What is a cube.  Cuba: history, language, seas, culture, population, Cuban embassies, currency, attractions, flag, anthem of Cuba - TraveLife. Official language of Cuba

Having learned what language is in Cuba, they sit down at Spanish textbooks and try to learn at least basic phrases and expressions. Indeed, almost the entire population of Cuba does not speak other than Cuban-Spanish, no other language.

It is possible that during your trip you will come across a Cuban who knows Russian, but it will be a person who studied in the Soviet Union, and there are very few such people.

There is another category of Cubans who speak English - these are the so-called friends. These are young Cubans who are trying to make money on foreigners and pester them on the streets. They always begin their appeal to a tourist with the phrase: “My Friend”. Hence the name of these "friends" of the white man. Friends themselves understand that not knowing in English, they will not be able to earn anything in Cuba, so they teach him intensively. They make money on tourists by offering to find accommodation, a girl, cheap cigars, a restaurant and coke. They will walk with you all day and you will have to support them, i.e. buy them food and drinks if you went to a bar with them.

When you ask Cubans what language they learned in school in Cuba, the most common answer is English. Although in practice it turns out that they do not even understand basic words such as "Hello", "Yes" and "No". It is impossible to explain this phenomenon.

So what language is spoken in Cuba, and what should tourists who do not know Spanish do? The answer is simple, you need to learn Spanish and learn it seriously, because you won’t agree with the local population on your fingers. They do not understand sign language, unlike Asians.

If you are flying through a travel agency, you will most likely arrive in Varadero, where you will probably not need Spanish if you do not leave the hotel into the city. If you go on excursions with a Russian-speaking guide, then you will not need Spanish either. But if you are an independent traveler, then before the trip, go to Spanish courses. And remember that Cuban pronunciation of words is different from Spanish.

Useful information for tourists about Cuba, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Cuba, cuisine, peculiarities of visa and customs restrictions of Cuba.

Geography of Cuba

The Republic of Cuba is an island nation in the northern Caribbean. Cuba occupies the territory of the island of the same name as part of the Greater Antilles, the Island of Youth and many smaller islands.

The relief of Cuba is predominantly flat. Hills and mountains occupy about a third of the territory. The highest mountain range of the Sierra Maestra stretches along southeast coast for 250 km. Its highest point is Turquino Peak (1974 m). Approximately 2/3 of the entire area of ​​Cuba is occupied by slightly hilly plains.

State

State structure

Socialist Republic. The head of state is the chairman of the State Council. supreme body state power and the country's legislative body, the unicameral National Assembly of People's Power. The highest executive and administrative body, which is the government of the republic, is the Council of Ministers.

Language

Official language: Spanish

English, German, Italian are widely used in resort areas.

Religion

The majority of believers are Catholics (47%), Protestants (4%) and adherents of the so-called "santeria" - a syncretic cult based on African pagan beliefs, mixed with the cult of some Christian saints.

Currency

International name: CUP

You can exchange currency at bank exchange offices, as well as in most hotels. Hotels, restaurants and shops accept credit cards of the world's leading payment systems, except for North American ones. No credit card issued by any US bank will be accepted for payment, but cards and traveler's checks in other currencies are freely accepted. Traveler's checks in US dollars and pounds sterling are accepted indefinitely on one condition - if they are not issued by an American bank.

There are two types of pesos - "non-convertible" (for internal circulation) and "convertible" (CUC or "convertible", used for settlements with tourists, pegged to the US dollar at a ratio of 1: 1.08). Often change is given to both.

All goods and services, including transport and departure tax, must be paid for in convertible pesos. The circulation of the US dollar in Cuba has been stopped. When carrying out exchange transactions with US dollars, a commission fee of 10% of the exchanged amount is charged (no fee is charged when exchanging other currencies). All credit card transactions are taxed at 11.24%.

History of Cuba

The settlement of the island of Cuba occurred quite late, about four thousand years ago. By the time the Europeans arrived, the Indians were still at the stage primitive communal system and did not seek to resist the small detachment of Christopher Columbus, who landed in October 1492 in one of the bays of the island. Colonized by Spain in the 16th century. The Spanish conquerors destroyed most of the indigenous population of the Indians and imported slaves from Africa to work on the plantations (slavery persisted until 1886).

In 1902 Cuba was proclaimed independent republic, however, in fact, it turned into a semi-colony of the United States, which resorted to occupation more than once in 1906-1922.

In the mid-1950s, a struggle began in Cuba against the regime of F. Batista. January 1, 1959 Batista was forced to flee Cuba. The Cuban leadership, headed by F. Castro, gradually began to focus on the USSR, which provided economic assistance to Cuba.

The irreconcilable position of the Cuban leadership towards the United States during the Cold War (in 1961 the United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba, in 1962 Cuba was expelled from the Organization of American States) led to Cuba being drawn into the so-called. Caribbean crisis (October 1962), caused by the deployment of Soviet missiles in Cuba.

In 1975, at the first congress of the Communist Party of Cuba, the country was proclaimed a socialist state with a one-party regime. Since the early 1990s, economic difficulties in Cuba have sharply worsened.

The settlement of the island of Cuba occurred quite late, about four thousand years ago. By the time the Europeans arrived, the Indians were still at the stage of the primitive communal system and did not seek to resist the small detachment of Christopher Columbus, who landed in October 1492 in one of the bays of the island. Colonized by Spain in the 16th century. The Spanish conquerors destroyed most of the indigenous population of the Indians and imported slaves from Africa to work on the plantations (slavery persisted until 1886)....

Popular Attractions

Cuba Tourism

Where to stay

In Cuba, there are many hotels of famous world chains, mostly Spanish. Almost all coastal hotels are on the first line of the beach.

Most of the hotels are 4 star. They are all equipped with private bathroom with hairdryer, air conditioning, mini-fridge, safe, cable TV and telephone. Along with this, vacationers are provided with a huge selection of two- and three-star hotels. There are not so many high-level hotels - five-star and five-star Deluxe in the country. Before choosing a hotel, you need to consider that the level of service here is low, below European or Asian.

Most of the hotels located in the beach resorts of Cuba operate on an all-inclusive basis, that is, the room rate includes the possibility of eating in the bars and restaurants of the hotel around the clock.

In resorts such as Varadero, Holguin, Cayo Largo and Cayo Coco, all hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis. In such hotels there are no mandatory surcharges. Meals for guests are provided, as a rule, in the form of a buffet. Almost all Cuban hotels are equipped with a pool. Animation programs for adults and children are available only in the largest hotels in Cuba.

Cuban hotels are quite expensive, so it will be cheaper to stay in the private sector, the so-called casa particular. These are rooms in a private house, which are equipped with a double bed, air conditioning, toilet, bathroom with shower and hot water.

Another option for living in Cuba is campismos (camping) - neat houses, usually located by the sea. They cost a little less than the private sector.

Office Hours

Banks are open on weekdays from 8:30 to 12:00 and from 13:30 to 15:00 on Saturday - from 8:30 to 10:30.

Shops are open from 9 am to 6 pm (some until 8 pm) on weekdays, on Saturdays - from 9 am to 3 pm (some until 6 pm). Supermarkets and shops in resort areas usually open from 10:00 to 20:00. Most small shops have separate opening hours. Almost all shops close for "siesta" around noon.

Souvenirs

As souvenirs from Cuba, you can bring black coral and jewelry from it, products from tortoise shell (especially bracelets and hairpins). Don't forget to buy one or two bottles of unique Cuban rum and real Cuban cigars. A good gift from Cuba would also be tumbadora or bongos - percussion musical instruments used in African melodies. Another gift is the guayabera, a shirt worn by officials in the tropics.

Medicine

High risk of hepatitis, malaria and sunburn. It is recommended to drink bottled water and use sunscreen. It is better to take essential medicines with you.

Safety

Dangerous reptiles are found in Cuba - caimans and boas, sea urchins, some types of tropical fish and jellyfish, as well as sand fleas, mosquitoes and malarial mosquitoes can cause a lot of trouble.

Emergency Phones

National Police: 82-0116
Fire brigade: 81-1115
Ambulance: 24-2811

Photo and video shooting

Photographing military equipment, military personnel and industrial enterprises is strictly prohibited.

Questions and opinions about Cuba

Question answer

Question answer

Question answer

Question answer

"Cuba libre" or Liberty Island. White sand of sunny beaches, endless ocean expanses, vibrant nature, unique architecture, rum and cigars - all this and a little more will tell THERE about Cuba.

General information about Cuba

Location

The free Republic of Cuba is located not far from the shores of the northern and South American continents, separated from them by the waters of the Strait of Florida. The state occupies the islands of Cuba, Youventud and about 1,600 smaller islands with a total area of ​​110,860 km².

The southern coast of the main island of the country faces the waters of the Caribbean Sea, and the northwestern and northeastern beaches are washed by the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Population

According to the population department of the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the population of the republic for 2017 is 11.4 million people.

Currency

The national currency is the Cuban peso CUP, CUC. At the rate of 1 peso = 1 US dollar.

Useful phone numbers

Phone country code: 53
Phone code for Havana : 7
Call from Cuba: 119 - your country code - area code - phone number.
Call to Cuba: 8 - international call code - Cuba code - area code - phone number.
Embassy of the Russian Federation: (+53 7) 204-10-85
Russian Consulate: (+53 2) 268 61 46

emergency services(Havana):

• Police: 116
• Honey. help: 40-50-93
• Firemen: 78-85-41

On the territory of the country:

• National police: 82-01-16
• Firemen: 81-11-15
• Honey. help: 24-28-11

Payment and exchange in Cuba

In tourist areas, convertible pesos are in circulation. Because of the warm relations between the island communist state and the Empire of Good, which is jealous from the other end of the Florida Strait, it is better not to fly with evergreen presidents on vacation. When exchanging US dollars, you may be charged a commission of 10 to 20%. Therefore, already experienced tourists recommend coming here with the Euro. Interestingly, it is almost impossible for a tourist to meet an inconvertible Cuban peso (CUP).

If it is more convenient for you to use Visa/MasterCard cards, please note that:

• Visa is accepted in more establishments than Mastercard;
• When visiting small shops or cafes, it is better to have cash with you, as there may not be a payment terminal;
• Card transactions are taxed at 11.24%.

tourist memo

A stay in Cuba should be as colorful as possible, you may need to add colors to your everyday wardrobe. You have every chance of becoming a fan of Cuban cigars after visiting their homeland, but smoking in public places is prohibited.

