Introduction
Cuba is a country that has seen a lot of change in the last few decades, but it’s still very much worth visiting. From the vibrant culture and history to the delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to do in this island nation. But don’t take my word for it! Here are some of my favorite things about Cuba:
Cuba’s history is one of the most fascinating in the world.
The island nation’s first inhabitants were the Taino people, who settled there around 500 years before Columbus arrived in 1492. Spain colonized Cuba shortly after its discovery, and for over four centuries it remained a Spanish colony until 1902 when Cuba gained its independence from Spain.
Cuba has had an extraordinary impact on music, art and literature throughout history — particularly during its golden age under Spanish rule (1511-1898). During this period, many famous artists lived and worked on the island including Pedro de Valdes Leal (“El Criollo”), Jose Marti (“Nuestra America”), Alejo Carpentier (“La Consagracion de la Primavera”) amongst others who helped shape our understanding today about what constitutes Latin American culture as well as influencing generations of future writers such as Gabriel Garcia Marquez whose novels One Hundred Years Of Solitude or Love In The Time Of Cholera are still widely read today across continents!
The Cuban Revolution was a turning point for the country.
It led to Cuba becoming a communist nation, with Fidel Castro becoming its leader. He is still alive today, but he has been out of power since 2006 when he stepped down as president due to health issues.
The US has imposed sanctions on Cuba since 1961 because they don’t recognize them as an independent country and think that Castro’s government is too close to Russia and China (which are also enemies of America).
The Cuban exile community is huge.
Cuban exiles are a large and influential group. Many of them live in Florida, where they have contributed to the economy and culture of that state.
The exile community is scattered throughout the United States, but many Cubans have chosen to make their home in Miami because it’s close to Cuba and has strong ties with the island nation. In fact, many people refer to Miami as “Little Havana” because so many Cubans live there now!
Cuba is full of historical treasures.
Cuba is full of historical treasures, and the old city of Havana is no exception. The colonial architecture of Old Havana offers visitors a glimpse into centuries past, when Cuba was at its peak as one of Europe’s most important ports. Among these architectural gems is the Castillo de los Tres Reyes Magos del Morro (Castle of the Three Wise Men), which sits on top of a rocky outcrop overlooking Havana Bay. This fortress was built by Spanish colonizers to defend against attacks from pirates and other enemies who might have been bent on conquering their new colony–and though it may not look like much today, this castle once housed over 300 soldiers!
Today there are plenty more sights to see than just those related to military defense: museums like Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes y Museo Nacional de Historia Natural offer visitors an opportunity explore Cuba’s artistic heritage through paintings, sculptures, photographs and other media; while Parque Lenin offers some respite from all that history with gardens filled with flowers planted by Fidel Castro himself during his time as president!
Havana’s architecture is unique and beautiful.
Havana is a city of unique and beautiful architecture. It has a rich history of colonial architecture, and today you can see that reflected in its buildings and monuments. Old Havana is especially stunning; it’s an area filled with brightly colored colonial buildings that date back to the 16th century. These structures are still used today as hotels or restaurants, but they also serve as museums for those who want to learn more about Cuba’s past.
Havana has always been known for its vibrant art scene, thanks in part to its proximity to other major cities like Paris and Madrid (both famous for their art). Today there are many galleries where you can view paintings from famous Cuban artists such as Wilfredo Lam or Wifredo Gomez de la Nuez–or even purchase some pieces yourself! The city also boasts an active theater scene: visitors can attend concerts at Havana’s famed Teatro Karl Marx or watch dance performances at Centro Cultural Isla de Pinos (Isle of Pines Center for Culture). There are even annual festivals celebrating different genres of music throughout each year; these include Jazz & Blues Festival held every April/May; World Music Festival held September through October; International Dance Festival held December through January; Rock al Parque held annually mid-July through August plus many others depending upon which month you plan on visiting!
You need to try Cuban food while you’re there!
Cuban food is a fusion of Spanish and African cuisines, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. There are many different dishes to try–from plantains to black beans and rice–and it’s all extremely affordable!
There’s plenty to do in this vibrant island nation
Cuba is a country full of history and culture, as well as friendly people who will welcome you with open arms. The architecture is unique, the food delicious and there’s plenty to see and do! Here are some ideas for things you can do while visiting Cuba:
- Visit Havana – this vibrant city has something for everyone! From museums to nightclubs, there’s no shortage of things to do here.
- Visit Trinidad – this beautiful town has been called one of the most enchanting places on earth by National Geographic Magazine. You’ll want to spend at least two days exploring all it has to offer before heading back home (or maybe not).
Conclusion
Cuba is a country with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious food. It’s also home to some of the most interesting people in the world. If you’re looking for adventure and culture, then Cuba should be at the top of your list!
