Cuba: The Great Place

Cuba is known primarily for the fine cigars it makes. However, there is more to Cuba than its cigars. There are the beautiful and inviting beaches of the Caribbean shores, colonial architecture, and the rich cultural history. Cuba has long been the destination of tourists in the early part of the 20th century, and it continues to be one even now.

Tourist Destinations

Havana, the country’s capital, was one of the premiere vacation hot-spots in all of the Caribbean before the Communist revolution. Since Cuba reopened itself to tourism, it has gained back that reputation, with lots of tourists coming in every year.

In Havana, you can visit a cigar factory, witnessing first-hand how the famous Cuban cigars are made. There is also the Plaza de Revolucion, where the statue of Jose Marti stands. You can also see the iconic image of Che Guevara adorning the Ministry of the Interior.

Trinidad, a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site with the older parts of the town dating back to the 16th century, is preserved for tourists to experience history. The Manaca-Izanaga tower gives you a grand view of the Valle de los Ingenios. The nature-oriented visitors can also see the beautiful waterfalls just outside the town in Topes de Collantes.

What to Do

The fresh and beautiful Caribbean waters are a source of relaxing and enjoyable pleasure to most tourists visiting Cuba. You can also opt for catamaran and yacht excursions that are available in most marinas and nautical bases in Cuba. Cuba also showcases beautiful diving spots along its coasts, with the Caribbean ecosystem providing memorable and breathtaking views of marine life.

In Havana, locals party in the Malecón, the sea wall that runs along the city’s coastline. You can bring a bottle and join in on the fun. If you happen to be vacationing in the city in December, you can also be part of the Latin American New Cinema Festival, an event that screens international films and draws around 500,000 people every year.

What to Remember

It is important to note that there are currently two currencies circulating in Cuba: the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). The CUP is the local peso and is Cuba’s local currency. There is only a limited number of goods you can buy with it, such as agricultural products and those sold by street vendors. CUC is the currency most tourists use in Cuba. It is what you use to pay for fares, services, and other things you will be buying during your stay.

Cuba, with its tropical air and atmosphere, is a very good choice for those who just want to relax under the sun with the sea breeze on their skin. With an increasing tourist influx every year, Cuba is fast becoming one of South America’s most popular tropical hangouts. If you enjoy reading this article, you’ll surely be interested in learning how to travel safely.