History

In 1492 Spanish arrived in Cuba, before that Mesoamerican culture thrived in Cuba along with Guanajatabey and Taino culture. Guanajatabey people mainly focused on hunting and fishing on the other hand Taino people did farming of cotton, tobacco, and yuca as well. It was estimated that the Taino population has reached the mark of 350000 by the 15th century. By the end of the 15th-century Spanish people arrived in Cuba and claimed an area for Spain and named it Isla Juana. In 1511 Baracoa was founded by Diego Velazquez de Cuellar and after three years Havana was formed. In 1902 after Spanish – American war Cuba was an independent nation. Though the economy flourished but went through corruption. Rebels like Fidel Castro with his troops found in Havana in 1959 forcing oppressors like Fulgencio Batista to run away. Afterward, Americans attempted to remove Castro from the power which led to the Cuban Missile Crises. Along with Castro, Che Guevara both holds prime importance in the history of Cuba. Che Guevara died in 1967, before that he played a significant role in revolutionary activities. It is nearly impossible to ignore the contribution of Guevara and respect towards him can be felt through the statues, art, and museums dedicated to him. Cuba is developing a relationship with other countries and neighbors, recently the US has relaxed regulation in trade, tourism, and other industries. But images of 50 years of quarantine exists in cars, culture, and architecture.

Geography

Cuba is an island country placed over the Caribbean Sea consisting of a wide range of environments. Beaches, hills, tobacco plantations, rainforest, and coral reefs are a few words to describe the nature of Cuba. More than 20% of Cuba is covered with natural parks making a great destination for travelers seeking eco-adventure activities like diving, hiking, and snorkeling. A major city like Havana filled with historical buildings gives a flavor of ancient times. In urban areas of Cuba due to a shortage of new houses, building materials, and lack of proper infrastructure, citizens are cramped for space, making life difficult. Whereas space in rural areas is quite huge but with limited resources. No matter where you are traveling people in Cuba people is loving and welcoming.

Culture

With a history of different cultures like Spanish, African, and Creole influencing the country, Cuban tradition is rich with so many dimensions. Immense love for music and dance reflects Cuban culture with an Afro Cuban touch to classical songs resonating in bars, restaurants, and clubs of Cuba. Various art forms and dance styles like ballet and films are popular, with Havana being the center of attraction for films acclaimed globally, music, and literature festivals. Being a communist sometimes meant Cuban people had to live with limited commodities which many Western countries would take it casually. Special occasions like birthdays, marriages are celebrated with a lot of joy and enthusiasm, people dance and eat delicious meals. The standard of living differs in rural and urban areas. But one thing is common amongst the Cuban people is love for music, food, parties, coffee, and cigars.

Food

Cuban food may not have the recognition of what its neighboring countries have but it does not mean you will not have the access to great food. With limited use of ingredients, you may not find a wide variety of food in Cuba.

Food to try in Cuba

Pastelitos

Pastries are available in sweet and savory flavor. With cream, beef, and guava being some of the popular fillings sums up cheap and delicious food on the go.

Cuban Sandwich

Also known as mixto, eaten as a snack with layers of cheese, ham, mustard, pork between slices of bread.

Ropa vieja

One of the national food of Cuba is found across the border in countries like the Philippines, the Caribbean region, and Spain. This dish consists of flanked steak, vegetable, sauce served with rice.

Fritura de Maiz

Deep-fried cheese and cornmeal generally found on street stalls is a famous snack. It can be a great option for vegetarians.

Moros y Cristianos

Found across the country in every restaurant. Delicious combination of white rice and black beans topped on the layer of peppers, onion, garlic, gently heated with herbs.

Shopping

Cuba may not be particularly famous for shopping, however, if you search properly you can find some good stuff which can be kept as a token of remembrance.

Things to purchase when you are in Cuba

Artifacts

Home to rich culture, one can find an interesting pieces of work from fine artisans available at galleries and local markets.

Cigars

Easily available, some of the best cigars can be found in the markets. Be cautious of forgery as fake products are also sold, try to buy directly from factories if possible.

Coffee

Cuban coffee is known for its quality, so, do not forget to take some coffee back home. Refresh your journey sitting on your couch and sipping a cup of Cuban coffee.

Musical Instruments

Do not undermine the rich legacy of Cuban music. As everyone does, Cubans love their music, go and pick some handmade instruments.

Health and Safety

Lumle ensures every measure is taken to make sure our traveler’s holiday is safe and there is no compromise on the health of the travelers while on the tour. At the same time, the tours are fun and enjoyable so that our travelers can go back to their country with wonderful memories. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure. People leaving from the UK can refer to the below link for the latest information before they depart.
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cuba/health