Have you ever considered visiting Cuba?
Many American travelers don’t even realize it’s possible. And while it’s true that travel to Cuba was all but impossible for Americans for over fifty years, it became easier to visit Cuba in 2015.
Now, it’s possible to visit Cuba as an American as long as you purchase a Cuban travel visa (you can typically get this directly from your airline) and qualify for one of the 12 approved “travel categories” (most travelers choose “support for the Cuban people.”)
According to TripAdvisor, Cuba is the number one trending destination in the world right now.
Here’s why Cuba is so popular with travelers:
1. Diverse Culture
One of the top reasons that Cuba is trending with travelers is because of its authentic, diverse culture. Nothing in Cuba is commercialized or over-developed like the popular resorts of Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
Cuba is packed with culture, including music, art, and dance (salsa originated here!)
It’s also a great place to experience a cultural exchange. Instead of staying in a state-owned hotel or an international chain hotel, the best type of accommodation in Cuba is a casa particular.
This is like a cross between a bed and breakfast and a homestay, and it will allow you to interact with locals and support the Cuban people directly.
2. Off The Beaten Path
For adventurous travelers, Cuba is still a somewhat off-the-beaten-path destination. Although it’s growing in popularity, Cuba receives around half a million tourists per year — a sharp contrast to Mexico’s 20 million tourists and the Dominican Republic’s 8.5 million tourists.
Outside of Havana, you can get even more off the beaten path. Viñales, which is in the countryside, is a great place to stay and experience activities like horseback riding or seeing how tobacco is made.
Trinidad is a smaller city with cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings that is known for its artisans and crafts.
3. A Rewarding Destination
Although visiting Cuba is not as simple as visiting some other destinations, it’s a rewarding place to travel.
You’ll be able to get a glimpse of what life is like in a country that has been shut off from the rest of the world. As a whole, the Cuban people are warm and welcoming.
It’s not a destination for first-time travelers or anyone who just wants a relaxing vacation lying on the beach at an all-inclusive resort, but if you’re up for the challenge, visiting Cuba is sure to be a memorable experience.
4. Great City Life
One of the highlights of Cuba is its capital city, Havana. No matter what you do in Cuba, spending a few days in Havana is a must.
Havana is filled with color, from the brightly-colored buildings in Old Havana to the vibrant classic American cars that zip around the city.
Taking a classic car tour is one of the best things to do in Havana. You also can’t miss trying a mojito and a daiquiri — both drinks were invented here. According to Ernest Hemingway, the best mojito is at La Bodeguita, and the best daiquiri is at El Floridita.
5. Beautiful Beaches
There’s so much more to Cuba than just Havana. Being in the Caribbean, Cuba is also home to some truly stunning beaches.
Varadero is one of the best beach destinations in Cuba. Located 2 hours and 15 minutes from Havana, this resort town is known for its fantastic beaches.
You can enjoy white sand beaches and crystal-clear aqua-blue water at this beach, which is the perfect place to spend a couple of relaxing days on a trip to Cuba.
