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Country Description

If you want to bask in paradise while you are alive, then there is no better place than Cuba. Wonderful white sand beaches, transparent sea ​​water, coral reefs and shallows for fishing, rich exotic flora and fauna - this is not paradise. Temperamental like the rhythms of "cha-cha-cha", bright as the plumage of a hummingbird, elegant as an orchid flower, Cuba has always attracted thousands of tourists. But Cuba is not only magnificent nature, it is, first of all, friendly and hospitable Cubans and a deep history. Many cities still keep the traces and spirit of the Spanish conquerors, the memory of the raids of the corsairs. The world famous resort of Varadero is located 140 km from Havana on the Atlantic coast. The surroundings of Varadero are very picturesque, and the many kilometers strip of white sandy beaches and azure ocean waters attract thousands of tourists here.

Cuba! A magical island that separates the Atlantic from the Caribbean Sea, the bottom of which is literally covered with treasures ... The neighbor of Haiti, Jamaica and Mexico attracts not only tropical exotic, but also with the special flavor of the island's life, the warmth, openness and hospitality of the locals. Every day here is a carnival. There is no heat here, the caressing breeze from the ocean cools pleasantly. There are not even animals that are dangerous to humans. Here crocodiles are only in the form of a roast. And the countless number of fish, birds, shellfish becomes not only a delicacy for gourmets, but also the subject of an exciting hunt. The loot obtained can always be "washed" - the world's best fiery cane drink - rum ... Kilometers of the finest white sand and azure blue ocean waters seem to have been specially created for a world-class resort. The rest was done by people: in tourism there is a large share of Spanish capital and therefore the service meets the highest requirements. It all starts at the airport: from there you will be taken to your chosen hotel in luxury vintage cars.

Geography

Area - 110992 sq. km.
The highest point is Peak Turkino 1974 m.
The longest river - Kauto 370 km.

Cuba is located in the West Indies, at the junction of North, Central and South America. According to the configuration, the territory of Cuba, stretching from west to east for 1250 km, is often compared to a lizard, whose body is facing the Atlantic, and the tail is at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. In the south, Cuba is washed by the waters of the Caribbean Sea. The distance from Cuba to the United States at the narrowest point of the Florida Strait is 180 km, to the island of Haiti through the Windward Strait - 77 km, to the island of Jamaica through the Strait of Colon - 140 km, to Mexico through the Yucatan Strait - 210 km.

The length of the island is 1200 km, the width at its widest point is 210 km. The Cuban archipelago covers an area of ​​110,992 square kilometers and has more than 300 natural beaches covered with white sand and surrounded by crystal clear waters. The most famous beach in Cuba is Varadero. The landscapes of Cuba are very varied. There are valleys, mountains and hills. The main mountain ranges of the country are the Cordillera de Guaniguanico in the west, Escambray in the center and the Sierra Maestra in the east. In the mountains of the Sierra Maestra there is also the highest mountain in the country, Peak Turkino (1974 m. Above sea level). The rest of the island is a fertile plain. There are many caves to admire on the island. Most of the rivers in Cuba are small but very fast flowing. Rivers flow down the mountains to form beautiful waterfalls. The waterfalls of Agabama and Salto del Carbuni are especially interesting. The longest river in Cuba is the Cauto (about 370 km.), Flowing in the eastern part of the island. There are many reservoirs and lakes in Cuba. Amateurs come here - bird watchers, since Cuba is a place of migration of resettled birds.

Time

Lags behind Moscow by 8 hours.

Climate

Cuba has a tropical trade wind climate. Warm currents in the waters washing the country and constant northeastern winds make the climate mild. The coldest month is January, when the daytime air temperature reaches +25 .. + 27 degrees, and at night there is about 16-18 degrees of heat. The hottest month is August. During it, during the daytime, the air warms up to +30 .. + 32 degrees, and at night it is quite warm - +20 .. + 22 degrees. The relative humidity of the air is high (70-75%) throughout the year, therefore, the heat is especially difficult to endure in summer.

Average annual rainfall in Cuba varies from 860 mm in the southeast of the island to 1,700 mm in its western part. The rainy season is set in Cuba from May to November. During this time, especially between August and November, strong tropical hurricanes emerge in the Caribbean region, which then go to Florida. The rainiest months are June and October, with 180 to 200 mm of precipitation per month. On the coast, the water temperature in winter is about +24 degrees, in summer it warms up to +28 degrees.

Language

The official language is Spanish. However, the hotel staff will answer you in English, German, Italian.

Religion

The majority of believers are Catholics (47%), Protestants (4%) and adherents of the so-called "Santeria" - a syncretic cult based on African pagan beliefs, mixed with the cult of some Christian saints. The church is separated from the state, and freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed.

Population

Population - about 11.4 million people. The majority of the population (about 2/3) are descendants of immigrants from Spain, the rest are negroes, mulattoes, mestizos; there is also a fairly large Chinese colony on the island. The indigenous population of Cuba was completely destroyed during the years of the development of the island by the Spaniards. The Spanish colonists required a lot of manpower to work on the plantations, and they began to import slaves from central Africa. Over 350 years, the Spaniards imported over 1 million African slaves. For the same reason, over 125,000 Chinese were imported to Cuba from Asia between 1853 and 1874. Chinatown has been preserved in Havana to this day. In addition, Indian slaves were imported, but in small numbers, from Yucatan, Central and South America. An intense flow of emigrants was from Spain, Germany, France and Britain.

Cuba received a huge number of emigrants from neighboring islands: 250 thousand arrived from the Antilles - Haiti and Jamaica. From Spain came 850 thousand settlers, but not all of them remained to live in Cuba. At the beginning of the 20th century, many Americans settled in Cuba, who created their colonies on about. Pinos. There were very strong waves of emigration to Cuba during and after the First and Second World Wars. First of all, Jews moved here. The Cuban nation, thus, has absorbed the features of the peoples of the whole world. Today the population of Cuba is 11 million. According to official sources, the composition of the Cuban population is as follows: 65% are white, 12% are blacks, 22% are mulattos.

Electricity

Mains voltage: 220V

Emergency telephones

National Police: 82-0116
Fire brigade: 81-1115
Ambulance: 24-2811

Connection

For telephone conversations within the city limits, payphones are used that work both on coins and on cards (much less often). Calling from a coin machine requires 5 and 20 centavo coins. Calling to other cities or provinces is difficult. International telephone calls are made exclusively from Telecorreos telephone stations, which are available in almost all major hotels. To make a call, you need a special card of 10 or 25 USD (sold by the hotel administrator). Connection statistics and its cost are displayed on the phone display. One minute of international call costs about 6.5 USD. Cellular communications and Internet telephony are poorly developed.

To call Cuba dial 8 - 10 - 53 -<код города> - <номер абонента>... Codes of some cities and provinces: Varadero - 5, Villa Clara - 42, Havana - 7, Granma - 23, Guantanamo - 21, Camaguey - 32, Las Tunas - 31, Matanzas - 52, Holguin - 24, Pinar del- Rio - 82, Playa Larga - 59, Sancti Spiritus - 41, Santiago de Cuba - 226, Ciego de Avila - 33, Cienfuegos - 432, Topes de Collantes - 2, Trinidad - 419, Juventud Island - 61.

Currency exchange

In Cuba, for foreign tourists (one might say) only dollars go. Nobody pays attention to the dilapidation of banknotes. Particular attention should be paid to the fact that upon change you may be given the so-called convertible peso. This kind of peso is equal to the dollar 1: 1. This is a new Cuban banknote that has nothing to do with the "wooden" Cuban pesos. In order not to get into a mess - convertible should be written on the convertible peso. As a rule, they are given in small denomination: 1.5, 10. The exchange rate of the old Cuban peso to the US dollar is approximately 1:25. The convertible Cuban bargaining chip also runs on par with US cents. Often you will be given change by both. Credit cards are also used: VISA, EUROCARD, etc. Due to the political situation, AMERICAN EXPRESS cards are prohibited. You can exchange currency in Cuba at banks and many hotels. When exchanging dollars, a 10% commission is charged on the amount exchanged.

Visa

Citizens of the Russian Federation do not need a visa to visit Cuba for tourism purposes for a period not exceeding 30 days. When entering the country, a passport is required, the validity of which must be at least 6 months after the date of the end of the trip, a return ticket, confirmation of hotel booking, an immigration card in 2 copies. When leaving the country, an airport tax is charged, usually equal to 15-20 Cuban pesos. $ 1 = 0.93 CUC.

Customs regulations

In accordance with the customs legislation of Cuba, duty-free import of 200 pieces is allowed on the territory of the country. cigarettes or 250g of tobacco, 1 liter of alcoholic beverages, 250ml of eau de toilette or 50ml of perfume. The import of narcotic and psychotropic substances, weapons and ammunition, pornographic products, auto parts is prohibited. The export of animals and birds, sea shells, valuable timber, items of historical and cultural value is prohibited. To export cigars, you must have a receipt from the store and the original packaging. Import and export of foreign currency is not limited. Amounts over 5 thousand dollars are subject to mandatory declaration. The export of national currency is allowed within 100 pesos. When leaving the country, an airport tax will be charged.

Holidays and non-working days

National holidays:
January 1st - New Year and Liberation Day
May 1 - Labor Day
July 26 - Day of the beginning of the National Uprising
October 10 - Anniversary of the start of the Cuban War of Independence
December 25 - Christmas

Carnivals, festivals, holidays:
Carnivals in Havana, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba - February
Havana International Jazz Festival - February
Havana Cuban Cigar Festival - February
Varadero Electroacoustic Music Festival - April
Fair in Holguin - May
Havana International Guitar Festival - May
Feast of Saint Juan in Trinidad - June
Chariot Carnival in Havana - June-August
Holguin's Spanish American Culture Festival - October
Havana Latin American Film Festival - December

Transport

Municipal transport in the country is rather dilapidated, there are few buses and they often break down, so tourists are not recommended to use public transport. The main city transport is a bus ("va-va"). There are 2 types of buses - "sit-down", where the number of passengers is clearly limited by the number of seats, and ordinary cars, which are often packed to capacity. There is no timetable at all, the routes are often not marked either. The fare is 1-2 CUP.