If you meet a cow on the way to the beach or during the excursion, be extremely careful. This animal is sacred to Cubans, and the death of a cow in your presence can lead you to unpleasant conversations with representatives of the local police.

It is also important for a tourist to know that photographing government agencies, military equipment, soldiers, and police officers is prohibited. In addition, before photographing a Cuban, be sure to ask him for permission.

What is the Cuban people like?

Cuba is a multinational and multicultural country where the blood and traditions of the peoples of Africa, Spain, Italy, Britain, Germany, Cuban and American Indian tribes, immigrants from China, France, as well as Jews resettled during the First and Second World Wars, mixed.

Local, friendly people. Do not rush to refuse an offer to play dominoes or share a meal. Do not be surprised if you are asked to have a drink in a cafe at your expense. And if the hotel or hostel staff asks you to leave personal hygiene products (razors, shaving foam, etc.), remember that this is due to the high cost and inaccessibility of the latter for poor citizens.

Security on Cuban soil

The people in the communist republic are friendly, but poor. It is better not to show cash and expensive accessories. Watch your belongings so as not to become a victim of petty scammers and pickpockets. At night, walking in poor areas is not recommended due to the high probability of being attacked.

Climate in Cuba, when is the best time to go

The most favorable time for rest is the period from November to April.

Windsurfers will enjoy summer when the highest peaks rise during the rainy season. big waves. The dominance of hurricanes between October and November can overshadow the rest, but in fact you can plan a vacation in Cuba at any time of the year.

Due to the small area, you can go around Cuba in a few weeks of rest. So that you do not miss anything important, our website has prepared for you a list of cities and resorts that you must visit.

Capital Havana is a city of opposites. Here, modern skyscrapers stand next to colonial pre-revolutionary mansions in which ordinary people live. The city is full of architectural monuments and interesting places. Havana dazzles with white beaches, treats with gourmet cuisine and lures with the sounds of salsa. The El Floridita bar, one of Ernest Hemingway's favorite places, deserves special attention. If you are not interested in the bar, visit the writer's house museum and then go to the Roma Museum. For those who are not tired of daytime excursions, it is important to know that closer to the night the city turns into one big disco filled with unbridled energy. It's time to visit the Tropicana cabaret show, which has been famous all over the world since 1939.

Santa Clara

Santa Clara a place memorable for the Cuban revolution, where Comandante Che Guevara derailed the armored train of the dictator Batista. The wreckage of the same train remains at the crash site to this day, they are the pride and attraction for the inhabitants of the country. In addition, a mausoleum named after Ernesto Che Guevara was erected here, and if you are an American citizen, then you may not be allowed into it.

Santiago de Cuba

home of street culture Santiago de Cuba. Music on the streets of the town sounds on every corner. By right, this place is considered the cradle of Cuban melodies and rum, because Don Facundo Bacardi was born here.

Trinidad

If it is interesting to see the island as it was in the 18th century, then the city Trinidad is the best place for it. The authentic atmosphere of this place is amazing. Cobbled roads, colonial-style houses, sugar plantations and, preserved echoes of the old days, houses for slaves.

Matanzas

Matanzas the capital of the province of the same name is known for a large number of bridges, for which it was nicknamed the "Cuban Venice". The province of Pinar del Río is interesting to visit, where you can visit the tobacco plantations and admire the views of the Viñales Valley, which received the title of "Cultural Landscape of Humanity" in 1999.

Cuban resorts

Varadero

Varadero- the oldest of the resorts, a popular and truly heavenly place with turquoise ocean waters and snow-white beaches. The resort can be called a classic Russian holiday, everything is always included here. Round-the-clock bars, a buffet table in a restaurant with cuisines from all over the world.

Holguin

Holguin- resort elite business VIP class. Hotels are mostly five-star. Visit this place for the sake of luxury, tranquility and sophistication.

guardavalaca

guardavalaca, one of the best diving resorts, famous for its coral reef. Esmeralda is a place of emerald beaches. For lovers of original parties, it will be interesting to be at the cave disco of Cayo Coco.

juventud

juventud, known as the island of Youth (located 100 km from the island of Cuba) is interesting for its nature reserves. It is said that R. L. Stevenson described the image of Treasure Island from the landscapes of Youthud.

Cayo Largo

Speaking of pirates, it's hard not to mention La Yana - this is an ancient tree located on the island Cayo Largo. According to legend, it served as a guide for pirates of the Caribbean when they buried their stolen gold.

These are just a few of the places you can visit during your stay in this country. Even if you come to Cuba several times a year for several years, this country will always find something to surprise and entice you.

Entertainment and recreation on Liberty Island

The very thing for which thousands of tourists come to rest every year is diving. Undersea world interesting not only for beautiful coral reefs, but also for the many sunken ships off the coast. Windsurfers can catch waves off the sandy shores, those who don't want to (or don't know how to swim) dive into the embrace of the ocean in a submarine.

The main monuments of Cuban architecture are concentrated in several of the most famous cities among tourists. In the capital of Cuba, Havana, you can see many cathedrals, including the Cathedral of St. Christopher. And you better not brag that you have been to Cuba without visiting the Armory, Cathedral and Old Squares of the capital of the state.

Memorial to Che Guevara in Santa Clara, a cigar factory Francisco Donatien» in Pinar del Rio, caves with cave paintings of Mantanas. On the Isle of Youth is a prison Presidio Modelo", which is a copy former place conclusions of F. Castro, prisons " Joliet"(Illinois). Natural landscapes and national parks more than make up for the small number of architectural sights, many natural areas Cuba is under the protection of UNESCO.

Coming to rest in the period from July 15 to August 15, be sure to visit the carnivals that take place in Havana and Santiago de Cuba, as these are unforgettable colorful events full of dance music and colorful dresses. And lovers of smoking will be interested to know about the festival of Cuban cigars of international level taking place at the end of February.

And where are we without shopping, because you need to buy something sort of, truly Cuban - cigars, rum and coffee. Black corals and products from them are popular among tourists. In the shopping centers of Havana or in Casa del Habano chain stores, you will not be deceived and will sell goods of good quality.

National Cuban cuisine

Creole cuisine prevails in Cuba. The main national dishes are prepared from pork and chicken. Meat is prepared in many different ways. Among the national dishes cuisine - "Creole ajiako" - one of the main ones. It is prepared from pork and vegetables with the addition of a good portion of spices. Also you should try:

• lobsters with lemon;
• crocodile meat;
• turtle meat and eggs.

Fresh fruit slices are often served with each course. Delicious and strong coffee is brewed. The main national drink is rum, which is part of almost all local cocktails.

Mostly restaurants are concentrated in resorts and tourist areas, it is recommended to visit them with cash. The cost of a meal for one person in a good establishment is from 30 to 40 pesos, simpler establishments will cost no more than 15 pesos, and in an eatery you will leave a maximum of 5 Cuban coins. Tipping is 10% of the check amount and it is better to give it to the waiters. And if you decide to eat in a bar, you are unlikely to succeed. In colorful Cuban bars you have to drink, and from food you will get the most nuts, well, or chips.

Cuban hotels

The most common hotels in Cuba are 4-star hotels, although for those who do not really plan to stay within four walls, there are a sufficient number of 2- and 3-star hotels. But for lovers of luxury, there is not much to choose from, so there are literally a few hotels in 5 stars. Most of the hotels on the island of freedom represent well-known world chains that operate on the "all inclusive" system. Check-in at a hotel in Cuba takes place at 15:00, check-out is registered at 12:00. Cunning Cubans leave themselves three hours to clean the room before the arrival of the next guests, so you can safely make claims if you find unwanted traces of previous guests.

How to get to Cuba

For a convenient and comfortable flight to Cuba, Good THERE recommends using the services of Aeroflot, which organizes permanent, direct flights Moscow-Havana. If residents of Russia will fly non-stop, then citizens of the CIS countries are recommended to fly through Moscow, or through Europe on the appropriate flights.

A direct flight from Moscow lasts about 12 hours, a flight with transfers through Europe from 16 to 20 hours. Ticket prices start at 55,000 rubles per adult. Cheaper can be obtained through the registration of permits. So with accommodation in a three-star hotel for 7 days and nights, the cost of a tour is on average from 60,000 rubles.

Pros and cons of vacationing on a Cuban island

No matter how heavenly place Cuba seems to you, OK THERE recommends paying attention to negative sides holidays in this beautiful country:

• the sun is much more intense and brighter than the inhabitants of the CIS countries and Russia are used to, in order to avoid sunburn, stock up on sunscreens;
• an evening beach holiday can be spoiled by small insects, protective sprays and creams are a must;
• do not drink raw water, and ask for alcoholic drinks chilled without ice, as Cuban water contains many bacteria that are harmful to an unaccustomed tourist;
• beware of marine life: moray eels, sea snakes and urchins and "Portuguese boats";
• be aware of the poverty of the population, which can provoke individuals to want to rob you if you openly show your valuables and cash.

All these are just warnings, because it is better to prepare in advance so that your vacation is not overshadowed by anything, and you can enjoy positive aspects trips:

• feel the atmosphere of freedom;
• enjoy the white sand beaches;
• soak up the cultural spirit of Cuba by visiting festivals and carnivals;
• admire the beauty of Cuban nature;
• try cigars and rum in their homeland;
• dive into the depths of the ocean to view its treasures;
• meet and chat with new people.

A video about Cuba will complement our article

In Cuba, everyone will find something interesting for themselves. Expand your boundaries, the world is not in our apartments and phones. Travel, feel, learn new things. Fine THERE wishes you a pleasant stay on Liberty Island.

You love vacation at sea?

You love trips ?

Would you like to do it more often ?

And you know that whilecan you earn more?

Your extra income 10,000 - 50,000 rubles per month working at the same time as a regional representative In your city You can start working without any experience...

… or just help your friends and acquaintances to choose profitable last minute tours online and save up for your vacation...

