According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Cuba is one of the leading nations in employment of thermal waters for health rehabilitation. Cuba’s spas are among the favorites of vacationers from many countries, including America, Canada, Spain and Italy, who come to the Island for recovery. Nowadays, among the main receptors are San Diego de los Baños, in Pinar del Río; Elguea, in Villa Clara; and San José del Lago, in Sancti Spíritus. In all of these locations, the medical and paramedical staff are highly trained and professional. The treatments offered and results obtained are backed by the Cuban Ministry of Public Health.

The thermal waters of Elguea, on the northern coast of Villa Clara, are regarded as among the best in the world because of their high thermal and mineral properties. Located 200 Km to the East of Havana, the spa has more than 130 rooms, out of which 97 are 3-star category, devoted to international health tourism. A modern thermal unit, unique of its type in Latin America and the Caribbean, is working here. Elguea has four swimming pools and eight thermal baths, electrotherapy rooms, and gyms among other offerings, as well as attractions typical of the area characterized by its rural landscapes. Different treatments are offered here, such as treatments for respiratory, circulatory, bone, kidney, gastric, dermatological, and gynecological diseases, among others. From Elguea, you can visit Santa Clara City, the Northern Keys in Villa Clara, and Varadero.

Located 70 Km to the North of Sancti Spíritus, The Lagos de Mayajigua, Villa San José del Lago (Mayajigua Lakes), is another exclusive center in the treatment of chronic diseases with or without systemic repercussion, and nervous system diseases. Highly proven has been the effectiveness of the treatments in the cases of psoriasis. The historic records of this charming place date form 1513, when the town was occupied by Mayajigua and visited by Pánfilo de Narváez during his route around the Island, following orders of Diego Velázquez. The hotel has 88 rooms and welcomes more than twenty thousand guests every year. Nearby touristic attractions include Yaguajay City, the Northern Keys of Villa Clara, and Ciego de Ávila City. The hotel is also suitable for hunting in the nearby game preserves.

The San Diego spa, 100 km west of Havana, dates from almost 400 years ago. In 1632, when the Spanish Crown gave Don Diego de Sayas these lands as a gift, the deposit was mentioned as 20 square kilometers of springs rising from 400 meters deep. Today, 4 doctors, 11 nurses, and 12 medical technicians take care of the variety of services offered in the complex: physical therapy, gymnastics, mud therapy, acupuncture, hydrology, laboratory, pharmacy, among others. Various individual and collective swimming pools, and private rooms for those that prefer intimacy, are available to guests. The cozy Mirador hotel, 50 km away, is the best option for those who decide to spend the night in the San Diego town. There are optional excursions to the Viñales Valley, the Soroa Orchid Garden, the Community of Las Terrazas, and La Güira National Park being sold at the hotel.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/cuba-travel-health-tourism-2159896.html

About the Author

This guide to Cuba Health Tourism was written by a Cuba travel expert from Cuba For Less, a specialist in fully customizable Cuba vacations.

The winter blues is upon us again and those who aren’t lucky enough to hit the slopes this season, are most probably toying with the idea of escaping the gloomy weather to soak up the golden rays on a powdery beach.

Winter season is certainly long enough to make several choices when it comes to the winter sun holidays. There are cheap winter sun holidays as well as more expensive options, depending on the dates, duration, destination and the type of holiday. Choosing to travel over Christmas period will have its magic and give us the opportunity to experience the festive season with a difference, but it is highly unlikely to be the cheaper option. Perhaps travelling soon after Christmas or the New Year will be the time when you can pocket yourself some great bargains. Package holidays to Egypt remain a firm favourite with the British visitors for the value they offer, the guaranteed sunshine, good quality hotels and the ever popular all-inclusive concept. Couples and families travel to places like Sharm El Sheikh, El Gouna or Hurghada to discover the colourful underwater world of the Red Sea. Flight time of roughly four hours only contributes to the value and comfort of your package holiday to Egypt.

Gambia has been topping the lists for winter sun holidays for the past few seasons. Situated on the West African coast, it offers year-round mild tropical climate with exotic plants and scenery to admire. The cool Atlantic breeze is ideal on a hot sunny day and the hospitality of the locals is what gives this country its new name ‘the smiling coast’. There are more and more new hotels cropping up on the Gambian coast each year, so if you are on a budget or looking to push the boat out a bit more, or perhaps looking for an eco-friendly or a safari holiday, this relatively new winter sun destination offers something for everyone.