For transportation it is recommended to use the so-called "tourist taxis", which are fairly modern cars with a radiotelephone and air conditioning. Payment is made only in dollars (approximately 2 USD for 1.5-2 km.). Tourist taxis can be ordered from any hotel or by phone, while the movement of the car is constantly monitored by operators, which ensures safety. Regular taxis, in which payment is made in pesos, use rather old cars and there are not many of them. Many private traders make money by driving, especially in Varadero and other resort areas. Their prices are somewhat lower than those of state-owned companies, but there is no guarantee either.

The resort of Varadero runs "shuttle buses" whose drivers are quite reliable, as well as tourist buses with a ticket for 4 CUC or EUR for the whole day. Having bought a ticket once, you can ride this bus all day, getting off at any stop and sitting down at any stop an unlimited number of times.

Tips

In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip in the amount of 10% of the amount indicated on the invoice.

The shops

As souvenirs and gifts, it is undoubtedly better to purchase products and jewelry made of coral in combination with silver. Also good are guayabera (tropical shirt), folk percussion instruments, artistic fabrics, embroidery and lace, as well as turtle shell products, especially bracelets and hairpins (beware of fakes!). You should definitely buy Cuban rum and real Cuban cigars, among which the most highly valued brands are Bolivar, Coiba, Montecristo, Partagas, Punch, Ramon Allones, Sancho Panza, H. Upmann "," Romeo and Juliet "and" Trinidad ". Shops are open from 9.00 to 18.00 (some until 20.00) on weekdays, on Saturdays - from 9.00 to 15.00 (some until 18.00). Supermarkets and shops in resort areas are usually open from 10.00 to 20.00. Most small shops have a separate opening hours. Nearly all shops close for siesta around noon.

National cuisine

The basis of the Cuban diet is rice and black beans, pork and chicken. Cubans are not very fond of vegetables, but they adore fruits, there are a lot of them and they are always fresh. Mangoes and bananas are delicious. Baked bananas in Cuban cuisine originate from African slaves. "Fufu" is bananas mixed with other ingredients. Chatinos is a light appetizer for an aperitif, also prepared on the basis of Platanos. Cuban cuisine originated from the combined influence of Spanish and African traditions. The national dish is "el ajiaco" - a stew soup with root vegetables and various vegetables, usually cooked with pork. The flavor depends on the type of root vegetable and the spices used. Other typical dishes are skewered pork, fried banana chips (tachinos, chatinos or tostones), black beans, oriental congri (rice with red beans), drizzle and christianos (rice with black beans), chopped steak in Havanese, tamales, bakanes or ajacas (made from tender corn). If you order fruit juices, require them to be freshly prepared. If your funds are limited, in the snack bars you will be offered a set menu at a fixed price, you can choose the dishes yourself. Ice cream is very popular. There are many small restaurants in Cuban homes where you can eat for about $ 4. When it comes to cuisine, we cannot ignore the Cuban coffee, which Cubans drink in huge quantities throughout the day. Cuban coffee is very strong and sweet. There are many cafes in cities where you can taste various infusions, decoctions and other drinks. Cubans put a lot of sugar in all drinks. The most popular alcoholic beverage is rum. The most famous brand of rum is Havana Club. There are three varieties, Carta Oro (gold), Carta Blanca (white) and Anejo (old), which differ in aging. Cubans' favorite rum is Anejo (about $ 8 per bottle).

sights

Havana- administrative, political, cultural, scientific, as well as the main tourist center of the country, a cosmopolitan province. Havana is visited annually by more than half of all foreign tourists who come to the country. Its main charm is the city itself with a variety of architecture, wide avenues and famous boulevards, and in particular its historical center, declared in 1982 by UNESCO - the Heritage of Humanity. The starting point of the excursion can be El Templete- a small neoclassical chapel built in 1828 on the site where the city is believed to have been founded; Armory Square(Plaza de Armas), Cathedral Square(Plaza de la Catedral) and Old square(Plaza Vieja), around which are grouped the magnificent old buildings and structures that were part of the walled city at one time. Memorial Jose Martí opened in 1996, it houses various relics, original objects, documents and engravings related to the life and work of the apostle of the Cuban Revolution. At the top of the obelisk - a concrete, marble-faced tower 138.5 m above sea level - is the highest observation deck of the capital. More than 47 thousand exhibits are stored in the funds Palace of Fine Arts, which, after careful work on expansion, reorganization and restoration, is now considered one of the most significant among such institutions in the world. National botanical garden occupies an area of ​​600 hectares. It is divided into 18 zones, and about a fifth of it is dedicated to native plants. One of the main attractions - Japanese garden donated by the government of this country in 1989 and created by the master of garden art Yoshikuni Arake.

Provinces Santiago de Cuba has two features that make it unique: its hospitable, cheerful and carefree people and rich cultural and historical heritage. Differs in great originality main city province, founded in 1514, and its most important feature is a magnificent bay surrounded by high mountains, over which reigns fortress of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro, in 1997 proclaimed by UNESCO - the property of humanity. A similar status was recently given to a system of agro-industrial structures and the remains of more than a hundred coffee plantations in the area of ​​Mount Gran Piedra, which were created by the French who fled from Haiti. Cespedes Square is the busiest place in the city. The square is surrounded by buildings of great architectural and historical value: this House-Museum of Diego Velazquez, City Cathedral, former Ayuntamiento- the city council, where the provincial government is now located, and the Casa Grande Hotel. The only stepped street in Cuba Padre Pico street, is a natural observation deck. Here is the border between the upper and lower parts of the city. The street goes down to the Tivoli area, where the famous Santiaga carnival is held. The Castle of San Pedro de la Roca del Morro is a Roman-style military structure with two blind moats and two symmetrical three-tiered bastions where the cannons were installed. Its construction began in the 16th century and was completed two centuries later. Now here is Piracy museum.

Trinidad de Cuba- a city-museum of colonial architecture, declared by UNESCO as the heritage of mankind and a cultural monument of world significance. The city was founded in 1514 by Diego Velazquez. The main cities of the province of Sancti Spiritus and Santisima Trinidad de Cuba are two of the first seven cities founded by the Spanish conquistadors on the island. Times have changed, but Trinidad itself is still the same as it was 2 centuries ago with its Baroque churches, red tile roofs, cobblestones and wrought iron bars. It is especially recommended to pay attention to The Romantic Museum, the Museum of Architecture, the Archaeological Museum, the Anti-Bandit Museum, the Alexander Humboldt Natural Science Museum and the Guamuaya Archaeological Museum.

Matanzas - the main city of the province - called Cuban Athens, as it is the land of poets, or Cuban Venice - due to the fact that the city is crossed by two rivers - Yumuri and San Juan, through which five bridges are thrown for the convenience of pedestrians and transport - and guests will it is interesting to get acquainted with the rich cultural heritage of this calm city, which has grown on the shores of a huge bay. In the southern part of the province there is Zapata peninsula- a real paradise for lovers of ecological tourism, but in addition, they will undoubtedly be delighted by the fabulously beautiful Yumuri Valley and the banks of the Canimar River, which can be admired from bakunayagua bridge- a pearl of Cuban engineering, this 110 m high bridge is the highest in the country. Vikhia Square is the place of the foundation of the city, from where it began its growth. The square is surrounded by architecturally interesting buildings - Sauto Theater, Junko Palace Museum, the building of the fire department and others. Freedom Square(Plaza de la Libertad) - the city's second Arms Square, which overlooks the White Concert Hall, named after the famous black violinist Jose White, the Triolet Pharmaceutical Museum and the Government House. On the western shore of the Matanzas bay rises San Severino Castle... For its size, it is considered one of the most important Spanish fortresses in America. In the vicinity of the town of Matanzas, there are the Bellamar caves. About 30 rooms have been studied, where large rock paintings, fossils and traces of the habitation of people who lived here 1,600 years ago have been discovered.

Resorts

Varadero- the main zone of the Cuban archipelago, attracting those who prefer to relax by the sea, enjoys a well-deserved international fame. This resort on the Icacos peninsula has a stretch of beaches over 20 km long, covered with fine white sand and washed by a sea that shimmers in a variety of shades of blue; one fifth of its territory is part of ecological reserves. In addition, the peninsula has many caves, scenic escarpments and lagoons; a series of virgin and easily accessible islets stretch along the coast. Varadero's features are complemented by its cultural, historical and natural attractions, closely related to the neighboring towns of Matanzas and Cardenas and the Cienaga de Zapata biosphere reserve, as well as a number of modern comfortable hotels and a wide infrastructure of service enterprises.

Province lying in the north-east of the country Holguin famous for being the land where Cuba was discovered. Admiral Christopher Columbus first set foot on the island's land in a place called Cayo Bariai, where a memorial complex now exists. It was October 27, 1492. The main city of the province with the same name is also called the City of Squares; it has a strong Spanish influence, its straight streets show that it was built according to a strict plan. The city has an active cultural life, especially in May, when the May Fair takes place, and in October, when the Ibero-American Culture Festival is celebrated. There are 41 beaches along more than 40 kilometers of coastline, among which foreign tourists prefer the beaches of Guardalavaca, Playa Esmeralda and Playa Pesquero with an exceptionally beautiful seabed. This province is also home to Banes, considered the archaeological capital of Cuba, as more than anywhere else in the archipelago, traces of Aboriginal habitation have been found. Among the 22 bays in the province of Holguín, there is one of the largest in the world and in Cuba - the Bay of Nipe. But the province also has forests and hills with steep slopes and massive peaks.

