Explore Cuba

Explore Cubahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cubaExplore CubaThe Love That I Have for You | Cuba Travel Storyhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/the-love-that-i-have-for-youThe Love That I Have for You | Cuba Travel StoryMon, 28 Sep 2020 19:05:12 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/the-love-that-i-have-for-youA Country of Contradictions | Cuba Travel Storyhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/a-country-of-contradictionsA Country of Contradictions | Cuba Travel StoryThu, 20 Jun 2019 19:15:40 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/a-country-of-contradictionshttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-hidden-cubaExperience a world of contrasts in Cuba as we go to the fishing town of Jaimanitas, on the outskirts of Havana.2018-09-20T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-hidden-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comExperience a world of contrasts in Cuba with World Nomads’ Mabel Moreno as she travels to the vibrant country and discovers Havana from an insider’s perspective. Discover the colorful, mosaic-filled town of Jaimanitas – a fishing town on the outskirts of Havana – before embracing the serenity of the green sanctuary of Parque Almendares.World Nomads 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-exploring-trinidad-cubaDiscover the romantic streets of Trinidad as we explore the magic of this old town on the south coast of Cuba.2018-09-20T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-exploring-trinidad-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comWhen traveling around the colorful and evolving island of Cuba, Mabel feels as if she has stepped back in time in the rural countryside. Explore Trinidad through the eyes of our local insider, to find out what makes the popular town tick.World Nomads 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-local-drink-of-cubaTravel to Trinidad, Cuba and go behind the scenes at a local restaurant to find out how to make the country's national drink, the Canchanchara.2018-09-18T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-local-drink-of-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comThis delicious Cuban cocktail highlights the spirit of the locals. The simple recipe of rum, lime, honey and ice delivers a refreshing taste, that’s made even more special when served in a traditional terracotta cup. Watch as Mabel mixes up the tasty drink before quenching her thirst in the Trinidadian heat.World Nomads 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-the-rhythm-of-cubaDiscover the magic of Havana and Trinidad through the eyes of our local insider in this episode of our Cuba Discoveries series.2018-09-20T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/cuba-discoveries-the-rhythm-of-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comCuba’s music scene is a rich blend of soulful sounds that make it impossible to stand still. Join World Nomads’ Mabel Moreno as she travels to the musical nation in search of the rhythm of Cuba. From discovering the instruments that contribute to the uplifting tunes, to learning the passionate art of salsa, Mabel quickly discovers the importance of music to the Cuban culture.World Nomads 0

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/amazing-nomads-dan-piersonDan Pierson is a travel adventurer pushing himself for the ultimate experience including walking 500 miles across Cuba.2018-07-17T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/amazing-nomads-dan-piersonhttps://www.worldnomads.com<div><a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2V9BgOBKU7Mu64Jii8i9DY?si=ucNEpy2dQ_GZeHkenEK_UQ"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/spotify%20logo%20green.png" style="width: 60px; height: 60px;" alt="“Listen" on="" spotify="" /></a>   <a href="https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=154934&refid=stpr"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/stitcher-logo-120x46.jpg" style="width: 120px; height: 46px;" alt="Listen on Stitcher" /></a></div> Alongside delivering our fortnightly World Nomads destination podcast, we can now share bonus episodes, shining the spotlight on amazing people doing amazing things. <h2 class="p2">What’s In the Episode</h2> 00:08 We are world nomads 00:25 Welcome Dan Pierson 00:47 Overcoming fear 01:28 Why Cuba 03:04 Dan’s white lie 05:46 The logistics of walking across Cuba “…I mean, carrying enough food, enough water, I mean a lot of places outside of Havana, Cuba, while everyone has enough, that's something that's obvious. Everyone has enough in Cuba, that doesn't necessarily mean there's enough to share somebody coming to a small town at night and looking for food.” 10:40 Attending a Brazilian wedding 14:42 What is the Bolt Collective <h2 class="p2"> Who Is On the Show</h2> Dan Pierson’s professional background is in the production of events for brands like Airbnb and the Rockefeller Foundation. He's also the creator of Subway Sets, a sold-out concert series bringing New York's best underground musicians up to rooftops above the city. Previously, Dan worked in growth marketing at technology companies Lyft, the Collaborative Fund, and Getable.  In this episode, Dan talks about facing his fears surrounding adventure “…Yeah, you need to overcome some fear and take that first step.” Dan's adventures have taken him to more than 50 countries, with stints living in Argentina, the Czech Republic, and Mexico, long bicycle rides across the United States and New Zealand, and a 500-mile walk across the island of Cuba. Dan is also the founder of the <a href="https://www.boltcollective.co">Bolt Collective</a> - “…the basic idea, you bring a community of like-minded explorers together and you use their collective purchasing power, so pool their resources. To unlock travel experiences.” <img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Podcast/Amazing%20Nomads/Dan%20Start%20of%20Bike%20Tour.jpg" /> Photo Supplied: Dan about to cycle 3000 miles through the States <h2>Resources & Links</h2> Scholarship Newsletter: <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/create">Sign up for scholarships news and see what opportunities are live here</a>. <h2>Want to Re-publish This Episode?