lunes, octubre 30, 2017

Tips for travel to Cuba

Money

Money provokes a certain sense of confusion in Cuba as the dual-economy takes some getting used to. Two currencies circulate in Cuba: convertible pesos (CUC$) and Cuban pesos (referred to as moneda nacional, abbreviated MN). The currency situation is made more confusing since Cubans will refer to both CUCs and Moneda Nacional as Pesos.

For the average Cuban it will be obvious which they are referring to, but this may lead to confusion for tourists who consider that they are bargaining in local currency only to find that their counter-party expects payment in CUCs!

For most tourists moneda nacional has little relevance since most, if not all of their expenditure will be in CUCs. This includes accommodation, food in most restaurants, taxis, bus tickets, nightclub entrances, tips and so on.

Things, which can be paid for in local currency, include fruit and vegetables at the agricultural market, street food (such as pizza and peanuts) as well as local buses. Even at the agricultural market the prices are such that a pound of tomatoes may cost CUC 1 or 24 Cuban Pesos (i.e. the same). There are some restaurants and bars/cafes, which charge in Cuban Pesos although the quality is generally poor.


Currency

Try and avoid US dollars since you will be subject to a 10% special additional tax/commission.

The best currencies are Euros, Canadian Dollars, or Sterling since these are the most common and the exchange rates are generally quire reasonable. Bear in mind that the CUC is pegged to the US Dollar (at 1:1) so a stronger US Dollar means a stronger CUC (and hence less CUCs for your Euros/Sterling etc.). Other currencies, which are universally accepted at banks or Cadecas, include the Swiss Francs (CHF), Mexican Pesos (MXN) and Japanese Yen (JPY).

There is no outright commission charged on transactions in cash although the exchange rate will generally be 3% worse than you would be charged on your credit card (for which you pay a 3% processing fee) so net you receive the same CUCs for changing 100 Euros in cash or 100 Euros on your credit card.


Exchanging Currency

The easiest place to change money is at a CADECA (change bureau) or at a Cuban *BFI Bank. The exchange rates in all CADECAS and all banks are identical so there is no need to shop around. Hotels often have CADECAS within their premises. If you change money at the hotel front desk you will generally receive a worse exchange rate then elsewhere.

Note: It is generally very easy to find the nearest CADECA and you should be aware that any Cuban who tries to persuade you that it is complicated or that he can provide you a better rate of exchange will probably be engaged in some sort of scam which is best avoided.

* There are 4 main banks in Cuba. BFI is the most reliable. You may be able to use other Cubans banks but these are less likely to be able to meet your needs since most operate mainly in Cuban Pesos. Always bring new bank notes, with no rips, tears or markings. All foreign coins are useless.

Make sure that you get a printed receipt when changing money


Credit Cards

Cash is king in Cuba. Except in major hotels you should not count on paying for goods or services with a credit card anywhere in Cuba.


 

Clothes

Cuba is a sub-tropical country so pack for summer. Bikinis, shorts, sandals, short-sleeved cotton dresses and shirts are the order of the day. But, bear in mind that Cuban men would never wear shorts in the City! A night out at Tropicana or La Guarida restaurant needs something smart if not overly formal.

If you are coming in the winter don’t assume that it will be hot all the time, especially in the evenings. Bring some warm clothing (long sleeves, a sweater or fleece), since there is nothing more frustrating then being frozen to death in a tropical country! Lightweight rain gear is suggested if you are coming in the summer.


Books & magazines

There are basically no magazines or books available in Cuba (excepting some Latin American literature.) Bring reading material or load up the Kindle/IPad. It can be a nice gesture to leave behind some gossip magazines for Cubans you meet along the way.


Medical kit

As in many countries a fully stocked medical kit should be packed as part of your travel luggage. This should include Anti diarrhea (Imodium) some form of antacid (Rolaids or Tums) for stomach problems. The Cuban health care system works pretty well but there is no harm in bringing more than you absolutely may need.


Electricity

Generally Cuban electricity is 110V with the square American plug socket. Into the hostels the electricity is 110v & 220v. Some hotels have predominantly 220V and round sockets.

