, Sam prepared three distinct dinners at three unique locations, each menu thoughtfully crafted with locally sourced ingredients and brought to life alongside Cuban chefs, blending Caribbean techniques and traditions.

This kind of curated travel isn’t just about visiting—it’s about connecting. At Tribe Caribe, we believe in partnering with like-minded travel curators who share our vision of authentic, deeper experiences that actively support the Cuban people. When you stay with us, your journey has a purpose—every experience directly uplifts local artisans, chefs, musicians, and cultural practitioners.

For Rico, this was more than a photography trip; it was an immersion into the vibrant soul of Cuba:

"Photographing Havana and immersing myself in Cuban culture was both an honor and an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, I felt a deep sense of warmth and pride from everyone we encountered. Cuba is a place of striking contrasts—its architecture tells stories of the past, its people radiate resilience and joy, and its streets are alive with history and soul.

Exploring and capturing the diverse landscapes was truly special—from the lush greenery of the tobacco farms to the crystal-clear waters of Tarará and the timeless charm of Havana’s old buildings. Every scene was a testament to the island’s rich heritage and spirit. This journey left me inspired to learn even more about Cuba’s incredible history and culture, and I feel truly grateful for the experience.‍

This collaboration marks the beginning of Through the Lens of…, a series celebrating the artists who visit Tribe Caribe and share their unique perspective on Cuba. More than just a hotel, we are a creative sanctuary—a space where artists, musicians, and storytellers come together to be inspired and to give back.

Stay tuned as we unveil Rico’s stunning visual journey through our blog and social media. His work is a love letter to Havana, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Follow along on Instagram @tribecaribe_cayohueso for the full series.

This is Through the Lens of… More than photography, it’s a visual conversation. Join our newsletter where we’ll announce the next one.