</h2> <iframe width="100%" height="200" src="https://player.whooshkaa.com/player/episode/id/255350?visual=true&sharing=true" frameborder="0" style="width: 100%; height: 200px"></iframe> <h2>Want to Talk to us?</h2> We want to hear from you! If you have any travel insurance questions to <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">Ask Phil</a>, want to give us feedback on the episode, or have suggestions for topics you'd like us to cover, email us at <a href="mailto:podcast@worldnomads.com">podcast@worldnomads.com</a> <h2 class="p4">Sign up for Podcast News </h2> Explore your boundaries and discover your next adventure with The World Nomads Podcast. Hosted by Podcast Producer Kim Napier and World Nomads Phil Sylvester, each episode will take you around the world with insights into destinations from travelers and experts. They’ll share the latest in travel news, answer your travel questions and fill you in on what World Nomads is up to, including the latest scholarships and guides. The World Nomads Podcast is not your usual travel Podcast. It’s everything for the adventurous, independent traveler. Don’t miss out. Subscribe today. Next Episode: The World Nomads Podcast: Guatemala <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Full Transcript of the Episode</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> Speaker 1: The war nomads podcast bonus episode. Hear amazing nomads sharing their knowledge, stories, and experience of world travel. Phil: We are world nomads right? We all love the idea of tucking in the day job and hitting the road. But sometimes it's hard to take that first step. Speaker 3: Yeah, lovely idea. Fear not though, inspiration is at hand. One of our listeners, and we should say hi to Shannon, emailed us about her friend Dan Pierson from the Bolt Collective. Phil: Dan has visited over 50 countries, but it started with one particularly memorable trip. Three months walking across Cuba. Dan Pierson, welcome. Dan P.: Hey, thanks so much for having me Phil, I'm thrilled to be with you guys. Phil: All right look, we'll get to the Cuba trip in a moment. But that's true isn't it, those ... Yeah, you need to overcome some fear and take that first step. What was your first step? Dan P.: Oh, absolutely. Well, I mean for that Cuba trip it actually started all the way back in San Francisco. So I was working in technology back in 2014 at a great company, great friends, great life, but realized, was kinda just ready for something else. I started taking 30 minute long walks during the day, then the hour-long walks during the day, then two hours long walks during the day and realized I just wanted to be outside all of the time. So, quit my job, two weeks later I was riding a bicycle from Seattle Washington down to the Florida Keys across the United States. With the intention of getting to Florida and finding a boat and if money and motivation allowed, going over to Cuba and doing some exploration. Phil: Why Cuba? Was that one of your bucket list places? Dan P.: Sure, you know, I think it holds a special [inaudible 00:01:35]. I'm from the United States, I'm American. I think it holds a special mystique for us, just given all the history. I mean now more than 50 years since the revolution, almost 60 and as someone who has been lucky to travel all over Latin America through Mexico, all the way down to the very southern tip of South America and Patagonia. That was one place I just never had the chance to explore and was so interested in learning more. Phil: But of course, as an American, at that time it would've been [inaudible 00:02:07] impossible to get there. But that changed whilst you were on your trip, tell me about that? Dan P.: Exactly, exactly. So, I got down to New Orleans after about 3,000 miles of riding my bicycle and this kinda series of, call it, coincidences, spiritual stuff. In New Orleans, you'd probably call it voodoo, made me realize my bicycle trip was over, and I'd had this pretty huge crisis of identity right. I quit this wonderful job in San Francisco and my whole being was wrapped up in that bicycle trip but realized that trip was over. And through a series of kinda whatever you wanna call them, but however spiritual deep you wanna go, it all culminated <g class="gr_ gr_412 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="412" data-gr-id="412">in</g> December 17th, 2014. Which was the announcement of the beginnings of the relationship, kinda turning around between the United States and Cuba led by Barack Obama and Raul Castro and brokered by the <g class="gr_ gr_413 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation multiReplace" id="413" data-gr-id="413">Pope.</g> Dan P.: So actually that morning I saw that, remembered 'cause as I've mentioned a bit earlier, that the intention of the trip was actually to go to Cuba in the first place. So, hope the U.S. Government isn't listening, but basically, I printed out a fake itinerary to fly to London. Went down to the U.S. passport office in New Orleans, went up to the window because I needed a new passport expedited, I needed proof, and I needed and explanation of why I needed the passport so quickly. So I told the woman, I said, “You're never gonna believe this crazy story, but was on Bourbon Street a couple nights ago, met a beautiful English girl, and I'm following her back to London.” And I had the ticket to back it up and two days later I had a passport and 10 days after that I was in Havana. Phil: Nice little lie, as well by the way. I like that one. (laughs) Dan P.: Yeah, I'd like to call it a white lie. That's one of those white lies, that's what we call it. Phil: So tell me, your first impressions of Havana? Dan P.: I mean it's a really spectacular, magical city that I would compare in many ways actually to New Orleans. Which is a place that I lived for so <g class="gr_ gr_428 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation multiReplace" id="428" data-gr-id="428">long.