If you are wishing to remain within the Eurozone without breaking the budget, why not head to the ‘good old’ Canary Islands? All package holidays to Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria can be purchased at the last minute and with lots of accommodation allocated on arrival and other special offers, you are likely to travel to the winter sun at a fraction of the normal brochure price. The holiday options are certainly vast on this volcanic archipelago of islands as they offer typical ‘bucket and spade’ holidays for families, all inclusive holidays, self catering and budget holidays and there are also upmarket hotels in sophisticated resorts offering anything from spas to butler service.

Thinking of somewhere more exotic? If you don’t mind longer flight times and long haul winter sun holidays, then give the fabulous Goa a try. This country will surprise you with the value it offers on accommodation, food and it will offer a completely new cultural experience. With many two weeks for the price of one offers, no supplements on single accommodation and good value long stay holidays, Goa is certain to satisfy every taste and budget.

The Caribbean islands and Florida are favourite family and couples destinations. If you add Cuba to the picture, you will get a splendid choice of exotic beauty, plenty of sunshine as well as excellent value. Destinations like Antigua or fly-drive holidays in Orlando booked at the last minute, will provide numerous discounts and will leave you return for more.

And, of course, you can not go wrong with countries like Dubai or Thailand which offer bespoke accommodation and service and endless opportunities for entertainment and exploration.

The choices of winter sun destinations are vast. Whether you choose to stay closer to home or decide to venture further afield, there are plenty of flights lined up this winter holiday season and there are plenty of seats still available waiting to be booked. Could you be one of those who will say ‘good-bye’ to the winter blues and start packing their sun cream and flip-flops pretty soon?

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/guaranteed-winter-sunshine-holidays-1575171.html

About the Author:

Booking a cheap holiday is not always easy – you need to know where to begin! At packyourbags we specialise in finding the very best cheap holidays from around the world, to suit any budget.

On a Cuba holiday you may be tempted to spend a fortnight lying on the sandy beaches of Varadero, Guardalavaca or other beach destinations enjoying fresh pina-coladas, but the island of Cuba offers so much more than this. Why not take a fly-drive tour to discover so many unexpected parts of the island?

The best place to start your fly-drive tour is in the bustling capital of Havana. The city is steeped in history with the decorative El Capitola building remaining the main focal point. The classical design is similar in style to the Capitol in Washington DC, but there are notable differences that ensure that the building still remains classically Cuban in design.

The Revolution Museum in Havana will definitely prove to be one of the highlights of a Cuba holiday. It offers a hugely personal insight into the story of the revolution and contains aircraft and weaponry that exist from that period. However, for many visitors, seeing the leaky boat that Fidel Castro and Che Guevara first sailed in to the island is an amazing experience that sums up the significance of Cuba’s Communist state.

Leaving the colonial capital, continue your Cuba holiday with a two hour drive to the area of Vinales in the province of Pinar Del Rio. Vinales is famous for the verdant mogotes that dominate the landscape. Agriculture is an important industry here and you will come across crops of tobacco, fruit, vegetables and coffee, which are all grown using traditional methods. The area of Vinales is dotted with dozens of small caves, which were once used as a refuge for runaway slaves. One of these caves is now a popular nightclub, but the most beautiful of these caves, the Cuevo del Indio, should definitely be visited on your Cuba holiday. In the midst of this cave lies a beautiful lagoon which you can visit by boat.

The small town of Pinar Del Rio is the perfect place to purchase some souvenirs of your Cuba holiday. With tobacco as the town’s main industry, here is the perfect place to stock up on traditional Cuban cigars. Pinar del Rio also has several rum factories, so you can also bring the non-smokers you know a small gift from your Cuba holiday.

Your fly-drive continues onwards to the town of Las Terrazas, a UNESCO world-heritage site, where the earth is distinctly red in colour. This area is the perfect place to relax and unwind on your Cuba holidays. You can spend some time horse-riding around the beautiful terrain, or simply chill out next to the hotel pool.

