Cuba is an ocean. Regions and resorts of Cuba. Where to go. Things to do: eco-tourism and exotic cuisine

Cuba is a burning mixture of tropical scorching sun and incendiary Latin American dances. The resorts of Cuba are famous for their white sandy beaches, clear water, countless coral reefs and incredible natural beauty. Traveling here attracts with its interesting excursions and gives amazing impressions from all kinds of festivals and festive events. The resorts of Cuba offer tourists a high level of service, while quite low prices for tours. Under these conditions, rest here will seem like paradise to everyone!

Santiago de Cuba

This is the second largest city in Cuba, surrounded by rocks on one side and the sea on the other. Arriving here, you will enter the revolutionary land, since this city is the cradle of the Cuban revolution. This is the only locality in the country that has received the status of a Hero City. This should not be surprising, since Santiago is very clearly marked in the history and culture of Cuba. Almost all the liberation and political movements in the history of the country were born here.

The main resorts of Cuba: Cayo Santa Maria

Also, the main city of the province is called the "city of squares." There is a rich cultural life in May, especially during the May Fair, and also in October, when the Day of Ibero-American Culture is celebrated. This place has magnificent nature, hotels with a wide range of services and first-class service. Also in this province is Banes, which is considered the archaeological capital of the country. The territory also contains forests and uplands with sharp peaks and steep slopes.

Cayo Guillermo

Clean and small island with pink flamingos. There are stunningly beautiful sunsets, snow-white spacious beaches and incredibly clear sea. Cayo Guillermo has three beaches that are surrounded by calm seas. Of particular interest is the picturesque Playa Pilar.

The main part of the territory is land without signs of the destructive effects of civilization, covered with palm groves and mangroves. Chirping birds hide under the cover of greenery, among them the kartacuba, which is the pearl of the fauna of Cuba. Cayo Guillermo has a large population of pink flamingos.

Cayo Coco

It is the 4th largest island in the country. It is located opposite the north coast of Ciego de Avila. Here, almost untouched by man and rich nature, which can only be given to you by the resorts of Cuba, a description of which you will find in this article. Cayo Coco is a carefully protected nature reserve. There are about 26 km of beaches, among which are the coasts protected by a curved line - Las Colorados, Los Flamencos and La Jaula. These places are ideal for water tourism.

This is a real tropical island located in the Atlantic Ocean: a warm clear sea, snow-white beaches, amazingly beautiful diving - here the coral reef stretches for almost 30 km; pink flamingos that constantly live on the island, hummingbirds and parrots; real Cuban cigars and rum; incendiary merengue and salsa, and the main thing is the special atmosphere of an endless holiday. In addition to the beaches of coral origin, there are amazing conditions for fishing, diving and other water sports.

Varadero

It is the tourist center of Cuba, as well as a picturesque city with many first-class restaurants, clubs and hotels. It is the most famous resort in the entire Western Hemisphere. Located on the Hicacos Peninsula, on the northern coast of the province of Matanzas, 2 hours from Havana. Here life rages around the clock. During the day, tourists can expect crystal water, sandy beaches, and true adventure seekers can enjoy deep-sea fishing, yacht trips, and excursions to various exotic corners of the country. And in the evening you will find restaurants, discos and nightclubs that Varadero is famous for.

This is not only gorgeous nature, it is also the most attractive recreational conditions that Cuban resorts can only provide: swimming pools, 23 diving centers, flying club, golf course, safari, helicopter tours, swimming with dolphins, horseback riding, caves, various yachts, boats, paragliders, scooters, etc. Skydiving fans in Varadero come to jump from 4000 m.

Trinidad

This is one of the oldest and best preserved cities in a country like Cuba. Caribbean resorts in general boast a huge number of attractions, and this one in particular. Trinidad seemed to be untouched by time. Due to the historical relics, it is also called the "Museum of the Caribbean". In 1988, this city was recognized as a city-monument.

The best coffee on the island is grown in this place - soils rich in quartz and even temperatures work wonders: Montanas de Cristal is a variety that is beyond praise. If you are interested in the resorts of Cuba on the Caribbean Sea, then we can say that this one is one of the best. The service is well developed here, the hospitality of the locals is amazing and the stunningly clean beaches delight.