</g> There was that kind of almost mystical connection going from New Orleans to Havana. Both have such heavy African influence and were both major slave ports during the time of slavery. And that African influence, it's just everywhere in the music, in the dance, in the art. And it's really, I mean its, I could spend I think 30 years in Cuba and I might just be as turned around as, as when I got there that day because there's just so much, so much to learn and so much to see. So many different perspectives to take into account to really try to get to the bottom of everything that's happened there in the past 60 years. Phil: So is that part of your motivation for saying, right now I'm gonna see as much of it as I can? I'm gonna walk across the entire country. Dan P.: Yes, I've been on ... It's funny, I'd been on that bicycle trip, just had this urge to kind of slow down even further. So you can imagine traveling at 7 or 8 miles, or 13 or 14 kilometers an hour and then having just an urge to even slow it down further. And there were some logistics around getting my bike down there. That seemed pretty challenging. And then I actually, I don't know if some of your [inaudible 00:05:22] have seen that movie with Reese Witherspoon called Wilds? But it's about her trek through the Sierra Nevada on the Pacific Crest Trail. But saw that, in the kinda 10 days in between ending my bike tour and starting that walk, and was just like “You know what, I'll just walk.” Which, yeah, turned out to have its own set of unique challenges but also, obviously just so fulfilling. Phil: What were the challenges? Dan P.: So, I mean, carrying enough food, enough water, I mean a lot of places outside of Havana, Cuba, while everyone has enough, that's something that's obvious. Everyone has enough in Cuba, that doesn't necessarily mean there's enough to share somebody coming to a small town at night and looking for food. So, always making sure to carry food. I mean, I got caught out without water at one point. I'd been walking along the coast for about 35 miles and pretty much completely empty country. And I ran out of the water, and I was honestly at that point, delirious and there just off in the distance, almost a mirage appeared, and it was this guy on horseback, and he came towards me looking at me like I was absolutely insane. Dan P.: You know, white guy, kinda sweating profusely with a backpack on. Walking across the middle of Cuba. And he was so gracious he took my water bottle, this massive water bottle and galloped off into the distance, filled it up with ice cold, literally ice chunks, in the most like pure water and brought it back to me. And I mean, pretty much saved my life. A lot of us can identify with what that culture of adventure travel, whether that's something like, bicycle touring, or whether that's bungee jumping, or whether that's whitewater rafting. Dan P.: Cuba just doesn't really have any of that culture. For a lot of different reasons, I mean, there just isn't really <g class="gr_ gr_454 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="454" data-gr-id="454">opportunity</g> in a lot of cases to engage in that kind of stuff. Your busy working kinda ... But also the overriding Cuban sentiment is towards this collective social outlook towards, the group or towards the, what you call, like the people themselves. So there's kind of an aversion to risk. Which is where I ended getting into a little bit of trouble. 'Cause there just wasn't particularly on the official side of things with the Cuban police. There weren't really ... they didn't really understand what I was getting up to.  Phil: Right, so they don't take kindly to people putting themselves in danger? Dan P.: They don't, they don't and you can look at that two ways right. You can say that's kind of a restriction on peoples freedom and we should be allowed to explore and put ourselves into those situations. And you know, you could look at it another way and say, that's why Cuban healthcare works are because they take really preventative kind of social outlook on the well being of the entire community. So like everything in Cuba it really you could go either way on it and really try to look at it in a very flexible way. Phil: Does travel mean to you then? What have you learned from it? Dan P.: Absolutely. I think there's a lot to be said for learning that, <g class="gr_ gr_406 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="406" data-gr-id="406">really</g> human beings at their basis are all, have the same motivation and the same drive and that comes around. Making sure that there's always more opportunity for the people that you care the most about. And that takes on a lot of different forms, but <g class="gr_ gr_407 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling" id="407" data-gr-id="407">mostly</g> people wanna see their kids have great access to schools and education. They want safety, they want security. So the more I've traveled throughout the world to places like Cuba, or Bolivia or some places in Southeast Asia that ... I'm always struck by just the universality of that concept, that everyone is really after the same things and thinking about how we can help give people more access to those core, those core things. Phil: And how do you take that back to where you are now? I mean you've learned all those things. How do you ... Is there any opportunity the way you're living now to bring those to life? Dan P.: Yeah, absolutely. I mean I try to do it in small ways through, through supporting organizations like Kiva, through microloans. And trying to ... when I travel myself and I'm lucky to have an opportunity both for work and pleasure to continue to travel, to take advantage of different opportunities. I mean I was in Rio in June for a wedding and spent a few days in the pavellas there, just learning about the challenges there. And doing some volunteering there. Dan P.: So I'm definitely a fan of those opportunities while abroad to go out and make an impact on a local level and then I think, you know, all of us, particularly I think in parts of the world like the United States, where there's kind of imbalance of power, I think it's important to speak to that. And to make smart decisions here. Phil: Hey listen, tell me, what's a Brazilian wedding like then? What's a wedding in Rio like? Dan P.: Oh my god! Well, I was very lucky. I had the chance to meet a Brazilian supermodel in Mexico a few years back. (laughs) Very rumbling. Phil: Oh, lucky you. Dan P.: Yeah. Have since managed to