You may not want to relax too much as your final drive is two and a half hours’ away to the beachside resort of Jibacoa. Jibacoa is a white sand paradise, where the pale sands flanked by the lush green hills offer the perfect contrast to the turquoise hue of the ocean. The area is perfect for watersports and the rich marine life attracts divers from all over the world to this area on their Cuba holidays. Jibacoa boasts a 15 mile market and two sunken shipwrecks, although there’s always the option of just relaxing on the beach and ending your Cuba holidays on a sun lounger with a fresh mojito.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/take-a-fly-drive-tour-of-cuba-1468553.html

About the Author:

Rossella Colella is a Cuba holiday specialist for key2holidays, an online tour operator offering Cuba holidays as well as holidays to other destinations in the Caribbean; the Indian Ocean, the Far East, Egypt, Southern Africa, Italy & the Mediterranean, Canada, Australia and the Pacific. key2holidays has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book your ideal holiday.

Iberostar Varadero

For that unique feel of Cuban colonial splendour, look no further than the Iberostar Varadero. A new addition to the Caribbean coast, this luxury Varadero hotel boasts a magnificent colonial style, mirroring the marble pillars and domes of historic Havana. Located in a secluded spot on an azure sea, the Iberostar Varadero is the epitome of indulgence, with some of the best spa facilities in Cuba. Should you want to get a little more action on your Varadero holiday, the Iberostar offers every watersport imaginable, from windsurfing to Scuba diving. Whatever your mood, you’re sure to feel at home in this top Varadero hotel.

Sandals Royal Hicacos Resort & Spa

For the idyllic romantic getaway, you will find your every need met at the Sandals Royal Hicacos Resort and Spa. This adult only luxury hotel offers the intimacy and indulgence that will make your Varadero holiday completely unforgettable. The secluded palm-studded powder-sand beach provides the perfect setting for a romantic stroll, and for the more adventurous there are banana boats and water skis aplenty. If fine dining is your thing, you certainly won’t be disappointed by the choice of 5 exquisite restaurants with offering from all over the globe. This Varadero hotel is a must for any couple looking for the very best.

Paradisus Varadero

The one thing one everyone’s expects from the Caribbean is the tranquillity of a tropical paradise. Let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than setting off for a relaxing holiday only to end up next to a busy road or a noisy nightclub. There’s no chance of this at the Paradisus, which, as the name suggests, is as close to heaven on earth as you will ever find. Set in lush tropical gardens, the Paradisus occupies an enormous 56,000m2 of land, and with a private secluded beach you are guaranteed the serenity and calm for which Cuba is so famous.

Tryp Peninsula

If a family holiday is on the cards then you’re bound to have a few disagreements over what you want to do. With activities aplenty in Varadero, you can be sure the children won’t welcome a relaxing day in the spa. Fortunately the Tryp Peninsula Varadero caters to everyone’s idea of a perfect Varadero holiday. A luxury resort on the calm Caribbean coastline, this Varadero hotel provides activities, mini-parks and clubs for children of all ages without compromising on quality, leaving the adults to luxuriate in all that Cuba has to offer. Set in spacious grounds and on one of Cuba’s most beautiful stretches of beach, the Tryp is the first choice for family fun.

Playa Alameda Varadero

For a taste of Varadero’s lively side, the Playa Alameda Varadero has it all. Located at the tip of the peninsula, this Varadero hotel is surrounded by untouched beaches and pristine waters, providing the perfect opportunity to take up the many watersports on offer. When the sun goes down the day has only just begun at Playa Alameda, as traditional Cuban cabaret and themed live shows kick off. With all-inclusive drinks 24 hours a day, there won’t be a dull moment on your Varadero holiday.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-top-five-hotels-in-varadero-940896.html

About the Author:

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent specialist in luxury holidays to Cuba. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba has a large selection of Varadero Hotels for you to choose from on your Cuba holiday.

Planning a luxury honeymoon is a challenging proposition. There are so many destinations to choose from, each offering a very different experience, and of course you want a romantic honeymoon that you’ll remember forever! But whether you are looking for a desert island retreat or a cultural city break, an ultra luxury experience or an unspoilt wildlife holiday, there are some countries that are just made for a luxury honeymoon – here are five of the best…

The Maldives

Perfect For: A Desert Island Escape

A common dream for a luxury honeymoon is to find some deserted desert island getaway, where you and your other half can while away your days on empty white sand beaches. Of course, desert islands tend to be low on luxury essentials, such as restaurants, spas…and hotels! The next best thing is to go on a tailor made honeymoon to the Maldives. Consisting of over a thousand islets and atolls, this island nation combines tiny, unspoilt islands with some truly stunning resorts and hotels – the perfect balance of luxury facilities and deserted beaches.

