If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy a little R&R, you can’t go wrong with the Caribbean. But with over 7,000 islands to choose from, how will you pick your next destination?
Cuba may not be the first country you think of, but it makes for one unique and unforgettable trip. And now is the perfect time to go!
Do you want to know more? Keep reading to discover the top reasons to travel to Cuba.
1. The Weather Is Beautiful
Winter blues still got you down? What better way to shake them off than a trip to the Caribbean?
Cuba’s temperatures remain warm and subtropical all year long. Plus, the dry season goes from November to April, making winter the perfect time to go.
Although May through October is considered wet season, you can still enjoy a wonderful trip during this time. Rain tends to hit in quick bursts and then clears up to give you sunny skies again.
2. You Can Try Real Cuban Cigars
You don’t have to be a cigar aficionado to know that Cuban cigars are top-notch. Not only can you enjoy them while you’re there, but US citizens are now allowed to bring some home too!
Whether you’re a smoker or not, you can enjoy a tour of the Partagas Cigar Factory located in Havana. If you don’t mind turning that into a full day trip, travel to Vinales, where you can take a horseback ride through a tobacco farm.
3. The Beaches Are Stunning
Of course, no Caribbean vacation would be complete without at least one day lounging on the beach.
Varadero is one of the best beach towns in Cuba and is conveniently located just two hours away from Havana. Here, you’ll have access to white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and plenty of things to do, including swimming with dolphins and snorkeling at a coral reef
If you’re taking a cruise, make sure it has a stop in Varadero. The beaches here are still unspoiled by tourists, so you’ll get to enjoy your day without fighting for a spot on the beach.
4. There’s So Much to Explore
The beach isn’t the only natural beauty Cuba has to offer.
It’s also home to tens of thousands of caves. You can enjoy a relaxing walking tour if you’re a beginner or go cave diving if you’re already trained in this area.
There are also ample opportunities to hike. Just make sure you plan your hike ahead of time, though, as hiking trails aren’t always well-maintained, and many have little signage. But this is the perfect way to enjoy the lush nature Cuba has to offer.
5. The Coffee Is World Renowned
If you’re a coffee drinker, you need to take a trip to Cuba. The rich flavor and long-lasting aftertaste are what makes Cuban coffee world renowned.
But don’t just drink a cup and call it a day. Take your time to visit a coffee plantation to learn exactly how they make their next-level coffee.
6. You Can Dance the Night Away
There’s no shortage of nightlife in Cuba, especially if you’re looking for some live music. Just walk through Havana, and let the music guide you to your next location for a laid-back approach to bar hopping.
If your dance skills are a little rusty or you want to dip your toes in a bit of Cuban culture, take a salsa dancing lesson during the day. This is especially fun if you’re traveling with your partner and are looking for a romantic activity.
7. There Are Tons of Vintage Cars
Since the US embargo on Cuba was enacted in the late 1950s, locals haven’t been able to upgrade their cars for decades. This means that you’ll see tons of vintage cars lining the streets, especially in Havana.
You can feel free to admire the cars or even take a tour or day trip in one of them! You can read more here about the best day trips you can take from Havana in a vintage car.
8. The Food Is Amazing
You may not think of Cuba as the ultimate foodie destination, but their unique combination of Spanish, Caribbean, and African cooking makes for some delicious and unique dishes.
You can get a nice lobster dinner here for an affordable price or save even more by opting for meals from a street vendor. Ropa vieja, lechon asado, and medianoche are just some of the traditional dishes you need to try. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget to get a churro or some homemade ice cream.
9. There’s Plenty of History
If you like to experience a bit of history when you travel, you won’t be disappointed in Cuba.
You can learn more about Fidel Castro’s regime and the Cuban revolution at the Museum of the Revolution located in Old Havana. The Che Guevara Mausoleum in Santa Clara is another good option if you happen to be staying further inland.
You can also visit the Bay of Pigs as well as Old Havana’s two fortresses. Some lesser known sites include Earnest Hemmingway’s house in San Francisco de Paula, San Pedro de la Roca Castel in Santiago de Cuba, and El Capitolio in Havana.
10. It’s Still Undiscovered to Tourists
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, consider visiting Cuba sooner rather than later. It’s expected that US tourism will start to increase in the coming years, and when that happens, parts of Cuba will likely become overrun with tourists.
But right now, you can enjoy those white sand beaches and the beauty of Havana without hoards of tourists and chain corporations, like McDonald’s, around every corner.
Top Reasons to Travel to Cuba
Don’t forget to consider Cuba when planning your upcoming Caribbean vacation. From amazing coffee and cigars to gorgeous beaches untouched by tourists, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Cuba.
Wondering the best way to remember your once-in-a-lifetime trip? Then check out these tips for documenting your travels in the digital age.