 

Discover the best things to do in Baracoa

Bed and Breakfast in Cuba invites you to discover the best things to do in Baracoa. This town is rich in history and natural beauties. With its amazing landscapes, mountains, rivers, caves and waterfalls, it is the ideal place for nature lovers. Join us in this adventure around one of the best secrets at this Caribbean island.

History of Baracoa

This town, with a population which barely exceeds 80 thousand inhabitants. Was the first city founded in Cuba. And was also the first capital of the island. When Christopher Columbus first arrived to Cuba he landed in this area.

What today is Baracoa conquered Columbus. He wrote about it in his notes, calling it the most beautiful place in the world. We wouldn’t dare to say the opposite. It has everything to be considered a paradise.

This place has seen the history of Cuba since the European conquer. You will notice the historical inheritance from the moment you arrive. Its cobbled streets and the wooden architecture are protagonist at the center of the city. And around it, it contrasts with the mountains, the sea, the rivers and the entire natural environment.

Baracoa it’s placed at the northeastern coast of Cuba, at the province of Guantanamo. It has more than 500 years old and still you can see the Cruz de Parra. One of the 29 crosses that Columbus took with him to America on his first trip as a symbol of Christianity.

The cultural and culinary manifestations are considered unique. This is because they are a mixture of Spanish, French, Afrikaan and Tainan heritage. Its conservation has been possible thanks to how difficult it is to reach the city. It's seen for this reason like one of the purest places in Cuba.

If you want to visit Baracoa, you may have to take La Farola. A hard road in the mountains. Another point of access it’s from the west, taking the route Holguín-Mayarí-Moa-Baracoa. It also has a small airport just for national flights. But even these are not so frequents.

Facts you need to know about Baracoa

  • Founded on august 15th. In 1511 by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar.
  • Its official name is Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de Baracoa (Our Lady of the Assumption of Baracoa).
  • The land is home to beautiful rivers like Macaguanigua, Miel, Yumuri, Duaba and Toa.
  • Was the first Spanish settlement at the Caribbean island.
  • It’s known as the capital of cocoa and coconut, two of the principal products of this place. The third one is coffee.
  • Baracoa is one of the wettest places in the island. And it’s home of one of the best preserved mountains ecosystems in the Caribbean.
  • The Toa is also the largest river in Cuba.
  • The Cathedral of Baracoa was founded in 1807 and reconstructed in 1886. There you’ll find the Cruz de Parra.
  • Ecotourism has became one of the main economic activities.
  • The highest waterfall at the Caribbean it´s placed at Salto Fino, one of the subfluents of Toa river.

 Best things to do in Baracoa: Places to visit

Cueva del Paraíso museum

The Taino people come from Baracoa. Even today we can see the heritage of this culture in the region. The museum is based on a series of caves located at a cliff. It’s a small place with almost 2000 Taíno pieces.

You will need an hour or less to see the hole place, and the entrance is cheap. But there’s a lot of knowledge in every corner of this former burial chambers. There’s also a wonderful view of the city from cliff.

Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Asunción

This is the oldest church built in Cuba. Located at the center of the city and in front of Plaza Independencia. It’s a simple but beautiful place. The temple keeps the Cruz de Parra inside. This cross is known for being the only survivor of the 29 crosses Columbus brought to America on his trips.

Visiting the church won’t take take you too much time. So, you can stop there a few minutes and then keep going to another place.

Park Independencia

If you are at the cathedral, you might visit Parque Independencia too. Just in front of the church. There you’ll see a bust of Hatuey. According to the history, he was a cacique who refused to convert to Catholicism and was burned in 1.512.

Enjoy the local music, interact with local people. Take a few minutes to rest at the park and then you can continue with the tour around the city. It’s a place to enjoy at day or night.

Fuerte Matachín

Fuerte Matachín is one of the three Spanish fortresses in Baracoa. It was built to protect the city from pirates. Today is a museum where you can know about a history of the city.

The exhibits include the history of indigenous people, economy, music, chocolate and recent events of Cuba and the city.

Fuerte de La Punta

Another fort built by the Spanish in 1803. Placed at the northwestern of the city, it was converted into a touristic attraction. Today is known as Restaurante La Punta. You can enjoy the food, while learn about the history of the place.