Cuba

Perfect For: Romantic Cities and Stunning Beaches

There are plenty of honeymoon holiday destinations that offer romantic cities, and many others that have outstanding beaches, but there are few that combine the two elements as well as Cuba. Unforgettable Havana is a splendid mixture of colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and a stuck-in-the-1950’s aesthetic, while coastal resorts such as Guardalavaca and Varadero are amongst the best beach holiday destinations in the Caribbean. The best option is to take a tailor made honeymoon that combines a stay in Havana or Trinidad with a relaxing break on the coast.

South Africa

Perfect For: Untamed Wildlife

If you are a wildlife lover, there’s no better honeymoon holiday destination than South Africa, with Kruger National Park the star attraction. It is one of the finest wildlife reserves in the world, but it can also be a luxurious experience – visitors have the option of staying in five star lodges within the game reserve, offering luxury comfort in stunning African wilderness. A tailor made honeymoon to South Africa could combine a city break in Cape Town with a luxury safari in Kruger National Park.

Italy

Perfect For: High Culture

Italy is one of the classic luxury honeymoon destinations, and with very good reason – its combination of cultural cities, beautiful scenery and luxury experiences is unmatched. The architectural wonder that is Venice is perhaps the most romantic city in the world, though vibrant Rome is another strong contender. Both cities offer cultural delights of fine art and ancient architecture, if you are looking for a honeymoon holiday that combines high culture and romance, it is hard to better Italy.

Dubai

Perfect For: Ultra Luxury

If your idea of romance is the finest restaurants and the most opulent hotels, than Dubai will be the perfect destination for your luxury honeymoon. Famed as a millionaires’ playground, this remarkable emirate offers countless luxury experiences, from a stay at the Burj al Arab (the world’s first seven star hotel), to haggling for precious metals and jewellery at the Gold Souk, relaxing on the famous Jumeriah beach to dune bashing and Berber barbeques in the desert. Whatever you want to do on a luxury honeymoon to Dubai, the chances are that someone can arrange it for you, no matter how specific your request may be!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/five-superb-destinations-for-a-luxury-honeymoon-853607.html

About the Author:

Claire Bryant is a luxury holiday expert for key2holidays. Key2holidays has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book the perfect luxury honeymoon . They also offer tailor made holidays to Australia, Cuba, the Caribbean, Italy, the Far East, the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles, South Africa, Dubai and the Arabian Gulf.

For any person who enjoys a good jar of beer there is a special place in Old Havana, and I might say that it’s definitely a “must” for every visitor who comes to Havana city in their Cuba vacations. La Muralla Tavern has become a great spot for those who stroll through the beautiful squares of the Historic Centre of the Cuban capitol and want to take a cool drink in the hot and humid seasons of this Caribbean island. Set in a corner of the lovely Plaza Vieja, this tavern has tables outside and is a fantastic place to try micro-brewed beers and listen to live bands. Those looking for draught beers in Havana, this is the place to be.

But why this place is so special anyway? Well this is the only micro-brewery to be found in Havana! The brewery is well worth a visit, because it serves delicious home-brewed beer and tasty meals in its barbeque, set within a beautiful 18th century building with plenty of outdoor seating to watch the world go by.

As many people say, this is where you’ll get the best beer in town! Two kinds (light and dark) of this exquisite drink are made in the mini-brewery’s vats, using raw materials from Austria. The Austrian firm Salm and the Cuban Habaguanex have come together to open this unique tavern in June 2003.

Plus, the place is a factory and museum where curious objects linked to the world of beer consume are exposed. In the back of the tavern you can also visit the brewery installations. So make sure you learn about beer-making in your visit.