To make sure that Trinidad is a city-monument, you can simply walk along its paved stone pavements. You will appreciate all the greatness of the architecture of the city. Residences and palaces, churches and small residential buildings of the resort will allow you to see the past from the present. You can imagine yourself in the colonial period, when slave traders dragged their “goods” through the streets in chains, drinking water was sold in jugs, while the smell of fish that lay everywhere hit the nose. Near some buildings, cannon muzzles, fortified in the ground, have been preserved - here the owners protected their houses from carriages with large wheels passing by.

Havana

Considering the resorts of Cuba, it is impossible not to mention the capital. This city is almost 500 years old. The architecture of the period of the Spanish colonial rule here is adjacent to ultra-modern skyscrapers made of glass and concrete.

There is something magical about the name of the Cuban capital. For those who come here for the first time, Havana will seem like a city that has been preserved after a war or a hurricane. But you get used to the leaning buildings, bumpy streets and shabby walls quickly enough, because they contain the charm of Old Havana. An incredibly vibrant city where you can always do something - drive a Buick, walk along the Malecon, admire the Capitol.

Cayo Ensenachos

This is a quiet and calm Cuban island, as if created in order to only sunbathe, swim and admire the stunning scenery. If the sun tires you, you can always hide in the shade of the royal palm. There is only one facility for tourists here - the Royal Hideaway Hotel.

Of particular interest is the nature of the island - the bulk of the fauna and flora are endemic, in other words, these plants, animals and insects are not found anywhere else in the world. Although it is especially important for nature lovers that there are no animals dangerous and poisonous to humans.

Resorts of Cuba: reviews of tourists

You can immediately make a reservation that it is almost impossible to find negative reviews of tourists about the rest here. Many admire the amazing sand and incredibly clear water, are pleased with the quality of service of local hotels, others are amazed by the unique nature of the island, and others are delighted with the historical monuments, of which there are a huge number. Everyone has their own Cuba, but it inspires everyone.

If you want to appreciate all the magic of nature and learn the secrets of this amazing country, then it doesn’t matter at all whether you choose the popular resorts of Cuba or quiet little-known corners. Literally in every breath of wind and in every stone you will feel the spirit of the island. And once here at least once, you will feel how you will begin to change, becoming as spiritually richer and cleaner as it is possible only in Cuba!

The sun-blessed Republic of Cuba is located on the island of the same name and adjoining one and a half thousand islands, drifting at the junction of the three Americas - Central, South and North. But for tourists who travel thousands of kilometers to the island of Liberty, this is not as important as the seas of Cuba, the rest on which is the main goal of everyone.

The sky is like a sombrero

This is the comparison chosen by the authors of the once popular song to describe the sky over Cuban beaches. It is infinitely blue, and its edge merges on the horizon with the no less beautiful Caribbean Sea. It washes the Cuban coast in the south and east. It is not for nothing that the Caribbean Sea is considered one of the most beautiful on the planet. Its color cannot be conveyed either by words, or by paints, or by the capabilities of modern photographic equipment.
The water temperature in the Cuban resorts of the Caribbean throughout the year fluctuates by no more than three degrees, ranging from +25 in winter to +28 in the summer months. The rainy season starts on Liberty Island in May and continues until mid-autumn. At this time, humidity rises and strong winds are possible, bringing high waves. In the rest of the months, a beach holiday on the Cuban sea is not overshadowed by anything, and snow-white sand and evergreen palm trees become a luxurious backdrop for photo shoots.

ocean expanses

When answering the question of which sea washes Cuba, do not forget that the northern shores of the island are provided by the elements of the Atlantic Ocean. It is she who dominates the islands of Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, where luxury hotels are located, and on the capital's Malecon, the main promenade of Havana. The Atlantic Ocean is the location of the main sites for divers, who travel to Cuba brings not only the joy of meeting the tropical sun, but also a unique opportunity to see the richest underwater world.
The most popular diving sites are located near the island of Cayo Coco, where the ocean hides many of the remains of ships that sank during the reign of pirates in the local waters. Experienced divers do not ask what kind of seas are in Cuba, because they are well aware that the waves of the Atlantic also hide the second largest coral reef in the world. And divers are rushing to come:

• To the islands of Los Canarreos.
• In Cayo Santa Maria National Park.
• To the Jardines del Rey archipelago.
• To the sites of the island of Cayo Largo.