Cayo Largo is a small group of islands located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, 177 km from Havana and 170 km from Varadero. It serves as a refuge for hundreds of birds of the tropical fauna: flamingos, hummingbirds, gray herons and many others. There is a direct air link with both Havana and Varadero. From other tourist spots in Cuba, you can also book a special excursion here. You can get around the island on foot, by bike or by car. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are warmer than those of the Atlantic Ocean off the northern coast of Cuba, which leads to a richer marine life off the coast of the island. The tourist infrastructure has everything you need to ensure that you are satisfied with your stay on this paradise island. Here you can visit a turtle farm and just a beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Cayo coco- the fourth largest island in Cuba, the main tourist island of the Jardines del Rey archipelago (Royal Gardens). It is connected to the main island by a 17-kilometer dam road that runs along the Sobak Bay. Before the advent of tourism infrastructure, Cayo Coco was known mainly for the beautiful pineapples that grow here. To the north, there are magnificent beaches not even with white sand, but snow-white. In addition to coral beaches, considered some of the finest in the entire Caribbean, there are stunning conditions for diving, fishing and water sports. The small island is a permanent home for flamingos, white ibises, pelicans, herons, torticollis and vultures. Near the island of Cayo Coco, a little to the west is Cayo Guillermo island... This island is also connected to the “mainland” by means of an embankment dam.

Island Cayo santa maria is located in the Atlantic Ocean, near the islands of Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo and is located opposite the northern coast of the province of Villa Clara. The island is connected to the mainland by a dam 48.6 km long. The distance to the international airport of Santa Clara is about 110 km and 386 km to Havana. The location of Santa Maria is unique. You can combine a relaxing time on the beach with an active culture and entertainment program. There are small islets near the island of Cayo Santa Maria Las Brujas and Ensenchos... All three islands have beautiful beaches with soft white sand and very clear waters. Their attractive surroundings are great for fishing, diving, water sports and boat trips along the canals that separate the islets. There is an airport on the island of Las Brujas, where local airlines fly from Havana. On the island of Cayo Santa Maria there is a hotel of the Spanish group SOL MELIA: SOL CAYO SANTA MARIA 4 *, ALL INCLUSIVE.

Coast Playa Esmeralda is located in the east of the island of Cuba, in the province of Holguín. The highest mountain peak in Cuba is located here and it is here that the most diverse nature is located: more than a hundred beaches, many caves, rivers, mountains, waterfalls and natural springs. It was on this coast that the historic meeting of the sailors of Columbus with the Tainos Indians took place. Holguín province produces the best Cuban beer, the best fishing, the best diving, the most beautiful places. On the beaches of Playa Esmeralda, you can practice almost all types of water sports. Among them are windsurfing, sailing, water cycling, snorkeling. Diving is especially popular - there are about 20 diving sites in the Playa Esmeralda area.

Cuba is a unique country. No matter how sophisticated the tourist is, this island will always remain a dream. The amazing history of this country, its location, fauna, culture - everything here captures, everything excites.

People come here with children; adventure lovers are looking for extreme here; here they stop in pairs and one at a time in order to retire, live away from civilization, in harmony with nature.

But, of course, Cuba is most attracted to modern youth. Free, noisy, funny, it is simply created for those who cannot imagine their life without stormy parties, dancing, and all kinds of entertainment.

Moreover, the myth that living costs in Cuba are higher than in other countries is slowly dissipating. The Caribbean... Having dinner at an inexpensive restaurant and renting a not the most expensive room, you can easily keep within 50 $ per day. But you will have enough impressions for a lifetime.

Climate and weather

The tropical, trade-wind climate of the island of Cuba provides reasonably high temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature here is about +25.5 ° C... Coldest month - January (+22, 5 ° C), the hottest - August (27.8 ° C)... The water near the coast remains warm almost all year round: from +22 ° C - in winter and from +28 ° C - in summer... The average annual rainfall is also quite high - about 1500 mm. Mostly these are showers. However, very dry years are not so rare in Cuba.

In general, the climatic seasons on the island are quite distinct: May-September is the rainy season, October-April is dry. The autumn-summer period is characterized by heavy rainfall, often with strong winds.

Humidity is very high all year round.

Nature

Cuba is rich in man-made sights, which millions of people from all over the world dream to touch. However, natural ensembles, striking in their beauty, are of no less value: paradise beaches tens of kilometers away, fabulous uninhabited islands with palm groves and mangrove thickets, karst caves and low picturesque mountains.

The relief of Cuba is flat, but the bizarre forms of the highest the Sierra Maestra mountain range, stretching along the southeastern coast for hundreds of kilometers, is impressive even for experienced travelers.

Cuba is distinguished by the richest fauna and flora. Some plant species are not found anywhere else in the world. And the variety of exotic species of butterflies and birds is simply amazing!

sights

Of the cities and regions that you need to visit when traveling in Cuba, you can name:

• Havana;
• Santiago de Cuba;
• Holguin.

In the capital alone, there are about 1000 buildings of architectural value! The most famous are the Cathedral Square and Cathedral of St. Christopher(XVII century), the building of the former governor's palace Cubes, fortresses La Cabana and La Fuersa(XVI century). It is very popular among tourists Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, and Ernest Hemingway House Museum... Of course, Cuba's nightlife is also concentrated here in the capital.

Getting into Santiago de Cuba- the second largest city in Cuba - tourists usually head to the picturesque city Cespedes Park... This is perhaps one of the main attractions of the city. Besides, Santiago de Cuba, the former capital, can be considered the center of the cultural life of the island: numerous museums, theaters, cathedrals attract here those who want not only to enjoy the beauty of Cuba, but also to learn more about its history.

The most popular resort on the island is Varadero(province of Matanzas)... The local beaches are among the top three in the world, and their surroundings are ideal for leisure travelers with a wide variety of tastes and hobbies. There is also a dolphinarium - an essential attribute of any resort - where anyone can not only admire the local inhabitants, but also swim with them.

The second most important resort region - Holguin... It is here that the most beautiful in Cuba is located Playa Esmeralda beach... The region's wealth also includes six waterfalls and a rich fauna. In addition, Holguin is often called the city of squares. Walking here is not only pleasant, but also interesting: the city is very diverse in terms of architecture.

Nutrition

Cubans have a wide variety of food tastes. The traditions of Spain, Africa, the Caribbean islands are mixed in the cuisine of this country. Here they respect meat and do not do without vegetables and fruits. A separate culinary topic - bananas... Cubans have dozens of cooking options and hundreds of banana-based dishes. They are fried and baked, and used as an ingredient in sauce, and played as a dessert.

By the way, desserts in Cuba are sweet. Popular here mousses, puddings, ice cream... Tropical fruits and sugarcane make many delicious syrups.

The locals are especially honored by coffee. It is drunk very strong and sweet throughout the day. Among alcoholic drinks, the favorite among the Cubans is rum... It is customary to serve table wine for lunch and dinner.

The best food in Cuba is in restaurants located in private houses. They're called paladares... Lunch in such a restaurant will cost you about 7 $ , which is two times less than in a state restaurant. You can also grab a bite to eat in the city by purchasing a pizza or sandwich from street vendors.

In Cuba restaurants, it is customary to tip on the basis of 10% of the order value. It is better to give money to the waiter personally.

Accommodation

Most of the hotels located in the resorts of Cuba have a five-star status. The beaches adjacent to these hotels are usually very well equipped with everything you need to relax. Meals are usually organized according to the principle of a buffet, less often - according to the menu. The cost of an all-inclusive room in such a hotel will be close to 100 $ ... For comparison: the same room in a state-owned middle-class hotel will cost about 35 $ , and in private - in 15-25 $ .

Almost all hotels in Cuba have a car rental department.

Entertainment and recreation

Of course, when it comes to entertainment in Cuba, first of all I want to talk about the island's nightlife. By the number of clubs, bars, discos, it is Freedom Island that takes the first place in The Caribbean... Lovers of music and dance come here simply to immerse themselves in this environment. Particularly rich nightlife in the capital. Havana is ready to meet any request. Cabarets, jazz clubs, Latin American shows - the nightlife in the Cuban capital is varied in rhythm. By the way, anyone can learn Afro-Cuban dancing: dance lessons are organized right at the hotels.

Clubs and restaurants are not the only way for Cubans and visitors to the island. Diving, fishing and hunting are extremely popular here. There is something to do here for lovers of speleology: huge karst caves captivate both professionals and simply curious tourists.

Cuba hosts many celebrations and festivals throughout the year. The Fire Festival and Carnival in Santiago de Cuba (held in summer) are especially spectacular. The island hosts the Cuban Music Festival in August.

Purchases

It is better to buy food in Cuba in supermarkets or shops. In the shops INTUR tiendas you can buy clothes, food, medicines, souvenirs for currency. By the way, about souvenirs. You probably want to buy one or two bottles. Cuban rum and cigars. Rum can also be selected in the store (a bottle costs from 5 $ ), but to buy good cigars, it is better to contact Real Fabrica de Tabaco Partagas... There is a shop on the first floor of the factory that sells all types of cigars.

Surely in the first days of your stay in Cuba you will want to buy a T-shirt with the image of the symbol of all revolutions - Che Guevara... Although it will be better if you follow the example of the locals and buy shirt-guaberu, in which you can easily endure any heat.

Excellent souvenirs for friends and family can be not only rum and cigars, but also other exclusively " Cuban»Accessories: straw hats, wicker shoes, hammock. To prolong the festive mood (there is no other in Cuba!), Audio-CDs with the recording of temperamental local music bought in Havana will help.

When going shopping, do not forget that Cubans sacredly honor traditions: a four-hour rest in the afternoon is a must. However, it is not only about traditions: the scorching sun simply does not allow full-fledged work.