Looking for a quick bite? You can stop for a bite to eat in this bohemian tavern as well. They have an outdoor barbeque that serves delicious grilled skewers of shrimp, lobster, pork, chicken and chorizo sausage. If you are feeling hungry after drinking you can choose from among hamburgers and sandwiches too. I highly recommend to sit on the patio under the stars, where the atmosphere is wonderful, there is great live music, and you can truly appreciate what a magnificent job has been of restoring the area to its original colonial splendor. Or, if you prefer more intimacy, you can choose the cozy air-conditioned tavern, with special offers. One hour after the 9pm cannon-shooting ceremony, visitors can enjoy a bowl of typical Cuban “ajiaco” on the house.

Sitting in the precious inner yard to drink a few cool jars is quite pleasing as well. There are two roosters and a lavish vegetation that gives a beautiful touch to the decoration. You can even admire the paintings of famous Cuban contemporary artists like Kcho and Nelson Domínguez. at the walls of the tavern. Moreover, an ancient automobile (a Ford of 1913) that served to transport beer barrels is nowadays the principal attraction for children, who likes to get in and play.

The tavern could not have asked for a better location than Plaza Vieja, where it is so pleasant to have a drink while observing the moving multitude outside. So, if you are planning to visit Old Havana make sure to drink a cool jar of home-brewed beer at La Muralla Tavern and enjoy the beer-making show!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-place-for-beer-lovers-in-old-havana-853594.html

About the Author:

Giselle Rodriguez is a

vacations and Cuba Hotels website blogger and content collaborator at http://www.umbrellatravel.com

Address :
Business Center Building Kohly III
Apartamento 71
Calle 34 entre 49 y 49A ,
Reparto Kohly, Playa
Ciudad de la Habana CP: 11300
Cuba

Phone : +53 7 206 9606
Mobile Phone : +53 5 263 1106

With five centuries of architectural delights and a unique culture and atmosphere that is simply unforgettable, Havana is one of the leading attractions in Cuba, or even in the whole Caribbean. It attracts visitors of all casts and colours; romantics, writers, films stars, socialites, and professional businessmen all find themselves drawn to the charms of the city.

If you are looking for a Havana hotel you’ll be spoilt for choice, with dozens of outstanding accommodation options to choose from. If you really want to enjoy a stay in Cuba’s capital to the fullest possibility, its best to find one that is matched to your personality.

So, what kind of a Cuban traveller are you?

The Romantic…

Havana is a seductive city of music, dance, and vibrant nightlife, and a romantic on holiday in Havana will need a seductive hotel to call home. There are numerous intimate boutique hotels in Cuba’s capital, but Hotel Condes De Villanueva stands out from the rest – with its scattering of rooms, interior courtyards, and excellent service, it is the perfect place for romantics on a Havana holiday.

The Writer…

Perhaps you are travel writer looking to experience the real Cuba, a novelist thirsty for inspiration, or a poet in search of a Caribbean muse. Any writer who is looking for a Havana hotel will inevitably be drawn to the city’s most literary choice of accommodation – Ambos Mundos. The hotel of choice for Ernest Hemingway (who wrote extensively in room 511), this art deco hotel is located in the heart of Havana and is the ideal place for writers to find inspiration.

The Film Star…

Over the years, some of the world’s biggest film stars have flocked to Havana, drawn by the glamour and allure of one of the Caribbean’s most fascinating cities. There are plenty of five star Havana hotels that have played host to the stars, but one stands out from the rest – the Nacional. Dominating Havana’s skyline as it looms over the Malecon, the Nacional has played host to Marlon Brando, Buster Keaton and Errol Flynn, and is also the base of operations of Havana’s International Film Festival.

The Socialite…

In the 1930’s and 50’s, American and European socialites flocked to the Cuban capital, and if you’d like to enjoy a taste of the old glory, book a stay at the Saratoga hotel. It was the centre of the social scene back in the day, and has been transformed in recent years into one of the finest hotels in Havana, with the opulent Cigar Lounge the best place to relive the 1950’s vibe.

The Business Man…

If you have come to the Caribbean on business, the Melia Habana will be the perfect Havana hotel for you. Close to the airport, within striking distance of the city centre, and offering five star luxury in a handsome modern building, the Melia Habana is as professional and practical a hotel as you could ask for.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/choose-your-perfect-havana-hotel-853569.html

About the Author:

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent specialist in luxury holidays to Cuba. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can help you book a stay at the perfect http://www.captivatingcuba.com/cuba/havana/index.html “> Havana hotel.