become, strangely enough, better friends with her and her now husband. They're two close friends of mine. They invited me down to their wedding in Rio that was basically ... The bridal party was seven Brazilian supermodels and me and it was great. (laughs) I can't go into ... While I can tell stories about lying to the U.S. Government, I'm not actually allowed to tell stories about that wedding in Rio because it - (laughs) It might [inaudible 00:11:17]. No, it was, it was wonderful. It was an amazing trip. Phil: You don't go to a supermodels wedding very often. (laughs) Dan P.: That's once in a lifetime. Phil: Yeah. (laughs) Dan P.: I think that one was once in a lifetime. Absolutely, I remember ... I mean remember in Argentina all the way in the South of Patagonia getting invited to the wedding of a woman that I'd met on a bus and she was just like, you know, you're always gonna be, I think, particularly the further afield you go from kind of the standard tourist spots. You're always gonna be a bit of curiosity and yeah, they were so excited to welcome me into that wedding. You know, weddings I mean, <g class="gr_ gr_469 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_hide gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar" id="469" data-gr-id="469">they you</g> know ... <g class="gr_ gr_470 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="470" data-gr-id="470">They made</g> a movie about wedding crashing for a reason right? It's one of the best things out there. (laughs) Phil: All right. Brazilian supermodel weddings aside, some of your favorite places that you've visited out of the 50? Just give us a ... just give us a taste of where you've been. Dan P.: Absolutely. One bicycle tour around New Zealand. North and South islands of New Zealand. [crosstalk 00:12:12] Phil: Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait a minute. Wait a minute. Bicycle to New Zealand? It's a bit hilly, right? Dan P.: That's a bit hilly and I'll tell you that Kiwi's are of course the sweetest, nicest, most wonderful people outside of a car. They are absolute terrors when behind the wheel. (laughs) I was by myself and I got down to the South Island and I would knock on a door and say, "Hey, you know, I'm riding my bicycle across New Zealand, wondering if I might pitch a tent in your paddock?" And these people would look at me like I was absolutely insane. And they would say, "Why don't you come inside and have a hot meal and sleep in a bed." And it got to the point where, if I pulled up to somebodies house and I said, "Hey, I've got my tent, mind if I pitch my tent in your paddock?" They'd said, "Yeah go for it." You know what I've got a couple more miles in my legs, I think I'm gonna keep riding. And I would just go right next door, and of course, they would welcome me in. Dan P.: So I got a little spoiled there, but New Zealand is, I mean, just such an amazing place. Mexico, I've now been lucky to spend probably a couple years total in Mexico traveling throughout Mexico. The just pure range of different cultures in Mexico, it's something I didn't really know existed, but across food and art and language and temperament. They're so many different parts, and of course geography and what the landscape actually looks like. I mean Mexico is just as diverse as the United States. Dan P.: So, Oaxaca in particular, down in the coast of Oaxaca, there's a town called Mazunte which where I lived for about six months. And that is just paradise on Earth. To <g class="gr_ gr_448 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="448" data-gr-id="448">me</g> it's the last place in Mexico that really is not overdeveloped and yet still has just the most spectacular landscapes and beaches. So I love Mexico. I mean Southeast Asia for like a beach vacation, you can't really beat just hanging out on the beach in Thailand or Indonesia. Your part of the world, Australia. When I was 18, down to that, that whole kinda east coast route. I don't think I could survive that at 31. But maybe I'm selling myself short and I should try to give it a shot and try to relive my earlier glory days. Phil: Hey listen, look you've generous enough to give me your time here, so here is my opportunity to give a little bit back to you too. Do you wanna talk about the Bulk Collective? What's that about? How can we help out? Dan P.: Oh, cool. Yeah, yeah sure. So that's a new company that I started last year. The basic idea, you bring a community of like-minded explorers together and you use their collective purchasing power, so pool their resources. To unlock travel experiences. So great example of that, in January we were down in the British Virgin Islands and I'd been on the phone with these charter companies saying, "Hey, we wanna rent four catamarans, we're looking for a 40% volume discount." Which takes something that normally would cost a couple thousand U.S. dollars per person, makes it more like $1200. Just opens those kinds of exclusive experiences out to more people. Dan P.: So I think of it as kind of like group travel, for people who hate group travel, 'cause nothing is mandatory. It's all optional. And hopefully, it provides kind of a framework for personal growth and folks to meet new lifelong friends. Phil: And how longs that been going? I mean you've done a BVI. You've had other trips as well? Dan P.: Yeah, yeah. So, the first experience, the first Bolt experience was down in Oaxaca. Over in a year or so brought folks down to that town that I lived in for six months and we rented out this entire compound of treehouse villas. And every day there was just an optional piece of programming, whether it's folks jumping into a temezcal, which is the native's sweat lodge and having a ceremony. Another day we chartered a boat and went whale watching out to a private beach. New Year's Eve dinner right there on the beach in town. Dan P.: So, really trying to bring a sense of, apart from bringing amazing people to amazing places, like really trying to bring like a sense of design and make these experiences really thoughtful and kind of ... The adjectives that come to mind are, unexpected, delightful and really thoughtful. So, yeah, so we've done three of them now. Oaxaca rode down to the British Virgin Islands with our fleet of