And one more important note. Icon $ on the price tag means nothing more than the word " price". But the real value of the goods is most often indicated in pesos.

When buying crocodile leather goods, ask the seller for an export license, otherwise the souvenir may be seized at customs.

Transport

The main airport of Cuba is the International Airport named after Jose Marty located 18 km from Havana... As for municipal transport, alas, its state is deplorable. There are very few city buses, moreover, they often break down. There is no schedule as such. If you are planning to move within the city, rent a bike: this type of transport is common here.

Communication between cities is also poorly established. Buses and minibuses are almost always packed and run poorly. Tickets for them must be bought in advance.

In general, a tourist in Cuba cannot do without a car. And with this, fortunately, there are no special problems. All that is required to rent a car is a driver's license and at least a year of driving experience. True, this service is quite expensive - 60 $ per day. But believe me, there is simply no better way to see Cuba.

As for the quality of the roads, then, as you might have guessed, there are problems. rules road traffic standard, but pointers and markup are almost non-existent. Service stations are also, in general, a rarity. Therefore, when renting a car, do not be lazy to check if everything is in order with the car. This includes checking if the tank is full.

The only plus - "tourist" cars (they have a special color of the number) enjoy benefits, and the police simply do not pay attention to minor violations.

Connection

Today Cuba is served by the only telecom operator - the company ETECSA... The current standard is GSM 900, in some areas - GSM 850. You can buy a phone card at any hotel or store.

Calling from a pay phone abroad is cheaper than from a hotel room (approximately 5 $ for a minute of conversation with Moscow). And not every hotel has a telephone with international communication.

Today there are 2 Internet providers operating on the island.

Security

As for the safety of your stay on the island, various kinds of threats can await you everywhere, despite the fact that Cuba is a fairly safe country. First tip: don't walk around Old Havana after 10pm. If only because at this time the lights are turned off in the city. It is better to keep documents in the room, in a special safe (if available, of course).

Smoking in public places is strictly prohibited. It is not recommended to give alms to the poor: it is punishable by law.

Beware of the Cuban sun: you can get burns even in cloudy weather. Use protective equipment and be sure to cover your head. Be careful when swimming: you can easily injure yourself in the sea. sea ​​urchin or sharp coral. Jellyfish can be extremely dangerous.

Business climate

The country's two main sources of income are sugar production and tourism. It is the tourism industry that is developing at a rapid pace, attracting more and more foreign investors. In addition, Cuba is a world leader in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

V this moment Cuba is at the center of the world's business community. Liberty Island amazes with its perspectives, but, at the same time, is one of the most closed countries in the world. A huge plus is the absence of taxes for foreign entrepreneurs. Among the disadvantages are poor infrastructure and the possibility of starting a business solely in partnership with a state-owned enterprise. It is not yet possible to register your company in Cuba.

Real estate

One of the most pressing problems in Cuba is housing. Most of the housing stock has long been in need of reconstruction and overhaul. As for buying a home on the island, such an operation is, in general, impossible for an ordinary foreigner. Even with millions of dollars in your pocket, you won't be able to buy a home here. Of course, there is an unofficial real estate market, but, of course, such a purchase has no guarantees. Although the prices are quite reasonable: an apartment in an old panel building can cost from 15 000 $ ... And in the provinces - several times less.

• Cubans are generally very cheerful, talkative, sociable and hospitable. But they are very proud. They will, of course, try to speak to you in English, but if you say even a few phrases in bad Spanish, the Cuban will love you for sure.
• You should also know some of the traditions of the Cubans if you are planning to visit Liberty Island. In order not to offend the good-natured Cuban, you should never refuse an offer for a drink or dinner. It is advisable to accompany requests with special appeals: Mi amor, mi corazon- when talking with a woman, "Amigo", "viejo"- when talking with a man.
• Take pictures of industrial buildings and military equipment is prohibited in Cuba, but Cubans themselves, as a rule, willingly pose for the lens. Of course, before you can capture the colorful appearance of the inhabitant of the island, you need to ask permission.

Visa information

Tourists from Russia do not need a visa to Cuba if the period of their visit to the country does not exceed 30 days. In order to cross the state border, you need to present a passport valid for the duration of your stay in Cuba, 2 copies of a migration card (one of which must be kept before departure from the country), as well as return tickets. Must have cash at the rate of $ 50 per day for 1 person. This does not apply to tourists using the services of travel agencies.

However, you can take care of a visa in advance by contacting the consular section of the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Moscow. Among the documents submitted to the visa department must be a passport (its validity should not expire earlier than 6 months from the date of arrival in the country), copies of round-trip tickets, confirmation of hotel reservation (travel agency voucher or invitation of a specific person), as well as a photo size 3x4 cm. The consular fee will be $ 30 and the visa will be valid for one month.

For more specific information on obtaining a visa to the Republic of Cuba, please contact: 119017, Moscow, st. Bolshaya Ordynka, 66.

Picturesque coastlines, tropical climate, exotic flora and fauna, as well as vintage cars driving along city streets - all this is fabulous Cuba. It is not surprising that this place beckons tourists. By the way, Cuba has a second name (albeit unofficial) - since 1959, the country has proudly called itself the Island of Freedom.

What language is spoken in Cuba? The question is really interesting, since before colonization the island was inhabited by Indian tribes. Let's take a closer look at this point.

A little about the population of Cuba

Before the Spaniards began to colonize the island, the tribes of the Siboneans, Indians of the Arawak group, Guanahanabes, and also settlers from Haiti lived here. The languages ​​that were then spoken in Cuba have long been considered dead. They have not influenced (or have had minimal impact) on what language is spoken in Cuba today.

The Spaniards exterminated most of the Indian tribes. They began to bring slaves from Africa to Cuba, and in considerable quantities - more than a million people were transported in three and a half hundred years.

Galicians, Castilians, Navarrians, Catalans also began to arrive from Spain. In addition to them, the French, Germans, Italians and British moved to the island.

In the middle of the 19th century, the Chinese began to be imported into Cuba. In subsequent years, more than 125,000 people were transported here.

Also in the late XIX - early XX century, the population of the Canary Islands actively emigrated to Cuba.

At the beginning of the 20th century, many Americans also settled on the island and established colonies on the island of Pinos.

During the First and Second World Wars, more and more immigrants appeared in Cuba, first of all, Jews moved here.

One can imagine how diverse the population of the island has become! Now more than 11 million people live here, and the data on the racial composition of the country is very ambiguous, so the question of what languages ​​are currently spoken in Cuba becomes even more interesting.

Official language of Cuba

What language do absolutely everyone in Cuba speak? The official language here is Spanish. But, of course, it is different from European Spanish. The dialects of African slaves brought into the island centuries ago have greatly influenced. Many other immigrants from different countries also contributed to the language that is now spoken in Cuba. As a result, the Cuban dialect (it is also called Cuban Spanish) appeared - Español cubano.

What is interesting about the Cuban dialect?

I must say that most of all Español cubano is similar to the Canarian dialect. This is due to the fact that in the late 19th - early 20th centuries, residents of the Canary Islands moved to Cuba, which influenced which version of the language is now spoken in Cuba.

Cuban Spanish has its own nuances of pronunciation, which at first may seem unusual to those who speak classical Spanish.

The second person pronouns in the plural are not used here - the Cubans speak to everyone only in "you", although in fairness it should be noted that in the east of the island there is also an appeal to "you". The dialect of the eastern part of Cuba is closer to the variant of the Spanish language of the Dominican Republic.

In Cuba, contains words that are characteristic only of the Cuban dialect. It is customary to call them "Kubanisms". Again, many Kubanisms are associated with the vocabulary of the Canarian dialect.

In addition, in the Cuban version of the Spanish language there are borrowings from English, French and Russian. The political situation in Cuba contributed to the emergence of the words compañero / compañera, which translates as "comrade". Here this word is used instead of señor / señora ("lord" / "mistress").

What other languages ​​do they speak in Cuba?

What language is spoken in Cuba other than Spanish? A small number of residents of Liberty Island speak Russian - this is the same generation that studied in the Soviet Union. Many of them remember Russian well.

Some of the Cubans also speak English and French. Knowledge of English, of course, helps them in the tourism business.

Cuba(Spanish Cuba), the official name is the Republic of Cuba (Spanish República de Cuba), unofficial since 1959 - the Island of Liberty) - an island state in the northern Caribbean. The country occupies the territory of the island of Cuba as part of the Greater Antilles, Juventud Island and many smaller islands. Cuba is separated from North America by the Florida Strait in the north and the Yucatan Strait in the west.

The capital and largest city is Havana.

Geographical position

Cuba is located at the junction of North, Central and South America, on the island of Cuba (the largest in the West Indies), the island of Juventud, as well as on the adjoining 1600 small islands and coral reefs belonging to the Greater Antilles group. The coastline is characterized by deep bays and many convenient bays. The island is surrounded by reefs and other coral formations.

The territory of Cuba is 111 thousand km². The island, which stretches from west to east for 1250 km, is often compared to a lizard, whose body is facing the Atlantic, and the tail is at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico. In the south, Cuba is washed by the Caribbean Sea, in the northwest by the Gulf of Mexico, and in the northeast by the Atlantic Ocean. The distance from Cuba to the United States at the narrowest point of the Florida Strait is 180 km, to the island of Haiti through the Windward Strait - 77 km, to the island of Jamaica through the Strait of Colon - 140 km, to Mexico through the Yucatan Strait - 210 km.

Relief

The relief of Cuba is predominantly flat. Hills and mountains occupy about a third of the territory. The highest mountain range, the Sierra Maestra, stretches along the southeastern coast for 250 km. Its highest point is Turkino Peak (1972 m). The picturesque low mountains located in the west of the island are intricately dissected and poorly populated.