Caribbean Sea, Atlantic Ocean and three amazing countries Cuba, Mexico, Dominican Republic.

Introduction.

It so happened, to my happiness, that in the last three times, the new year for me began in the Caribbean.

I met 2013 on the "Island of Freedom" - Cuba! Honestly, the dream to visit this country has been obsessive since school days. Enraptured by the spirit of revolutionism and freedom, I was sure that my soul was from there.))

I was lucky enough to meet 2014 in Dominican Republic, which, like Cuba, is located off the coast of the Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea. One of the goals of visiting this country was a great desire to show the beauty of the ocean to her husband, who had never been abroad.

And finally, January 2015 will forever be remembered for being in Mexico, whose beauty and freedom of spirit cannot be compared with the previous countries that I have visited.

Dear readers! This post and subsequent ones are the first in my practice, in which I want to highlight the topic of tourism from a subjective point of view. I will acquaint you with prices and excursions, with places that, in my opinion, are worth visiting. Photos and sometimes videos are attached. Thank you.

Part 1. Cuba.

Cuba is located at the junction of North, Central and South America, on the island of Cuba (the largest in the West Indies), the island of Youth, as well as on the adjoining about 1600 small islands and coral reefs belonging to the Greater Antilles group. The territory of Cuba - 110,860 km². The island, stretching from west to east for 1250 km, is often compared to a lizard, whose head is facing the Atlantic, and the tail is at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. In the south, Cuba is washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea, in the northwest by the Gulf of Mexico, and in the northeast by the Atlantic Ocean.

At first there were thoughts: a savage or a tour. ticket. It turned out to be very expensive to fly a savage to that side, for example, round-trip economy class air tickets cost from 75-100 thousand rubles per person! these are the prices of two regular flights of Aroflot and AirFrance airlines with a flight duration of 13 hours. also take into account accommodation in a hotel of the "breakfast" type, then for 7 nights it comes out to about 35 thousand rubles for two. most budget)

It turned out that in this direction of countries, it is more profitable to rest through a tour company.

For example, we took a ticket for two, a new 5 * hotel in the resort area of ​​​​the city of Varadero on the first line from the sea, all-inclusive meals, 7 nights, standard room, direct flight from Moscow - Havana "back and forth", transfer, total for 135 thousand rubles. (It comes out twice as profitable). By the way, the tour company was Tez tour.

And so, we flew from Yakt to Moscow on December 29, 2012, and our flight from Moscow to Havana was scheduled for the 31st. Tip: it is better to fly out of Yakutsk in winter in advance, at least one day before departure from Moscow abroad, since weather conditions (fog, snow, etc.) can delay flights from our port for half a day, or even a day, God forbid catch the flight, because the ticket and the cost of the tour are not refundable.

On December 31, 2012, at 12:50 p.m., we flew from Sheremetyevo by Aeroflot to Havana (the capital of Cuba).

Sheremetyevo is my favorite airport, always on time, always clean, cafes and duty free are super!))

Anticipating hot weather upon arrival))

The best airline in Russia! Flying 13.5 hours will seem painful for someone, but Aeroflot performs such flights on the largest aircraft, double-decker airbuses for transcontinental flights. and this is the distance between the seats is spacious, the film library is huge and of good quality in each personal monitor, they are fed 4 times and very tasty, drinks in any quantity throughout the flight.

The flight was comfortable and surprisingly fast!) A nice bonus was that the captain and the flight attendants congratulated everyone on the New Year (Moscow time), spread champagne and turned on the Russian anthem, everyone got up and congratulated each other)) it was my first NY in air, somewhere above the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.)))

We arrived at Havana airport at about 6 pm on the same day, that is, on the 31st before the onset of NG in Cuba. The difference in time zones with Yakutsk is -15 hours, with Moscow - 9 hours.