Castillo de Serobuco

The most important of the three forts is named Castillo de Seboruco de Santa Bárbara. It was built between 1739 and 1741. While the other two house a museum and a restaurant, this one was converted in a hotel.

From the top you will have a wonderful view of the city, and you can even take some pictures of El Yunque; a famous mountain that you also have to visit.

Casa del Chocolate

This is a restaurant and a museum at the same time. Casa del Chocolate honors the relevance of cacao as one of the principal products in Baracoa. You can buy some samples of the chocolate produced in the city.

While you taste it, you can also enjoy the work of craftsmen and learn about the cacao cultivation in this country.

Casa de la Trova

At nigth there is a place where you can hear authentic Cuban music. Hit the road to Casa de la Trova Victorino Rodríguez. This place is located at the center of the city. It’s a small place, so they take some tables outside.

The party at Casa de la Trova is inside, but also at the street, where there’s people dancing with the rhythms of musicians. Order some mojitos and enjoy more of the traditional Cuba.

Ecotourism in Baracoa

As said before, Baracoa is a paradise for those who love to explore the nature. There are some places you don’t want to miss if ecotourism is your thing. Here we listed the most important stops to complete your itinerary.

Alejandro de Humboldt National Park

This amazing park is recognized as “the best preserved mountainous ecosystem in the Caribbean”. It’s part of Cuchillas de Toa, an UNESCO biosphere reserve.

One of the wonder that tourist can see at this place is Salto Fino, the 20th highest waterfall in the world and the first at the insular Caribbean. It is 305 meters high. Most of Cuban endangered species are at this park.

El Yunque

What dominates the landscape of Baracoa is the flat top of The Anvil. This mountain rises 575 above sea level. Take a guide to walk there. You’ll find fruit plants on the way such as cocoa, banana, pineapple, coconuts, mango…

Don’t forget to take water with you because the way will need some effort. But when you are there, you’ll get the best view. The weather in Cuba is friendly, but if it is raining, is better no to take the tour to the top of El Yunque.

 

Cueva del Agua

Take the road to Majayara National Park. On the way you can a local guide to take you to Cueva el Agua. Take some time to swim at this lagoon. And after that, continue the tour to the archaeological trail.

Tour on Toa River

Being the biggest river in Cuba, it hides a few secrets you don’t want to miss. Take a tour around Toa river with a local guide. One of the most famous activities to do here is bird watching.

Save some time to the beach

Cuba is known for its wonderful beaches. In Baracoa you’ll find some of these. Playa Managua is a quite place, with not so many people around, local or tourists. It still has some virgin environments.

Another one is Playa Blanca. After a walk through Parque Majayara, you’ll arrive to this white sand beach. It’s a small place, but still you can enjoy it.

What do you think about this list of the best things to do in Baracoa? Would you like to take a trip. If you need more information about it, don’t forget to contact us.

 

Everything that you need to know about Santiago de Cuba

From bed and breakfast in cuba we will talk about everything that you need to know about Santiago de Cuba. It is one of the most special cities on the island. It is even considered as the "Capital of the Caribbean".

Santiago is a tourist town

Santiago is a tourist attraction in Cuba. It is a city that has hills, and beautiful beaches. You can also discover its rich cultural heritage, thanks to a large number of museums. Which show all the historical facts that have occurred in the second most important city on the island.

The city is in a strategic area. It is the bay of Santiago de Cuba, for which at one time was the capital of the country. It was founded in 1515 by the Spanish conqueror Diego de Velázquez. Still keeps in many places memories of historical events, both independence and revolution.

Santiago de Cuba, is the capital of the province of the same name. Limits to the north with Holguín province, with the province of Guantánamo to the east, at west with the province of Granma and to the south with the Caribbean Sea.

Throughout Santiago you can see historical buildings. Which have architecture that will remind us of ancient times. Likewise in the middle of all the landscapes you will be able to notice a mixture of cultures . Which has its roots on several parts of the world.

This region is also well-known for hosting many events and congresses every year. Thanks to its infrastructure, as well as the conditions it provides.

Another point to emphasize is that its people are religious, cheerful and kind. Throughout the world, the relationship between its people and tourists is well known, and they are open to show all the beauties of Santiago. Also, the colorful city has its carnival, which takes place in August, full of floats, crowds and color.

