Cuba, the jewel of the Caribbean, is an island like no other—renowned as it is for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and timeless charm. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches, and lush landscapes, it offers a tropical paradise that captures the hearts of travelers from around the globe. But there’s more to this island than its postcard-perfect scenery.

Cuba is rich in culture, history and hospitality. Traveling to Cuba, in so many amazing ways, feels like stepping back in time. From the streets of Havana to the countryside, there’s a palpable sense of nostalgia. It’s hard not to notice the countless Michael Jordan and Steph Curry basketball jerseys proudly worn by locals or the way every bar and restaurant hums with the sounds of American music, often streamed via Sirius/XM satellite radio. Cubans are genuinely thrilled to strike up conversations about the U.S., sharing their perspectives with a warmth and pride that makes every interaction special. As one of the locals shared. “Just because our governments (Cuban and U.S.) don’t get along, it doesn’t mean we can’t be friends.” Their eagerness to show off their beautiful country makes exploring Cuba an incredibly rewarding experience.

Cuba captivates visitors with its unique blend of history, art and energy. Wandering through Havana feels like stepping into a living time capsule, where vibrant colonial facades, classic American cars and the rhythms of salsa fill the streets with charm. Beyond the lively capital, destinations like Trinidad, Viñales, and Santiago de Cuba showcase stunning landscapes, rich traditions and the warmth of Cuban hospitality.

Whether exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, savoring hand-rolled cigars, dancing to Afro-Cuban beats, or relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, Cuba offers an unforgettable journey. It’s a place where the past and present seamlessly merge, leaving every traveler enchanted by its timeless magic.

I had the extraordinary privilege of embarking on a captivating Jewish heritage journey with Jewish Heritage Travel, titled The Jews of Cuba: A Marriage of Culture. What made this experience truly exceptional was its carefully curated content, which delved deep into the rich history, traditions and cultural legacy of Cuba’s Jewish community. The trip was further elevated by the presence of distinguished Cuban scholars and experts, each offering a unique and profound perspective on the region’s Jewish past and present. Through engaging lectures, thought-provoking discussions and informal conversations, these experts illuminated the complex and fascinating story of Jewish life in Cuba—from its origins and struggles to its resilience and contributions to Cuban society. Their deep knowledge and firsthand insights provided an unparalleled opportunity to explore the vibrant Jewish heritage of Cuba in a way that was both intellectually enriching and personally moving.

What makes this journey truly extraordinary is the opportunity to uncover the rich and often overlooked Jewish narrative woven into Cuba’s past and present. This immersive experience was expertly curated by Miriam Levinson of Jewish Heritage Travel, an organization committed to exploring Jewish history and culture around the world. A native of Cuba, Miriam has meticulously designed, organized and led hundreds of trips to her homeland, bringing unparalleled expertise and a deeply personal connection to the experience. Her profound understanding of Jewish life in Cuba infused the weeklong program with authenticity and depth, offering participants a rare and intimate perspective on the resilience, traditions and contributions of the island’s Jewish
communities.

It was a true pleasure when Miriam provided us with a fascinating introduction to the history of the Jewish community’s settlement in Cuba’s Old Town. She shared, “Cuba never had a ghetto. As the Jewish population began to thrive, they integrated with the broader Cuban society, moving into neighborhoods like Santos Suarez, a beautiful area. By the 1940s and 50s, many had settled in Vedado and later in Miramar. In the 1950s, if you said you lived in Vedado or Miramar, it was understood that you were wealthy [as]these were places that only the affluent could afford.”

She continued, painting a vivid picture: “Many of these homes had between 12 and 14 rooms, with some reaching up to 16. I always encourage people to look beyond the facade and envision the families who once lived here. They likely had a cook, one or two maids, a driver, and a gardener;this was truly a thriving and prosperous neighborhood.”

Miriam also highlighted another prestigious area beyond Miramar, often referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Cuba.” This exclusive enclave was once home to grand mansions, many adorned with elegant gates. Today, it remains one of the most desirable locations in Havana, serving as the residence for numerous ambassadors and diplomats stationed in Cuba.