It's another hour and a half to go to Varadero, we were at the hotel by 9 o'clock. The resort town of Varadero is located in the southwestern part of the island and all hotels are located along the ocean.

The air from the first breath even from the plane's ladder, very humid and hot, as if you couldn't even breathe in with a full chest, your hair instantly fluffed out, clothes stuck to your body. that's the beauty of it.))

We successfully settled in the hotel, had dinner in the restaurant (a New Year's dinner was organized), tired and satisfied, we met NG with hotel guests, mainly from Canada and America, there were no Russians at all in our hotel, which could not but rejoice)) and immediately went to bed already at 12:30 pm.

Standard room for two.

Meals are all inclusive, very fraught for the figure))

Christmas tree and around +30 - a strange phenomenon.))

Atlantic Ocean in the morning.

There are so many living creatures, both on the street and in the hotel. Harmless)

Atlantic Ocean during the day.

All rooms are located in such blocks of 8 rooms.

Internet in Cuba is a luxury. local residents don’t have the Internet, they don’t have computers either. Therefore, Wi-Fi in hotels is available only in the lobby and costs $ 10 for half an hour.

The territory of the hotel is huge, you can't do without a map. theater, 4 a la carte restaurants, 2 buffets, disco club, gym, tennis, and a lot of different entertainment))

Now about excursions, representatives of various tour operators in Cuba are always sitting in the hotel lobby, offering trips to the islands of the Caribbean, fishing, diving, snorkeling, to the capital of Cuba, Havana, to tobacco factories, rum factories, to other cities of the country, etc. Prices are different for everyone, you can buy from local guides at a cheap price, but there is no insurance and transport without air conditioning, a Spanish-speaking guide. American travel agencies offer at an average price, with comfort and only an English-speaking guide, respectively. and representatives of our tour company Tez tour, with all the amenities and a Russian guide, the prices are very expensive. let's say: a trip to the island of Cayo Largo in the Caribbean costs $ 120 per person. Full day trip to Havana with a visit to the Capitol and a rum and tobacco factory $85. Snorkeling and Diving from $50. I note that at the then dollar exchange rate, they seemed to me

expensive, and now twice as expensive in terms of the ruble ((.but it's worth it!))

Be sure to rent small jeeps for rent, the rights for the Russians are not needed) we drove them to the old farm of 1820.

Mimimi turtle babies)

Che Guevara, revolutionary hero, his portrait is recognizable all over the world.

Fidel Castro, the most beloved President of Cuba, in the hearts of every citizen, is now very old and sick. Fidel Castro entered the Guinness Book of Records as the most fiery speaker and spoke to an audience for 7 hours. and also 638 different attempts were made on him, but all were unsuccessful.

The Capitol is the center of the city, it is customary for locals to indicate all addresses of the city relative to the Capitol. Let's say they say, "Let's meet on second street north of the Capitol."

There are no new cars here. Around Cadillacs, Volga, Zhiguli. It is very prestigious to have a Lada in the family)) seriously.

Bar La Floridita, famous for the fact that Ernest Hemingway himself, who lived for 9 years in Havana and wrote "The Old Man and the Sea", often drank a glass of daiquiri here

Liberty Island was discovered by Christopher Columbus on October 27, 1492. After that, the Spaniards tried to colonize it for four centuries and turn it into their overseas province. The British and Americans also wanted to succeed in this later. However, none of them managed to establish their own rules there. Therefore, even now they say about Cuba that it is the “Island of Freedom”. Cuba is famous all over the world for its carnivals, dances, songs, boxing, volleyball, Cuban cigars and Cuban rum, beautiful sea and magnificent beaches.

Geography of Cuba

The island nation of Cuba is located in the Caribbean Sea. It consists of the islands of Cuba, Youthud and several other archipelagos. The United States is located 180 kilometers north of Cuba, and Jamaica, Haiti and the Dominican Republic are located to the south and southeast. The total area of ​​the country is 110,860 sq. km.

