Cuba Travel Guide
Cuba’s Stunning Climate
Cuba Attractions Cuba, the most populated island in the Caribbean, has been a major tourist destination since the 1950s. Most visitors head straight to Cuba’s larger than life capital: Havana but there are many other towns and cities on this fascinating and beautiful island. Havana is the biggest city in Cuba. Santiago de Cuba is the second largest city. Havana Grand, friendly and charming, Havana is a beautiful place where you are never far from the sounds of rumba music and a party atmosphere. Havana highlights include the Spanish colonial architecture of the Old Town and the often vibrant Playas del Este beach. Santiago de Cuba Santiago de Cuba is the second biggest city in Cuba and is a more typical Caribbean town atmosphere. The city overlooks the Bahia de Santiago de Cuba – Santiago harbour. Trinidad Founded in 1514 Trinidad became a centre for smuggling and later a site for sugar plantations, following the arrival of the colonial French. This period of wealth is represented by many impressive baroque churches and mansions. Cuba History Cuba’s history is unique and fascinating and contributes to the special charm that is Cuba today. Originally inhabited by native American tribes, later Spanish colonial rule, French involvement, and the influx of African and US inhabitants has led to the stunning, flamboyant and cosmopolitan mix that makes up the modern Cuba. Che Guevara Trail Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara, commonly known as El Che, or simply Che, is perhaps the single figure, along with former President Fidel Castro, who is synonymous with Cuba, and his movements on the island have become tourist attractions in their own right. Che was an Argentine Marxist revolutionary, guerrilla leader and major figure of the Cuban Revolution. Since his death his face has become a counter culture symbol and popular fashion icon amongst young people adorning a million bedroom walls. Fifty years ago, Che Guevara won the final battle of the Cuban revolution in Santa Clara. Why not visit it for yourself? Today, the town is a shrine to the world's most famous; and perhaps most handsome rebel icon? Cuba Accommodation Republic of Cuba accommodation options are improving all the time such is its growth in popularity, affording visitors a choice of grand hotels or modest family run pensions and apartments to choose from. But perhaps the most attractive thing to look forward to in Cuba; as well as these charming places to stay is the legendary hospitality and panache of the locals. Remember, in Cuba life is to be enjoyed, and passion and fun are a permanent fixture. Havana Visitor Attractions Habana Vieja The 16 Century area of Havana is famous for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Ideal for rambling and sightseeing you will spy old churches and museums as well as a fair share of restaurants and shops. Historically, the old town was an important naval port for the Spanish, the defensive walls surrounding the city revealing signs of numerous battles. In the fifties it became a major hangout for American writers and artists, notably Ernest Hemingway.
More Cuba Attractions: Marina Hemingway – Traditional marina used for fishing and leisure. Home of the Ernest Hemingway fishing tournament. Malecon – The sea wall of the Malecon and pedestrian area offers fine views. Acuario Nacional – Aquarium of tropical and subtropical marine life. Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asis - Museum and church in an 18th Century convent containing fine art and religious statues. Galleria Villena - Modern art gallery showcasing contemporary Cuban art. Convento de San Francisco -16th century monastery also museum and concert venue. Partagas – One of several Cuban cigar factories and the oldest, founded in 1827. The Buena Vista Social Club Tour Fan of Ibrahim Ferrer? Why not take a tour of locations from the Wim Wenders film Buena Vista Social Club. The 1999 movie of ageing Cuban musicians did much to popularise Cuba as a tourist attraction. Why not check out some of the key places in the history of the Cuban music scene such as the site of the original Buena Vista Social Club; a members only music club in Havana. Buena Vista Social Club The club was located in the Marianao neighbourhood in Havana; and was especially influential during the 1930s and 40s, an era that saw the birth of jazz influenced styles like the mambo, the charanga, and dance forms such as the cha-cha-cha, as well as evolving Afro-Cuban music like the rumba. Cuba Travel Information Tourism has rapidly developed in Cuba but has also been around for many years and so locals are used to foreign visitors of all backgrounds. One recent change though is that all travellers arriving in Cuba from 1st May 2010 require travel health insurance before gaining entry.
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While much is said about the rich attractions of Cuban culture, remember Cuba is a Caribbean island. This is a vibrant, social island with a rich and cosmopolitan cultural history where music, sport and arts are everywhere but it is also an island paradise. The beaches in Cuba are a dream come true and the weather is stunning no matter what times of year you arrive. As such Cuba offers a perfect winter retreat for many European visitors.