catamarans, which is also spectacular. Or maybe that's not quite the right word but, just a really amazing, important time to be there, in the wake of Irma and Maria the hurricanes that came through back in August and September. Just seeing the resilience of the Caribbean people and folks living down in the Caribbean. They're rebuilding and they're there to stay. Phil: How can people make contact with the Bolt Collective then? Dan P.: Sure, we're just at www.boltcollective.co or you can type in Bolts Collective and it'll come up with our Instagram, Twitter, website. And yeah, I think we're looking for people, it's a bit of a different community in that we're organized around things like adaptability, adventurousness, curiousness, our people just generally really nice people. So those are the kinda folks that we're trying to attract and that we have a bit of an interview process for. So if that sounds like it's right up your alley and folks are thinking maybe any of those experiences kinda peak their interest. Yeah, we're pretty easy to find out there on the internet. Phil: Dan, thanks very much mate. You are an amazing nomad. Thank you so much for spending some time to tell us about some of your travels. Dan P.: Hey cheers Phil. Hope to see you in Australia soon. Phil: We will have a link to the Bolt Collective in show notes. And by the way, Dan's professional background is in the production of events for brands like Airbnb and the Rockefeller Foundation. He's also the creator of Subway Sets a sold-out concert series bringing New York's best underground musicians up to rooftops above the city, love that. Speaker 3: Oh, yes, please. If you know an amazing nomad we should feature, email us, podcast@worldnomads. com. You can find our bonus episodes alongside the world nomads podcast on iTunes. Speaker 1: Amazing nomads - be inspired. </div> </div> </div>Dan Pierson 0

Video: Havana's Mechanics - The Ultimate Recyclershttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-mechanicVideo: Havana's Mechanics - The Ultimate RecyclersFri, 06 Jul 2018 20:45:44 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-mechanicVideo: Hairstyles on the Streets of Havanahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-hairdresserVideo: Hairstyles on the Streets of HavanaFri, 06 Jul 2018 20:36:52 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-hairdresserVideo: A Local Carpenter in Havanahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-carpenterVideo: A Local Carpenter in HavanaFri, 06 Jul 2018 20:25:47 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-carpenterVideo: Havana Street Art and Creativityhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-street-artVideo: Havana Street Art and CreativityFri, 06 Jul 2018 19:40:49 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-street-artVideo: The Story of Salsa | Cuba Travelhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/love/salsaVideo: The Story of Salsa | Cuba TravelFri, 06 Jul 2018 19:09:35 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/love/salsaVideo: When It Rains in Havana, It Pourshttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-rainVideo: When It Rains in Havana, It PoursFri, 06 Jul 2018 18:52:24 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/havana-rainVideo: Havana's Secret Restaurantshttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/dona-carmelaVideo: Havana's Secret RestaurantsFri, 06 Jul 2018 18:26:00 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/discovery/dona-carmelaVideo: Hot Pink in Havanahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/havana-taxi-driverVideo: Hot Pink in HavanaFri, 06 Jul 2018 18:03:22 GMThttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/stories/connection/havana-taxi-driverhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/wildlife-experiences-for-outdoor-explorers-in-cubaCuba has a great diversity of endemic wildlife species, particularly when it comes to birds, reptiles, and marine life. Here are some of Cuba’s best wildlife destinations.2017-04-19T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/wildlife-experiences-for-outdoor-explorers-in-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comCuba has a wide range of unspoiled habitats, from densely forested mountains and expansive wetlands to some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean, as well as two of the region’s most important sea turtle nesting sites. Popular wildlife-related activities include <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-hikes-and-treks-for-travelers-to-cuba" target="_blank">hiking</a>, birdwatching, kayaking, snorkelling, and <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">diving</a>. <h2>1. Ciénaga de Zapata</h2> The largest wetlands in the Caribbean, the Zapata Swamp is a tremendously diverse ecosystem, home to many hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and other wildlife. With luck, you might spot endemic species such as Cuba’s national bird, the Cuban trogon, or the world’s smallest bird, the bee hummingbird. The endangered Cuban crocodile can be seen at the Guamá Crocodile Breeding Farm at Laguna del Tesoro. <h2>2. Guanahacabibes National Park</h2> The remote, undeveloped Guanahacabibes Peninsula is home to diverse wildlife, including endangered green and hawksbill turtles, which come ashore to nest on the white sand beaches between June and November. Maria La Gorda makes a good base for exploring the terrestrial attractions of Guanahacabibes National Park, as well as <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">diving the gorgeous coral reefs just offshore</a>. <h2>3. Alejandro de Humboldt National Park</h2> Located in Cuba’s humid east, this national park is widely considered the most biologically diverse part of the island. Wildlife found in its lush rainforests includes the world’s second-smallest bat and the smallest frog in the northern hemisphere. The easiest way to visit is on a day trip from <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-do-in-baracoa" target="_blank">Baracoa</a>. Exploration without a guide is not permitted. <h2>4. Topes de Collantes National Park</h2> In the Sierra del Escambray, Cuba’s second-highest mountain range, lies Topes de Collantes, a