Cuba is the largest island in the entire Caribbean. Most of its territory is plains. Mountain systems can be found only in the west, in the center and in the southeast. The highest peak is Turquino peak in the Sierra Maestra mountain range, whose height reaches 1,974 meters.

The coast of the island of Cuba is indented with picturesque bays and bays, and near the coast there are beautiful coral reefs. In general, there are about 4,000 thousand islands and reefs near Cuba.

Capital

Havana is the capital of the state of Cuba. More than 2.3 million people now live in this city. Havana was founded by the Spaniards in 1515 on the site of an ancient Indian settlement.

Official language of Cuba

The official language is Spanish.

Religion

More than 60% of the population identify themselves as Catholics, but only about 5% of them attend church regularly.

State structure

According to the 1992 Constitution, Cuba is a socialist republic in which the "leading force of society and state" is the Communist Party. The First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba also acts as the President of this state.

The local parliament is called the National Assembly, it consists of 609 deputies elected for a 5-year term. Executive power is vested in the Council of State and the Council of Ministers, which consists of 31 ministers.

Administratively, the country is divided into 15 provinces, which in turn are divided into 168 municipalities, and one special municipality (Khuventud).

Climate and weather

The climate is subtropical, the average annual air temperature is about +27C. The hurricane season lasts from July to mid-November. Most often, hurricanes and tropical storms occur in September and October.

You can relax in Cuba almost all year round, but the best time is the winter months, when there is no rain.

Average air temperature in Cuba:

1. January - +26C
2. February - +27С
3. March - +28С
4. April - +29C
5. May - +31С
6. June - +30C
7. July - +30C
8. August - +32C
9. september - +31C
10. october - +29C
11. November - +27С
12. december - +26C

Sea in Cuba

The island of Cuba is surrounded on all sides by the Caribbean Sea. Off the coast there are beautiful coral reefs.

The average temperature of the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Cuba:

1. January - +25C
2. February - +24С
3. March - +24C
4. April - +26С
5. May - +27C
6. June - +27C
7. July - +28C
8. August - +28С
9. september - +28C
10. october - +28С
11. November - +27С
12. december - +27С

Rivers and lakes

Several rivers flow through Cuba. The largest of them is the Cauto River, which begins in the Sierra Maestra mountains in the province of Santiago (its length is 370 km). The Almendares River flows through Havana, providing drinking water to the capital. In general, there are several hundred rivers and small streams on this island.

History of Cuba

On October 27, 1492, Christopher Columbus landed in Cuba, and since then the modern history of this island, and then the state, begins. At the beginning of the 17th century, Diego Velasquez founded the first seven settlement cities on the island - Baracoa, Bayamo, Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad, Sancti Spiritus, Camaguey and Havana. In the process of colonization, the Spaniards almost completely destroyed the indigenous population. During the 4 centuries of Spanish domination, tens of thousands of slaves from Africa were imported to Cuba.

The Spanish occupation of Cuba ended only at the end of the 19th century, but the country became politically dependent on the United States.

On January 1, 1959, the Revolution won in Cuba, and the country embarked on the path of building socialism. One of the leaders of the Revolution, along with Camilo Cienfuegos and Ernesto Che Guevara, was Fidel Castro.

In April 1961, the Americans attempted to overthrow the Cuban government led by Fidel Castro, but their mercenaries were defeated in the Bay of Pigs.

Some capitalist countries, including the United States, have not yet lifted economic sanctions against Cuba, which hinders the development of this amazing country.

culture

Cuban culture has been shaped by Spanish, African, French and Asian influences and is therefore known for its diversity. This country has become the birthplace of many musical styles and dances, among them the most popular are mambo and cha-cha-cha.

However, Cuba is known in the world not only for music and dancing, but also for sports achievements in boxing and volleyball. Sports can also be considered a reflection of cultural traditions.

Cuba cannot be imagined without festivals. For example, every summer Havana hosts the famous Chariot Carnival, during which special stages with music and dance groups drive through the streets of the Cuban capital for three days, and street processions of musicians are also held. In general, the Carnival in Havana lasts, as a rule, 12 days, and the legendary cabaret Tropicana, founded in 1939, takes part in it.

