5 Things You Have To Do In Cuba

Cuba is set to undergo major changes in the next few years as its doors for trading and tourism look to open again to the USA. This likely means that some of the 50s style living that gives Cuba such an untouched and unique feel will be modernized as tourism increases. So if you’re looking to check out Cuba in the next few years before it undergoes what many are thinking will be significant changes, here are some of the best spots for you to see.

1. La Habana Vieja

Old Havana is one place that is unlikely to change in the future, as it holds UNESCO World Heritage status has been considered the nucleus for Cuban life dating back to 17^thcentury when it became the main shipbuilding centre in the Caribbean. Baroque and neoclassical architecture line the cobbled streets, walkways, and squares which are also filled with traditional Cuban music, restaurants, bars, cafés, and museums.

2. Trinidad

For those interested in historic sites and stunning views, Trinidad and the Valley de los Ingenios with its scenic beaches and rich past dating back some 600 years, will provide visitors with a look at the lush landscape and the dark past of early sugar cane plantations. The city itself boasts colourful houses and features two important museums. Outside of town you’ll find relics such as the Torre Iznaga, built in built in 1816.

3. Santiago de Cuba

This city divides many of its visitors, who either tend to hate or love the frenetic lifestyle of this urban centre. Located between the hills of the Sierra Maestra and the azure Caribbean Sea, the city is a picturesque cosmopolitan mix of Afro-Caribbean culture, and was the centre from which Fidel Castro launched his nationalistic revolution.

4. Playa Sirena

Playa Sirena is Cayo Largo’s finest beach and a strong contender as the best in Cuba, or the Caribbean for that matter. Its two kilometres of fine white sand is wide enough to hold multiple football pitches, and backing the beach is a ranchon style restaurant and bar, the Ranchón Playa Sirena, that serves delicious fresh sea food and cool refreshing drinks.

5. Snorkelling and diving

There are plenty of excellent dive sites located all throughout Cuba, but for your best options head to the Jardines de Reina, María la Gorda, and the Isla de la Juventud. Most of the top sites take extra planning, as they are located in more isolated areas off the coast of the main island.

This is a fascinating and beautiful country, rich with history and culture, and access to it has become so much easier in recent years. You can now visit Cuba with premium travel companies like Saga Travel that can really help you make the most of your time on the island. So what are you waiting for?

Image by neiljs used under the Creative Commons license