Everything that you need to know about Santiago de Cuba: Sightseeing

In Santiago you will seesome amazing historical places. But that is not everything. One of the reasons to visit Santiago de Cuba is to enjoy the spectacular landscapes . Between the beaches open to the Caribbean Sea and the Sierra Maestra . Here you have many opportunities to develop ecotourism, such as excursions or hiking, which you will enjoy.

Among the National Parks is the Baconao, where you can contemplate nature and all the beautiful landscapes from beaches to mountains. Besides, you must Tour the Turquino National Park, where you visit the Turquino peak, which is the highest point on the island.

You can not forget the La Gran Piedra Park , where you will see an unique feature of the nature of Santiago de Cuba. It is about 16 kilometres from the city, in the Sierra. Here you will find the great volcanic rock, 51 meters long, 25 high and 30 wide.

The stone has an estimated weight of 70 thousand tons and is in the Guinness book of records. Because is the rock of its size, located highest in the world. at 1234 m above the sea level. A gem that you can not miss. But, it’s not only about the stone, at the top you will have a great view. And also you will see a lot of wild orchids and large trees.

Historical places to visit

Santiago is also known as the only Hero City of the Republic of Cuba. This is due to the contribution of its citizens to thelibertarian deeds of the island. Within the historical sites that you can not miss when visiting this city are:

  • Emilio Bacardí Museum: It was the mansion of a former mayor of the city. The famous rum brand donated it for the creation of a museum. Here you can find documents, paintings and objects from different periods, from the colonial era.
  • City Hall Building: It is a fancy building. It was open in 1950, but it was built with blueprints dating from the 18th century. In this historical place Fidel Castro gave his first speech, after the Triumph of the Revolution on January 1, 1959.
  • Moncada Barracks Museum: One iconic date of the Cuban revolution is July 26, 1953. That day of the assault to the Moncada Barracks, which is now a school and a museum.
  • Castle of El Morro: It is located at the entrance of the access to the Santiago bay canal. You can find it about 10 km from Santiago. It is a military fortress, which was built in the seventeenth century. In 1997 it was declaredUNESCO World Heritage Site . In this place you will have a spectacular view of the bay. Here you can go to see the Museum of Piracy.
  • House of Diego de Velázquez: It was the house of the founder of the city. Built in 1516 by Hernán Cortés. It is currently the Museum of Historic Environment.
  • Carnival Museum: In August the famous carnival of Santiago de Cuba takes place. This celebration is part of a great list of celebrations in Cuba, has its own museum. In here disguises and instruments of different times are exposed.
  • Other places to visit: Isabélica Museum, Casa Natal of José María Heredia, who is a remembered actor. The Frank País House, in which this martyr lived or the House of Antonio Maceo, another War hero. You also see in this city a mausoleum of the National Hero, José Martí .

Several of these museums and houses are located in the perimeter of Cespedes Park. Another place to visit. Others great places to visit are Historico of San Juan or the Abel Santamaría. They are perfect places to relax, enjoy nature and get to know more about the culture and monuments.

Spectacular beaches

Santiago de Cuba is a paradise. Apart from the mountain, you can not miss all the beaches open to the Caribbean Sea, which are all along the coast. To enjoy the sun, the white sand, forget the stress and relax, you must see the Cazonal and Baconao Beach.

Likewise, if you like aquatic activities . You have the option of diving at the Carisol-Los Corales International Diving Center, where you can enjoy crystal clear waters.

Religious city

Santiago is cultural and religious town. You can feel this in every street and in its people. There are several churches to visit, which are part of the architectural heritage of this area in Cuba.

Within the most important churches in Santiago you have the Cathedral of Asunción. Built from 1522, although its current structure is from 1922. Also the church of Our Lady of Sorrows and the church of San Francisco must be part Of thisreligious journey through Santiago.

One of the most popular destinies you have the Copper Sanctuary. Where devotees pay promises to the Patroness of Cuba, The Virgin of Charity of the Copper. Built in 1927, located about 20 km from the city. They showcase several offerings made to the virgin, as the gold medal won by the Nobel Prize and writer Ernest Hemingway.

