Guide to Havana (Habana) Cuba
Guide to Havana (Habana) Cuba
Havana or Habana, as it is known to the locals in Cuba, is a capital city that evokes a mixture of romance, the black market and revolution. Of course, prior to Fidel Castro taking Cuba from American control, Havana was similar to American cities in southern USA with its wonderful colonial housing and giant sized American cars. Today, Cuba is benefiting from new relations with the USA and although the capital Havana has an air of a bygone era it is still one of the most exciting and fascinating cities in the world.
Classic 1950s American cars are powered by Lada engines and some rationing is still prevalent throughout Cuba although the black market is thriving like never before. Most importantly of all, everyone in Cuba parties and the Caribbean tradition of dancing till dawn is a way of life.
Once a familiar haunt of pirates who would attack Spanish ships with hulls full of South American gold and artefacts, and the first port of call for slaves transported from Africa, Havana has survived the American Mafia and years of deprivation to become a city that welcomes visitors with open arms.
Havana is proud of its history and its fine colonial buildings and cars, of its cigars and rum, and its victory against the imperial might of the USA. Visitors may be surprised by the sophistication of Havana's hotels and the quality of the food in the local restaurants. Although, at times, it can feel as though you have stepped back into the 1950s, at other moments it is clear to see that Havana is embracing everything that the new millennium has to offer.
The people of Cuba and Havana have suffered considerably over the last five decades but there is a joy to their lives that is unique amongst the Caribbean islands. Perhaps it is because the Cubans were never slaves but have always been masters of their own destiny. They want to share that destiny with tourists today and it has never been easier to visit and enjoy such a wonderful piece of paradise.
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