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Introducing Cuba
Dogs sleep on the motorway as a Russian Lada roars past, brightly painted in the incongruous colors of the tropics. Behind it a 1954 Cadillac belches black from its impossibly large and beautifully contoured frame. The two Cold War classics coexist here so naturally that it’s curious to imagine that this is the motoring equivalent of seeing a penguin and a polar bear on the same ice floe. After a century split evenly between US and Russian influence, and with Fidel having shuffled off stage left, Cuba is slowly rousing itself as the Cuban Revolution moves on to its next stage.
As well as having the usual Caribbean attractions in abundance – from the white sand and palm-fringed beaches of Varadero and Playas del Este to the lush scenery of Isla de la Juventud – Cuba has one of the world’s most exciting (and bloody) histories, extraordinary musical and dance traditions all of its own and a rich national architecture that never ceases to astound. Its vibrant capital, Havana, is famous for its kicking Caribbean nightlife, exuberant residents and beautifully restored old city; colonial gem Trinidad will enchant you with its intimacy and relaxed vibe. Perched improbably on the island's eastern tip, isolated and intriguing Baracoa is Cuba's very own Shangri-La.
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Latest headlines for Cuba
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Ill Castro 'takes walk in Havana'
28 February 2009 12:29AM
Former Cuban President Fidel Castro, not seen in public since 2006, goes for a walk in Havana, Venezuela's president says.
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US bill aims to ease Cuba travel
26 February 2009 1:02AM
The US House of Representatives passes a bill that should ease travel restrictions on Cuban-Americans wanting to go to Cuba.
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Raul Castro marks a year in power
24 February 2009 1:30PM
Raul Castro completes his first year as Cuban leader but as the BBC’s Michael Voss reports, he has had more success abroad than at home.