Cuban honeymoons provide plenty for newlyweds to see, do and take part in, including great beaches and interesting sight seein g opportunities. However, the island also offers less obvious and much more exotic thrills for those who want them. We count down the top five honeymoons in Cuba to whet your appetite and give couples a few ideas they might not have thought of for that truly memorable honeymoon…

5. Diving Honeymoons

Cuba and the Caribbean have some of the best diving in the world. The clear waters, amazing diversity of sea life and huge range of corals and rock outcrops to explore make it ideal for normal or scuba diving. Honeymoons around Cuba on scuba diving trips are incredible, as they let you experience the wonderful diversity and beauty of the ocean floor with the one you love.

4. Following in Castro’s footsteps

For history buffs and those who like walking holidays, why not spend your Cuban honeymoon following in the footsteps of Cuba’s most famous revolutionaries? You can follow the trail of Fidel Castro’s revolutionary guerrillas from the playa Las Coloradas, into central Cuba and beyond. Walking tours can be organised and you can get a real feel of the adventure and hardship of the freedom fighters on your way through the island’s interior. You can also visit the many monuments and statues to the fighters along the way and in your final stop in the capital of Havana.

3. Cigars, Coffee and Rum

Cuba is synonymous with cigars, coffee and rum, and any trip to the island should include trying some if not all of these to give you a real taste of the island itself. However, you can take it one step further and spend part or your entire honeymoon in Cuba touring the plantations, factories and distilleries of the island, sampling the best brands and the most luxurious hand made verities. Sitting with your loved one sipping the best the island has to offer, or indulging in that luxurious vice of cigar smoking together is enchanting while watching the sun set over the Caribbean.

2. Swimming with dolphins

Swimming with dolphins has routinely been chosen as one of the top experiences to have before you die, and when better to do it than when on your honeymoon? Cuba waters and the surrounding Caribbean are teaming with these friendly mammals, and tours, excursions and swims are organised to give you the best experiences possible while causing no harm or anxiety to the dolphins themselves. A magical moment to have together while on honeymoon in Cuba.

1. Salsa

The passionate island moves to its own unique rhythm, and you and your partner can get swept up on it on a salsa honeymoon in Cuba. There are lessons available for the uninitiated and dances and dance halls ready for those with a real love of salsa. It’s a perfect way to spend your honeymoon in Cuba, as the dance is all about fire, joy and passion, and will start your marriage as you mean to go on…

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/top-five-exotic-honeymoons-in-cuba-782471.html

About the Author:

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent specialist in holidays, breaks and honeymoons in Cuba. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can help you tailor-make the perfect Cuban holiday experience.

A holiday in Cuba presents a beguiling mixture of colonial cities, Caribbean coastline, unique cultural mix and a vibrant island atmosphere. While the beach resorts on the island (such as Varadero and Guardalavaca) are hugely popular, those who want to get a real taste of Cuban culture would be well advised to spend time in the cities. From the colonial splendour of Trinidad to the old fashioned vibrancy of Havana, the large towns and cities of Cuba are one of the country’s best holiday highlights.

When it comes to choosing your accommodation, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Converted colonial buildings, boutique hotels and grand resorts are amongst the options for a hotel in Cuba. But if money is no object, then there are a few hotels that really stand out from the crowd…

Havana – Saratoga

Havana is, perhaps unsurprisingly, home to the very best hotels in Cuba. There are plenty to choose from, but the Saratoga is perhaps the pick of the bunch. The hotel of choice for artists and writers since the 1930’s, the Saratoga is a stunning colonial hotel in the heart of Havana. Recently refurbished in a neo-classical style, amongst the many highlights of this Cuban hotel are the chic mezzanine bar and a rooftop pool with views out across the port and old town.

Santiago de Cuba – Melia Santiago

There are plenty of hotels in Cuba’s second city, but none better than the Melia Santiago. Combining a central city location with resort style facilities, the Melia offers the best of both worlds. Its “unique” architecture isn’t to everyone’s taste, but the comprehensive facilities, excellent rooms and superb location make it a firm favourite for visitors to Santiago.

