As the capital of Cuba, Havana is a remarkably vast, sprawling metropolis. The city’s compelling history is reflected in the astonishing diversity of its architecture, its multicultural inhabitants, and its exotic and eclectic cuisine. The Old Town remains a remarkably well-preserved colonial centre. It is characterised by an exquisite hotchpotch of architectural styles, of opulence and decay, socialism and capitalism, the past and the present. Imperial mansions have been converted into modern tenement buildings, government agencies find homes in eighteenth-century convents and the nostalgic classic American cars for which the city is known share Havana’s lively streets with the latest models of BMW and Mercedes. While the UNESCO-funded restoration programme has introduced a modicum of modernity into the city, Havana has managed to retain its wonderfully quirky cultural heritage, its unique character, and its undeniable charm.
The beautiful valley of Vinales is a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Pinar del Río Province of Cuba known for its distinctive limestone hills, endless tobacco farms, and traditional Cuban culture. The majority of the area’s inhabitants live in the tiny eponymous agricultural village which, despite its small size, features a number of well-established tourist facilities including shops, restaurants, and hotels. The village is centred around a main plaza which is home to a lovely little art gallery, a charming church, a Saturday morning farmer’s market, and daily cultural events. The Vinales Valley offers a truly authentic experience of rural Cuba as well as an ideal natural environment for a range of outdoor activities including, among others, birdwatching, rock climbing, cycling, hiking, horse riding, spelunking, and swimming in natural pools.
Cienfuegos is a small port city in the Central Cuban province of the same name. This attractive destination was founded in 1819 by French settlers, whose influence remains evident in the art nouveau and art deco building styles. The city overlooks a magnificent bay, where immaculate coral reefs provide excellent opportunities for diving, sailing and even swimming with the dolphins, as well as sunbathing and swimming from the gorgeous beach. Nature lovers can look forward to exploring captivating hidden caves, enthralling waterfalls, and beautiful natural pools and hot springs. The UNESCO-listed historic city centre is home to an impressive array of sights. Must-sees include the Casa del Fundador (Founder's House); the Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción (Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception) Cathedral; the Tomás Terry Theater; and the grand Ferrer Palace.
As previously described