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Country Description

If you want to soak up paradise while alive, then best place than Cuba, you will not find. Beautiful white sand beaches, clear sea water, coral reefs and shallows for fishing, rich exotic flora and fauna - this is not paradise. Temperamental as the rhythms of "cha-cha-cha", bright as the plumage of a hummingbird, elegant as an orchid flower, Cuba has always attracted thousands of tourists. But Cuba is not only magnificent nature, it is, first of all, friendly and hospitable Cubans and a deep history. Many cities still keep the traces and spirit of the Spanish conquerors, the memory of the corsair raids. worldwide famous resort Varadero is located 140 km from Havana on the Atlantic coast. The surroundings of Varadero are very picturesque, and many kilometers of white sandy beaches and azure ocean waters attract thousands of tourists here.

Cuba! A magical island separating the Atlantic from the Caribbean Sea, the bottom of which is literally covered with treasures... A neighbor of Haiti, Jamaica and Mexico, it attracts not only tropical exoticism, but also the special flavor of the island's life, warmth, openness and hospitality of the locals. Every day is a carnival here. There is no heat here, the caressing breeze from the ocean pleasantly cools. There are even no animals dangerous to humans. Here the crocodiles are only in the form of a roast. And countless fish, birds, shellfish become not only a delicacy for gourmets, but also the subject of an exciting hunt. The resulting booty can always be "washed" - with the world's best fiery cane drink - rum ... Kilometers of the smallest white sand and the azure blue of the ocean waters seem to be tailor-made for a world-class resort. People did the rest: in tourism there is a large share of Spanish capital and therefore the service meets the highest requirements. It all starts already at the airport: from it you will be delivered to the chosen hotel in luxurious vintage cars.

Geography

Area - 110992 sq. km.
The highest point is Turquino Peak 1974 m.
The most long river- Cauto 370 km.

Cuba is located in the West Indies, at the junction of North, Central and South America. According to its configuration, the territory of Cuba, stretching from west to east for 1250 km, is often compared with a lizard, the body of which is facing the Atlantic, and the tail is located at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. In the south, Cuba is washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea. The distance from Cuba to the United States at the narrowest point of the Florida Strait is 180 km, to the island of Haiti through the Windward Strait - 77 km, to the island of Jamaica through the Strait of Colon - 140 km, to Mexico through the Yucatan Strait - 210 km.

The island is 1200 km long and 210 km wide at its widest point. The Cuban archipelago covers an area of ​​110,992 sq. km and has more than 300 natural beaches covered white sand and surrounded by crystal clear waters. The most famous beach in Cuba is Varadero. The landscapes of Cuba are very diverse. There are valleys, mountains and hills here. The main mountain ranges of the country are the Cordillera de Guaniguanico in the west, the Escambray in the center and the Sierra Maestra in the east. In the mountains of the Sierra Maestra, there is also the highest mountain in the country, Turquino Peak (1974 m above sea level). The rest of the island is a fertile plain. On the island you can admire the many caves. Most of the rivers in Cuba are small but very fast flowing. Rivers flow down from the mountains, forming beautiful waterfalls. Of particular interest are the Agabama and Salto del Carbuni waterfalls. The longest river in Cuba is Cauto (about 370 km), which flows in the eastern part of the island. There are many reservoirs and lakes in Cuba. Amateurs come here - ornithologists, because Cuba is a place of migration of resettled birds.

Time

Behind Moscow for 8 hours.

Climate

The climate of Cuba is tropical trade wind. Warm currents, observed in the waters washing the country, and constant northeast winds make the climate mild. The coldest month is January, when the daytime air temperature reaches +25..+27 degrees, and at night there is about 16..18 degrees of heat. The hottest month is August. During it, in the daytime, the air warms up to +30..+32 degrees, and at night it is quite warm - +20..+22 degrees. Relative humidity is high (70-75%) throughout the year, so the heat is especially hard to bear in summer.

The average annual rainfall in Cuba varies from 860 mm in the southeast of the island to 1700 mm in its western part. From May to November, the rainy season is established in Cuba. At this time, especially from August to November, strong tropical hurricanes arise in the Caribbean region, which then go to Florida. The rainiest months are June and October, when 180 to 200 mm of precipitation falls per month. On the coast, the water temperature in winter time is about +24 degrees, in summer it warms up to +28 degrees.

Language

The official language is Spanish. However, hotel staff will answer you in English, German, Italian.

Religion

The majority of believers are Catholics (47%), Protestants (4%) and adherents of the so-called Santeria, a syncretic cult based on African pagan beliefs mixed with the cult of some Christian saints. The church is separated from the state, freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed.

Population

The population is about 11.4 million people. The majority of the population (about 2/3) are descendants of immigrants from Spain, the rest are blacks, mulattos, mestizos, there is also a fairly large Chinese colony on the island. The indigenous population of Cuba was completely destroyed during the years of the development of the island by the Spaniards. The Spanish colonists needed a lot of labor to work on the plantations and they began to import slaves from central Africa. Over 1 million African slaves were imported by the Spaniards in 350 years. For the same reason, between 1853 and 1874, more than 125,000 Chinese were brought into Cuba from Asia. Until now, in Havana, "China Town" has been preserved. In addition, Indian slaves were imported, but in small quantities, from the Yucatan, Central and South America. An intensive flow of emigrants was from Spain, Germany, France and Britain.

Cuba received a huge number of emigrants from neighboring islands: 250,000 arrived from the Antilles - Haiti and Jamaica. 850 thousand immigrants arrived from Spain, but not all of them remained to live in Cuba. At the beginning of the 20th century, many Americans settled in Cuba, who created their colonies on about. Pinos. There were very strong waves of emigration to Cuba during and after the First and Second World Wars. First of all, Jews moved here. The Cuban nation thus absorbed the features of the peoples of the whole world. Today, the population of Cuba is 11 million people. According to official sources, the composition of the population of Cuba is as follows: 65% - whites, 12% - blacks, 22% - mulattoes.

Electricity

Mains voltage: 220V

Emergency Phones

National Police: 82-0116
Fire brigade: 81-1115
Ambulance: 24-2811

Connection

For telephone conversations within the city, pay phones are used, working both on coins and on cards (much less often). To call from a "coin" machine, coins of 5 and 20 centavos are required. Calling other cities or provinces is difficult. International telephone calls are carried out exclusively from Telecorreos telephone exchanges, which are available in almost all major hotels. To call, you need a special card of 10 or 25 USD (sold by the hotel administrator). Connection statistics and its cost are displayed on the phone display. One minute of an international telephone call costs about 6.5 USD. Cellular communications and Internet telephony are poorly developed.

To call Cuba, dial 8 - 10 - 53 -<код города> - <номер абонента>. Codes of some cities and provinces: Varadero - 5, Villa Clara - 42, Havana - 7, Granma - 23, Guantanamo - 21, Camaguey - 32, Las Tunas - 31, Matanzas - 52, Holguin - 24, Pinar del Rio - 82, Playa Larga - 59, Sancti Spiritus - 41, Santiago de Cuba - 226, Ciego de Avila - 33, Cienfuegos - 432, Topes de Collantes - 2, Trinidad - 419, Juventud Island - 61.

Currency exchange

In Cuba, for foreign tourists (one might say) only dollars go. No one pays attention to the dilapidation of banknotes. Particular attention should be paid to the fact that when you change, you may be given a so-called convertible peso. This type of peso is equal to the dollar 1:1. This is a new Cuban banknote that has nothing to do with the "wooden" Cuban pesos. In order not to get into a mess, the convertible peso should have “convertible” written on it. As a rule, they are given in small denominations: 1.5, 10. The exchange rate of the old Cuban peso to the US dollar is approximately 1:25. The Cuban convertible coin also circulates on par with the American cent. Often you will be hit back by both. Credit cards are also in use: VISA, EUROCARD, etc. Due to the political situation, AMERICAN EXPRESS cards are prohibited. You can exchange currency in Cuba at banks and many hotels. When exchanging dollars, a commission fee of 10% of the exchanged amount is charged.

Visa

Citizens of the Russian Federation do not need a visa to visit Cuba for the purpose of tourism for a period not exceeding 30 days. When entering the country, a passport is required, the validity of which must be at least 6 months after the end date of the trip, return ticket, hotel booking confirmation, immigration card in 2 copies. When leaving the country, an airport tax is charged, usually equal to 15-20 Cuban pesos. $1=0.93 CUC.

Customs regulations

In accordance with the customs legislation of Cuba, duty-free import of 200 pieces is allowed into the country. cigarettes or 250g of tobacco, 1 liter of spirits, 250ml of eau de toilette or 50ml of perfume. The import of narcotic and psychotropic substances, weapons and ammunition, pornographic products, auto parts is prohibited. It is forbidden to export animals and birds, sea shells, valuable wood, objects representing historical and cultural value. To export cigars, you must have a receipt from the store and the original packaging. Import and export of foreign currency is not limited. Amounts over 5 thousand dollars are subject to mandatory declaration. The export of national currency is allowed within 100 pesos. When leaving the country, an airport tax is charged.

Holidays and non-working days

National holidays:
January 1 - New Year and Liberation Day
May 1 - Labor Day
July 26 - Day of the start of the National Uprising
October 10 - Anniversary of the start of the Cuban War of Independence
December 25 - Christmas

Carnivals, festivals, holidays:
Carnivals in Havana, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba - February
International Jazz Festival in Havana - February
Cuban Cigar Festival in Havana - February
Varadero Electroacoustic Music Festival - April
Fair in Holguin - May
Havana International Guitar Festival - May
Feast of Saint Juan in Trinidad - June
Chariot Carnival in Havana - June-August
Celebration of Hispanic American Culture in Holguin - October
Havana Latin American Film Festival - December

Transport

Municipal transport in the country is quite dilapidated, there are few buses and they often break down, so tourists are not recommended to use public transport. The main city transport is the bus ("va-va"). There are 2 types of buses - "sitting", where the number of passengers is clearly limited by the number of seats, and ordinary cars, which are often packed to capacity. There are no timetables at all, traffic routes are often not marked either. The fare is 1-2 CUP.

For transportation, it is recommended to use the so-called "tourist taxis", which are fairly modern cars with a radiotelephone and air conditioning. Payment is made only in dollars (approximately 2 USD for 1.5-2 km.). A tourist taxi can be ordered from any hotel or by phone, while the movement of the car is constantly monitored by operators, which ensures safety. Ordinary taxis, which pay in pesos, use quite old cars and there are not many of them. Many private traders make money by "carrying", especially in Varadero and other resort areas. Their prices are somewhat lower than those of state-owned companies, but there is no guarantee either.