Our hotel, Grand Aston La Habana, was opened three years ago and is in the Vedado area of Havana, on the iconic Malecón seawall. It is a modern hotel that offers a blend of contemporary comfort and has the perfect advantage of incredible sunsets and views of the city. The Grand Aston boasts 600 stylish rooms and suites designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. They feature elegant décor, plush bedding and modern amenities, including Wi-Fi Internet access, a flat-screen TV with cable TV, and you can watch CNN, TLC, ESPN, and many others. You can also have an in-room safe and a minibar. The hotel has an array of culinary options to choose from. Breakfast offers a buffet at Vida, with a selection of international and local organic delicacies that satisfy every palate.

Miriam stated that it is the only hotel that we can stay at as Americans because of the present administration. When Trump was in office four years ago, he created what’s called a blacklist, and about 99.99% of all hotels in Cuba t were barred for American occupancy. While Americans can technically stay at some hotels in Cuba, the concern is that U.S. citizens may end up indirectly supporting the Cuban government or military, which holds significant stakes in many businesses, including hotels. Therefore, the U.S. government restricts travel to certain establishments or requires U.S. citizens to avoid spending money at properties that are linked to these entities. Miriam further explained the reason that we could stay at our hotel is that it was built after it came out of the blacklist. She told us that we were limited to which hotels we could stay in, as we would be violating the United Rules.

The Jewish Journey Through Cuba: From the Spanish Inquisition to Today’s Resilient Community

Cuba—a land of vibrant culture, revolutionary spirit, and a history that intertwines with countless diasporas—holds one of the most remarkable stories of Jewish survival and perseverance in the Caribbean. The Jewish presence on this island stretches back centuries, shaped by migration, persecution and unwavering resilience. From the first Sephardic Jews escaping the Spanish Inquisition to the small yet steadfast community that remains today, the history of Cuban Jewry is a testament to endurance, faith and the power of heritage.

The Beginnings: Conversos And Hidden Faith

The story of Jews in Cuba can be traced back to 1492, the same year Spain issued the Edict of Expulsion, forcing Jews to convert to Catholicism or flee. Among those seeking refuge from the Inquisition were the conversos, or Crypto-Jews—families who outwardly practiced Christianity but secretly maintained Jewish traditions. While official records are scarce, many believe that Luis de Torres, originally Yosef ben Levy Ha-Ivri, was the first Jew to set foot in Cuba. De Torres, a polyglot translator aboard Christopher Columbus’s Santa Maria, was among the first Europeans to arrive on the island and possibly the first Jewish presence in the Americas.

For centuries, these secret Jews—known as Anusim, meaning “forced ones”—lived in the shadows, their faith whispered behind closed doors, their traditions passed down in secrecy. Despite the risks, elements of their Jewish identity endured, subtly woven into their customs and stories.

A New Beginning: The 20th Century Jewish Migration

The turn of the 20th century brought a fresh wave of Jewish migration to Cuba. Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, Cuba emerged as an appealing destination for immigrants. Among the first to arrive were American Jews who viewed the island as an extension of their economic and cultural landscape. They established the first Jewish congregation in Havana in 1904, the Union Hebrew Congregation, catering primarily to English-speaking Jews. Just two years later, they secured land for a Jewish cemetery, a definitive sign of a growing, organized community.

By the early 1900s, waves of Jewish immigrants seeking refuge from persecution and economic hardship found their way to Cuba. Ashkenazi Jews from Eastern Europe, escaping pogroms and instability, settled in Havana, while Sephardic Jews from Turkey and the Ottoman Empire arrived, many hoping to use Cuba as a stepping stone to the United States. However, U.S. immigration quotas left many stranded, leading to the establishment of a thriving Jewish community on the island. By 1924, the Jewish population had grown significantly, reaching around 24,000.