Karst is widely developed in Cuba; therefore, many caves, including large ones, are known. So, in the west, the Santo Tomas Cave has an extensive network of underground galleries with a total length of 25 km. Often there are so-called "mogotes" - forms of tropical karst, which are hills with almost vertical slopes and flat tops. About 2/3 of the entire area of ​​Cuba is occupied by slightly hilly plains. They are the most populated and developed. The shores are usually low, sometimes swampy, in many cases overgrown with mangrove thickets. There are often sandy beaches that stretch for many kilometers (for example, on the Icacos Peninsula, where the famous resort of Varadero is located).

Minerals

Cuba occupies one of the leading places in the world in nickel mining (second in the world in reserves and third in production), has significant reserves of chromium, manganese, iron and copper ores, asbestos, rock salt, phosphorites. Oil and gas fields have been discovered in the west of the country.

Climate

Cuba's climate is tropical, trade wind. The average annual temperature is 25.5 ° C. The average temperature of the coldest month (January) is 22.5 ° C and the hottest month (August) is 27.8 ° C. Temperature surface waters off the coast it is 22-24 ° C in winter, 28-30 ° C in summer. The average annual amount of precipitation, which usually falls in the form of rainstorms, is 1400 mm, but dry years also often occur.

Cuba has two distinct climatic seasons: rainy (May-October) and dry (November-April). The rainy season accounts for 3/4 of the total annual precipitation.

A characteristic feature of the Cuban climate is the typical high humidity throughout the year. The combination of high humidity and high temperature has an overall adverse effect on human life. However, on the coast, the wind from the sea moderates the heat, brings freshness, and in the evenings and coolness. In any place the winds are characterized by a certain constancy, therefore it is often possible to see trees, the trunks of which also have a corresponding slope.

Cuba is susceptible to tropical cyclones, which originate in the summer-autumn period (June - mid-November) east of the Lesser Antilles and in the west of the Caribbean Sea, then moving towards Florida. Typhoons are accompanied by heavy downpours and strong winds that can cause great damage to the economy and the population of the island. Rivers in Cuba are short, not full of water. Forests, covering about 10% of the territory, have survived only in mountainous and swampy areas. The fauna of the land is relatively poor. At the same time, the waters surrounding Cuba contain valuable commercial fish, molluscs, lobsters, shrimps and sponges.

Administrative division

Cuba is a unitary state. The National Territory is divided for political and administrative purposes into 14 provinces and the special municipality of Juventud Island.

• Juventud Island (Spanish Isla de la Juventud)
• Pinar del Rio
• Havana (Spanish: La Habana)
• City of Havana (Spanish: Ciudad de La Habana)
• Matanzas (Spanish Matanzas) Cienfuegos (Spanish Cienfuegos)
• Villa Clara
• Sancti Spiritus
• Ciego de Avila
• Camagüey Las Tunas
• Granma (Spanish: Granma)
• Holguin (Spanish Holguin)
• Santiago de Cuba (Spanish: Santiago de Cuba)
• Guantanamo (Spanish Guantanamo)

On the island of Cuba there is a railway (Cuban Railway, Spanish Ferrocarriles de Cuba), a network highways... There are sea and air links with other countries. Cubana de Aviación, the leading airline in Cuba, has offices in 32 countries.

Connection

After Castro came to power, the development of telecommunications on the island was extremely difficult. Cuba, however, was helped a lot by the Soviet Union, which provided some resources, for example, communication channels.

In 2003, there were 2 Internet providers operating on the island. National domain.cu.

Today, Cuba has the only mobile operator, ETECSA under the Cubacel brand. An interesting fact is that until 2008 the use of mobile services for ordinary residents of the country was prohibited. Only foreign citizens and senior officials of the country were allowed to use mobile communication services. After Raul Castro abolished the rules for using mobile phones in the country, the national telecom operator - ETECSA - from April 14, 2008 began to provide communication services for ordinary citizens. In Cuba, the GSM 900 standard is currently in force, and in some areas of Havana and the resort of Varadero - GSM 850.

Population

Cubans are a people of mixed origin. By the time the Spaniards appeared here, Cuba was inhabited by the tribes of the Siboneans, Indians of the Arawak group, Guanahanabes and Indians who moved from Haiti. But as a result of Spanish colonization, the Indians were mostly exterminated.

Since the Spanish colonists needed a lot of labor, primarily to work on the plantations, they began to import slaves from central Africa (mainly Yoruba, Ashanti, Ewe, Congo). Over 350 years, the Spaniards imported more than 1 million African slaves, their descendants make up 40% of the population. For the same reason, over 125,000 Chinese were imported from Asia between 1853 and 1874. Chinatown has been preserved in Havana to this day. In addition, Indian slaves were imported, but in small numbers, from Yucatan, Central and South America. During the same period, 850,000 immigrants arrived from Spain, mainly Galicians, Castilians, Navarrians, Catalans, however, it should be noted that not all of them remained to live in Cuba. They are collectively called Gallego (Galician). Since the end of the 18th century. there was also a large stream of French from Haiti and Louisiana. Quite an intensive flow of immigrants was also from Germany, Italy and Britain. At the beginning of the 20th century, many Americans settled in Cuba, who created their colonies on about. Pinos (present. Juventud Island). There were very strong waves of immigration to Cuba during and after the first and second world wars, first of all, Jews moved here.

Data on the racial makeup of Cuba are inconsistent. According to official data, the population of Cuba consists of white - 65.1%, mulattos - 24.8%, blacks - 10.1% (according to the 2002 census). According to the Institute of Cuban Studies at the University of Miami, 68% of Cubans are blacks and mulattoes. The international minority rights group claims that 51% of the population is mulatto.

In 1953, the proportion of the white population was 84%, but then declined, mainly as a result of emigration after the revolution.

History

The first of the Europeans to find themselves here was Columbus, who landed in the east of the archipelago in October 1492. In 1511 Diego Velazquez de Cuellar subdued the indigenous population of the islands, built Fort Baracoa and became the first Spanish governor of Cuba. By 1514, seven settlements were founded. In 1515, Cuellar moved his headquarters to Santiago de Cuba, which became the first capital of Cuba. Colonization took place in a struggle with the indigenous population of the island - the Taino Indians, who constituted 75% of the population.
In 1823, the first independence uprising was suppressed.
In 1868, Cuba's Ten Years War of Independence began; the rebels were supported by the United States. Military operations culminated in 1872-1873, but then the rebels fought only in the eastern provinces, Camaguey and Oriente. In 1878, a peace agreement was signed that eliminated the most unpleasant legislative acts for the inhabitants of the island.
In 1895, a detachment of Cuban patriots led by José Martí landed in Cuba. This event became the starting point of a new war with the Spaniards, during which the Cubans gained control over almost the entire territory of the island, excluding large cities (see Cuba's War of Independence).
In 1898, the United States launched a war with Spain, in which it was victorious. Cuba becomes dependent on the United States. The constitution stipulated the right of the United States to send troops into the country. This item was canceled in 1934.
In 1933, as a result of a coup organized by revolutionaries led by Sergeant Fulgencio Batista, the dictator Gerardo Machado y Morales was overthrown and a democratic regime established.
On March 10, 1952, Fulgencio Batista carried out a coup d'etat and established a personal dictatorship.
On July 26, 1953, a group of revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro attempted to seize the Moncada barracks. The attempt was unsuccessful, and the participants in the assault ended up in prisons, but this event became the starting point of the Cuban revolution. In 1955, the revolutionaries were amnestied. On December 2, 1956, a new group of revolutionaries disembarked from the yacht Granma in the east of the island and began military action against the Batista government.
On January 1, 1959, dictator Batista fled Cuba. At that time, the rebel forces occupied the city of Santa Clara in the center of the island and controlled large tracts of terrain in the east, although the capital was not in immediate danger, and significant military forces remained at Batista's disposal. In the conditions of the power vacuum resulting from Batista's flight, on January 8, the rebel column entered Havana, where it was greeted with popular jubilation.

As a result of the victory of the revolution, power in Cuba was given to the government of the "left" orientation, headed by Fidel Castro, who then leaned on the path of building socialism and is in power to this day. The ruling and only authorized party in the country is the Cuban Communist Party. The government of Fidel Castro carried out an agrarian reform, the nationalization of industrial assets, launched widespread social transformations, which alienated many groups of the population, and the process resulted in a massive emigration of disaffected, mainly to the United States, where a large diaspora of opponents of Castro and his policies was created.
In April 1961, Cuban emigrants, with the active support of the United States, landed an armed assault on the southern coast of the island with the aim of organizing a massive uprising against the policies of the new government in the future, but the intervention was quickly suppressed, and the expected social explosion did not occur. Subsequently, the émigré organizations have repeatedly organized terrorist attacks and small-scale landings in Cuba, but without much results.

From the early 1960s to the early 1990s, Cuba was an ally of the USSR, which provided significant financial, economic and political support, actively supported Marxist rebels and Marxist regimes in Latin America (Puerto Rico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Panama, Bolivia, Peru , Brazil, Argentina, Chile), Africa (Ethiopia, Angola) and Asia, and pursued a humanitarian assistance policy different countries the world. In the late 1980s, more than 70,000 Cubans were abroad on military and humanitarian missions.

Immediately with the revolution of 1959, political repressions began (see repressions during the period of Castro's rule), primarily directed against the leaders of the ousted regime of the dictator Batista and CIA agents.

Castro reacted negatively to the policy of perestroika in the USSR and even banned the distribution in Cuba of a number of Soviet publications (Moskovskie Novosti, Novoye Vremya, etc.), and at the same time supported Gorbachev's main opponent, Yeltsin. According to Yeltsin's recollections, Castro expressed sympathy for him both during the years of disgrace and later, after his coming to power, despite the obvious anti-socialist nature of the reforms in Russia.