The resort of Varadero is served by "shuttles", whose drivers are quite reliable, as well as tourist buses with a ticket for 4 CUC or EUR for the whole day. On this bus, having bought a ticket once, you can ride all day, getting off at any stop and getting on at any stop an unlimited number of times.

Tips

In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 10% of the amount indicated on the bill.

The shops

As souvenirs and gifts, of course, it is better to purchase coral products and jewelry in combination with silver. Also good are the guayabera (tropical shirt), folk percussion instruments, artistic fabrics, embroidery and lace, as well as tortoiseshell products, especially bracelets and hairpins (beware of fakes!). Be sure to buy Cuban rum and real Cuban cigars, among which the most highly valued brands are Bolivar, Coiba, Montecristo, Partagas, Punch, Ramon Allones, Sancho Panza, J. Upmann "," Romeo and Juliet "and" Trinidad ". Shops are open from 9.00 to 18.00 (some until 20.00) on weekdays, on Saturdays - from 9.00 to 15.00 (some until 18.00). Supermarkets and shops in resort areas are usually open from 10.00 to 20.00. Most small shops have a separate opening hours. Almost all shops close for "siesta" around noon.

National cuisine

The basis of the Cuban diet is rice and black beans, pork and chicken. Cubans are not very fond of vegetables, but they love fruits, there are a lot of them and they are always fresh. Very tasty mango and banana. Baked bananas in Cuban cuisine come from African slaves. "Fufu" is bananas mixed with other ingredients. Chatinos - a light appetizer for an aperitif, also prepared on the basis of platanos. Cuban cuisine originated from the combined influence of Spanish and African traditions. The national dish is "el ajiaco" - soup-stew with root vegetables and various vegetables, usually cooked with pork. The taste depends on the type of root vegetables and the spices used. Other typical dishes are skewers of pork, fried banana chips ("tachinos", "chatinos" or "tostones"), black beans, oriental congri (rice with red beans), moros and christianos (rice with black beans), chopped steak in Havana, tamales, bakanes or ayacas (made from tender corn). If you order fruit juices, make sure they are freshly made. If your funds are limited, in the snack bars you will be offered a set lunch at a fixed price, you will choose the dishes yourself. Ice cream is very popular. There are many small restaurants right at the home of the Cubans, where you can eat for about $4. Speaking of cuisine, one cannot ignore Cuban coffee, which Cubans drink in large quantities throughout the day. Cuban coffee is very strong and sweet. There are many cafes in the cities where you can taste various infusions, decoctions and other drinks. Cubans put a lot of sugar in all drinks. The most popular alcoholic drink is rum. The most famous brand of rum is Havana Club. There are three varieties: Carta Oro (gold), Carta Blanca (white) and Anejo (old), which differ in aging. Cubans' favorite rum is Anejo (about $8 a bottle).

Attractions

Havana- administrative, political, cultural, scientific, as well as the main tourist center of the country, a cosmopolitan province. Havana is visited annually by more than half of all foreign tourists coming to the country. Its main charm is the city itself with its variety of architecture, wide avenues and famous boulevards, and especially its historical Center, in 1982 declared by UNESCO - Heritage of Humanity. The starting point of the tour can be El Templete- a small neoclassical chapel built in 1828 on the site where the city is supposed to have been founded; Armory Square(Plaza de Armas), Cathedral Square(Plaza de la Catedral) and Old Square(Plaza Vieja), around which magnificent old buildings and structures are grouped, which at one time were part of the walled city. Memorial to Jose Marti was opened in 1996, it houses various relics, original objects, documents and engravings related to the life and work of the apostle of the Cuban revolution. At the top of the obelisk - a concrete, marble-lined tower 138.5 meters above sea level - is the highest observation deck in the capital. More than 47 thousand exhibits are stored in the funds Palace fine arts , which, after careful work on expansion, reorganization and restoration, is now considered one of the most significant among such institutions in the world. National Botanical Garden covers an area of ​​600 hectares. It is divided into 18 zones, and about a fifth of it is devoted to local plants. One of the main attractions - Japanese garden, donated by the government of this country in 1989 and created by the master of garden art Yoshikuni Arake.

Provinces Santiago de Cuba has two features that make it unique: it is its hospitable, cheerful and carefree people and rich cultural and historical heritage. The main city of the province, founded in 1514, is of great originality, and its most important feature is a magnificent bay surrounded by high mountains, over which reigns fortress of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro, in 1997 proclaimed by UNESCO - Heritage of Humanity. A similar status has recently been given to the system of agro-industrial facilities and the remains of more than a hundred coffee plantations in the area of ​​​​Mount Gran Piedra, which were created by the French who fled Haiti. Cespedes Square is the busiest place in the city. The square is surrounded by buildings of great architectural and historical value: House Museum of Diego Velasquez, City Cathedral, former ayuntamiento- the city council, where the provincial government is now located, and the Casa Granda Hotel. The only stepped street in Cuba Padre Pico street, is a natural observation deck. Here is the boundary between the upper and lower parts of the city. The street descends to the Tivoli area, where the famous Santiago carnival is held. The castle of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro is a Roman-style military building with two blind ditches and two symmetrical three-tiered bastions where cannons were installed. Its construction began in the 16th century and was completed two centuries later. Now here is Museum of Piracy.

Trinidad de Cuba- a city-museum of colonial architecture, declared by UNESCO as a heritage of mankind and a cultural monument of world importance. The city was founded in 1514 by Diego Velasquez. The main cities of the province Sancti Spiritus and Santisima Trinidad de Cuba are two of the first seven cities founded by the Spanish conquistadors on the island. Times have changed, but Trinidad itself is still the same as it was 2 centuries ago with its baroque churches, red-tiled roofs, paving stones and wrought iron railings. It is especially recommended to pay attention to Romantic Museum, Museum of Architecture, Archaeological Museum, Museum of Fighting Bandits, Museum of Natural Sciences "Alexander Humboldt" and Archaeological Museum "Guamuaya".

Matanzas - the main city of the province - called Cuban Athens, as it is the land of poets, or Cuban Venice - due to the fact that the city is crossed by two rivers - Yumuri and San Juan, through which five bridges are thrown for the convenience of pedestrians and transport - and guests will it is interesting to get acquainted with the rich cultural heritage of this calm city, which has grown up on the shores of a huge bay. In the southern part of the province is Zapata Peninsula - real paradise for lovers ecological tourism, but besides that, they will undoubtedly be admired fabulously beautiful valley Yumuri and the banks of the Kanimar River, which can be admired from bridge bacunayagua- pearls of Cuban engineering, this bridge, with a height of 110 m, is the highest in the country. Vigia Square is the place where the city was founded, from where it began its growth. The area is surrounded by architecturally interesting buildings - Theater "Sauto", Palace-Museum Junko, fire station building and others. Freedom Square(Plaza de la Libertad) - the city's second Armory Square, which overlooks the White Concert Hall, named after the famous black violinist Jose White, the Triolet Pharmaceutical Museum and Government House. On the western shore of Matanzas Bay rises Castle of San Severino. Due to its size, it is considered one of the most important Spanish fortresses in the Americas. In the vicinity of the city of Matanzas are the caves of Bellamar. About 30 rooms have been studied, where large rock paintings, fossils and traces of the habitation of people who lived here 1,600 years ago were found.

Resorts

Varadero- the main area of ​​the Cuban archipelago, attracting those who prefer holidays by the sea, enjoys well-deserved international fame. This resort on the Hicacos peninsula has more than 20 km of beaches covered with fine white sand and washed by a sea that shimmers in a variety of shades of blue; one fifth of its territory is part of the ecological reserves. In addition, there are many caves, picturesque slopes and lagoons on the peninsula; along the coast stretches a series of virgin and easily accessible islets. The features of Varadero are complemented by its cultural, historical and natural attractions, closely connected with the neighboring cities of Matanzas and Cardenas and the Ciénaga de Zapata Biosphere Reserve, as well as a number of modern comfortable hotels and a wide infrastructure of service industries.

province in the northeast of the country Holguin famous for being the region where the discovery of Cuba took place. Admiral Christopher Columbus first set foot on the land of the island in a place called Cayo Bariai, where a memorial complex now exists. It was October 27, 1492. The province's capital city of the same name is also called the City of Squares; here you can feel a strong Spanish influence, its straight streets indicate that it was built according to a strict plan. IN the city is coming an active cultural life, especially in May, when the May Fair takes place, and in October, when the Festival of Iberoamerican Culture is celebrated. With over 40 kilometers of coastline, there are 41 beaches, including foreign tourists give particular preference to the beaches of Guardalavaca, Playa Esmeralda and Playa Pesquero with exceptionally beautiful seabed. This province also contains Banes, which is considered the archaeological capital of Cuba, since more traces of aboriginal habitation have been found here than anywhere else in the archipelago. Among the 22 bays available in the province of Holguin is one of the largest in the world and in Cuba - Nipe Bay. But also on the territory of the province there are forests and hills with steep slopes and massive peaks.

Cayo Largo- a small group of islands located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, 177 km from Havana and 170 km from Varadero. It serves as a refuge for hundreds of tropical birds: flamingos, hummingbirds, gray herons and many others. Both Havana and Varadero have a direct air connection. From other tourist points of Cuba, you can also order here special tour. You can move around the island on foot, by bike or by car. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are warmer than those of the Atlantic Ocean off the northern coast of Cuba, resulting in a richer marine life off the coast of the island. The tourist infrastructure has everything you need to make you satisfied with your stay on this paradise island. Here you can visit a turtle farm and just a beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Cayo Coco- the fourth largest island of Cuba, the main tourist island archipelago Jardines del Rey ( royal gardens). It is connected to the main island by a 17-kilometer dam road passing through the Bay of Dogs. Before the advent of tourism infrastructure, Cayo Coco was known mainly for the beautiful pineapples that grow here. Reaching north magnificent beaches not even with white sand, but snow-white. In addition to the beaches of coral origin, considered perhaps the best in the entire Caribbean, there are amazing conditions for diving, fishing and water sports. Small island is a permanent home for flamingos, white ibises, pelicans, herons, wryneck cormorants and vultures. Near the island of Cayo Coco, a little to the west is Cayo Guillermo island. This island is also connected to the "mainland" through a bulk dam.