People even take stones from the mine, as a protection against evil. In the region it is affirmed that you will be able to find a light in your future.

Another iconic place is the Cemetery of Santa Ifigenia, where are the tombs of the fallen in the Independence War, those killed in the assault on the Mounted Barracks or important figures such as José Martí.

Have an unparalleled experience in Santiago

As you can see. Santiago is a place that stands out for its tradition and history. In its people you will find a mixture of ethnic groups, between the Spanish, African and the inheritance of the French who settled in around the XVIII century.

This city is definitely one of the options for traveling to Cuba . There are spectacular landscapes, many historical sites and cultural offerings such as museums, the Heredia Theater or the Concert Hall. The best thing is to enjoy the streets without worries, among which stand out the one of Padre Pico or the Trocha street, where the carnivals take place.

It is to appreciate the kindness of its population that will make us feel at home. While you enjoy colonial architecture, besides its beaches and its mountains. All in one place.

You should also enjoy the night of Santiago de Cuba in Heredia street or Casa de la Trova, where you could dance until late. This city has enough hotel capacity. You have many options to stay there or in the surroundings. Also they have the airport in which there are direct international flights.

This everything that you need to know about Santiago de Cuba, a city surrounded by the Sierra Maestra and with windows open to the Caribbean Sea . In which you can enjoy unparalleled moments. Do you know Santiago de Cuba? Do you want to enjoy all this scenery? Contact Us to share this experience.

 

What not to do in Cuba

When traveling abroad you want to have as much information about your destination as possible, that’s why we’ll tell you what not to do in CubaBed and Breakfast in Cuba brings these travel tips so you can have an idea of what to expect during your stay on the island. Read carefully and start to prepare your trip!

 

What not to do in Cuba

 

Any country you visit has a list of do and don’t, but it is difficult to find out when you don’t know anyone to guide you in advance. How many of us had had to learn the hard way? I’m pretty sure, the answer is a lot!

But we don’t want you to go through this, at least not this time. That’s why we have prepared these tips.

1. Don’t forget to bring cash

Before departing to Cuba make sure to withdraw enough money for your trip. This is very important, because a working ATM is hard to find on the island and you could run out of money very soon. Also, remember that credit cards from U.S. banks don’t work in Cuba yet.

To calculate how much money you will need to bring to Cuba, consider taking about 50 to 100 U.S. dollars per day. Also, include the extra money if you are going to rent a car there.

Another tip is to change the U.S. dollars for another currency like Euros or Canadian dollars before traveling. This will save you some money when you arrive to the Caribbean island, because there’s an extra charge when you try to change U.S. currency into CUC.

2. Don’t stay in tourist areas

The main purpose of your trip is to know Cuba beyond what makes it a tourist destination. When you are in Havana or in any other town, get close to the non touristic areas. Yes, visiting the fortresses, churches or the most popular bars will bring you closer to the lifestyle of the Cubans and will bring you some fun. But dare to go beyond that!

Try to take a different way every time you return to your accommodation. Cuba is a friendly country to walk around; this is the perfect way to know Cubans better. While you are walking you’ll get in touch with the special character that the Cubans have. You will hear the music that comes from the houses, and will see children playing baseball or soccer in the streets.

If you are open to make new friends in Cuba, there’s also a possibility that someone invites you home for chatting. Also, try to find options to eat. Don’t go every time to popular places, a good option to eat like a Cuban is at the markets. Ask locals where to find them.

3. Don’t drink tap water

Health issues are a concern when traveling to developing countries. If you are used to drinking tap water at home, do not do the same while you are in Cuba. Instead, buy sealed water to hydrate yourself.

Nevertheless, hotels can have purified filtered water and that won’t be a problem. But ask them about it first. You don’t want to spend the trip in your room because of a stomachache

4. Don’t stay just in one town

There is a lot to see in Cuba and even the largest cities requires just a few days to know them well. Plan an itinerary including a few towns. It could be a temptation to spend a lot of time at the beaches in Varadero but, would you leave the island without visiting the tobacco farms in Viñales?

More travelers than you think fall into this mistake. At the end of the trip they just did the same thing they could do in any other destination.