With the collapse of the USSR, Cuba suffered huge economic losses (up to half of its GDP), and analysts predicted the imminent fall of the Castro government, but by 1994 the situation had basically stabilized, and the country's economic condition is currently assessed by international organizations as quite satisfactory.

On February 19, 2008, through the Granma newspaper, Fidel Castro announced his resignation from the post of Chairman of the State Council and Commander-in-Chief of Cuban troops. “To my dear fellow citizens, who gave me the immeasurable honor of electing me a member of Parliament, in which the most important decisions for the fate of the revolution will be adopted, I inform in circulation.

Observers are concerned about the political stability of Cuba with the transfer of power from Fidel Castro to his heirs.

State structure

Public administration is a republic. The legislature is a unicameral parliament (National Assembly).

Executive power belongs to the chairman of the State Council (head of state) and the chairman of the Council of Ministers (head of government).

Economy

Benefits: The tourism industry attracts foreign investors. Export of sugar and nickel. Elite cigars. The banking sector is strengthening.

Weaknesses: Due to the US embargo, lack of access to important markets and investments. Acute foreign exchange deficit. Fluctuations in world prices for sugar and nickel. Complicated trade restrictions and lack of legal regulations discourage investment. Bad infrastructure. Lack of fuel, fertilizers and spare parts. 2001 hurricane damage

There are different points of view regarding the level of development of Cuba before the revolution. According to a number of sources, in terms of GNP per capita, Cuba was ahead of Spain and Japan at that time. Robin Blackburn also wrote that Cuba was one of the richest countries in the underdeveloped category. Professor Maurice Halperin, who worked in Cuba immediately after the revolution, objected to the application of the term "underdeveloped" to pre-revolutionary Cuba, which, in his words, evoked false associations with truly backward countries, and suggested calling it "moderately developed." On the other hand, the Groningen Growth and Development Center, having carried out their own retrospective calculations using a special method, received data stating that Cuba in 1958 was inferior to these countries and a number of Latin American ones.

According to statistics, in 1951 in Cuba there were 122 thousand cars per 5.5 million population, that is, 1 car for 41 people. At the same time, according to the authors of the Area Handbook for Cuba, “all this, as a fact, does not matter, since there were de facto two Cubes, in one the elite lived beautifully and comfortably, and in the other the most necessary things for life were not available ".

In 1960, a massive nationalization of the private sector was carried out. Cuba currently has one of the most nationalized economies in the world. In the second half of the 1960s. the government has tried to move away from central planning in favor of sectoral planning and is shifting to experimentation involving moral incentives and widespread free forced labor. Falling production levels and avoiding forced labor forced a return to Soviet-style central planning. In the 1970s - 80s. with the help of the countries of the socialist bloc in Cuba, the basis of the industry is being created.

After the collapse of the USSR, there was a reduction in purchases of Cuban sugar and the termination of economic assistance. For 1989-1993. Cuba's GDP fell by a third. Economic collapse was avoided by opening the country for foreign capital in industry and tourism.

Venezuela (Hugo Chavez is a personal friend of Fidel Castro) provides Cuba with cheap oil; Cuba provides medical assistance to Venezuela.

According to official data, in 2006 GDP growth was 12.5%. According to the CIA handbook, in 2007 real GDP growth was 7%.

The main branch of the Cuban economy is the sugar industry. The capacities of the sugar factories of Cuba are capable of processing 670 thousand tons of sugar cane per day (production of 9-9.5 million tons of sugar per year). In the past, the industry has developed extensively thanks to the support of the CMEA.

The Cuban government, in order to attract foreign investment, creates free economic zones (FEZ). In 1996, a law was adopted on the procedure for the creation and functioning of free economic zones. The term of the concession for the right to operate in the FEZ is 50 years. In 1997, three FEZs began to operate (Mariel, Havana City and Wahai).

Exports ($ 3.8 billion in 2008) - sugar, nickel, tobacco, seafood, medical products, citrus fruits, coffee. The main export partners are China (28%), Canada (25%), Spain (6%), the Netherlands (5%), Iran (4%).

In November 2004, during a visit to Cuba by Chinese President Hu Jintao, an agreement was reached that China would invest $ 500 million in Cuba's nickel industry. In January 2008, Brazilian President Lula da Silva and the head of the state oil company Petrobras, Jose Sergio Gabrielli, who visited Cuba, announced their intention to invest $ 500 million in the exploration of Cuban hydrocarbon deposits in the Gulf of Mexico and the construction of a plant for the production of technical oils in Cuba.

Cuba imports ($ 14.5 billion in 2008) - oil products, foodstuffs, industrial equipment, chemical products... The main import partners are Venezuela (31.5%), China (11.8%), Spain (10.6%), Canada (6.7%), USA (6.6%).

Cuba's banking system consists of the Central Bank, 8 commercial banks, 13 non-bank financial institutions, 13 representative offices of foreign banks and 4 representative offices of foreign financial institutions. There are 2 types of currency in Cuba. Cuban citizens receive black and white Cuban pesos, foreigners receive colored (convertible) pesos when exchanging currency. Western media reported on the currency manipulation of the top Cuban leadership and the family of F. Castro.

Since 1962, a rationing system has been operating in Cuba, products are issued according to the same standards for the whole country. According to Cuban experts, at present, the population receives from 40 to 54 percent of the minimum required calories from food distributed by cards. Milk is given free by the state to children under 6 years old or purchased by the population on the market. During all the post-revolutionary years, there was a black market in Cuba. A number of goods, the distribution of which by cards is carried out irregularly or intended only for beneficiaries, are still purchased on the black market.

In 2008, Cubans were allowed to buy cell phones, computers and DVD players, as well as 19- and 24-inch televisions, electric pressure cookers and e-bicycles, car alarms and microwave ovens (but only with convertible currency). The country has about 100 thousand registered cars, of which 60 thousand are old American cars that were on the island before the revolution.

According to the BBC broadcaster, there is an increase in prostitution and corruption in Cuba. The average monthly salary in Cuba is $ 12, but there are many government benefits. For example, workers are given free clothing. There is a system of free medical care and free higher and secondary education.

Foreign policy

Panama

August 23, 2004 - Panamanian President Mireia Moscoso announced the recall of the Panamanian ambassador from Cuba in response to a warning issued on August 22 by the Cuban Foreign Ministry about the readiness to sever diplomatic relations with Panama if its authorities pardon the criminals who were preparing the assassination attempt on Fidel Castro. At the same time, the President of Panama noted that the recall of the Panamanian ambassador from Havana does not mean a break in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
August 25, 2004 - The Cuban Ambassador to Panama, Carlos Zamora, left for his homeland at the request of the Panamanian authorities. Before leaving, he made a statement to the press in which he noted that “Cuba considers it its duty to achieve an exemplary punishment for the terrorists” who were preparing the assassination attempt on Fidel Castro. In March 2004, Panama's Supreme Court sentenced six conspirators who were detained in Panama in 2000 to jail. The new President of Panama, Martin Torrijos, who took office on September 1, expressed the hope that the Panamo-Cuban conflict would be resolved on the basis of mutual “respect and common sense ".

Russia

From the very beginning of the revolution in Cuba, the attitude of the leadership of the CPSU towards the Island of Freedom was ambiguous, in a sense similar to the position regarding the SFRY. First, neither the Castro brothers nor their associates were formally Leninists. Their theoretical basis was limited to the legacy of Marx and Engels. Secondly, among other things, Cuba was fundamentally not included in military blocs. Highly appreciating freedom, Cuba since the Belgrade Conference (Yugoslavia, September 1-6, 1961) has been one of the most active participants in the Non-Aligned Movement. She joined the CMEA only in 1972.

January 21, 1964 - the USSR and Cuba signed a Long-Term Agreement on the supply of sugar to the USSR.

Relations between Cuba and Russia changed after the collapse of the USSR, which, in part, was caused by the termination of economic aid to Cuba and the reduction of the Soviet (Russian) military presence on the island. Soviet military bases were established here in the early 1960s. Their existence was based on an agreement between the Soviet and American leadership reached after the "Caribbean crisis" in 1962. In 2001, the last Russian military base in Cuba was closed, and all the remaining Russian troops were withdrawn from the Island of Liberty. Recently, starting from November 2008, there has been a revival of interest in building relations between Russia and Cuba, which are of an economic, political, scientific and social nature.

The United States owns the Guantanamo military base located in Cuba. The Guantanamo military base is located in southeastern Cuba, occupied by the United States under a 1901 treaty, which the Cuban authorities later abandoned. In January 2002, a prison for suspected international terrorism was created at the base, where the first 20 people accused of participating in hostilities on the side of the Taliban were brought from Afghanistan.

With regard to Cuba in 1961, the United States imposed an embargo regime, any ties with Cuba were prohibited, US sanctions against Cuba remain in effect as of 2008; this blockade is regularly condemned by the UN General Assembly.

However, now the US share in Cuba's imports is 6.6% (in 2008).

In 1962, the US Department of Defense planned Operation Northwoods to prepare American public opinion for an armed invasion of Cuba and to overthrow the government of Fidel Castro. The operation was part of the operation Mongoose, developed by the US government on the initiative of President John F. Kennedy, directed against Cuba, and involved the implementation of terrorist acts with imaginary and / or real victims in the United States, Cuba and other countries, including hijacking planes, imitation of hostile actions under a false flag. acts of terror organized by the state. However, Kennedy rejected the project.

In 2001, five Cuban agents ("Cuban Five") were sentenced to long prison terms in the United States. According to them, they transmitted information about the impending terrorist attacks against Cuba.

In 2006, a committee was set up at the US State Department to develop US policy towards Cuba in the event of the death of Fidel Castro.