Island Cayo Santa Maria is located in the Atlantic Ocean, near the islands of Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo and is located opposite the northern coast of the province of Villa Clara. The island is connected to the mainland by a 48.6 km long causeway. The distance to the international airport of Santa Clara is about 110 km and 386 km to Havana. The location of Santa Maria is unique. You can combine relaxing beach time with active culture and entertainment. Near the island of Cayo Santa Maria are small islands Las Brujas and Ensenchos. All three islands have beautiful beaches with soft white sand and very clean water. Their attractive surroundings are great places for fishing, diving, water sports and boat trips along the channels that separate the islets. On the island of Las Brujas there is an airport where planes of local airlines from Havana arrive. On the island of Cayo Santa Maria there is a hotel of the Spanish group SOL MELIA: SOL CAYO SANTA MARIA 4 *, ALL INCLUSIVE.

Coast Playa Esmeralda is located in the east of the island of Cuba, in the province of Holguin. The highest mountain peak of Cuba is located here and it is here that the most diverse nature is located: more than a hundred beaches, many caves, rivers, mountains, waterfalls and natural sources. It was on this coast that the historic meeting of the sailors of Columbus with the Tainos Indians took place. The province of Holguin produces the best Cuban beer, the most the best fishing, the best diving, the most beautiful places. On the beaches of Playa Esmeralda you can practice almost all kinds of water sports. Among them are windsurfing, sailing, water biking, snorkelling. Diving is especially popular - in the Playa Esmeralda area there are about 20 dive sites.

Brief information about the country

Date of Independence

Official language

Spanish

Form of government

socialist republic

Territory

110,860 km² (104th in the world)

Population

11,061,886 people (77th in the world)

Timezone

Largest cities

Havana, Santiago de Cuba

$114.1 billion (67th in the world)

Internet domain

Telephone code

Cuba or officially Republic of Cuba- a Caribbean country, the main territory of which is the island of Cuba, as well as about 1600 reefs and smaller islands of the Greater Antilles. One of last strongholds socialism, a reserved cigar-rum region, dressed in a T-shirt with a portrait of Che and clutching a volume of Hemingway under his arm - this is how an overseas tourist sees Freedom Island. And by and large, such a stereotypical image is almost true.

Video: Cuba

general information

Neither the collapse of the USSR, nor the departure of Fidel, nor, finally, American sanctions could lead astray socialist Cuba. Like fifty years ago, Freedom Island stubbornly continues to fight for communist ideals, however, after the death of the Comandante, he does this with less fanaticism. Yes, there is still no freedom of speech, but there is free medicine and education. Moreover, from year to year, Cuba is visited by all large quantity tourists, which cannot but affect its appearance.

It was thanks to the money of travelers that the unsightly urban landscapes, bearing the imprint of the revolutionary past, finally began to give way to modern buildings, and the shelves of city stores began to slowly fill up with "overseas" products. Today's Cuba is no longer just sugar cane, flowing rum and street salsa, but also a dynamically developing tourist infrastructure, almost Maldivian beaches, as well as amazing diving. Add to this a rich colonial past, almost limitless ecotourism opportunities and a favorable tropical climate, and you can clearly imagine why Liberty Island has become one of the most trendy destinations for most Europeans in recent years.

Cities of Cuba

All cities in Cuba

History of Cuba

The world learned about the existence of Cuba in 1492, after Columbus reached this part of the Caribbean. It is clear that the visit of the Spanish navigator did not bring anything good to the Indians who lived here, becoming, in fact, only the starting point in the history of the methodical extermination and final enslavement of the indigenous population. For almost 300 years, Liberty Island remained a disenfranchised raw material appendage of Spain, and only since 1823 did local residents begin to make their first attempts to fight the merciless colonialist.

In 1895, Cuban patriots - not without the support of the ubiquitous United States - managed to win back most of the territories from the mother country. Although the final farewell to the Spanish colonization took place only three years later, after the signing of the Paris Peace Treaty. By this time, Cuba was already listed as a debtor to the United States, which imposed a number of obligations on it. Well, to be more precise, the Island of Freedom agreed to provide its territories for American military bases.

In the 50s of the XX century, the dictatorial regime of Fulgencio Batista was established in Cuba, who immediately found opponents in the person of Fidel Castro. As a result, the country was plunged into the abyss of revolution for almost 5.5 years and emerged from it as a completely socialist state headed by the same Castro. To overcome the consequences of military devastation, the local government began to look for material support on the other side of the ocean, which it eventually received from the USSR. It is worth noting that friendship with the Soviet Union helped Cuba not only restore relative financial stability, but also completely ruin relations with a stronger neighbor, the United States. Frustrated by the current state of affairs, America hastened to impose a trade embargo on Liberty Island, which is still in effect today.

In the early 1990s, after the collapse of the Eastern Bloc, which subsidized Cuba, Castro was faced with the need to reform the economy. In 1993, Cubans were legally allowed to own US dollars. A significant part of the economy fell under the onslaught of the all-powerful American currency, and many manufactured goods and food became available only for dollars. Cubans to whom relatives abroad could send money, and those who worked in foreign companies and tourism business, where tips were given in dollars, soon gained an advantage over the rest of the country's citizens. A decade later, the gap between the haves and the have-nots widened so much that Castro was forced to take action. Today, all foreign currency must be exchanged for convertible pesos (pesos convertibles) at a high tax on the exchange of dollars.

Legacy of the revolution

As one of the last strongholds of communism on the planet, the country is of constant interest. While the rest of the world is living in the fast pace of the digital age, Cuba is slowly going its own way, with only a minority having access to the Internet. Dinosaurs of the automotive world, mended and repainted American cars from the 1940s and 1950s, clumsily slink along the dimly lit city streets. In rural areas, ox-carts, omnibuses, Chinese bicycles and cycle rickshaws take the place of automobiles. The dwellings are furnished with furniture antiques inherited from the ancestors, and are lit with energy-saving light bulbs that allow you to save money.

Cuba is inseparable from the international politics of the second half of the 20th century. At the age of six, children become young pioneers - the builders of communism. Across the country, giant posters contain incantations from the country's leadership, such as "Socialismo o Muerte" ("Socialism or death") and "Viva la Revolution" ("Long live the revolution"). Portraits of Che Guevara, the revolutionary martyr of the 1960s, can be found everywhere on the walls of shops, institutions and residential buildings.

Under harsh communist rule, the country has always been bursting at the seams. Its economic condition is directly dependent on the global situation, and the situation is further aggravated by the US trade embargo and the damage caused by hurricanes. Many families continue to live in cramped conditions in dilapidated housing, the monthly income of many Cubans in terms of less than 25 US dollars.

The obvious weakness of the Cuban economy and the deprivation of the Cuban people cannot be overlooked. In addition, there is no real freedom of speech, press and movement outside the country on the island, although there are some indulgences under Raul Castro. However, there is not that glaring poverty here, which catches the eye, say, in Bangladesh, India, Latin American countries. Housing is provided by the state, and you hardly see homeless people sleeping on the streets anywhere in Cuba, and although Cubans do not get all the food they need on coupon books, no one is really starving. All residents of the country have the right to free health care and education. Life expectancy has increased from 57 years in 1958 to 77.7 years in 2011. This is the 57th indicator in the world. The infant mortality rate in Cuba is lower than in the United States and the European Union.

Dilapidation, poverty and restrictions only emphasize the unbending spirit of the Cuban people. These people are characterized by remarkable stamina, patience and love of life, which, it seems, cannot be undermined by any economic hardships. Cubans are extremely friendly and hospitable and always willingly invite guests of the island to their modest homes. Energetic schoolchildren, all in the same uniform, are everywhere: rushing through the streets, playing a stickball game in the yard, riding homemade skateboards, flying kites.

Cuba today

Modern Cuba is slowly but surely beginning to make concessions to certain capitalist benefits, which seemed completely unthinkable under Fidel. Moreover, here they are no longer so aggressive towards their eternal enemy - the United States. A few years ago, in order to somehow strengthen the shaky state economy, Cuba tried to develop tourism, which seriously changed its appearance.

The number of people wishing to visit the poor but proud island of socialism is only growing every year, which, of course, affects state reforms. Gradually, the country acquires the notorious "elements of the sweet life", contrasting with the picturesque ruins that have been preserved since the time of the revolution. So, for example, the ban on the import of foreign cars into the country was recently lifted, thanks to which you can now see quite modern taxis at the Havana airport. The coast of Cuba in recent years has been actively built up with luxurious hotel complexes and spa hotels. And even though the level of service in most of these establishments still gives off a “Soviet flavor”, rest here can be called quite civilized and comfortable.

Paradise Island

For many arriving on the island for the first time, Cuba is striking in its dissimilarity to the rest of the Caribbean. The best Cuban poet Nicolas Guillén compared the island to "a long green alligator". What is long, that's for sure - the distance from the "nose" to the "tail" is 1250 km. Comparable in area to England, Cuba is divided into 14 provinces and has about 450 islands and islets called "cayos", which means "reefs" and "keys".

Given its size, it would take at least a month to get to know the whole country. Most begin in the capital, Havana, and then travel to the famous tobacco plantations to the west, after which they visit the sugar cane valleys and the most beautiful colonial cities in the central part of the island. The easternmost region, called Oriente, is known for its high mountains and the second largest and most musical city of Santiago de Cuba.

Along the truly Caribbean beaches, mainly the northern coast, a lot of resort hotels have grown. Although many organized tourists still stay closer to the sea, each region of the island has its own charming towns that make people take trips inland.

Cuba's white-sand beaches are delightful, and the long stretches of Varadero coastline in the north are best known. Other beach tourism centers include Guardalavaca, Playa Esmeralda and Coco and Largo Islands. Sailing enthusiasts pay tribute to countless natural harbors, anglers hunt for marlin off the coast, divers explore coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Most tourists prefer a full-service holiday, but the variety of Cuba's attractions also attracts a large number of independent travelers who find a lot of interesting things besides the sea and beaches. At the eastern end of the island rises its highest mountain range, the Sierra Maestro (until 1974 m), the birthplace of many uprisings; in the west, in the province of Pinar del Rio, the green valley of Viña Forest stretches with huge mogotes, steep hills up to 400 m high made of limestone; in the central part of the island are the lush mountains of the Sierra del Escambray and the old sugarcane plantations of the De los Ingenios Valley.

