Trinidad has a bit of a duality to it — part island paradise and part colonial settlement. From either perspective, the kind of place where you’ll look around and struggle to successfully convince yourself you’re in the 21st century. Yet, the city wears its age well, with colonial-style mansions sprinkled throughout, complete with elaborate Italian murals and French chandeliers. As one of the most well-preserved cities in Cuba, you’ll swear time stopped in the 1800s and has yet to start again. Indeed, the city was founded in the early 19th century, on sugar fortunes gathered in nearby Valle de los Ingenios.In 1988, Trinidad was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site — and since has been referred to as Cuba’s oldest “outdoor museum.” Though tourism continues to grow here, the town remains relatively unaffected and retains its quaint charm.You’ll awaken to the sound of horses trotting on cobblestone streets. As you venture out for coffee, locals whoosh past you on bicycles and dodge around the 200-year-old sundrenched buildings. Guajiros (country folk) will give you a friendly nod as you walk down the street to the melodic tunes of the Cuban troubadours. Relax in the sun at Playa Ancón, which is considered one of the south coast’s best beaches, or trek the lush Escambray Mountains for a rugged adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or you have a distinct appreciation for the island life, Trinidad is a destination you need to see at least once.Trinidad is a town in the province of Sancti Spíritus and located in central Cuba.