Cuba

Trinidad, Cuba

Trinidad is a town in the jurisdiction of Sancti Spititus, central Cuba, in a preserved Spanish colonial settlement founded in 1514. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1988, Trinidad is the holder of Cuba’s oldest and most captivating ‘outdoor museum’. Charming cobblestone streets bustling with local townspeople, wild donkeys and the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Trinidad has of some of the best beaches in Cuba, with Playa Ancon offering hiking trails and scenic waterfalls.

Cayo Largo, Cuba

An intimate resort island in Cuba also known as Cayo Largo del Sur (“Long Cay”). Being the largest of 300 islands in the Canarreos Archipelago, the cay runs close to 25 kilometers (16 miles) long and 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) wide. With a zero-permanent population, the island beaches of Playo Sirena and Playo Paraiso are kept in pristine beauty and offers the finest undeveloped beaches in the world ready for enjoyment. The possibilities are limitless here in Cayo Largo.

Cienfuegos, Cuba

La Perla del Sur, or “Pearl of the South, is a southern city originally populated by indigenous peoples, and later settled by French immigrants in the 1800’s. The port, very large by the standards of the times, was instrumental in multi-national trade, especially between South America and Jamaica. Sugar was a major export of the city. The city’s Urban Historic Center is a UNESCO World-Heritage Site, and serves as an example of urban planning accomplished during the 19th century by the Spanish. Other attractions include Castillo de Nuestra Señora (a castle/fort), historic cathedrals, botanical gardens, a cigar factory, and the University of Cienfuegos.

Havana, Cuba

The capital of the island nation and the most populated at over 2.1 million residents, Havana is the 4th most populous area in the Caribbean region. The walled capital was founded by Spain in the 16th century. The sinking of an American warship in 1898 signaled the beginning of the Spanish-American war. Havana experienced exponential growth in the 1930’s when the city became a major tourist destination, until 1959 when Fidel Castro came into power following the revolution. “Old Havana” became a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 1980’s.Visitors to Havana enjoy colorful displays of culture, architecture, music and the arts.

Isla de Juventud, Cuba

Known as the “Isle of Youth” or “Isle of Treasure”, Isla De Juventud is the second largest island off Cuba’s shore. Very popular with divers and “treasure hunters”, this island is known for its beauty, history and pirate lore. Discover the idyllic and unspoiled Punta Frances Marine National Park; an excellent coral reef diving location. Beautiful black-sand beaches line the beckoning turquoise waters.

Maria la Gorda, Cuba

Maria la Gorda, a port only accommodating smaller vessels, is part of the Western Cuban province of Pinar del Rio; known as a scuba diver’s paradise. The port’s lush landscape is home to native birds and animals. The shimmering, aqua colored waters welcome experienced and beginner divers, as well as snorkelers. Authentic Cuban Mojitos and fresh seafood are served along the beachfront. Experiencing Cuba’s sunset should be at the top of your “to do” list.

Santiago de Cuba, Cuba

The second largest city in Cuba was founded in the 1500’s by Spanish conquistadors. Like many cities of the Caribbean, Santiago de Cuba was fought over by both France and England. The Cuban Revolution actually began in this city in 1953 when the Moncada barracks were attacked by Castro-backed rebels. The city is home to the citadel of San Pedro de la Roca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rum lovers take note; the Bacardi liquor brand was founded in Santiago de Cuba.