Participation in international organizations

Cuba is a member of the WTO and the World Customs Organization. Takes part in international agreements - the New York Convention on International Arbitration, the Paris Convention and the Madrid Protocol.

Health care

On the eve of the revolution, there were 6 thousand doctors in Cuba, that is, 1 doctor per 1000 people, which was equal to the indicators of France. However, unlike developed countries, Cuba lacked a system of health insurance and cheap or free social medicine. Therefore, for example, the infant mortality rate was 100-110 per 1000, which corresponded to the level of the most backward countries. Western Europe- Spain and pre-war Italy.

Immediately after the revolution, about 3 thousand doctors left the country. However, this deficiency was made up by the organization of the medical education system.

The Cuban health care system is now considered one of the best in the world with extensive primary health care and research development programs. In 2009, the CIA estimated the average life expectancy in Cuba at 77.45 years. Cuba has the lowest infant mortality rate in Latin America. All types of medical care are free of charge.

Fiscal spending on health care (2004): 5.5% of GDP.

Education

Cuba has a traditionally high educational level of the population. Since the beginning of the 20th century, there has been a system of state free 9-grade elementary education for children from 6 to 14 years old (the ninth grade was optional, the rest are compulsory). In 1932, elementary schools (state and church) were attended by 90% of school-age children. In 1951, 22% of the adult population was illiterate, lower than in Spain and pre-war Italy.

In 1961, a massive campaign to eradicate illiteracy began. As a result, in 1980 the number of illiterates was only 2%, and in 1990 Cuba became a country of complete literacy. A public secondary and higher school was created. During the 60s, the number of students doubled (from 717 thousand to 1.5 million) with a population growth of 1-2% per year. In total, counting all stages of education, the number of people covered by them has tripled.

Currently, there is a compulsory 9-grade education in Cuba (12-grade education is secondary). There are 50 higher education centers. Education for all levels is free.

The main educational institution of the country is the University of Havana, located in different parts of the capital. Until 1999, Russian was taught there as the main foreign language (faculty of the Pais brothers). The work of this faculty was supervised by the CMO of Moscow State University. After 1999, English became that language. Other universities in Cuba: Agrarian University of Havana.

Budgetary spending on education (2002-05): 9% of GDP.

The culture

Painting

Independent Cuban painting emerged only at the end of the 19th century. In the 1930s, artists who traveled to Europe became acquainted with contemporary artistic trends there and brought them to Cuba. Thus, Marcelo Pogolotti used Cubism to create images on themes related to the poverty of the Cuban people. The most famous Cuban artist, Wifredo Lam, painted in a surreal style. Mario Carreño was greatly influenced by the work of Mexican muralists. Jorge Arche is known for his portraits, which are similar in style to those of other Latin American artists of the 1930s.

The science

Illiteracy was virtually eradicated in Cuba in 1961. Education here is free at all levels - from elementary grades to higher education - and compulsory until the end of the nine grades. All graduates of primary, secondary, upper secondary schools and technical schools are guaranteed the opportunity to continue their studies, and graduates of higher educational institutions are guaranteed the right to work. Since 1959 higher education in Cuba has become available to everyone. Now there are about 700,000 people with higher education in the country. For every seven Cuban workers, one holds a university degree.

There are about 9 500 primary schools, about 2,000 secondary and 48 higher educational institutions. The school is considered a basic cultural institution.

More than 170 research institutes operate in Cuba.

After the victory of the Revolution to this day in Cuba, about 630 thousand people graduated from higher educational institutions in various specialties, and millions received secondary education. The illiteracy rate (among the population aged ten and over) is 3.8 percent.

There are 1,115 kindergartens in the country, attended by 145.1 thousand children. The services of kindergartens are used by 135 thousand working mothers.

The total number of primary school students - 1,028,900; children of secondary school students - 778,000; students of higher educational institutions - 127 thousand. The system of secondary and higher evening and correspondence education covers more than 100 thousand people.

Cuba has 9,487 primary schools, 1,943 secondary schools and 48 higher education institutions. For every thousand inhabitants, there are a total of 17.8 teachers. Education is allocated 9 percent of GDP. The country allocates significant funds for research, in particular, related to human health, in the field of biotechnology and genetic engineering, the production of vaccines and numerous medicines; the results of these studies have received universal recognition. All this became possible thanks to the existence of significant human resources, including highly qualified specialists trained within the framework of the national education system.

Cuba also ranks 4-5 among Latin American countries (and 51st in the world) according to the UN classification by the level of Human Development.

Religion

In Cuba, the church is separate from the state, and the Cuban Constitution guarantees freedom of religion to the population. The most widespread religion is Catholic.

Despite the peculiarities of socialism as a socio-political system that has dominated the country for many decades, Cubans are quite religious. Even members of the Cuban Communist Party are not prohibited from attending churches. Catholic churches exist throughout the country. Even after the victory of the revolution, masses are held daily and solemn services are held on national or local religious holidays.

With the arrival of black slaves on the island, various beliefs of African descent spread. Over time, three main currents were formed from them, which exist and are still popular. These are Regla de Ocha (Spanish Regla de Ocha) or Santeria (Spanish Santeria), Las Reglas de Palo (Spanish Las Reglas de Palo) and La Sociedad Secret Abacua (Spanish La Sociedad Secreta Abacua). As a result of the historical process, a mixture of Catholic dogmas and African cults has also formed. For example, the Most Pure Virgin of the Merciful of Cobre is considered by the Catholics to be the patroness of Cuba. In Santeria, she bears the name Ochun.

In recent years, Protestant churches have begun to appear, especially in the provinces.

Sport

Sports in Cuba is available to everyone and this massiveness of it allows you to constantly replenish national teams in different types sports that have brought the small Caribbean island important world and Olympic awards. Cuba is home to world famous athletes. Among the sports are baseball, boxing, Athletics and volleyball.

Military establishment

The Cuban Army (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias - FAR) is the main armed formation of Cuba, providing its national defense.

Cuba's constitution specifies that the country's president is the supreme commander in chief and determines the structure of its army.

The Cuban Army includes the following units:
Ground troops
Navy
Air Force and Air Defense.

The Cuban army is under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief Raul Castro.

The daily newspaper of the Island of Liberty, Granma, bears the name of the yacht of the same name, on which a group of revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro landed in Cuba to carry out a guerrilla struggle against the Batista regime. The newspaper is the official conductor and popularizer of the policy pursued by The Communist Party Cuba (CPC). Once a week for English language"Granma Internacional" is released. Also, the press of Cuba is represented by such publications devoted to the problems of economy, tourism, finance, culture, politics, as "Opciones", "Bohemia", "Juventud Rebelde", "Trabajadores".

Cuba

Cuba is the largest island in the West Indies and one of the largest islands in the world. Resembling a crocodile, a long, narrow island nestles in the western Caribbean on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. The Cuban archipelago lies in the western Caribbean. In its history, culture, language and customs, Cuba is part of the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Geography of Cuba
Area - 110992 sq. km.
The highest point is Peak Turkino 1974 m.
The longest river - Kauto 370 km.

The length of the island is 1200 km, the width at its widest point is 210 km. The Cuban archipelago covers an area of ​​110,992 km2 and has more than 300 natural beaches covered with white sand and surrounded by crystal clear waters. The most famous beach in Cuba is Varadero. The landscapes of Cuba are very varied. There are valleys, mountains and hills. The main mountain ranges of the country are the Cordillera de Guaniguanico in the west, Escambray in the center and the Sierra Maestra in the east. In the mountains of the Sierra Maestra there is also the highest mountain in the country, Peak Turkino (1974 m. Above sea level). The rest of the island is a fertile plain.

There are many caves to admire on the island Most of the rivers in Cuba are small, but very fast flowing. Rivers flow down the mountains to form beautiful waterfalls. The waterfalls of Agabama and Salto del Carbuni are especially interesting. The longest river in Cuba is the Cauto (about 370 km.), Flowing in the eastern part of the island. There are many reservoirs and lakes in Cuba. Amateurs come here - bird watchers, since Cuba is a place of migration of resettled birds.

National symbols of Cuba
Mariposa "white butterfly", a type of white ginger with a very delicate aroma. The national bird is the tocororo, the Cuban trogan, a native bird that combines the colors of the Cuban flag in its plumage. The national tree is the Royal Palm. These palms grow all over the island.

Cuba economy
It is a centralized system based primarily on sugar production and tourism. The tourism industry is developing at a rapid pace. Canadian, Spanish and European corporations are investing huge amounts of money in Cuba. In addition to sugar, Cuba produces tobacco, coffee, rum, honey, cocoa and also produces citrus fruits. Cuba is a world leader in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Important sectors of the Cuban economy are the production of building materials, fishing, nickel mining (the country has the largest open reserves of nickel in the world), copper, magnesium and chromium. Another important source of income for the country is money sent by Cuban emigrants, most of them living in Florida, relatives who remained in Cuba.

Flora and fauna of Cuba
Differs in wealth and variety. There are more than 300 reserves here, which occupy about 22% of the country's territory. UNESCO has declared six areas of Cuba biosphere reserves: the Guanacabibes Peninsula, the Sierra del Rosario, the Cienaga de Zapata National Parks in the west, El Caguanes in the central part, and the Baconao and Cuchillas del Toa parks in the east of the island. Cuba grows four percent of the entire flora of our planet. The most interesting types of Cuban vegetation are orchids, cacti and palms. Among the fauna, there are endemic species, especially among reptiles and amphibians. Crocodiles, which are bred on special farms, are most characteristic of Cuba. In Cuba, there are more than 400 species of birds, there are also extremely rare ones, for example, the smallest bird in the world, the sunsunsito, or the fly bird. It is also home to the world's smallest toad, a tiny bat "butterfly" and a scorpion, the length of which does not exceed 14 mm.