But there are also large and small cities. Havana combines beautiful Spanish colonial architecture with vibrant street life and a range of cultural events and attractions; Trinidad, a shining pearl of the colonial era, draws in beautiful apartment buildings, churches and other buildings on winding cobbled streets; Santiago de Cuba is a colorful cocktail that incorporates elements of Spanish, French and African cultures.

Climate

Cuba belongs to the zone of tropical trade wind climate. As for the seasons, only two weather seasons can be distinguished in this part of the Caribbean: dry (from October to April) and rainy, accompanied by quite strong hurricanes (from May to September).

Cold is a concept that no Cuban is familiar with. Even in January, the temperature on the island rarely drops below +22 °C. The apotheosis of the heat falls on August, when the thermometer freezes at +28 ° C in the shade. An additional bonus to the ocean winds and tropical stuffiness is high humidity, which often overshadows the first days of travel. But you should not worry about a specific reason: it usually takes no more than a couple of days to get used to the local climatic realities.

Main tourist destinations

What Cuba is truly conducive to is the lazy beach holiday: in fact, the entire coastline of the main island is a continuous beach from the Bounty advertisement with snow-white sand and azure shallow water. If your plans are not only regal reclining on a sun lounger and getting a chocolate tan, try to stay longer in the main city of Cuba - Havana. Firstly, you still do not deprive yourself of a pleasant beach relaxation, because the city has snatched off a 20-kilometer piece of the sea coast, equipping it in accordance with the tastes of tourists. And secondly, you can fully enjoy the old architecture that the Cuban capital is famous for.

It is worth stopping by Santiago de Cuba to plunge into the typical Caribbean flavor, gain impressions from exploring the historical part of the city (after all, it was from here that the Spanish colonization of the island began) and dance to the incendiary melodies of street musicians. The cradle of the Cuban revolution, Santa Clara, is visited mainly by those who are constantly agitated by the romanticized image of the ex-commandant Che Guevara. For your information, the remains of the Argentine rebel to this day rest in the local mausoleum. The cigar capital of Cuba, Pinar del Rio, is ready to offer its guests not only excursions to tobacco plantations, but also walks through the most picturesque valleys surrounding the city. You can rewind time and return to the colonial era in Trinidad. Some of the local mansions built by the "sugar kings" are even included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Of all the islands of the Cuban archipelago, Cayo Largo, Cayo Caco and Cayo Guillermo are recognized as the most tourist-oriented. The first piece of land is notable for its coral reef and iguanas roaming freely along the coast. There is practically no local population on Cayo Largo, but there are plenty of hotels and bars with visiting staff, as well as clean municipal beaches. It is best to escape from the blues and relieve stress on Cayo Coco. The main feature of the island is a cave disco organized for tourists on Tuesdays. From Cayo Coco, you can cross the sandy dam to the neighboring island - Cayo Guillermo, whose main attraction is the pink flamingos living here. It’s a paradox, but the Cubans themselves are really not allowed here, unless they work in one of the island hotels, so only overseas guests can enjoy fantastic sunsets and all the benefits of the all inclusive system on Cayo Guillermo.

Attractions and entertainment in Cuba

The main historical sights of Cuba are concentrated in Havana and several other large cities. In the capital, first of all, it is worth paying attention to the Old Havana area with its Cathedral of St. Christopher, Prado Boulevard and the Colon Cemetery, dotted with pretentious marble monuments. Contemplation of the Havana Capitol (a recognizable copy of the Washington one) will also give a pleasant experience. It is also interesting to wander around the old city squares, bordered by old colonial-style mansions. Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de San Francisco - all these paved spots are included in the mandatory minimum tourist program.

The tiny town of Remedios is well worth a visit for its Carnival Museum, the Alejandro Garcia Cuturla Music Museum, and the Church of St. John the Baptist. People go to Pinar del Rio to see the Guash Palace, go to a performance at the Milanes Theater and watch the production process of real Cuban cigars at the Francisco Donatien tobacco factory. In Matanzas, Vigia Square, San Severino Castle and Montserrat Chapel are considered must-sees.

Cuba is not Cuba without a mention of old Hemingway. Here the writer is loved, honored, but not missing the opportunity to earn a little on his fame. If you are also not indifferent to the work of old Ham, look at the Finca Vigia estate in the vicinity of San Francisco de Paula (Havana district), to which the genius gave 20 years of his life.

For ecotourists in a country with 14 national parks and more than two dozen biosphere reserves, almost limitless possibilities. The best known and most visited protected natural areas are the Bacanao, Deselbaro del Granma, Sierra del Rosario and Topes de Collantes parks.

Difficult to ignore and Cuban resorts, the most major of which is Holguin. Rest here, though expensive, but fun and prestigious. In addition, the resort has the most beautiful beach country - Playa Esmeralda. Cheaper and less ostentatious, Varadero has made a name for itself with a vibrant nightlife. The regulars of this paradise are party fans, sex tourists and just lovers of all-inclusive relaxation. Well, travelers who do not belong to any of the above categories can be advised to look into Varadero for an excursion to the Jose Smith sugar factory, where the production of the rum legend, Havana Club, was first launched.

All sights of Cuba

Diving in Cuba

Divers in Cuba live freely without exaggeration. If you wish, you can go in search of underwater adventures directly from the beaches of Havana, Varadero and Santiago de Cuba. The transparency of sea water is high almost everywhere, and the bottom is replete with coral thickets and interesting finds. But it is better, of course, to choose less crowded places, tested by experts. These include the islands of Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo, Juventud and Jardines del Rey. You can chase exotic fish and near coral reef in the province of Cienfuegos.

There is no shortage of experienced instructors on Liberty Island, but most of them speak only Spanish and a little less English. Russian-speaking diving gurus are found only in Varadero and Jardines del Rey. It is also possible to get training in primary diving skills in Cuba, but it is unlikely that you will be able to acquire a certificate of a more advanced level (PADI).

It is not necessary to bring diving equipment with you. Almost all Cuban diving centers have their own material and technical base: sometimes thoroughly shabby, but quite functional. On average, dive rates range from 30 (daylight hours) to 40 (at night) CUC.

Holidays to celebrate with Cubans

Communist holidays are still in trend on Liberty Island. Here, the First of May and the Day of the Cuban Revolution (January 2) are still celebrated with great pomp. On July 26, a wave of parades and demonstrations in honor of the Day of the National Uprising covers the country. On October 10, all Cuban patriots do not go to work, but gather at the monument to Carlos Manuel Cespedes to lay flowers and express their deep gratitude to the “father of the motherland”.

Despite the fact that the vast majority of local residents are zealous Catholics, Christmas in Cuba is celebrated quietly, modestly and without traditional gifts. But on New Year's Eve in large cities unimaginable festive chaos reigns, accompanied by intoxicating parties and concerts.

Features of the national mentality

The indigenous population of Cuba lives mostly in poverty, but carefree and cheerful. All these tales about dancing in the middle of the street, amazing talkativeness of locals, prehistoric Cadillacs and Buicks, carefully inherited, as well as generous compliments towards white European women have a very real basis. The average Cuban behaves like a typical careless dreamer who dreams all his life about how one day he will get rich, but at the same time he will not agree to leave his usual comfort zone for any treasure. But there is a sacred meaning in such a way of life: to strain yourself in a country where there is a general leveling and revolutions break out from time to time, it is more expensive for yourself. Although scolding their regime in front of the Cubans is a kind of mauvais ton. Despite the fact that local residents have a meager salary, receive food on coupons and pay exorbitant prices for white sugar, which they themselves produce, outwardly they look quite content with such an existence.

As for the attitude towards tourists, then, of course, for most Cubans they are just fat wallets, from which, if possible, you need to shake out the maximum. If not everyone, then very many are engaged in a divorce for money on Liberty Island: starting from the state that put into circulation a special tourist currency, ending with petty scammers who deliberately provoke accidents in order to defraud a naive traveler of financial compensation. Recently, such an unprecedented phenomenon as the financial stratification of society has begun to be observed in the country: Cubans, involved in the tourism sector and having the opportunity to receive tips in addition to their main income, have become a real elite.

Religion

Catholicism in Cuba is closely intertwined with Afro-Cuban religions, in particular with such as Santeria. Tourists have the opportunity to experience many aspects of these religious practices. In the early 1960s, the government removed catholic church much of its power and influence, but masses are still held in temples throughout the island, and since the pope's visit to Cuba in 1998, Catholic services and ceremonies have become more widespread.

Language

The entire population of Cuba speaks Spanish. Recently, in connection with the development of the tourism industry, various courses of study have begun to gain popularity among the islanders. foreign languages, mostly European. In particular, the staff of luxury hotels and taxi drivers overwhelmingly speak good English. But since there is still a long way to go before mass mastering the language of Shakespeare, it is better to get a paper or electronic Russian-Spanish phrase book before the trip.

Food in Cuba

Spanish, Creole and African motifs are closely intertwined in Cuban cuisine. A favorite side dish here is rice, which often includes black beans or beans. It is served most often with pork or chicken, since beef in Cuba is a pleasure available only to the elite. It is worth trying the Creole ajiaco, which is a meat stew with vegetables and spices. By the way, it is better to look for the most peppery and spicy dishes in the vicinity of Santiago de Cuba.

In some establishments, you can also taste exotic meats (crocodiles, turtles). Quite popular types of dishes include huevos habaneros (a local variety of omelet with spicy sauce), chicharrones (crispy pork skin chips), pulpet meatloaf and the invariable lobsters, which are inaccessible to a simple Cuban, but are in great demand among the tourist fraternity. For dessert, you should take maduros (fried bananas), caramel cream dulce de leche (an analogue of domestic boiled condensed milk) and churros cookies, which are fried right on the street. In addition, Cuba has an abundance of fruits, so you can meet them not only in the form of desserts, but also as a side dish for meat dishes.

Of the drinks, it is worth appreciating Cuban rum and, of course, the legendary daiquiri, the favorite cocktail of John F. Kennedy and Papa Ham. Tourists drink guarapo cane juice more out of curiosity than pleasure. But local beer enjoys a good reputation. Coffee in Cuba is brewed the strongest, generously flavored with sugar, and sometimes splashing a couple of drops of rum into a cup.

