MyWestworld

An Inside View on Cuba

Posted on 21. Jul, 2008 by Graeme McLaughlin in International

BCAA’s own Jennifer Timm from our Corporate Communications department recently visited Cuba. Here’s a first-hand account of her trip to this fascinating country. All of the pictures seen here were taken by Jennifer.

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Great weather, beautiful beaches, fascinating culture and architecture set Cuba apart

[singlepic id=25 w=200 h=120 float=right]This February, I escorted a group of BCAA members to Cuba. The weather was just perfect! The beaches were wonderful, and I loved all the fascinating historical and architectural sites that I saw during my trip.

I think the best word to describe Cuba is “fascinating”. From its people and culture, to its architecture and natural wonders, it’s definitely a unique and fascinating place.

Havana – The Spicy Capital

[singlepic id=17 w=150 h=240 float=right]My favourite city I visited during my trip would have to be Havana. It’s often called the “Spicy Capital of Cuba”. If you’re a car lover, you’ll be in paradise with so many old, groovy 1950 vehicles cruising everywhere.

There’s a strong Latin vibe in the air with musicians on every corner you turn. A real treat is to stroll down the old streets of Havana with the crumbling architecture on either side.

I also went to a show at the Tropicana. It’s an open-air show with lots of gorgeous Cuban women in feathers and elaborate costumes. This show was fantastic and definitely a must-see when you visit Cuba.

Cuban elementary school visit

While on the tour, a fellow guest specifically asked if we could visit a local elementary school. Our guide brought us to a small rural school en route to Trinidad. Many guests had brought gifts for the 30 or so children there.

We were completely enamoured with their young Cuban spirits as they sang us the Cuban national anthem. This little detour was definitely one of the highlights of my trip.

Gifts galore!

Being a communist country, Cuba has very little access to imported goods. I highly suggest bringing gifts while visiting the cities and conversing with the locals. Cuban children especially like items such as pens and candy, while young women would usually ask for soap and makeup. I already ran out of pens to write with before the end of my trip! Surprisingly, they have a lot of pencils already.

Time has stood still in Cuba – but not for much longer

When in Cuba, you’ll feel like time stood still in the 1950s. However, with tourism opening to American travellers soon, you’ll want to visit Cuba before the influx of tourists brings about changes.

Interested in visiting Cuba? Here are a few options.

Cuba Discovery & Varadero Beach – BCAA Hosted. This is the tour that Jennifer went on!

Traveller’s tip

Be sure to update your medical prescriptions, and ensure you have adequate travel medical insurance before you leave. Although Cuba has one of the world’s best medical system, it’s not always easy (or cheap) to get to the hospital while on the road.