Havana is the capital city of Cuba and one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the Caribbean. It boasts an old town area, a 19th-century district of densely packed, houses and narrow streets contrasting with the high-rise city center (Vedado). The sea wall, known as the Malecón, extends for 8km and is a popular walking spot. Havana’s best beaches, the Playas del Este, are about 20km from the center.
Exploring la Habana Vieja is a must. The streets and alleys of this colonial-era city center have been perfectly restored. You can visit the plazas, churches, and forts here. The Calle Tacón market is great for souvenir shopping and a walk along the Malecon in the afternoon is a great way to finish the day. The Hotel Nacional is a good place to grab a cool drink and enjoy the setting sun from their "Compass Card" outdoor terrace.
Things to See & Do
* La Habana Vieja - the old town
* Walk along the Malecon - sea wall
* Tobacco factory tour
* Plaza de la Revolucion – city square
* Water sports Reef diving
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Cuban Peso (CUP)
Language – Spanish
Land Area – 110,860 sq km
Population – 2,000,000
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT minus five hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 1 – 53
Port Location – Only some cruise ships call at Cuba.
Transport Links - Havana (HVA) (José Martí International) is 15km (9 miles) southwest of the city. Cuba’s national bus service Astro, connects all the main towns and suburbs at least once or twice a day.The principal rail route is from Havana to Santiago de Cuba, with four daily trains.
Buses, minibuses and shared taxis operate in Havana at low flat fares.