MY FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

My Favourite Holiday Recommended to you.

If there’s one country that should be on everyone’s must visit list its Cuba; a beautiful Island set in the Caribbean Sea, bordered with white sands and quintessential clear blue sea.  Some say it is lost in time but actually Cuba is right where it needs to be, a symbol and reminder of Cuban revolution and the battle to remain authentic.  Cuba remains under communist rule.  It is also changing, so the best time to go is now. 

Cuba struggles with a less than salubrious infrastructure but it makes up for this with a charm that speaks of a bygone era, but also when the rich and famous (and infamous) used it as their playground.  Havana the capital is filled with fantastic 1950’s vintage cars, and the amazing Spanish architecture is a feature of Cuba’s uniqueness.  

But Cuba is much, much more. To see the real Cuba you just need a zest for adventure. You can immerse yourself in Cuban culture and stay with a family on the Island; learning some Spanish along the way; or choose one of their many hotels in popular resorts such as Varadero located on a narrow peninsular close to the Florida straits! Or Jibacoa near to Havana City or stay in Havana itself.  

It is highly recommended that you get out and about to experience what this fantastic county has to offer. Why not swim with the dolphins or tour an old sugar plantation, with a bit of history thrown in; topped off with a wonderful barbecue at a working ranch.  

For a taste of Cuba’s revolutionary history visit Santa Clara, a city of major revolutionary significance in Cuba and spend time at the symbolic Mausoleum of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara and the museum dedicated to his life. Next, head to the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery in Santiago de Cuba, the final resting place of Fidel Castro, one of the world’s most recognised leaders.  

Other places well worth visiting include the cigar factory and rum distilleries where you can buy the world famous Cuban cigars and sample (and purchase) delicious rum. The Cubans have reclaimed Bacardi which was originally made in Cuba.  Cuba also produces the popular Havana club, but try the least known Santiago de Cuba rums; you won’t be disappointed.  If cocktails are more your thing then Mojitos are the best here, and nowhere does them better than in the historical city of Trinidad, where you can also immerse yourself in the architecture and grand Spanish frescos and hidden court yards. 

Cuban cuisine is extremely diverse! It’s best eating out rather than relying on hotel fare to provide you with a taste of Cuba; as you’re likely to find this bland and uninteresting.  For lunch, try a meat or cheese empanada, a type of Cuban sandwich and very delicious!  

A trip to Cuba would not be complete without a visit to the Tropicana Club, a magnificent open-air cabaret located on a lush six-acre estate in Havana.  Opened in 1939, the shows here feature upward of 200 dancers and their exuberance and skill makes this an experience not to be missed. Tropicana Club has been featured in many black and white movies and it still has a 1940s - 50’s feel.  

Every year Cuba hosts the Havana Film and Jazz festivals, in addition with other festivals and carnivals the most authentic of these is the Santiago de Cuba carnival in July; this is Cuba in full technicolor.  Cuba is bursting with undulating rhythms and is known for its musicians, Latin music and dance, so you’ll never miss a beat; even if you decide to simply chill on one its magnificent beaches. 

Fares to Cuba average (flights only £500 - £700)

Carriers: Thomas Cook, Virgin Holidays, Homestay (homestay.com\cuba) & others

Currency: Cuban Peso

By: Jennifer McLean

Leadership Coach, Writer and Events Organiser

Living a Life that Works.

Instagram: @jmagiccoach