5. Don’t forget to learn some Spanish

In Havana is possible to find people who speaks English (at least a bit) and could be easy to communicate with them. It’s not the same at the rest of the provinces. To be sure you are not going to have trouble trying to understand or being understood, learn some basic Spanish words and phrases.

Learn how to ask for directions if you are driving from town to town, bring an English/Spanish dictionary with you. Just take your precautions.

6. Don’t take pictures of police officers or soldiers

Don’t forget to learn some laws of the country you are visiting. This can prevent serious problems for you and your companion. For example, you can go to jail for doing drugs in Cuba, but there’s no problem if you want to have a drink in public places, such as the Malecón.

One thing you must avoid is to take pictures of police officers, soldiers, airport personnel or military installations.

7. Don’t spend all the money on the first stop

Remember what we said about ATM in Cuba? (Read again the first point if you don’t). Well, for the same reason you shouldn’t spend all the money at the beginning of your trip. Evaluate well where and how to spend money. If you are going to take a tour or do some activity, detail the options you have, so you don’t end up spending too much.

A clear example of this is if you want to take a ride on a classic car in Havana. It will cost around $35 for an hour trip around the city. But if you go some other town it would be cheaper to take a ride.

8. Don’t forget to tip

People in Cuba will do the best to help you and make you feel comfortable. This in their friendly nature, but also is because they’re looking for some extra money. The salaries are low, so they appreciate the tourist money.

Is usual to tip maids, waiters, tour guides and bus drivers. People on the streets can offer some help just get tip. When driving from a city to another and you ask a local for directions, probable they’ll also expect to receive a tip from you.

But don’t over tip or be so naive. 5 to 10 % of the bills is ok.

9. Don’t bring these objects to Cuba!

Again, be aware of the laws. We are not saying you’ll go to jail if you bring these objects to the island, but they can be seized and the authorities can ask you uncomfortable questions.

A little list of thing that you better let at home: walkie talkies, satellite phone, drones, photos or videos with adult material.

Books, magazines or articles that can be considered to be overly critical complete the list of what not to bring to Cuba. Take this into account when preparing your luggage.

 

10. Don’t forget to bring gifts

The prior point will save some space in your suitcase that you can fill with gifts for Cubans. They will appreciate if you dive them personal hygiene products like shampoo, soap, diapers, among others. Some people bring their own pillows and sheets and leave them as gifts in casas particulares.

Remember that Cubans don’t have easy access to these products. So they will be very thankful if you give any of them.

 

11. Don’t blow your noise in public

If you don’t want to be rude in front of Cubans, then don’t blow your noise in public. They considerer this is offensive, so do it in private if you need to. Also avoid the word “papaya” because it has a different meaning in Cuba that is not exactly the fruit… Instead say “fruta bomba”.

 

12. Don’t neglect your belongings

Even when Cuba is a very safe country you must take precautions. Violent crime is not common, but -as in any other country- there are thieves waiting for innocent tourists. Be aware of your belongings everywhere. Don’t show a lot of money in public, and don’t bring a lot of bling, because it can catch the attention of pickpockets.

 

13. Don’t miss the chance of traveling to Cuba!

That being said, we have come to the last tip! Go for your trip to Cuba! Traveling around the island is worth and is an experience you’ll never forget.

Go willing to enjoy every day of your trip and learn everything you can from Cuban culture. You will not regret it, just follow our advices.

If you still want to know more about the things you shouldn’t do in Cuba, watch this video. But remember, there’s always more things than you can do. These tips are just to assure you a better experience.

 

 

Principales destinos de Cuba

 

Ciénaga de Zapata

Al sur de la provincia de Matanzas se localiza la Península de Zapata, uno de los ecosistemas más importantes de Cuba y la mayor reserva de humedales del Caribe insular. Su panorama natural es muy rico y sirve de hábitat a una flora y fauna excepcionales, caracterizadas por su alto nivel de endemismo. Dentro de la Península se localiza el Gran Parque Natural Montemar, que permite al visitante entrar en contacto con las playas, bosques exóticos, manglares, extensos ríos y lagos naturales, cavernas inundadas que se comunican con el mar, piscinas naturales y fondos submarinos de particular belleza que facilitan la iniciación en el buceo y su ejercicio diurno y nocturno, así como del espeleobuceo. Entre los sitios de interés del Parque está el sistema espeleológico abierto a lo largo de 70 kms., con cuevas en las que, por derrumbes parciales de sus techos, se han formado lagunas semicirculares en su superficie, a las que se les denomina cenotes.Aquí pueden practicarse también diversos deportes como el senderismo, ciclismo, trekking, hikking, cabalgatas y paseos en bote, o acudir a los refugios de fauna y corredores internacionales de aves para contemplar especies autóctonas y migratorias, buceo y pesca deportiva.


