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Hello Cuba

Aug 5, 2015 | 11:24 AM

Cuba is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Put Cuba on your bucket list, it is a destination of extreme beauty, fascinating culture, and fascinating history.

Cuba is a long narrow island stretching approximately seven hundred and fifty miles long. Maximum width is no more than sixty miles wide at any given point. There are high mountains and lowland plains used mainly for farming. There are even small deserts that bring in a plant and animal life, found only in Cuba.

Cuba is a socialist state run by the Cuban Communist Party. There was a strong American influence until 1959 when Fidel Castro took control of the Island. Cuba had close ties with Russia until 1991, when the Soviet Union broke up and caused an economic crisis in Cuba. This political breakup had a massive impact on the people, both positive and negative. The beautiful historical buildings as well as the 1950’s American cars are reminders of how it must have been back in the day. These classic cars have become tourist attractions; they are often used as taxis and as a mode of transportation for city tours.

Cuba is made up of native, African, and European influences that give this island a lively culture. Their Cuban history is reflected in its food, art, language, and especially musical talent.  The Tropicana Show in Havana is one of the best displays of colourful customs and music.

The Cuban national team is world renowned for their international competitiveness in baseball. If you get a chance to check out a game, ensure you buy tickets well in advanced, as this is a popular past time for the people of Cuba.

Havana is the capital city of Cuba. The markets, restaurants, museums, and art galleries are rich with Cuban culture. In the evening sit in the open-air terrace bar at the famous old Nacional hotel, sip a Mojitos, and listen to the music. The Coppelia factory serves the best ice creams but be prepared for a line-up! Take a day tour out of the City to see the countryside and experience firsthand how people make a living on their farms or in the sugar cane fields. Visiting this city you will really enjoy the vibe of its unique history. With the latest talks with the USA, you might one day see a ferry service to Miami!

In the last few years Cuba Cruise Lines have been running eight-day adventure cruises around the island of Cuba and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Although this is considered an adventure cruise, you still get a ship with all of the exceptional amenities. The Cuban Cruise Lines have many different shore excursions to choose from so be prepared for a half day to a very full day of adventure and sightseeing. After disembarking in Havana, take a transfer bus to Varadero for a few days of relaxing in the All Inclusive resorts. Varadero beach is approximately fourteen miles long of near-white sand. It has the clearest light blue ocean water to enjoy a dip or a snorkel in. This beach is the main attraction in Varadero. It is lined with many hotels that are well equipped with twenty-four restaurants, pools, and nightly entertainment.

Take in one of the many popular day excursions from Catamaran to Jeep Tours into the surrounding countryside. Visit a Cigar Factory or try skydiving! Kids and adults alike enjoy the opportunity to swim with the dolphins in Varadero harbour. Take your video home for future memories.

Put Cuba on your bucket list as this is a cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

Lynda Spriggs / Lobstick Travel & Tours.