Cuba is a fascinating country. From its history to its nature, it has always been a place of intrigue and beauty. Visitors to the island inevitably leave with stories to tell and happy memories to share. Whilst there are thousands of fun facts one could list about Cuba, here are five to whet your appetite to learn more about this unique part of the world.
The Grand Theatre of Havana Alicia Alonso - ‘Gran Teatro de La Habana Alicia Alonso’ in Spanish - stands proud in heart of Havana, and is the country’s most prestigious location for opera, ballet and performing arts. Here are ten fun facts about this must-see location.
Viñales receives far fewer visitors than Cuba’s stunning beaches and enchanting capital Havana. But if you have the time, it is well worth making the trip to Viñales. Here are ten reasons why:
Cuba has always been an island with a rich musical output. Music plays a big role in Cuban culture, and the country has produced countless talented musicians. Whilst a list of Cuban musicians worth listening to could go on for miles and miles, I have limited it to ten to provide a starting point that (in my subjective opinion) give a flavour of different Cuban music.
Situated in the heart of the Old Havana and dominating the popular Cathedral Square is one of Havana’s most photographed historic landmarks: Havana Cathedral. Here are ten fun facts to fill you in on this magnificent place.
Want to bring cigars and rum back from Cuba? You’re not alone. Visitors to Cuba have been doing it for centuries, and it is still a great way to return home with high quality products at reasonable prices. Rum and cigars make great presents for friends and family, or can be enjoyed all by yourself whenever you want to reminisce about that special holiday you had in Cuba. Here’s what you need to know.
Want to see some of Cuba’s finest city life, nature and beaches all in the same region? Havana, Viñales and Varadero are the three places to do it. Transport between this ‘golden triangle of the west’ is fast and efficient, and the journey itself provides treats for the eye. Each place has so much to offer. Here is the lowdown.
If there is one Cuban that every visitor should get to know, it’s José Martí. He dedicated much of his life to liberating Cuba from Spain, dying a martyr for the cause in 1895. José Martí was also a highly esteemed writer, penning a diverse range of essays, a novel and large collections of poetry. Once you arrive in Cuba, you’ll never be far from José Martí. His face can be seen on posters, billboards, statues, mural paintings, book covers and even t-shirts. If you are flying into Havana, you’ll notice that the airport is named after him too.
Havana has recently witnessed the inauguration of three brand new hotels that some commentators have been referring to as ‘5 Star-Plus’, due to their high international standards. These are: Accor Paseo del Prado, Iberostar Grand Packard and Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski. They offer an ambience that aims at being a cut above the rest, especially through original interior designs and layouts.
Whether you are fluent in Spanish or not, you might notice certain expressions frequently said in Cuba. There are many cultural idiosyncrasies in Cuba, and one of them is the language. To list all the ways in which the Spanish spoken in Cuba is curious would require a lifetime’s work, but to get you started here are ten expressions to listen out for during your visit.