Viñales

Es el mas famoso destino turístico de la provincia de Pinar del Río y esta caracterizado por la belleza del paisaje, en el que se destacan los mogotes, tanto en solitario como en sierras cársicas, alternando con las vegas de tabaco, los campos de cultivo y las casas campesinas. El valle de Viñales se localiza en el centro de la Sierra de los Organos y esta combinación de paísaje natural y cultural le han ganado la categoría de Paísaje Natural de la Humanidad dada por la UNESCO. Se destacan, además, la flora y la fauna de la región por su exclusividad y varios sistemas cavernarios que clasifican entre los mas bellos y mas grandes de Latinoamérica. Este destino turístico posee buena infraestructura turística con alrededor de 200 habitaciones en 3 hoteles y decenas de habitaciones en casas privadas, varios restaurants y centros nocturnos. 


Trinidad 

La ciudad de Trinidad esta localizada en el centro de la isla, en la provincia de Sancti Spiritus. Trinidad es una de las primeras villas fundadas en Cuba (1514) y ha sido declarada por la UNESCO Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad y es donde la arquitectura y el aire colonial mejor se han conservado en la isla por lo que también se le conoce como Ciudad Museo del Mar Caribe. En realidad es una de las mas encantadoras y mágicas ciudades en todo el Caribe y Latino América.
En su entorno, de gran belleza natural, se encuentra el Valle de los Ingenios, también Patrimonio Cultural de la Humanidad, la playa El Ancón, situada a unos pocos kilómetros de distancia, y la Sierra del Escambray, un verdadero paraiso ecológico.
Existen en la ciudad numerosas instalaciones hoteleras, decenas de habitaciones en casas privadas, buenos restaurants y centros nocturnos e instalaciones culturales.


Varadero 

Es el principal y mas bello balneario cubano, y también el mejor equipado de la isla. Se localiza en la península de Hicacos en la costa norte de la provincia de Matanzas y a 140 km (87.5 mi) al este de la Ciudad de la Habana con la que se comunica por una autopista de gran belleza visual. Tiene, además, un aeropuerto internacional enlazado con varias ciudades de América del Norte y Europa.
A los mas de 20 km. (12.5 millas) de playas de la mejor calidad se unen 14000 habitaciones en alrededor de 50 instalaciones hoteleras, el 70% de las cuales son de categoría de 4 y 5 estrellas; alrededor de 400 habitaciones habitaciones en casas particulares o privadas, una excelente opción alojamiento, restaurants, night clubs, campos de golf, marinas, centros de buceo y centros de deportes náuticos, así como un clima privilegiado y otras bellezas naturales como acantilados, cayos, lagunas y parques naturales que lo convierten en el segundo destino turístico de Cuba.


La Habana 

La Ciudad de La Habana es la capital del país y casi desde su fundación en 1519 se convirtió en el principal centro comercial, económico y de comunicaciones debido a su favorecida ubicación frente al Estrecho de La Florida y a su magnifica bahía.
Hoy día la ciudad es la principal plaza para el turismo en la isla apoyada en su historia centenaria, en la existencia de playas de magnifica calidad, una riqueza cultural increíble en la que destaca el centro colonial de La Habana Vieja y su mezcla de estilos arquitectónicos. A esto se une una poderosa infraestructura turística con mas de 10000 habitaciones en hoteles y hostales y centenares en casas privadas, los mejores y mas afamados restaurantes y "paladares" del país, decenas de night clubs, discotecas y otros centros nocturnos como el afamado cabaret Tropicana, marinas e instalaciones para todo tipo de deportes, campos de golf, alrededor de 30 museos, 10 galerías de arte y cerca de 20 teatros, que la hacen, también, el centro cultural del país.