In most hotels where breakfast or three meals a day is provided, the cuisine is more Europeanized. Usually the morning starts with a buffet with all the consequences. If you are looking for a typical Cuban tavern, welcome to the pubs in private houses (paladares), which have recently been actively replaced by classic restaurants.

Money

In theory monetary unit country is the Cuban peso. In fact, there are two types of money in circulation: for the indigenous population, this is the same Cuban peso (CUP), and for tourists, it is a convertible peso or cookie (CUC). 1 cookie is 57.43 rubles, exactly 1 US dollar or 1.18 euros (for 2017).

It is most profitable to exchange euros (no commission) or Canadian dollars in local banks. The worst thing is to convert American currency, since the commission for its exchange can reach up to 20% of the amount. Money exchange is made at the airport, hotels and banks. The latter are open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 15:00, and from 12:00 to 13:30 establishments are closed for a traditional siesta.

The resort areas of the island accept credit cards. Not so long ago, Cuba lifted the ban on the "plastic" of American banks, but failures in the conduct of payment transactions with Mastercard still occur. Protection from such awkward situations will be a supply of cash, which will be gladly accepted in any institution.

It is customary to give tips on Liberty Island. In restaurants, this can be the traditional 10% of the bill. There will be enough change in the bars (in cookies). Porters, maids and street musicians are given no more than 1 cookie.

Note: before leaving, try to blow off all the cookies in stores, or have time to exchange them at the Havana airport. Otherwise, you risk returning home with a pile of useless pieces of paper - convertible pesos are not changed anywhere else.

Travel budget

Compared to the rest of Latin America and other developing countries, Cuba may be surprisingly expensive, but staying on the island will cost you no more than holidays in other Caribbean islands.

Road

Air tickets can become the main item of expenditure, especially for residents of Europe and Asia. It is cheaper to travel during the off-season, from mid-December to mid-April, and with a full service fee.

Accommodation

Hotels in Havana, Santiago and major resorts in Cuba are expensive. At the cost of living, they are comparable to hotels in North America and Europe. In resorts, accommodation on an all-inclusive basis (food, drinks, entertainment) can be a profitable option. Living in private houses (casas particularulares) is cheaper.

Nutrition

Prices in government restaurants range from moderate to high. The most expensive are lobsters and other seafood. An inexpensive alternative is paladares (private restaurants in the homes of Cubans) and food in casas particularulares. Alcohol and beer are cheaper than in Europe.

Tipping in Cuba

In Cuban restaurants, tips are 1-2 cookies per person or 10% of the bill. In bars in Cuba, it is customary to leave a small change (in convertible pesos). Guides expect to receive at least CUC$2 for their services, traveling musicians should be given CUC$1.

toilets

It's wise to carry toilet paper with you at all times, as many of Cuba's toilets don't have it. Where there is paper, they ask for a few cents for its provision - no problem, if only you have a change.

local transport

Urban public transport is cheap and improving, although it remains inefficient and overcrowded. Inexpensive taxis and bisitaxi are the best way to get around in major cities and resorts.

other expenses

The cost of visiting cabarets and discos by Cuban standards is expensive (CUC $ 10-90). The price of drinks in such nightclubs is also much higher than in bars and cafes. Roads and souvenirs such as prestigious hand-made cigars, although they will cost you much less here than outside the country.

Transport

The most convenient way to move between cities and resorts of Cuba is by bus. They go on schedule, and some still differ in their claim to comfort (by Cuban standards). The cheapest deals and breathtaking cars from Astro Bus. Viazul Bus has higher prices, but the buses are newer. Tickets for routes organized by Viazul Bus can be purchased at the railway station ticket offices or on the official website. The Cubans themselves are indifferent to this type of transport and prefer to hitchhike. Stimulate interest in free travel and state laws that require drivers who have free space in the car to select "voters".

The main types of urban transport are all the same buses and taxis. It is worth riding the first ones only if you want non-standard adventures. Havana buses are almost always full of passengers, no one announces stops, and payment is made by the “transfer” method. By the way, it is not recommended to clarify the ticket price with the driver, since, most likely, the announced price will be several times higher than the real one. Focus on the amount of 3-5 cookies. If you asked for more, then you were suspected of a traveling capitalist. But on the shuttles and tourist buses of the Varadero resort, it’s worth a ride. By the way, tickets for the last mode of transport are valid for the whole day.

A great alternative to crowded buses is a tourist taxi. Basically, these are quite modern cars, the trip on which is paid according to the meter (about 0.5-1 CUC per kilometer). Ride through Cuban cities and colorful retro cars of all colors of the rainbow, driven by money-hungry private traders. By the way, their fares are more attractive than those of tourist taxis.

Car rent

You can rent a car in Cuba in any major city, but keep in mind that gasoline here is expensive: about 1.20-1.40 CUC / l. To rent a car, you must be 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience. To conclude a lease agreement, a passport and an international driver's license will be enough.

The rental price is from 45 to 150 cookies per day with no mileage limit. Usually the tourist pays the rent, as well as a mandatory deposit of 150-300 CUC (can be in cash). You will need to buy insurance on the spot, even if you pre-paid for the rental before arriving in the country. If you take the car in one place and want to return it to another, you will have to pay the cost of the return trip. If your vehicle is damaged, you must pay the first few hundred dollars needed to repair it, unless you can prove that the damage was not your fault. Before you accept the car, inspect it for dents and scratches.

The specifics of local roads should also be taken into account: the major highways on the island are of very good quality, which cannot be said about secondary roads, for which dirt and potholes are the norm. Savings on road markings and signs are also typical Cuban know-how.

Useful information: even while driving a rented car, it is unlikely that you will be able to disguise yourself as a real amigo on Cuban roads. Cars in the country are identified by the color of the numbers: yellow ones belong to private owners, blue ones belong to government agencies, and red ones are given out to tourists.

Bicycles for rent

With an underdeveloped public transport system, millions of Cubans use bicycles. Most resorts have bike and moped rentals. Many bikes for rent are old and have only a few gears. Serious cycling enthusiasts who intend to roam the country should bring their own bikes, as well as a good supply of spare parts and tubes.

Communication and Internet

Services cellular communication in Cuba, it is provided by the state operator ETESCA, so calls from Liberty Island are not the cheapest. A minute of connection with Russia will cost 1.2 CUC, a call within Cuba - 0.35 CUC. You can buy a local SIM card right at Havana Airport, in Terminal 3. Traveling with your own SIM card is not the most reasonable option, since domestic operators do not yet offer profitable roaming options for Cuba.

Cuba's dialing code is 53. In addition, each area has its own area code (Havana code: 7). To call from a country abroad, dial 119 followed by the country code, area code, and phone number. To call locally, dial the area code first. If calling to another province, first dial the appropriate prefix (0 for calls from Havana and to Havana, 01 for all other provinces), then the area code and the subscriber's number. When calling Cuba, omit 0 or 01. Toll-free country number: 113.

IN best hotels Cuba has a direct dialing system for all calls. In other hotels, direct dialing is valid for calls within the country, but to call abroad, you will have to go through the hotel operator. International calls in Cuba are very expensive. As elsewhere in the world, hotels make their own, very significant margin.

With the Internet in Cuba, too, not everything is going smoothly yet. Wi-Fi can only be found in hotels, and you will have to pay separately for the connection. The speed is usually very low. Mobile Internet from ETESCA does not fly here either: the maximum that you can afford is checking e-mail and searching for information. To get access to the World Wide Web, you will have to buy a special card in one of the kiosks for 4.5 CUC, designed for 1 hour of using the network.

Electricity

Electrical appliances in hotels and Casas Particulares run on either 110V or 220V. Most of Cuba's sockets are designed for flat-pin plugs, but appliances must have round-pin plugs to use some sockets. Have an adapter with you, and you may need a transformer.

Where to stay

The hotel structure on Liberty Island is developing dynamically. The faceless "Soviet" hotel-boxes have been replaced by completely modern complexes. The vast majority of local hotels are comfortable "fours". There are still few five-star accommodation options in Cuba, and even those are located mainly in the capital. On islands and resorts like Varadero, Holguin and Cayo Largo, all hotels operate on an all inclusive basis. Breakfast-only options are more common in Havana. But with the service in Cuba, not everything is going smoothly. But given that the country has made a bet on tourism relatively recently, it can be assumed that over time, the staff of local hotels will also catch up.

In recent years, wealthy tourists have rented entire villas where you can feel like a Spanish planter and enjoy plenty of privacy. Well, backpackers and other lovers of economy still prefer casa particularulares - inexpensive furnished rooms rented by Cuban families. There are several advantages to this type of accommodation. First, it's cheaper than a room in the most seedy hotel. And secondly, this is a great way to get acquainted with the national cuisine, because for a symbolic additional fee, the guest has the opportunity to dine directly with the hosts. Just do not forget to first look at the license of the owner of the selected cash desk. A Cuban who avoids paying taxes on renting a house can grab a fine at any moment, and his guest risks being left without a roof over his head at the most unexpected moment.

Advance reservations at Casas Particulares are essential if you plan to visit Kubuu during Christmas, Easter and New Year's Eve, although at other times of the year such foresight is not superfluous. The hosts often greet their guests at bus station to show you the way and prevent your competitors from poaching you.

If you need to cut costs as much as possible, you can go to campsites, which are very different in this country. There are quite civilized villages with electricity and water designed for tourists, and there are clusters of ordinary huts for less demanding traveling Cubans. You can get information about local campsites, whose main customers are vacationers Cubans, at the Campismo offices operating in large cities. In addition, more than 20 campsites, hotels and parking lots are scattered throughout the country, where tourists are provided with water, electricity and sewerage.

Guides and excursions

Most tourists still arrive in Cuba prepaid for the entire package, often including one or two group tours. If you prefer to travel on your own and find a flight and accommodation package that is cheaper than booking separately or even flying alone, once you are in Cuba, you will not be required to follow the group everywhere. A lot of people check into a resort hotel and go on with their plan.

The easiest and most popular way to get to know Cuba is group tours. However, the trips offered by any tourist hotel often overlook the most interesting aspects of Cuban life. With excursions from any resort, you can see almost the entire island. Mode organized trips flexible in most cases, and you can, say, break away from a day trip and stay overnight in a city of particular interest to you.

