Recently updated on June 17th, 2020 at 02:44 pm
Cuba is an enchanting island seemingly stuck in time, where vintage Chevys line streets of colourful-yet-crumbling colonial buildings, while Habaneros enjoy an al fresco game of dominos over an iced-rum. At 780 miles long, Cuba is the largest Caribbean island with tropical climate all year around. Explore its mountainous landscapes, unspoiled valleys, tumbling waterfalls and lush coffee plantations.
Havana the capital, is one of the historical highlights of Latin America. The city has seen little new construction since the 1959 revolution. Expect weathered Art Deco pastel-coloured  buildings, with Spanish facades and Neoclassical grandeur. The commanding 1920s El Capitolio parliament building and baroque Havana Cathedral are must-sees. Feel the history at Plaza de la Revolución in the heart of the Verado district with gigantic Che Guevara and Camilo Cienfuegos murals keeping watch over the square.
Centuries-old tobacco factories are still in operation today, pay one a visit to see how those famous thick cigars are expertly hand rolled. After dark, Havana’s nightlife is second to none as the sounds of salsa permeate the streets via ubiquitous transistor radios. Enjoy a daiquiri at El Floridita, Hemingway’s watering hole of choice and witness cabaret at Nat King Cole’s fabled Tropicana club.
Music is the lifeblood of Cuba and it comes in a melting pot of styles, from drum-beat driven rhythms to seductive sounds. Salsa, which is a fusion of Spanish guitar and Afro-Caribbean percussion, can be heard at lively clubs across the city. Rumba, borne out of African music and dance traditions, is frenetic and energising. You’ll hear it out on Havana’s streets and in its alleyways.
Cuban art is worth seeking out – both on the streets and in galleries. The narrow streets of Old Havana and the Fiera de la Malecón are bursting with colourful scenes and paintings. Exciting contemporary works from upcoming artists can be found at Miramar 601 gallery, while traditional works should be sought out at Museo de Bellas Artes.
Outside of Havana, Cuba’s towns and villages are a melting pot of Afro-Cuban and Latin-American cultures. In the centre of the island, the historic city of Camagüey was one of the first villages founded by the Spaniards in 1582. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the charming city is a maze of pretty plazas and narrow alleyways.
Cubans love their food and Cuban cuisine is a delicious fusion of Spanish, Native American and Caribbean styles. With a focus on simple rice and meat based dishes that are big on flavour, seek out the legendary lechon asado (mojo marinated pork) and Cubano sandwich with ham cheese and pickle at street food stands around Havana. Try churros, the epitome of sweet food treats and eaten in Spain, Mexico and across Latin America. This crunchy-deep fried snack is served with thick and indulgent dark chocolate sauce and can be eaten in the morning or for dessert.
Cuba has two currencies – the CUP which is the peso that Cubans use and the CUC which is linked to the USD and used by tourists. This dual money system is to create local and tourist prices for the same goods and services. If you’re travelling from the USA you can’t use American credit or debit cards, so be sure to bring all your spending money in cash to transfer on arrival.
To discover the magic of Cuba for yourself, click here to discover a fantastic Trafalgar trip.
Image Credits: Main image © iStock/peeterv. Cigar rolling © iStock/1001nights. Coloured streets © iStock/diegograndi.