Also in Havana, fairs of folk crafts are regularly held in the summer, in which various musical, dance and theater groups participate.

Every September, the festival of traditional Cuban music Festival del Son takes place in Santiago de Cuba. This holiday lasts for four days.

Cuisine of Cuba

Cuban cuisine has been heavily influenced by Spanish culinary traditions. Many Cuban dishes are very similar to those served in Andalusia (southern Spain). However, African, Portuguese, French, Arabic and even Chinese culinary traditions have also influenced Cuban cuisine.

The main food products are potatoes, malanga, yucca, wheat, fish and seafood (especially lobster), meat (chicken and pork), rice, bananas, vegetables, beans. Hot spices are rarely used.

Tourists are advised to try "Moros y Cristianos" (black beans with rice), "Arroz con Pollo" (yellow rice with chicken), "Ropa Vieja" (beef fillet pieces), "Ajiaco" (vegetable stew with meat and garlic), " Fufú" (mashed boiled green bananas, often served with meat), "Piccadillo" (spiced beef with tomatoes and onions). Popular desserts are Helado (ice cream) and Galletas (sweet biscuits).

The traditional soft drink is coffee. The best Cuban coffee comes from the Sierra Maestra.

Traditional alcoholic drinks are rum and rum cocktails. Every self-respecting Cuban bartender should know at least 100 cocktail recipes with rum or other alcoholic drinks.

Sights of Cuba

Most of the monuments of Cuban culture belong to the colonial era. Several monuments are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites:

1. Historic Center of Havana Vieja and Fort (Havana)
2. Old City of Trinidad (Sancti Spiritus)
3. Sugar mills around Trinidad (Sancti Spiritus)
4. Fortifications of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro (Santiago de Cuba)
5. Ruins of the French coffee plantation La Gran Piedra (Santiago de Cuba)
6. Desembarco del Granma National Park

Of great interest to tourists are the national parks "Alexander Humboldt", Almendares and Sierra Maestra, the Los Indios Reserve and the Punta Frances Marine Park.

Cities and resorts

The largest cities are Santiago de Cuba, Camaguey, Santa Clara, Holguin, Bayamo, Cienfuegos, Guantanamo, Holguin, and, of course, Havana.

Cuba is world famous for its beach resorts, which are visited by residents of Europe and North America. The most popular of them are Varadero, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo and Holguin. Every year in Varadero, for example, more than 1 million tourists rest (about 45% of them are foreigners).

Most local resorts offer tourists a well-developed recreation infrastructure, with restaurants, discos, nightclubs and entertainment shows in hotels. All resorts have excellent opportunities for a beach holiday, including diving, boat trips and yacht trips.

Souvenirs/Shopping

The most popular souvenirs from Cuba are any items depicting Che Guevara and Fidel Castro, folk art, ceramics, Cuban coffee, coffee cups, Cuban cigars and rum.

Office Hours

Banks:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-15:00

The shops:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-17:00
Sat: 10:00-14:00

Museums:
Tue-Sat: 09:00-17:00
Sun: 08:00-13:00

Visa

Ukrainians need a visa to visit Cuba.

Currency

There are two currencies in circulation in Cuba - the Cuban peso (CUP) and the convertible peso (CUC). Tourists must exchange dollars for convertible pesos. $100 = 87 CUC. In turn, 1 dollar = approximately 24 Cuban pesos. Credit cards are not widely accepted.

Customs restrictions

The first thing a tourist is interested in is where Cuba is located on the world map, are the tours expensive and what are the prices for hotels. A little expensive, of course, but only because Cuba is too far from us, and otherwise the prices on the island itself are not so high, but the beaches and recreation compensate for everything

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 code of the country: 53 Phone code of 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 Consulate of the Russian Federation: (+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 were 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 love it in the summer when the biggest waves rise during the rainy season. 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 natural 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. The underwater world is interesting not only for its 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 of the former place of detention of F. Castro, the prison " Joliet"(Illinois). Natural landscapes and national parks more than make up for the small number of architectural sights; many natural areas of Cuba are 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.

Most restaurants are concentrated in resort 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.