Cuba economy
It is a centralized system based primarily on sugar production and tourism. The tourism industry is developing at a rapid pace. Canadian, Spanish and European corporations are investing huge amounts of money in Cuba. In addition to sugar, Cuba produces tobacco, coffee, rum, honey, cocoa and also produces citrus fruits. Cuba is a world leader in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Important sectors of the Cuban economy are the production of building materials, fishing, nickel mining (the country has the largest open reserves of nickel in the world), copper, magnesium and chromium. Another important source of income for the country is money sent by Cuban emigrants, most of them living in Florida, relatives who remained in Cuba.

History of Cuba
The written history of Cuba begins on October 28, 1492, when the caravels of Christopher Columbus approached the island. Before that, Cuba was inhabited by three Indian tribes. The Guanatabei were gatherers who lived in caves, the Sibonei were hunters and fishermen. The Indians of the tribe secretly engaged in agriculture. They moved to Cuba from the territory of modern Venezuela and were the most developed and largest group on the island.

Cuba population
More than 11.1 million people. The population density is 101 inhabitants per km2. 75% of the island's population lives in cities, 25% in rural areas. Cuban cities are a mixture of architectural styles. The most populated provinces are Havana with 2.2 million people, Santiago de Cuba and Holguín with half a million people each. An amazing community of people has emerged in Cuba. White Europeans (mostly Spaniards), black descendants of African slaves and Asians, people from the Chinese community, have lived here for a long time. Today half of Cubans are mulattos. Cubans are very sociable, talkative and cheerful.

Cuban lifestyle
This is one of the pleasures awaiting tourists. Cubans love the nightlife. At night you can dance, listen to music in the style of a dream. Music plays a very important role in the life of Cubans. You will come across a huge variety of musical styles, from traditional salsa to charanga and African rumba rhythms.

Religion in Cuba
The official widespread religion on the island is Catholicism. However, the Afro-Cuban beliefs called Santeria, in which the foundations of Catholicism and the cults of the Yoruba people living in Nigeria and Benin are bizarrely mixed, have a greater influence on Cuban culture. Religious rituals are sent directly to the homes. Cubans arrange altars at home and decorate them with the attributes of the god they prefer to worship.

Official language of Cuba
The official language is Spanish. In resort areas, English, German, Italian are widely used. Cubans are a proud people. They really want to make a good impression on foreigners and try to speak English: but if you say even a few words in broken Spanish, they will really love you. Cubans speak Spanish relatively quickly compared to other Latin Americans.

Time
It lags behind Kiev by 7 hours, and from Moscow by 8 hours.

Currency unit
The monetary unit is the Cuban Peso (CUP), equal to 100 centavos. There are 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 peso banknotes, as well as 1 and 3 peso coins. There are coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 20 cents.

Tourists must pay only in foreign currency, mainly euros or US dollars, so it is advisable to have more small bills with you.

Upon delivery, you may be given the so-called Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). This kind of peso is equal to the dollar: 1: 1. This is a new Cuban banknote that has nothing to do with the "wooden" Cuban peso. These banknotes are accepted universally and are exchanged on a par with US dollars. Most ATMs will only dispense convertible pesos, while banks can receive both dollars and convertible pesos. In order not to get into a mess - the convertible peso should be written "convertible" (convertible). As a rule, they are given in small denominations of 1, 5, 10 pesos. The exchange rate of the old Cuban peso to the dollar is approximately 1:25. Convertible Cuban metal bargaining chips are on par with US cents. They often give change by both. Convertible pesos cannot be exchanged outside Cuba, so please try to spend or exchange them before leaving. Currency can be exchanged both at the hotel and at exchange offices that work around the clock.

Avoid travelers checks and American Express cards. The main international cards VISA, MASTER, DINNER`s CLUB are accepted in Cuba. Credit cards issued by any US bank are not accepted for payment.

Tourist fees
When leaving the country, an airport tax of $ 25 is paid. e

Car rental
It is very difficult for a foreigner in Cuba to do without a car. In order to rent a car in Cuba, you will need a driving license from your country or an international driving license. You must be over 21 years old, and the rental company will require a passport.

There are several car rental companies in Cuba. The main rental companies in Cuba are Transautos and Havanautos. After renting a car, make sure that the tank is full so that you do not have to rush around in search of a gas station on the first day. In general, car rental is quite expensive (from $ 60). There are no particular problems with gasoline, although refueling is much less common than we are used to. Outside Havana, you can easily find gasoline for $ 0.5 per liter, but here you have to be careful not to pour donkey urine. In addition, before taking the car, you need to carefully inspect it for defects, which must be noted in the contract. If the route of the trip involves trips to roads with poor coverage (trips along the coast, going to the beach), then you need to take only a jeep.

Number plates on cars in Cuba have different colors, indicating the belonging of a / b: yellow - private, black - diplomatic, brown - rent-a-car. There are also red, blue ... There are many police in Havana, but she does not touch cars with black and brown (tourist) plates. If you clearly break the rules in the presence of a policeman, he has to turn away or lower his eyes - "I didn't see anything, that's why I didn't whistle." In addition, cars with such numbers enjoy certain privileges, such as, for example, passage through tunnels closed for repairs that connect parts of Havana, parking in unauthorized places, etc.

Bike
Many people move around the city on bicycles. You can rent a bike from the Capri and Riviera hotels ($ 1 per hour) or from a local for $ 1 per day. You cannot leave your bike on the street. Better to do it at the bike parking for 1-2 pesos. For all problems with your bike (flat tire, puncture, misaligned seat, etc.) contact the small Pocheria workshops.

Telephones
Cuban Telephone Company - ETESCA. Calling cards can be purchased at ETESCA hotels, shops and call centers.

If you are calling Cuba, dial the international prefix (that is, 10), then the country code (for Cuba, 53), then the local code and phone number. The number of digits in local telephone numbers may vary depending on the size of the city.

Personal phones in Cuba must be dialed through an operator and prepaid.

Calls from abroad to Cuba: 10 - 53 - local code - local phone.

Calls from Cuba: 119 - country code - phone number. For direct dialing: 0 - area code - phone number

Gastronomy
The staples of Cuban cuisine are pork and chicken, cooked in various ways, rice and black beans. You can enjoy good seafood such as prawns, lobsters, kaguama (turtle meat), octopus in garlic sauce (we recommend private restaurants that cook at a high standard and at reasonable prices). And, of course, exotic tropical fruits.

The shops
As souvenirs from Cuba, you can bring black coral and jewelry made from it, products from the shell of a turtle (especially bracelets and hairpins), coffee and handicrafts. Jewelry made of black coral in gold or silver settings, as well as items made from turtle shell. Don't forget to buy a bottle or two of this unique Cuban rum and real Cuban cigars. When buying crocodile leather goods, ask the seller for an export license, otherwise this souvenir will be withdrawn during customs control. A good gift from Cuba would also be a tumbadora or bongo - percussion musical instruments used in African melodies. Another gift is the guayabera, a shirt worn in the tropics by officials.

And, of course, one cannot ignore cigars and rum (the cost of a bottle of rum is from $ 5). To buy good cigars or to get acquainted with their production, you can contact the Real Fabrica de Tabaco Partagas (c. Industry, 524). The shop on the first floor of the factory sells all types of Cuban cigars. The most expensive are Cohiba Lanceros ($ 230 for 5 pieces).

Food is best purchased in stores or supermarkets. In INTUR tiendas stores you can buy food, clothing, medicines, electronics and souvenirs for foreign currency. You will most likely have to use the foreign exchange shops, since only books and medicines can be bought for pesos.

Cuban cigars
It is difficult to give an unambiguous answer to the question of what drives cigar fans when choosing a particular cigar. But many connoisseurs are of the opinion that Cuban cigars are superior in quality and taste to all other cigars. There is something elusive about Cuban cigars that gives them that famous range of qualities so appreciated by connoisseurs. The bright Cuban sun, the special humidity of the air, the rich fertile land, the skilled hands of the craftsmen? Probably all this and much more made Cuban cigars the most famous, a symbol of quality and style.

It is prohibited to import: fresh products, plants, drugs and pornographic materials, medicines without specifying the brand of the manufacturer, cars, motorcycles and spare parts for them. Export is prohibited: songbirds and exotic birds, bark and wood of valuable species, leather and feathers of exotic animals and birds, cultural values. To export works of art from Cuba, you will need an official export permit stamp. Such a document will be issued to you in most specialized stores. When leaving the country, a customs fee will be charged.

Mode of stay and movement
There are no restrictions on movement around the country for Ukrainian and Russian citizens.

Lost things

To report the loss or theft of personal documents or belongings, contact the nearest police station or a policeman. You may have to wait a long time for your application to be accepted. Be sure to photocopy the main pages of your passport in case the original is lost.

Holidays and non-working days
Holidays Cuba hosts many festivals, celebrations and fiestas throughout the year.

January- January 1 (national holiday) - Liberation Day, 1959
February- International Book Exhibition
March- International festival of puppet theaters
April- Celebration of Spanish-Cuban culture
May- May 1 International Day of Workers' Solidarity; May parades and festivities; National Folk Dance Festival
June- Open air concerts; Havana Carnival; Festival of Cuban Rural Culture - (National Holidays)
July- July 26 - Day of National Uprising, 1953), Festival of Culture of the Caribbean Peoples; Carnival in Santiago de Cuba.
August- International Festival of Cuban Music.
September- Pilgrimage to the image of Our Lady of Cobre; Theater festival
October- October 10 (national holiday) Day of the beginning of the war for the independence of Cuba from Spain, 1868); Festival of Contemporary Music; Festival of Spanish Culture; International Ballet Festival.
November- Salon of Contemporary Cuban Art; Feast of the founding of Havana; International Choir Singing Festival.
December- December 25 - (national holiday) Christmas; International Latin American Film Festival; Folk Art Festival.

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