Guide Cuba
Old cars, big cigars, street music: we all have these clichés about Cuba in our heads. As the country opens up to the world, it has much more to offer with its beaches, mountains, and rainforests.
Cuba , this island located off the coast of the United States, has become a tourist destination that arouses everyone’s imagination. Although it remained closed to foreigners, the end of the Castro revolution marked its opening to the world over five decades ago. Today, Cuba is ready to welcome you and present its various attractions for an unforgettable stay.
A journey to the end of the world
Between its fine sandy beaches and turquoise blue sea, Cuba immerses you in another world. Time seems to stand still as you walk the streets of Havana and other Cuban cities. You’ll be able to relive the 1950s atmosphere that permeates many promotional photos of the island. Also, enjoy the sight of vintage American cars that are still in perfect condition and continue to parade through the streets of major cities.
Marvel at the colonial atmosphere and the Hispanic-style houses. If you’re looking for a little slice of paradise with enriching moments and a good dose of salsa, Cuba awaits you.
Description of Cuba
Surface area : 109,884 km²
Population: 11,33 millions (2020)
Capital : Havana
Main cities : Havana, Trinidad, Santa Clara, Santiago de Cuba and Pinar del Río.
Official language : Spanish
Currency : Cuban Peso
National holiday : July 27 (Cuban Revolution Day)
Why travel to Cuba?
Cuba has become a curiosity for tourists in search of a Latin atmosphere , history but also nature and for this the island has many assets.
Les Classics Cars
Would you like to take a trip down memory lane? Cuba is the perfect place to make your dream come true. In fact, the country is the only one in the world where you can find vintage American cars still in circulation. You can also climb aboard these cars and experience the feeling of driving a Ford or Dodge produced in 1957. Mechanics enthusiasts can also chat with the driver to find out how they managed to maintain it for several years when the country didn’t always have access to original spare parts.
The life of Cubans
One of Cuba’s attractions lies in its daily life, which has long remained far removed from the consumer culture of other countries. This country is known for its combination of eclectic objects from the 1950s with the rare latest-generation smartphones and laptops. Since residents were forced to make do with what they had, you’ll undoubtedly find old objects that are still functional, ranging from electronic devices to vehicles, clothing, and much more. This can also be an opportunity to dispel some preconceived notions about former communist authoritarian countries. For example, in Cuba, the literacy rate is almost 100%, and the island is known for having the best medical school in the world.
Cuban sun all year round
Do you love tropical warmth and sea breezes? Cuba is definitely the place to go for your next vacation. The weather on the island is beautiful year-round, with the exception of a few cool days between January and March. The days are perfectly sunny with a high humidity level. Thanks to this gift from Mother Nature, you shouldn’t suffer from stifling heat.
Socialist culture
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cuba remains one of the few countries in the world where it is still possible to discover practices inherited from this regime. Thus, during your trip, you may attend public rallies organized on the occasion of the national holiday . The statues , parks and various institutions of the country are named after ideological heroes such as Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin. Even after the fall of Fidel Castro’s regime and the rise of his brother to power, you can still discover enormous billboards transmitting political messages throughout the country. Unlike big cities like New York or Tokyo , you will not find giant advertising billboards anywhere in Cuba.
Cuban beer
If you are a beer lover , you will be delighted to visit Cuba. In fact, it is the only country in the world where beer is very cheap . You will find local brands of beer like Bucanero and Cristal that are 1 euro. If you still want to buy these drinks for less, just go to a state-owned store where they are half price. As Cuba is one of the world’s leading rum producers, you will be delighted to discover traditional cocktails made with Havana Club or Bacardi , the flagship – and rival – rum brands in Cuba.
Hiking and camping trails
There are a plethora of excellent natural locations for hiking and camping, especially near mountainous regions. Caribbean beaches are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and fine sand, and Cuba has some of the most beautiful in the region. From Viñales in the west of the country to Guardalavaca Beach in eastern Cuba , you have a wide variety of regions and landscapes to choose from.
Cuban cigars
Did you know that one of the first things that comes to mind when we talk about Cuba is its cigars ? Whether you’re a smoker or not, you should know that they’re a great souvenir to bring back to your loved ones. In fact, Cuba has been supplying the world with cigars for several decades. Cuban cigar rollers are considered among the best in the world, and there are several stores where you can buy some of the leading hand-rolled brands . This country is sure to delight cigar lovers.
Cuban music
Cubans are passionate about music and salsa . From street performers to DJs, from famous timba bands to the person who lives next door who plays their favorite songs for the whole neighborhood, you’ll get the impression that Cubans breathe music . It’s no surprise that the country has a large number of music schools. In fact, most hotels and restaurants offer concerts by very talented musicians . There are even several fusion groups and projects that present very interesting combinations of rap, jazz, African rhythms, and also Spanish flamenco.
Activities and places of interest in Cuba
During your stay in Cuba , here are some places that should be on your list of things to do and places to visit on this paradise island. Whether you are a fan of history , architecture , discovery or you simply want to have your feet in the water, these tips will certainly not disappoint you.
Havana, the beautiful
The Cuban capital was founded in 1519 on the island’s west coast. It is known as one of the great historic cities of the New World . Each neighborhood has its own unique identity, enhanced by buildings with stunning architectural styles. Strolling through the streets of Havana, you’ll discover classic colonial mansions mixed with modernist structures. Be sure to visit the capital’s famous neighborhoods, including Habana Vieja , Centro Habana , and Vedado .
Trinidad
Located on the southern coast of the province of Sancti Spíritus , Trinidad is arguably the prettiest city in Cuba . One of the first settlements of Spanish colonists, today’s Trinidad is a veritable open-air museum with its picturesque, brightly colored houses and cobblestone streets. For more surprises, spend a few moments in the Museo Romantica , Playa Ancon , or Plaza Mayor.