Cienfuegos – Jagua

Cienfuegos, known as the “Pearl of the South” is justly named. The towering fort palace, erected to discourage pirates in the 18th, is the must-see sight here, the distinctive French architecture and the splendid bay give it a very different feel to the other cities in Cuba. The best hotel is hard to choose, with La Union (a beautiful colonial hotel at the heart of the city) being a very strong contender, but the Jagua, with its simply stunning views and excellent rooms, is the place to stay in Cienfuegos.

Trinidad – Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad

Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a spectacularly preserved colonial town that is without a doubt the most beautiful in Cuba. The hotels in Trinidad, naturally, are renowned for their elegant design and traditional architecture, and the best hotel in town is undoubtedly the Iberostar Grand Hotel. This boutique hotel is immaculately designed and laid out, and is the perfect base from which to explore the many sights of Trinidad.

Camaguey – Gran Hotel

The winding streets of Camaguey were designed as a maze to trap pirates and raiders, and getting lost in the streets of this city is one of real pleasures of a holiday here. Located at the very heart of this maze of a city is the Gran Hotel, a delightful colonial-style hotel that is the best in the city and is located close to all the major sights and attractions.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-best-hotels-in-5-cuban-cities-746311.html

About the Author:

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent specialist in Cuba hotels and holidays. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba can help you tailor-make the perfect Cuban holiday experience.

There is no doubt at all that Cuba is a unique island full of interesting sights and sounds you cannot experience anywhere else in the world, but what it’s sometimes easy to forget is that there’s also a lot of exciting activities off the island – in the expanse of Caribbean waters that surrounds it. From fishing to scuba diving, Cuba has all kinds of attractions for people to enjoy just off the coast – here are some of the must-dos.

Try Your Hand at Scuba Diving in Cuba

Scuba diving in Cuba is amongst the very best in the world – all tastes are catered for and whether you’re a first timer looking for lessons, or a veteran looking to explore sunken wrecks and caves, the island has got you covered. The top spots for scuba diving in Cuba are Cayo Coco, Maria La Gorda and Santiago de Cuba – depending on the style of diving you’re looking to enjoy. Wherever you go though, you can expect to see hundreds of tropical fish and colourful types of coral – the kind of thing it’s well worth investing in that underwater camera for!

Sample Surfing for the First Time

While Cuba holidays aren’t always associated with surfing, some good practice can be had, especially if you’re on the island in the winter months of September to December – and maybe a little later if you’re inexperienced and looking for smaller waves. The east coast of the island offers the best waves, generally speaking, though it’s by no means the only spot! Be sure to bring your own board, as you’ll struggle to find one to use there.

Relax With a Spot of Fishing

Ernest Hemmingway popularised fishing on the island during his infamous stay in Cuba and many people are keen to follow in his footsteps. He used to fish for marlin out of Havana, but also was known to explore the North West coast at Cayo Guillermo. Cayo Coco is another good spot, but unlike in other countries fishing is legal across the island so find the best location for yourself and share your anecdotes with fellow Cuban fishermen!

Swim with Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is something of a life changing experience for many, and certainly joining the graceful mammals underwater is breathtaking, once you get past the initial fear factor! If this sounds like your dream Cuba holiday activity, then the resorts of Varadero and Holguin are where you should head. From there, you can take special trips out to sea, allowing holiday makers to get closer than ever before to the charming creatures.

Explore the Aquatic World With a Snorkel

If you can’t quite bring yourself to take a series of diving qualifications, then snorkelling is an easier option with less training required. There are a number of good spots where you’re guaranteed to see some interesting sea life – Guardalavaca, Cayo Coco and Playa Jibacoa. The majority of beaches in Cuba will offer snorkeling of some kind, but if you’re serious about it, these really are the best spots.

Don’t worry if this list leaves you cold. There are all sorts of Cuba holiday activities for you to take part in that don’t involve you getting near any water. From salsa to cigar factory tours, a holiday on the island has you covered, even if you don’t fancy surfing or scuba diving in Cuba.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/off-the-island-the-best-water-based-activities-in-cuba-706678.html

About the Author:

Emma Lelliott is the general manager of Captivating Cuba, an independent Cuba holiday specialist. With offices in Havana and the UK, Captivating Cuba are experts in putting together the very best holidays spent scuba diving in Cuba.