thickly forested reserve whose abundant wildlife includes the Cuban trogon, Cuban parrot, and several species of hummingbird. The park is easily reachable on a day trip from nearby <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cuba" target="_blank">Trinidad</a> and has an extensive network of hiking trails. <h2>5. Cayo Largo</h2> Along with Guanahacabibes, Cayo Largo in the Canarreos Archipelago offers the best chance in Cuba to see endangered sea turtles. Its white sands draw nesting loggerheads between April and September, as well as green and hawksbill turtles from June through November. Crystal-clear waters and dazzling nearby coral reefs also make Cayo Largo a great destination for diving and snorkelling. <h2>6. Pico Turquino and the Sierra Maestra</h2> Blanketed with forests of pine, bamboo, and ferns, the Sierra Maestra mountains boast Cuba’s highest peak, Pico Turquino (1, 974 metres). Wildlife includes tiny frogs, butterflies, and as always, an abundance of birds. A guide is required for climbing Pico Turquino. <h2>7. Viñales Valley</h2> <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-do-in-vinales-western-cuba" target="_blank">The Viñales Valley</a> is a spectacular landscape of lush vegetation, red earth, and steep, rounded limestone hills called mogotes. Much of the area is devoted to agriculture, especially tobacco, which is still cultivated using traditional methods. Trails through the valley provide opportunities to see a variety of birds, including the bee hummingbird. <h2>8. Las Terrazas</h2> Located inside the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve, the eco-village of Las Terrazas was built as part of a reforestation project in 1968. Footpaths through evergreen and semi-deciduous forest offer excellent opportunities to view around 800 species of plants and well over 100 bird species. <h2>9. Jardines del Rey</h2> <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">Some of the best diving and snorkelling</a> in Cuba can be found in the clear waters around this string of small islands off the north coast. A large seasonal colony of flamingos, as well as reptiles such as turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas can be seen among the mangroves and lagoons on Cayo Coco. <h2>Heading to Cuba? Download our FREE Insider’s Guide!</h2> <a href="/explore/guides/cuba-insiders-guide" target="_blank">Put down the cigars and step out of the vintage cars! Explore historical sites of revolution, taste peso food, or go diving among vibrant marine life.</a>iStock/Gfed 0508811504 iStock Crocodile Lying Low

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/useful-spanish-phrases-for-travelers-to-cubaThese Cuban Spanish phrases will help you make your way around, and get what you asked for – with no hidden surprises.2017-04-19T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/useful-spanish-phrases-for-travelers-to-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comCuban Spanish is challenging, even for native speakers from other countries. It's fast, often with fewer syllables, and includes words from West African languages, like Yoruba. If you have no idea what anyone is saying at first, don't worry: it takes the ear a little while to adjust. Of course, they could also be speaking Cubañol. These Cuban Spanish phrases will help you make your way. <ul> <li><a href="#greetings"> Cuban greetings </a></li> <li><a href="#food"> Cuban food </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="greetings">Cuban greetings</h2> What's up?: ¿Que bola, acere? What’s your name?: ¿Como se llama? My name is _____: Me llamo _____ .  Thank you: Gracias  Sorry: Lo siento Let's go: Dale More or less: Más o menos The bus : El guagua Where is ____?: ¿Dónde está ______ ? La Yuma: America - it can be pejorative or cheeky. La Revolución: The 1959 Revolution. <h2 id="food">Cuban Food</h2> Crema: soup (sopa is understood, but not used as commonly) Ropa vieja: Local shredded beef specialty. Literally "old clothes." Arroz morro (sometimes just "morro"): Black beans and rice Fruta bomba: Papaya ("papaya" is slang for female anatomy) Guayaba: Guava. Mani: Peanuts (street vendors sell them in small white paper cones) Palomitas, short for palomitas de maiz: popcorn (street vendors sell it in larger white paper cones) Cajita: Literally a little box, usually contains a delicious cheap lunch of rice, beans and fried chicken. ________ Napolitano: In red sauce, e.g. spaghetti. <h2>Heading to Cuba? Download our FREE Insider’s Guide!</h2> <a href="/explore/guides/cuba-insiders-guide" target="_blank">Put down the cigars and step out of the vintage cars! Explore historical sites of revolution, taste peso food, or go diving among vibrant marine life.</a>iStock/LembiBuchanan 0547022800 iStock Havana, Cuba – June 9, 2016: Tourist talks to two dachshunds dressed up by owner to attract donations from passers-by of the Ambos Mundos Hotel to supplement his income.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cubaDon’t miss Cuba’s best-preserved colonial town, Trinidad. From pastel-colored houses to a car-free historic core our local insider shows you what to see and do here.2017-04-19T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-things-to-see-and-do-in-trinidad-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comThe streets surrounding Trinidad’s main square, Plaza Mayor, are lined with beautiful mansions from the heyday of the local sugar industry. Several of these are now museums, highlighting various aspects of the town’s past.  Trinidad’s gorgeous natural surroundings also offer several worthwhile destinations for day trips. <h2>1. Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad</h2> Facing the Plaza Mayor, Trinidad’s main church was built over a 75-year period in the 19th century, and is known for its impressive neoclassical altar and fine acoustics.  Its greatest treasure is an 18th-century wooden statue of Christ, known as El Señor de la Vera Cruz.  <h2>2. Museo de Historia Municipal</h2> Housed inside a magnificent 19th-century mansion, the Palacio Cantero, this museum contains an eclectic assortment of antique furniture, artwork, and decorative items, as well as exhibits on the sugar industry and other aspects of local history. Climb the tower for great views of Trinidad and the Sierra del Escambray mountains. <h2>3. Museo Romántico</h2> Dating from 1740, with an upper floor added in 1808, the Palacio Brunet houses the Museo Romántico, which focuses on the period from the 1830s through the 1860s. Objects on display include porcelain, glass, furniture, artwork, and other items owned by the wealthy Brunet family and other local elites. <h2>4. Museo de Arquitectura Colonial</h2> Flanking the Plaza Mayor, the Museum of Colonial Architecture occupies two connected blue buildings from the 18th century. It highlights outstanding examples of domestic architecture from the colonial period, including walls, ceilings, carved doors, ironwork, and other elements. <h2>5. Convento de San Francisco</h2> A block off the Plaza Mayor, the Convent of Saint Francis, with its distinctive yellow bell tower from 1813, is Trinidad’s most recognizable landmark. It’s now home to the Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos, with exhibits about the Castro regime’s struggle against counterrevolutionaries during the 1960s. There are also spectacular views from the bell tower. <h2>6. Casa de la Música</h2> Atop the wide stone staircase beside the Iglesia Parroquial, is Trinidad’s most popular choice for a night out - an open-air venue where you can dance the night away under the stars or just sip a mojito and enjoy the entertainment. There are live salsa shows and music nightly. <h2>7. Playa Ancón</h2> Playa Ancón is a lovely 4km stretch of white-sand beach located on the Peninsula Ancón, 12km south of Trinidad. Cuba’s largest black coral reef is located just offshore at Cayo Blanco; <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cuba" target="_blank">day trips for snorkelling and diving are available</a>. <h2>8. Valle de los Ingenios</h2> Most of Trinidad’s wealthiest colonial-era families made their fortunes in the sugar industry, centred in the nearby Valle de los Ingenios. Stop at the Mirador de la Loma del Puerto for a panoramic view of the entire valley, dotted with the ruins of former sugar plantations. One of the most interesting is the Manaca Iznaga estate, where you can visit the restored manor house, sample hand-pressed sugar cane juice, and climb a 45-metre bell tower built in 1816 for more stunning views. <h2>9. Topes de Collantes National Park</h2> The Sierra del Escambray mountain range forms a verdant backdrop for Trinidad. The best place to explore it is at Topes de Collantes, a natural reserve with numerous forest trails, some of which lead to natural swimming holes and waterfalls. Organized day trips are available from Trinidad, but you can also <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/a-guide-to-getting-around-cuba" target="_blank">arrange your own transportation</a> and <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/cost-guide-to-cuba" target="_blank">pay a usage fee</a> for trail access. <h2>Heading to Cuba? Download our FREE Insider’s Guide!</h2> <a href="/explore/guides/cuba-insiders-guide" target="_blank">Put down the cigars and step out of the vintage cars! Explore historical sites of revolution, taste peso food, or go diving among vibrant marine life.</a>iStock/Nikada 0611288680 iStock Trinidad, Cuba - March 23, 2015: Local people and tourist walking on the streets of Plaza Mayor in Trinidad, Cuba.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cubaFrom Jardines de la Reina in the south, to Cayo Coco on the northern coast, here are six of the best scuba diving spots in Cuba.2023-08-23T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-scuba-diving-sites-in-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comFor scuba divers, Cuba is a Caribbean destination apart. Where neighboring islands have experienced diminished fish species from overfishing, Cuba’s reefs have been astonishingly well preserved, and are the most dazzling in the entire region. When you go diving in Cuba <a href="/travel-safety/caribbean/cuba/safety-tips-for-scuba-divers-in-cuba" target="_blank">you’re often going where relatively few divers have gone before</a>. Nowhere else in the Caribbean feels as pioneering as here, so make sure your certifications are up to date and dive in for the underwater experience of a lifetime. If you’re not certified, you can get certified in Cuba (where the cost is fairly cheap) but keep in mind that, because of the US embargo, you won’t be able to get PADI certification. PADI is not the only certification in the world but it is prized among many divers, particularly Americans, and it simply isn’t offered in Cuba. <ul> <li><a href="#maria-la-gorda"> Diving in Maria la Gorda </a></li> <li><a href="#punta-frances"> Dive Along Punta Frances on the Isla de la Juventud</a></li> <li><a href="#jardines-de-la-reina"> Jardines de la Reina Marine Park </a></li> <li><a href="#cayo-largo"> Scuba Diving in Cayo Largo </a></li> <li><a href="#cayo-coco"> Jardines del Rey and Cayo Coco </a></li> <li><a href="#bay-of-pigs"> Bay of Pigs (Playa Giron)</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="maria-la-gorda">Diving in Maria la Gorda</h2> Start your dive explorations on the peninsula furthest west in Cuba, in Maria la Gorda, where international dive centers front the sheltered Bahia de Corrientes, one of the island’s best-protected zones for diving. The area falls within the Guanahacabibes National Park, and is home to around 50 excellent dive sites that include features like plunging walls, swim-throughs and caves. At the dive site called Lost Paradise, you can fin amongst shoals of jacks and barracuda. Keep an eye out for patrolling stingrays, too. And at the Gorgonian Garden, divers delight at the sight of hulking Nassau groupers. Keep in mind that Maria La Gorda is a bit of a haul from Havana, and it’s far from the frequent daytrip to Viñales, which is also in the westernmost Pinar del Rio province. You may have to book a private taxi from Havana to get here. To save money, you could also take the bus to Pinar del Rio and get a taxi there but you may want to confirm in advance. <h2 id="punta-frances">Dive along Punta Frances on the Isla de la Juventud</h2> Punta Frances National Marine Park, located on Cuba's largest offshore island, is another must-do for divers. Advanced divers can