This country is changing rapidly, I managed to get there before the major US airlines had started their flights, even at that time it was already pretty touristy as Canadians and Germans were ruining the country. Now with Americans it’s gonna be even less authentic.
Having said that - I still recommend going there while it’s still a third world country. Once you get used to Havana’s dark major streets and collapsing astonishing buildings you’ll understand this city is a rough diamond. At the beginning the loud, strong macho culture was a bit too much for me and it took me a while to get used to that, but once I did I had a blast.
The past (partly present) socialism has nothing to do with the church, maybe that’s why this country is not too open but also not as homophobic as some catholic countries. A huge help is Raul Castro’s daughter fighting for gay rights.
Gay night life is very basic - couple basic bars/clubs. Everybody is poor, so expect to be asked for a drink. Everybody is for sale - I was told any man (gay or straight) can provide sexual services for around $25. I personally was offered sex for even less which was pretty sad; however, on a good note - they do know how to dance and how to move their asses! OMG that body language!
I predict in a few years Havana will be the new Rio in gay travel!