Jewish-owned businesses flourished, especially in Havana’s garment district, and synagogues, schools and aid organizations were established. Despite this prosperity, the community remained divided along cultural lines, with American, Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews maintaining distinct social and religious circles.

World War II and the St. Louis Tragedy

During World War II, Cuba became a beacon of hope for Jewish refugees but also a place of heartbreak. In 1939, the SS St. Louis, carrying over 900 Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution, was denied entry to Cuba. Forced to return to Europe, many passengers perished in the Holocaust, marking a painful chapter in Cuban Jewish history.

Yet, amid the tragedy, Cuba did serve as a haven for some Jewish refugees who managed to find sanctuary on the island. Their contributions enriched the community, adding new depth to Jewish life in Cuba during the war years.

The Cuban Revolution: Exodus and Uncertainty

In 1959, when Fidel Castro’s revolution reshaped the island, the Jewish population stood at around 15,000, mostly concentrated in Havana. Initially, many Jews, like other Cubans, held cautious optimism about the new government’s promises of equality. However, as the regime swiftly nationalized private businesses, many Jewish entrepreneurs—who made up a significant portion of the community—lost their livelihoods.

Between 1959 and 1961, about 94% of Cuba’s Jews fled, primarily to the United States, with significant numbers settling in Miami, New Jersey, and Houston. Those who remained faced increasing restrictions under the Communist regime, where religious practice became a liability. With synagogues closing and assimilation accelerating, Jewish life in Cuba seemed to be fading away. In 1973, when Cuba severed diplomatic ties with Israel, the community’s connection to the global Jewish world grew even more fragile.

A Remarkable Revival: The Jewish Reawakening of the 1990s

By the early 1990s, the Jewish population in Cuba had dwindled to fewer than 1,500 people, with religious observance nearly extinguished. However, a pivotal moment arrived in 1991 when Cuba revised its policies, allowing members of the Communist Party to openly practice religion. This shift, coupled with the economic crisis following the collapse of the Soviet Union, set the stage for a Jewish revival.

Jewish aid organizations, particularly the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), stepped in to support the community, providing religious materials, food and cultural programming. Synagogues reopened, Jewish education was reinvigorated and a new generation rediscovered its heritage.

Today, Havana is home to three synagogues that serve the remaining Jewish population, estimated at around 1,000: • El Patronato (Beth Shalom): The heart of Jewish life in Cuba, this Conservative synagogue doubles as a community center, hosting religious and social events. • Centro Sefardi: Preserving the traditions of the Sephardic Jews who immigrated from Turkey and the Balkans. • Adath Israel de Cuba: The only Orthodox synagogue, catering to those maintaining more traditional observance.

A dedicated article detailing the history and significance of each of these three synagogues will be featured in the New York Jewish Travel Guide.

Jewish Cuba Today: Resilience In the Face of Challenges

Despite hardships, the Cuban Jewish community remains resilient. Jewish travelers from around the world visit Havana to explore its rich history, celebrate Shabbat with the locals and support the preservation of Jewish heritage on the island.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was attending Friday night services at Beth Shalom with our group from Jewish Heritage Travel. The air was filled with the uplifting melodies of Hebrew prayers, sung by young Jews and students who play a crucial role in building and sustaining their community.

The young congregants at Beth Shalom bring vibrant, relaxed energy to the Friday night Shabbat services, often dressed casually in T-shirts and sandals. They fill the front rows, passionately singing along to lively Shabbat melodies.

Chazzan Abel Ashkenazi, the son of the synagogue’s vice president and a Telecommunications and Electronics Engineering graduate, played a key role in developing the app called Jews in Cuban History. During the service, he led beautiful Shabbat songs, filling the synagogue with heartfelt melodies for a full house of congregants and visitors. He was joined by a recent bat mitzvah, who assisted with prayers and chants, creating a moving and inclusive atmosphere. Together, they led the congregation in both Hebrew and Spanish, and Abel concluded the service with a touching and inspiring speech.

