Destination: Cuba

Cuba Highlights
Your comprehensive travel guide to Cuba - All in one place!
The largest of the Caribbean islands is Cuba, located less than 160 km (100 miles) from the southernmost point of Florida in the US. Although still closed off to American tourists, Cuba is open to other world travelers eager to explore the rich culture and history of the island. Known for its legendary cigars, American vintage cars, stunning beaches, not to mention a few rum distilleries, Cuba clearly has a lot to offer visitors. When selecting the best places to visit in Cuba, be sure to embrace both the rural and the city experiences. The perfect trip to Cuba will include Havana, but it will also get off the beaten track and explore the incredible scenery and culture of the entire island.

Geography
Cuba’s main island is 778 miles long. Technically, Cuba is an archipelago; there are around 4,000 smaller islands and cays surrounding the main island. Cuba is one of the least mountainous islands in the Greater Antilles—around two-thirds of the island is plains, and the median elevation is about 300 feet (90 m) above sea level. Western Cuba is home to the Guaniguanico Mountain Range. In Eastern Cuba the Maestra Mountains tower over the landscape and sea.
There are over 500 rivers in Cuba. The largest river is the Cauto River. Most rivers in Cuba are shallow and unnavigable by boat.
Cuba is famous for its beaches which are simply incredible. Get ready for powdery white sand and a turquoise-colored ocean. The northern coast is home to some of the best beaches, many of which are found on islands. Some of the best beaches are at Veradero, Caya Coco, Cayo Levisa, Guardalavaca, and the Cayos de Villa Clara.

Culture
The unique Cuban culture is born out of the different cultures coming into Cuba throughout the years from different religions and languages, to various customs and traditions.
The presence of Spanish colonialists for centuries has no doubt left its marks too. But you will also find old Indian traditions, amongst the colonial buildings with a touch of African musicality and joy.
You will see vintage American cars turned into convertibles by locals to act as taxis, and bikes everywhere in Cuba. It seems as if time has stood still in this country.

Population
The Republic of Cuba is located in the Caribbean Sea and it's made up of the main island of Cuba and many archipelagos. Cuba ranks 106th in the world in terms of area. Cuba's population has remained relatively flat at 11.33 million. Cuba has a population density of 102 people per square kilometer (264/square mile), which ranks 82nd in the world, perfectly in line with its size.
The largest city and capital, Havana, has a population of 2.1 million in the city proper, which makes it the third largest metro area in the Caribbean. Havana receives more than 1.2 million international tourists every year.