Self-employed "guides" offering foreigners casa particularulares or paladars ( private hotel and restaurant), cigars or prostitutes, operate everywhere in Cuba.

Safety

If you don’t quibble, then Cuba can be called quite safe country. Beggars, thieves and petty scammers are here, of course, at every turn, but by and large, nothing threatens the life and health of a tourist in this part of the Caribbean. Just put your most valuable things in the hotel safe and get rid of the habit of carrying large amounts of cash, as well as expensive "SLRs". By the way, about cameras. Taking pictures is strictly prohibited in Cuba. military equipment and strategic objects, and even ordinary people, it is better to “click” with prior permission. You should not tempt fate by walking in the dark in areas with a bad reputation. In Havana, this includes all the lanes that run south from Calle Obispo, as well as the section between Prado Boulevard and the Deauville Hotel.

In the evenings, city streets seem more dangerous than they really are, as they are poorly lit. The place to really watch out for pickpockets is Old Havana, especially Obispo Street and the network of streets south of it all the way to the train station. enjoys an unimportant reputation and central part Havana west of the Prado to the Deauville Hotel.

Although tap water is chlorinated, tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled mineral water (agua mineral) is available everywhere and is the preferred drink. The most likely source of food poisoning is the hotel buffet. The food in Cuba is very simple and stomach problems are much less common than in most countries.

People with sensitive skin in the Cuban sun are at risk of getting burned in minutes. Apply sunscreen generously to unprotected areas of the body and be sure to cover your head. Dehydration can also set in very quickly, so drink more water. On seaside resorts mosquitoes plague vacationers from dusk to dawn, so use repellents. Air conditioning makes life a lot easier.

It is worth being careful on wild beaches. The coast of Cuba is full of moray eels, poisonous jellyfish and sea urchins. On municipal beaches these marine inhabitants are successfully fought, but, as a rule, no one pays attention to sparsely populated, abandoned places.

Useful phone numbers:

• 106 - police;
• 105 - fire service;
• 104 ambulance.

The numbers may not work in remote areas of the island, in which case ask the hotel management or the owners of private houses to contact Asistur on the telephone numbers above, you will be answered by an employee who speaks English.

Medical service

The Cuban National Health System has made Cubans one of the healthiest nations in the developing world. There are no mandatory vaccinations to visit Cuba, although some doctors still recommend vaccinating against typhoid and hepatitis A.

If you need medical assistance, please contact the hotel. Large resort hotels have their own doctor. All the main resorts of the island have "international clinics" (clinica internacional), which are also in Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Cienfuegos and Trinidad. Health care in Cuba is excellent and free for Cubans. Foreigners have to pay. Treatment will be expensive, and therefore the availability of appropriate insurance is a necessary thing, especially since registration medical insurance before traveling to Cuba is a mandatory requirement.

Every city has a 24-hour pharmacy (farmacia). The range of medicines is extremely limited. The resorts have well-stocked international pharmacies, but prices can be astronomical.

shopping

There are not so many temptations for a shopaholic in Cuba. For the most part normal shopping centers and supermarkets can only be found in Havana and Varadero. In the provinces, small private shops and social shops still rule the ball. And, nevertheless, it is almost impossible not to succumb to the persuasion of local amigos and leave Liberty Island without souvenirs. The classics of the genre are cigars, rolled by skillful hands of Cubans, and rum. The first can be purchased at the Havana Cigar Museum, the cigar hotel Hostal Conde de Villanueva, the official store of the tobacco factory Real Fabrica de Tabaco Partagas, or Casa del Habano chain stores. The most respected varieties by connoisseurs are Cohiba, Romeo & Julieta and Partagas.

Rum can be bought everywhere, but it is worth considering that its cost directly depends on exposure. Connoisseurs usually hunt for brands such as Havana Club and Carta oro. The most expensive samples of the drink (from $ 100 per bottle) are sold at the Casa del Ron museum store in Varadero. You can look for a "pirate potion" and the Arrechabala Rum Factory, which arranges generous tastings for visitors.

Among the handicrafts with which all souvenir tents are littered in Cuba, products made of black coral and tortoise shell, national musical instruments (bongos, tumbadora) and guayaberu shirts stand out. Revolutionary symbols are also still in trend, so T-shirts, caps and mugs with a portrait of Che are worth taking without looking. And the Cubans paint amazing paintings that are very easy to buy, but incredibly difficult to take out of the country without special permission.

For your information: the Tax free system does not work in Cuba.

Cuba for children

Children who love water will be just happy in all the resorts in Cuba. Children over ten years of age can various types water entertainment. Several resorts, notably in Cayo Coco, have kids' clubs and some of the best offer babysitting services.

Outside the resorts, opportunities for interesting recreation are limited, and there may also be problems with transport.

Cubans adore children and yours will also be treated with love and attention. Traveling around the island of Cuba will be an unforgettable and educational adventure for young families. If the children are very young, bring the necessary supply of diapers and baby food on the trip, as it will not be easy to find them in Cuba. If you are going to rent a car, purchase a child seat.

Cloth

During the day in Cuba, shorts or a skirt, a T-shirt and a bathing suit are usually sufficient. In winter, a sweater or jacket may be needed in the evenings. Fashionable hotels, restaurants and nightclubs require visitors to wear appropriate clothing.

Opening hours

Offices are usually open Mon-Fri 8.00-17.00 with an hour break for lunch, some are open on Saturday mornings 8.00-12.00 (13.00). Banks are usually open Mon-Fri 8.30-15.00.

Museums are open daily, but most have one day off (usually Monday) and close on Sunday at 12.00 or 13.00. The standard opening hours of Cuban museums are from 9.00 (sometimes from 8.00 or 10.00) to 17.00 (sometimes until 16.00 or 18.00).

Restaurants, as a rule, do not work late, most close around 22.00 or even earlier. A pleasant exception is paladares, which usually receive visitors from noon to 23.00 or until midnight.

Difference in time

Time in Cuba is 9 hours behind Moscow time. From the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, the clocks move forward 1 hour, so in the summer local time behind Moscow by 8 hours.

5 things to do in Cuba

• Arrange with one of the local car owners and ride a rare Dodge or Cadillac. Rumor has it that in the foreseeable future, colorful retro cars will replace modern foreign cars from the streets of Havana, which recently began to be imported to Cuba.
• Find old Ham's favorite bar in Havana - "El Floridita" and try all sorts of daiquiri in it. And, of course, don't forget to take a farewell selfie at the counter, hugging the bronze classic.
• Learn how to dance Rumba or Salsa the way they are danced only in Cuba.
• Try the local delicacy - guava marmalade and make sure that sometimes even the most unpretentious desserts can please with amazing taste.
• Buy a real Cuban machete for cutting sugar cane. Well, or at least rent it for a while to take a couple of spectacular shots a la slave on plantations.

Visa information

Russian and Belarusian tourists are allowed to enter Cuba without a visa if the visit does not exceed 30 days. By the way, a permit document will not be required even if a Russian tourist enters the country from the territory of the United States. They are also loyal to the validity of a passport on Liberty Island: the document must be valid at the time of your stay in the country.

When crossing the border, it is customary to present a passport, as well as round-trip plane tickets. Upon arrival, you will have to fill out two copies of the immigration card, one of which, together with an identity card, is presented to the passport service at the airport, and the second is kept for the entire period of stay in the country and is confiscated by the employees of the same service before departure. Another feature: tourists who do not have documents confirming a hotel reservation in Cuba with them may be required to provide proof of solvency (cash, bank statement, credit card).

If you want to stay in Cuba, you will have to pay an additional fee and personally visit the Immigration Office in Havana (Factor y Final, Nuevo Vedado, open 8.30-12.00). Visitors to the country on business will need an official business visa, which can be obtained from the nearest Cuban consulate. It can take several weeks to process a visa, and the applicant is usually required to present an invitation.

Customs

Each tourist traveling to Cuba is allowed to carry 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco, 3 bottles of alcohol, and medications and cosmetic accessories in an amount corresponding to personal needs. It is strictly forbidden to carry drugs, porn products and weapons.

Without fiddling with filling out a declaration, you can take out no more than 1,000 non-convertible pesos or $ 5,000 from Cuba. Cigars, as long as they are bought from a specialized store that issues export receipts, can be taken with you in unlimited quantities. However, in fact, it will not work to take out more than 50 cigars anyway - the restriction of the Russian customs.

The export of art objects, sea shells and animals is strictly prohibited. Severe rules also apply to crocodile skin products, as well as jewelry. If you still really want to get a leather handbag or stylish jewelry, buy them in those stores that can provide you with an export license. Otherwise, you will have to say goodbye to the acquisitions forever right at the airport.

How to get there

Airports in Cuba are located in Havana, Varadero, Holguin and Santiago de Cuba, while Russian airliners fly only to the capital. Direct flights to the Island of Freedom (Moscow - Havana) are offered so far only by domestic Aeroflot. The average travel time is 12 hours.

Transfer options can be found with the French Air France (via Paris), the Dutch KLM (connection in Amsterdam), the Spanish Iberia (transfer in Madrid) and the German Condor (via Frankfurt am Main). Transit flights last from 16 to 20 hours.

Organized tourists will be taken by bus to the hotel. Independent travelers can book a transfer through a travel agency or use a taxi before departure from their own country. A taxi ride to the center of Havana will cost CUC$ 20-30 (the return trip usually costs less), and to the center of Santiago - CUC$ 8-10. The road from Jose Marti Airport to the center of the capital takes 40 minutes. When leaving the country from any airport, a tax in the amount of CUC $ 25 is paid.

For your information: due to the large time gap between flights, tourists who are going to fly to Cuba with KLM will have to plan an overnight stay in Amsterdam. To do this, you should take care of a transit visa and hotel reservations in advance.

Airfare low price calendar

Useful sites

Although few Cubans have access to the Internet, Cuba has a surprisingly large online presence. There is a wealth of information available, from websites about the US embargo and restrictions on travel to the country, to recommendations for tourists. Among the resources worthy of attention are the following:

• www.dtcuba.com site of the Directorate of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba;
• www.cubaweb.cu official government site;
• www.cubatravel.cu official tourist site;
• www.casaparticularcuba.org website of the Accommodation Reservation Service;
• www.lahabana.com city guide, an overview of the artistic and cultural life of the Cuban capital.

in contact with Facebook twitter