![]() ![]() Fritura de maiz These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba.Ropa vieja Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain and even the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans and rice. ![]() Ham, pork, cheese, mustard and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like? Cuban sandwich Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders.Cream cheese, guava and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Pastelitos These small pastries can be either sweet or savoury.Regardless, there are some Central American favourites that are definitely worth trying. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other nearby destinations. But a snapshot of 50 years of isolation remains in the cars, architecture, and culture that is a contemporary Cuban street.Ĭuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbours, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba’s political relationship with other countries, including its close neighbours, is ever-evolving, with the US recently beginning to ease restrictions on trade, tourism and other industries. In April 2011 Fidel Castro was succeeded as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba by his brother Raul Castro. It’s impossible not to notice the reverence for Guevara when visiting Cuba, with street art, statues and museums dedicated to the man Cubans simply call ‘El Che’ found all over the country. A revolutionary, author, doctor and military leader, Guevara played a pivotal role in the guerrilla campaign leading up to the Cuban Revolution and the defence of the Bay of Pigs, as well as in diplomatic relations, up until his death in 1967. Standing alongside Castro as an equally prominent political figure, Che Guevara (although Argentinean) holds a very important place in Cuban history. What followed was an attempt by the United States to overthrow Castro’s communist rule at the Bay of Pigs, and tension and trade embargoes following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Castro became the leader and his brother, Raul, his deputy. This was until revolutionary Fidel Castro led a 9000-strong guerrilla army into Havana in 1959, forcing military dictator Fulgencio Batista to flee. Despite the economy booming, leaders at this time ruled through corruption and control. In 1902, after periods under Spanish, British and United States rule and involvement in the Spanish–American war, Cuba got its independence. In 1511, Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded Baracoa, the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, and three years later what’s now known as Havana was built. Spanish colonialist Bartolome de las Casas estimated that Taino populations in Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th century.īy then, Christopher Columbus had landed in Cuba and claimed the land for Spain, naming it Isla Juana. The Guanajatabey were hunter-gatherers and fishers, and Taino communities also harvested yuca, cotton and tobacco. Life in the cities and life in rural areas can be quite different, but the pace of living is consistently Cuban – you’re on local time now, so go with the flow.īefore the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, Cuba was home to Mesoamerican cultures, including the indigenous Guanajatabey and Taino people. Coffee, cigars and rum flow freely, and people dance to the sound of trumpets and guitars in city streets. This love of life is also evident in the street parties, festivals and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year. Despite this, events like birthdays, holidays and marriages are celebrated with gusto, with special meals, music and dance featuring. ![]() Living in a Communist country means Cubans sometimes go without the luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer goods not available. The modern arts are also alive here, with ballet, contemporary dance and film rising in popularity – so much so, Havana is now home to internationally recognised film, literature and music festivals. You won’t be surprised that Cubans love music and dancing – with everything from Afro-Cuban rhythms to classic melodies filling the air in clubs, bars, restaurants and on street corners. With Spanish, African and Creole influences, modern Cuba is home to so many cultural components – some of which don’t feel super ‘modern’ at all! ![]()
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