Crumbling colonial architecture, vintage cars and soulful salsa tumbling out of tinny speakers – Cuba is a land frozen in time. Protected from modern interference by six decades of self-imposed communism, Cuba’s cities and villages have changed little since the revolution, with grandiose squares, cobbled streets and music on every corner.

Yet, behind this dilapidated facade lies a country beating with inspiration. From salsa to ballet,santeria temples to avant-garde art, Cuban creativity and experimentation have been a necessity through its years in exile. As the barriers between Cuba and its neighbours begin to come down, the time is now to visit this beguiling Caribbean island – before it changes once again.