Near the end of 2014, reports swirl that the long-term embargo and other restrictions imposed on this massive nation of the island by the United States are finally rising. If that happens, Cuba should start enjoying a massive influx of American visitors in the years to come. Despite the tense relations between both nations, however, Cuba has been a popular vacation spot.
Cuba has the distinction of being the largest island in the Caribbean. It is located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean and is about 90 miles south of Key West, Florida. As for its location in the Caribbean, it is east of Mexico, northwest of Jamaica, west of Haiti and the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas. The capital is Havana, the official currency is the Cuban peso and the official language is Spanish.
In addition to Havana, the main cities of Cuba include Baracoa, which is known for its wonderful beaches; Trinidad, which is famous for its colonial architecture; Varadero, another beach resort area; Pinar del Río, home to the country's most prominent cigar factories; and Santiago de Cuba, a charming city on the Caribbean Coast.
Most people who come to Cuba arrive at the Jose Marti International Airport in Havana. If you are planning a trip here, the best time to visit is between December and April. Summer tends to be severely hot and humid, and it is also when large storms and hurricanes tend to roll through.
During your visit to Cuba, be sure to hit some of the most popular attractions. The Malecon of Havana, or promenade, is a great place to stroll, sightsee and see. Old Havana allows you to catch sight of Cuba as it was many years ago. Of course, the country is dotted with incredible beaches, so there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. As for the kitchen, the government owns and operates all the restaurants, so the food is disappointingly nondescript. However, be sure to take a mojito or Cuba Libre, which is essentially Ron and Coca Cola and do not stop before buying cigars, coffee, and rum.
Capital city - Havana
Spanish Language
The most lively city in the Caribbean, Havana has a romantic atmosphere and legendarily infectious energy. The locals are passionate about almost everything but especially their city, and it is easy to see why. History of the roller coaster of Cuba has created one of the most electrifying and culturally unique societies in the region. The area was once a refuge for adventurous pirates, Spanish slave traders and the Mafia of North America, but today Havana is a city of modern Latin culture. The city offers something for everyone, from rum and cigars to mambo and a fascinating atmosphere that attracts you in the city.
I could spend days exploring Old Havana or Old Havana, where the Caribbean and African rhythms are the soundtrack, punched out by drummers in streets full of Spanish architecture and dotted with leafy courtyards. There is the Capitol, which may seem a bit familiar to visitors from the United States.
Modeled after the Capitol in Washington, D.C., version of Havana is only as rich in iconography. Visitors are welcomed by two statues; one represents virtue while the other stands for work. The main door is decorated with bas-reliefs of more than 30 that tell the story of Cuba's long history, and the main room is dominated by an imposing bronze statue of Minerva. At its feet is a brilliant diamond, which represents the heart and center of Cuba. The Capitol is the most grandiose and ambitious building on the island and its seemingly limitless treasures are a great introduction to the history, architecture and incomparable style of Cuba.
Museum of the revolution, where is the history of the nation of Cubaguardar image
Museum of the revolution, where the history of the nation of Cuba is located
To fully understand the history of the island nation, visit the Museum of the Revolution. Formerly the presidential palace, the elegant building was converted into a museum after Castro's victory in 1959. Outside is a Russian foreboding tank, used by Cuban forces to fight against the invasion of the Bay of Pigs. The interior speaks of the contradictions in the history of Cuba; Magnificent murals and decadent marble staircases tell a story, but the galleries tell another through photos of tortured revolutionaries, bloody uniforms and progress maps of the war.
No trip to Cuba is complete without at least a sip of rum and a puff on a cigar. You can find both at the Havana Club Destilera Foundation. Part Museum, part distillery, the club offers visitors a look at the country's famous rum industry. Share the land with Casa del Conde de la Mortera, a beautiful 18th-century mansion once an integral part of Cuba's sugar industry.
The food scene in Havana is improving rapidly. Get a seat on one's palate, a family restaurant limited to 12 seats or less by law. These friendlies are where you are guaranteed to find a homely and cozy atmosphere and fresh, cheap and authentic cuisine. The best ones are found in the historic neighborhoods of Playa, Vedado, and Miramar, where they serve crunchy tostones, sweet banana and the most ubiquitous nation of rice staple and black beans. For an authentic Cuban experience, accompany them all with a fresh and refreshing mojito.
Nights of Havana is filled with vibrant energy filled with salsa clubs, piano lounges, intimate restaurants and garden bars in the roof.
Nights of Havana is filled with vibrant energy filled with salsa clubs, piano lounges, intimate restaurants, and roof garden bars
The city really heats up after sunset in the Caribbean. Nights of Havana is filled with vibrant energy filled with salsa clubs, piano lounges, intimate restaurants, and rooftop garden bars. Get ready to dance for hours and make friends with a lot of people and be looking for itinerant street bartenders.
LOCATION OF HAVANA
Havana is on the north coast of Cuba towards the western end. It is located in the Gulf of Mexico and has a population of 2,200,000.
LANGUAGE OF HAVANA
- The official language of Havana is Spanish.
PREDOMINANT RELIGION HAVANA
- 85% Catholic
- 15% other
CURRENCY OF HAVANA
- The national peso and convertible peso are the two official currencies of Cuba.
CLIMATE OF HAVANA
- Havana experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round and rains from June to October. Hurricanes strike Cuba from time to time but Havana stands away from all force.
THE HAVANA MAIN ATTRACTIONS
- Old Havana
- Old Square (Old Square)
- East Beaches
OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN HAVANA
- Museum of the Revolution
- The Malecon
- Oswaldo Guayasamin House
- Cathedral of San Cristóbal de la Habana