La Habana Vieja 

La Habana Vieja es el máximo exponente de la arquitectura colonial en la isla y en todo el Caribe. Situada en la margen oeste de la bahía de La Habana y con 3.2 km (2.0 mi) en el eje norte-sur y 1.6 km (1.0 mi) en el eje este-oeste, es el mayor centro colonial del Caribe. 
Declarada como Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO en 1982 con el objetivo de preservar su arquitectura y su herencia histórica, La Habana Vieja atesora en su entorno muchas de las mas bellas e importantes plazas, edificaciones, monumentos históricos, museos y fortalezas de la época colonial de la isla, así como algunos de sus mas afamados restaurants y hoteles (la Bodeguita del Medio, El Floridita, hotel Ambos Mundos, por ejemplo).


Santiago de Cuba 

Santiago de Cuba es la segunda ciudad de Cuba y también la capital de la provincia del mismo nombre, caracterizada por la interelacion de la principal cadena montañosa de la isla, la Sierra Maestra, y el Mar Caribe. Santiago de Cuba es montaña y mar, mar Caribe. La ciudad, construida en una zona colinosa junto a la bahía del mismo nombre y teniendo de telón de fondo la Sierra Maestra es muy pintoresca y llena de bellos escenarios físicos y tiene una importante herencia histórica y cultural, a lo que se unen interesantes museos y fortalezas de la época colonial, plazas y edificaciones, ruinas de cafetales franceses y otros atractivos de todo tipo entre los que se cuentan playas y restos semisumergidos de la flota del Almirante Cervera, monumentos vivos recordatorios de la Guerra hispano-Cubano-Americana, de 1898.


Jardines del Rey (Morón)

Los Jardines del Rey es una extensa cayería que se extiende al norte del país frente a las costas de las provincias centrales. Aqui se localizan Cayo Coco y Cayo Guillermo que se han convertido en plazas fuertes del turismo cubano en virtud de la excelente calidad de sus playas de origen coralino y de su naturaleza casi intacta. Sol, playa y deportes náuticos se unen al confort de 9 hoteles de categoría 4 y 5 estrellas, centros nocturnos, opcionales culturales y un magnífico enlace con el resto del país a través de una carretera de 17 km (10 mi) de interés escénico sobre la Bahía de los Perros y de un aeropuerto local. 



Cienfuegos

La Ciudad del Mar, Cienfuegos, es sin dudas la ciudad mas bella de Cuba. Situada en el centro-sur del país, en las márgenes de la bahía de Jagua, fue fundada por franceses provenientes de la Louisiana en el año 1819. En ella pueden admirarse parques, teatros, iglesias, cementerios llenos de monumentos escultoricos de gran valor, joyas arquitectónicas como el Palacio de Valle y el teatro Terry. La impresionante bahía sirve de marco para la práctica de todo tipo de deportes acuaticos y a unos pocos kilometros del centro urbano se localiza la playa de Rancho Luna, de arenas coralinas.
En Cienfuegos y sus alrededores hay 7 instalaciones hoteleras, dos de ellas de categoría 4 estrellas, decenas de habitaciones en casas particulares, buenos restaurants y centros nocturnos y otras opcionales recreativas.


Baracoa 

La ciudad primada de Cuba es Baracoa, la primera villa del país fue fundada por Diego Velazquez en el año 1511 en el extremo oriental de la isla. El aislamiento físico en que se mantuvo por 4 siglos y una naturaleza exuberante le dan un aire único en la isla, el trazado original de la villa se mantiene asi como manifestaciones danzario-culinarias propias y una arquitectura en madera sin par en el país. Además del bello entorno natural que se disfruta en Baracoa en el que se destacan los ríos Miel y Toa (el mas caudaloso de Cuba), la existencia de buenaas playas a poca distancia del centro urbano y de la rica flora y fauna, la ciudad tiene un atractivo intrinseco y valores culturales e histórico invaluables.
Existen 3 instalaciones hoteleras categoría 3 estrellas, decenas de habitaciones en casas particulares en muchas de las cuales sirven también comidas, buenos restaurants y al menos uma magnífica paladar (restaurant privado). El acceso puede ser por carretera a través de La Farola, una vía escénica única y por aire.