A bird’s eye view of tourism in Cuba

The Caribbean island of Cuba, consisting of the 766-mile long island of Cuba, the Isle of Youth and about 4200 adjacent smaller islands, is a tourist’s paradise. Despite this, its political isolation has acted as a deterrent to many and this place sees comparatively less tourists than other places in the western hemisphere. Located at the mouth of the Gulf of Mexico, just 381 miles (613 km) from Miami, Florida, Cuba offers everything necessary for an exquisite vacation. The ideal way of reaching this Island is by air as sea travel may take some time.

Cuba has acres of rolling plains with rugged hills and mountains making up the southeast part of the country. Pico Turquino at 6,578 feet (2,005 meters) is the highest point on the island. The capital city of Havana, with its happening nightlife, vibrant culture, and impressive architecture, gives tourists a real experience of Cuba. In fact, a trip to Old Havana is highly recommended for tourists to get close to the culture of this country. The people, buildings, music, history, and food of Cuba have a captivating and fascinating experience for tourists.

Other places that tourists should not miss in Havana include Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de Cuba (art museum), the tour of the Partagas Cigar Factory, Barracuda Diving Center and Tropicana, the open air night club that shows song-and-dance performances that transports tourists back to the Cuba of the 1950s and enjoy what life must have been at that time. Alternatively, one can luxuriate at the Acuavida Spa Talaso or catch an opera at the Gran Teatro de La Habana.

One of the main reasons that make Cuba an ideal destination for tourists is the favorable climate that is always there throughout the year. The sandy beaches, impressive colonial architecture, and distinct cultural background ensure that tourists are kept mesmerized by this country. Varadero Beach, Cayo Coco, the beach areas north of Holguin, and Havana draw maximum number of tourists by providing them with great recreational facilities.

Water sports lovers can swim, snorkel, dive, sail, fish, and try scuba or seatrek, parasailing, banana boating or other myriad activities in these Cuban beaches. Tourists can hire a jeep and explore the Cuban countryside on their own and without having any troubles or issues. A visit to the National park is necessary for all nature lovers. The adventurous tourists can try hiking, mountain biking or else take a quad racer tour.

Recent years have seen the emergence of health tourism in a big way in Cuba. It has today turned into the biggest revenue generator for the Cuban government. Most foreign patients come here for eye-surgery, treatment of neurological problems like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease as well as orthopedically related problems. People suffering from night blindness also visit Cuba for the necessary treatment.

One aspect that is peculiar to Cuba is that it has aggressively promoted ‘enclave resorts’ which gave birth to words like ‘enclave tourism’ and ‘tourism apartheid’. These are places are locations where tourists are segregated from the native society. Taxis, bicycles, and scooters are the preferred mode of transport throughout Cuba. Tourists can easily hire these at very reasonable rates from popular tourist centers. Or else, tourists can also go in for rental cars. Public transport is best avoided while travelling across this country.

While visiting Cuba Tourists should buy a box of cigars from the local Cigar stores. Cuba is famous for cigars and this should not be missed by the tourists. The exclusive Habanos Cigar can be bought from La Casa del Habanos stores to ensure that it is genuine cigar of the highest quality. Music lovers can browse through a choice of Cuban music and musical instruments. Tourists can also pick up Che Guevara items, some trinkets, or t-shirts as souvenirs from Cuba. Tourists should keep an eye open for African-style drums, curious masks, and affordable jewelry that can be procured from local markets. Woodcarvings and other craft items are also very popular amongst tourists while trying to buy souvenirs from Cuba.