Santiago de Cuba
Located in the southeast of Cuba , this ancient city founded by the Spanish in 1515 is recognizable by its monuments. Before reaching the city, you will surely not miss the magnificent Castillo del Morro fortress. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Moreover, Santiago de Cuba is also known for its festive atmosphere: music, carnival , folklore and superb beaches. Once in the city, do not miss visiting the highest mountain on the island: Pico Turquino . It promises you a surprising view of the city and its surroundings.
Visit the Viñales Valley and its royal palm trees
Heading a little further west, you’ll arrive in Viñales , where a spectacular landscape awaits you. Surrounded by mogotes , gigantic limestone formations, this valley shows you another side of Cuba . Its tobacco cultivation , its ox-drawn plows plowing the fields, its royal palm trees and its thatched tobacco drying sheds make this a magnificent place to recharge your batteries. You’ll be charmed by the calm that reigns there, especially since the valley is ideal for various activities such as mountain biking.
Getting to Vuelta Abajo, the best tobacco land in the world
You’ve probably already heard of the “ Havana ” cigar? It’s in Cuba that it’s produced from A to Z, of course. And it’s in Vuelta Abajo , or ” tobacco triangle ,” in the far northeast of the country, on a plantation of approximately 20 km2, that you’ll encounter the island’s best tobacco land. The planting methods and cigar production itself date back several generations. A formula that has made Cuba famous worldwide. A very large sign with the words ” La tierra del mejor tabaco del mundo” (The Land of the Best Tobacco in the World ) tells you that you’re on the right track.
Venture into other tobacco plantations
Cuban cigars are famous for their cultivation method. Indeed, like wine, it requires a lot of attention and care. To learn a little more about Cuba and its cigars, we recommend visiting a few plantations. You will immediately notice that each of them has its own formula for preparing the cigar. Start, for example, at Finca El Pinar, owned by the Robaina family . It represents 5% of local cigar production. The cigars are rolled by hand before being packaged and put on the world market. Not far from this plantation is Finca Gloria Hermosa , well known for its Cohiba brand among locals. Everything is done by hand there as well.
Recharge your batteries in Cienfuegos, a peaceful city
Cienfuegos is known for its peaceful atmosphere , perfect for discovering the daily life of Cubans while mixing with them. Although it is the youngest city in Cuba , founded in 1819 by French settlers from Louisiana , it contains a large part of Cuban history. From the architectural styles of its buildings, to the Tomas Acea Necropolis and finally to the Cuban Naval History Museum , you will have time to learn a lot about history during your stay in this magnificent place.
Baracoa
Almost inaccessible just a few years ago, the city of Baracoa and the surrounding nature is a paradise to see if you have the opportunity. This part of the island is still home to the first nations, the original inhabitants of Cuba, the Taínos . You can still discover their culture and traditional habitat there. It is also certainly one of the most lush regions of the island with dozens of rivers that give road trips an air of Robinson Crusoe .
How to visit Cuba?
Since the US embargo on Cuba was lifted and Cubans can travel in and out of their country like any other citizen of the world, it is now possible to travel to Cuba without the threat of the military junta. In fact, both domestic and foreign airlines serve the country and the rest of the world. This is the safest and fastest way to get to this destination.
Transportation in Cuba
Taxis
To explore Cuba’s major cities , there’s nothing better than taxis, especially these perfectly maintained vintage cars . You’ll be delighted to discover how these American cars have managed to keep going for over half a century, even though locals couldn’t get their hands on original spare parts.
The cocotaxis
Unlike traditional taxis, cocotaxis are the most popular means of transportation for short trips around the city. They are pedal-powered tricycles with double seats in the back. They are inexpensive and fast. They can easily navigate traffic and are very convenient, especially if you want to arrive on time for an appointment.
The bus
Also known as Guagua , the bus is the most popular means of transportation for Cubans to travel between cities. The country has an excellent bus network, so you can be sure of traveling on clean and comfortable buses.
Climate and weather
Cuba has a tropical climate . It enjoys sunshine all year round, with rainfall for half the year between May and October. The other months of the year are dry and hot, perfect for experiencing the island in all its splendor .
When to go to Cuba?
The best time to explore Cuba is at the end of the year, particularly between November and December. The rainy season begins in April, May, and June. August, September, and October are probably the worst times to visit the island due to potential hurricanes, especially near beach resorts .
Clothes to take away
As this is a tropical destination , remember to pack appropriate clothing. However, make sure you pack a sweater in case it gets cold at night. Don’t forget to also pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
Good to know
To ensure a unique experience during your trip to Cuba, here are a few things you should definitely know. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local population and, of course, immerse yourself in Cuban culture.
Favor stays with locals
Cubans are very friendly and warm . They will ask you questions about yourself and freely share information about themselves. But just like in any other country, avoid discussing forbidden topics like politics and religion. Furthermore, despite its hospitable quality, you will also encounter petty scammers who will try to sell you counterfeit cigars or other illegal services. A simple ” no thank you ” is all it takes, and they will leave you alone.
Enjoy Cuban dishes in paladares
If you were told that during the Castro regime , selling peanuts on a street corner was a crime punishable by a fine that could lead to a prison sentence, you wouldn’t believe your ears. But today, the end of the regime has revolutionized Cuban dining thanks to paladares . These restaurants are inspired by the street food of certain Asian cities and are the pride of the population. They are special because you will be served typical Cuban dishes consisting mainly of chicken, pork and freshly caught seafood. Enjoy them through the musical rhythms that have been making Cuba vibrate for centuries.
