Cuba
Overview
For many years left in the tourism wilderness and time warped by the 50 year revolution, Cuba is now back with almost a bang and once again climbing the ladder as a popular Caribbean destination. Thoughts of communist rule, although prevalent, are disappearing and returning to the forefront are the images of towns rich in colonial heritage, striking mountainous landscapes and pristine coastlines. Cuba is many things all in one, from the self styled island of sun and salsa to an exotic beach resort to a country of mesmerizing contradictions, but it all seems to work and presents a whole host of opportunities.
Some come to Cuba for the all inclusive beach resorts of Varadero and Guardalavaca, some to delve into its intriguing history and others to explore its expanse of wildlife and nature reserves. Start off in the bustling capital of Havana, where monuments to Che Guevara look down on endless games of dominoes, old American Cadillacs cruise the streets and the sounds of salsa and the Buena Vista Social Club flow intoxicatingly from the dance halls and cafés. Head south for and enchanting wildlife adventure at Parque Nacional Cienga de Zapata or in any direction along the coast for a beachside paradise. Regardless of which way you choose you are sure to be gripped by the integrity and vigour of the locals, striving to promote what they are so proud of.
Experiencing a steady rise since the 1990s, Cuba is once again accessible to many worldwide destinations, with flights available across South and Central America, Canada, Europe and the neighbouring Caribbean islands such as Jamaica and The Bahamas. Cuba is also a popular stop on Caribbean cruises. Flights from the USA are now more common although relations are still not perfect. Inland Cuban transport is as fun and frustrating as one could expect with the usual issues associated with Central American and Caribbean travel. For the true adventurer Cuba is actually popular with cyclists and being relatively flat can be a pleasant experience. That said, those choosing to bike should be prepared to share the roads with 1950s American cars and antique Soviet trucks.
There is no denying that a trip to Cuba is likely to be full of just rewards and a lifetime of memory. However, all-inclusive trips aside where everything is on your doorstep; this is a country that requires patience, adaptability and a true sense of adventure to see it in its true light. Go expecting the unexpected and come home wanting more with tales to tell and newly forged friendships.
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Cuba
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Cuba
Havana - Visit the thriving capital with striking colonial mansions, fascinating museums, historical plazas, streets filled with colourful 1950s Buicks and effervescent Caribbean nightlife.
Fabrica de Tobaco Partagas - Learn about the amazing world of cigar making and watch as some of the worlds finest are produced before your eyes.
The Tropicana - Be amazed by the razzmatazz of the world’s most extravagant cabaret show where the women come scantily clad in skimpy sequin dresses and lavish trimmings.
Varadero - Swim, kayak and bask in the sunlight at Cuba’s premium beach resort, a quintessential Caribbean destination of golden sands, swaying palms and warm turquoise waters.
Trinidad - Visits Cuba’s colonial gem, a romantic town of museums, jazz cafés and colonial homes nestled between high mountains and white sandy beaches.
Santiago de Cuba - Explore the city of Cuban poets, war heroes, Caribbean flair and colourful carnival.
Punta Frances - Snorkel and dive the ship wrecks and coral reefs of Cuba’s Isla de la Juventud (Island of Youth) then kick back in a hammock at one of the timeless beachside fishing villages.
Baracoa - Visit Cuba’s first settlement and the pride of the eastern coast. Explore rising mountain peaks, hike through lush rainforests and meander down lazy rivers.
Santa Clara - A city seemingly dedicated solely to the exploits of Che Guevara. Visit the sight of his most triumphant revolutionary battle, gaze in awe at his monument and snap up memorabilia.
Learn to Salsa - From the street corners to the dance halls the infectious sounds of salsa reverberate through the country. Head to the Vedado district of Havana for some lessons before hitting Macumba Habana for some hot and sensual dance floor action.
Guardalavaca - An all-inclusive resort it may be but it doesn’t get more laidback and serene than this north-eastern stretch of breathtaking beach.
Parque Nacional Cienega de Zapata - Go wildlife spotting in Cuba’s most expansive reserve of everglades, swamps, hidden bays and beaches.
Vinales - Caves, cliffs and verdant tobacco fields coming to life with the mystical charm of the morning mist rising from the valleys.
Scuba Diving Cuba – Cuba has world class scuba diving. Find dive shops all around the island and particularly at some of the hotter dive spots such as Havana, Varadero and Trinidad.
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Cuba
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Cuba
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Cuba
Hotel Reviews
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Cuba
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