The island of Cuba is known all over the world for its rum, cigars, passionate rumba rhythms, amazing colonial architecture and stylish cars that take tourists to the twentieth century. However, there are other amazing things that make Cuba one of the most unique places in Latin America and on Earth as a whole! Not even all locals know how unique their homeland is, but experienced travelers share their secrets about Liberty Island and tell you what you definitely can't miss.
Fusterlandia – Wonderland
Havana boasts its unique Fusterlandia district, inspired by the work of artist José Fuster. Located in the humble neighborhood of Haymanitas, this vibrant corner is a cradle of colour and art: all the walls, bus stops and fences come to life with colourful mosaics and unusual sculptures that depict animals and human faces with various inscriptions. Fuster drew inspiration from the works of Antoni Gaudí, but brought his own personality to them, mixing the naïve style with Cuban national motifs.
Boliche is a gem of local cuisine
Cuban cuisine is full of wonders. The love of meat in Cuba is noticeable to every person who has been here! Cubans adore meat dishes, and bolice is one of them: beef fried until golden brown, then stuffed with spicy pork chorizo sausage and stewed with a mix of red wine, spices, olives and tomatoes. This gourmet dish is usually served with fried plantains for a unique culinary combination. As we write, our mouths are watering!
Maria la Gorda – Underwater Wonders of the Far West
The western part of the island of Cuba often escapes the attention of most travelers - it is popular only among enthusiastic divers. But in vain! María la Gorda hides stunning snorkeling sites that surpass many others in Latin America. Here, in the Valley of Black Corals, there is an incredibly diverse underwater world, ranging from amazing corals to colorful fish. Coves with shipwrecks and a cave decorated with sea flowers are places that make this place unique.
Mogote, a symbol of Cuban nature
Mogote is a unique limestone hill that has become an important part of the Cuban landscape. Their huge sheer walls and flat tops form striking contours, reminiscent of elephants in the morning fog. The age of these hills is approaching 160 thousand years - they have long become iconic for Cuba. In terms of uniqueness, they can be safely compared to the pillars in Bryce Canyon, USA.
The Viñales Valley is a famous place to admire these extraordinary hills and get to know the local flora and fauna. In addition, the valley is home to one of the largest caves in the region.
Manatees are the fabulous creatures of Cuban waters
Legends about mermaids may have come from the image of manatees, the amazing inhabitants of the Cuban seas. Even the famous traveler Christopher Columbus noted the similarity of their features with those of humans! Diving in the National Parks of the Isla de la Juventud and the Zapata Peninsula offers a unique opportunity to see these fascinating marine inhabitants in their natural habitat.
The Bacunayagua Bridge is an architectural marvel in the midst of greenery
The majestic Bacunayagua Bridge, considered the highest and longest in Cuba, adorns the border of Matanzas and Mayabeque. Its pillars, which seem to grow out of the greenery, create a breathtaking view, and the observation deck allows you to fully enjoy this amazing bridge and the surrounding landscapes. Not far from the bridge, there is a restaurant that serves national dishes of Cuban cuisine - with delicious food, the views become even more beautiful.
Afro-Cuban Jazz
Afro-Cuban jazz, which originated in the middle of the last century, successfully combines the features of jazz and traditional Cuban music. Thanks to talented Cuban musicians such as Mario Bauza and Machito, this style has gained popularity far beyond the borders of Cuba. You can enjoy authentic jazz not only in the music clubs of Havana, but also in the city of Camagüey, where mesmerizing melodies sound on the streets, making the art of music accessible to everyone. Toss a couple of coins to the musicians!