During Lecha Dodi, which is translated into English as “Come, my Beloved,” a traditional Jewish song that is part of the Kabbalat Shabbat service, a sudden blackout occurred, plunging the synagogue into darkness and silence. Despite the unexpected interruption, the service continued, with staff holding up flashlights to the Chazzan and to the prayer books, ensuring the service proceeded smoothly. The congregation, undeterred, continued to sing and stand joyfully, welcoming Shabbat with unwavering spirit.

Later, I learned that these power outages are common in Havana, as electricity is rationed throughout the city due to limited resources. Hotels and other establishments rely on generators to keep things running smoothly.

Without a full-time rabbi, the Beth Shalom community has taken it upon themselves to uphold their traditions and lead services with unwavering dedication. Young adults have stepped forward to assume roles traditionally held by religious leaders, infusing the congregation with fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose. Their commitment has revitalized the community, transforming it from a state of near dormancy into a thriving, celebratory gathering filled with warmth, spirit and a deep connection to heritage.

The Jewish Heritage Travel group was treated to an unforgettable Shabbat dinner. A beautifully arranged meal with a wide array of dishes, including a full table of fresh salads, a selection of fish for those preferring vegetarian options, potatoes and a separate table with fruit and chocolate cake filled with rum for dessert. The women led the prayers to welcome Shabbat, and after the traditional washing of the bread, a blessing was recited.

As the evening progressed, the atmosphere grew even more vibrant with the soul-stirring performance of a beautiful Shabbat song. A talented singer, accompanied by two skilled guitarists, filled the room with harmonious Shabbat melodies that resonated deeply with everyone present. The uplifting music blended seamlessly with the warmth of the gathering, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of our Shabbat melodies. This unforgettable experience was made possible through the meticulous planning and heartfelt dedication of Miriam Levinson, whose thoughtful efforts ensured that every guest felt the joy, connection and sanctity of the evening.

The surprises didn’t end thereMiriam treated us to salsa lessons and Israeli folk dance, including a spirited hora to the music of Hava Nagila, with everyone joining hands and dancing in a circle. As the evening ended and we made our way out, many of us continued singing the Hebrew melodies, grateful for the beautiful evening crafted by Miriam’s creativity and warm hospitality.

While kosher food remains scarce and economic challenges persist, Cuban Jews continue to uphold their traditions. They celebrate Jewish holidays, organize cultural events and sustain their community with remarkable determination.

The story of Cuban Jewry is one of remarkable perseverance and resilience. From the forced conversions during the Spanish Inquisition to the near erasure of Jewish life under communism, the Jewish community in Cuba has continuously adapted, survived and even thrived despite overwhelming challenges. Though they have faced centuries of persecution, political turmoil and economic hardship, they have managed to preserve their faith, traditions and strong sense of community.

Today, while the Jewish community in Cuba is small, it remains deeply committed to safeguarding its heritage. Synagogues are maintained, holidays are celebrated and visitors are welcomed to learn about their rich history. Through cultural events, religious services and educational initiatives, the community ensures that Jewish life in Cuba endures. Support from organizations and Jewish aid groups worldwide reinforces their connection to the global Jewish diaspora.

As long as there are those who preserve, celebrate and share their heritage, the story of Cuban Jewry will continue to thrive. Their journey is a testament to the enduring strength of Jewish identity, overcoming challenges and adapting through time. Despite centuries of hardship, one truth remains steadfast: Am Yisrael Chai—the Jewish people live on.

Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide and New York Jewish Guide.

This unforgettable journey was graciously hosted by The Jewish Heritage Travel, with heartfelt thanks to Luis Arteaga and Miriam Levinson for organizing such a remarkable and unique experience.

A special thanks to Vickie Prince for her knowledgeable and engaging guidance, bringing Havana’s hidden gems and history to life with her insights and enthusiasm.

For details on upcoming trips and to request a travel brochure, contact The Jewish Heritage Travel at https://jhtravel.org/ or call 1.845.256.0197.