submerge into a tunnel at the site, called Cueva Azul, to spot huge tarpon. Even snorkelers along Punta Frances’ shores may spot hawksbill sea turtles and maybe even manatees, too. Because this is an island, you’ll either need to fly or take a ferry here. Schedules are not always consistent so it’s best to ask your host to help you confirm the schedule and how to purchase a ticket (which may require you visit the ticket office in person in Havana). <h2 id="jardines-de-la-reina">Jardines de la Reina Marine Park</h2> The Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) Marine Park, off the island’s southern coast, is perhaps Cuba’s greatest underwater treasure. A government-protected area, it’s considered among the most beautiful dive destinations in all of the Caribbean. Since commercial fishing is not allowed within the park, the marine life here is prolific, with all manner of sea turtles and sharks (including reefs, hammerheads, black tips, leopards and silkies) to be seen. The best way to visit the area is on multi-day trips via liveaboard dive boats. Because you can only reach the area by dive boat and because very few trips are offered here, divers typically have to reserve their spot on the trip many months in advance. <h2 id="cayo-largo">Scuba diving in Cayo Largo del Sur</h2> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/cuba/cayo-largo-reef-cuba.jpg" alt="Colorful reef and divers, Cayo Largo, Cuba." /> <figcaption>Colorful reef and divers, Cayo Largo, Cuba. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> Cayo Largo del Sur, east of Isla de la Juventud off Cuba’s southern coast, is yet another prime place to submerge, with shallow waters that host a wide range of marine life. Tunnels, steep walls, and vibrant coral heads are among the over 30 dive sites here, with eels, rays, barracuda, sharks, lobster, grouper and all manner of snapper among the inhabitants. <h2 id="cayo-coco">Jardines del Rey and Cayo Coco</h2> Off the northern coast of Cuba, make a beeline for the stunning archipelago of Jardines del Rey (Gardens of the King). Here you'll find Cayo Coco, home to beaches with sugar-white sand and a rainbow of reef life. The water is warm and crystal clear – all the more enticing for spotting dolphins, angelfish, parrotfish, and large schools of tarpon and spadefish as you fin along the pristine reefs.  The easiest way to dive here is to stay at one of the many Cayo Coco hotels that offer diving but to save money, you could base yourself in Moron, which is about an hour away. If you do this, you’ll need to confirm transportation in advance with your host, as there are no regular tourist buses that run this route. <h2 id="bay-of-pigs">Bay of Pigs (Playa Giron)</h2> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/cuba/cuba-bay-of-pigs.jpg" alt="Bay of Pigs, Cuba." /> <figcaption>Bay of Pigs, Cuba. Photo credit: iStock </figcaption></figure> About two hours southeast of Havana, the Bay of Pigs may be in history books for the failed US military invasion, but scuba divers known it for something else. (And no one in Cuba calls it the Bay of Pigs – it's actually called Playa Giron.) You can gear up right on the beach and dive straight from the shore to access a spectacular wall that vibrates with all manner of tropical fish, and more than 17 species of coral plants. The Jaruco is a purpose-sunk wreck that’s fun to explore in this area. Advanced divers love the site called Punta Perdiz for its deep wall, dazzling with fish life. Updated with additional information by <a href="/about/contributors/cassandra-brooklyn">Cassandra Brooklyn</a> in August 2023.iStock/Rostislavv 0492011724 iStock Scuba divers taking underwater photos in Cuba.

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-beaches-to-go-surfing-in-cubaGoats on the Road share why Cuba is bursting onto the scene as a new wave-riding destination.2023-06-23T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/explore/caribbean/cuba/top-beaches-to-go-surfing-in-cubahttps://www.worldnomads.comCuba’s surfing scene is finally starting to catch on. Not long ago, police were arresting Cuban surfers because they were convinced that they were trying to escape from the island. Today, there is a significant amount of kitesurfing and a growing <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/surfing">surf culture</a>. With decent waves, friendly people and a laid-back Caribbean vibe, the pearl of the Greater Antilles might just be the perfect place to hit the coast. <ul> <li><a href="#when"> When to go surfing in Cuba </a></li> <li><a href="#top-spots"> Cuba's top surf spots </a></li> <li><a href="#safety-tips"> Dangers and safety tips </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="when">When to go surfing in Cuba</h2> Cuba enjoys a tropical climate year-round with north-easterly trade winds constantly blasting the shoreline, and a balmy average temperature of 21ºC (69.8°F). While rain hits between May and October, the skies clear from November to April. The only real time to surf in Cuba is in winter – from November to April – when the Atlantic groundswell comes in from the north-east, producing some decent barrels. Cuba sits in the <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-a-hurricane">hurricane</a> corridor in the Gulf of Mexico, so the island can be hit by crazy storms. It’s not recommended to be on the water during strong weather from June to November, and it’s important to be aware of all hurricane warnings. If there’s a storm in the Gulf of Mexico, it can mean great waves for surfing in Cuba – but stay away from the coast if the hurricane is heading towards the island itself. In particular, September and October have the highest chance of serious storms. <h2 id="top-spots">Cuba's top surf spots</h2> Now you know when to visit Cuba for great surfing, it’s time to plan the perfect surf locations. Here are the top surf spots on the island. <h3>Yumuri</h3> Known as one of the best surfing spots in Cuba, this river-mouth surf bay is located just 18.6mi (30km) east of Baracoa. A mostly pebble-stone beach, Yumuri has pretty decent waves breaking both left and right depending on the current swell. <h3>La Setenta</h3> Known to have waves up to eight feet high during strong northeast Atlantic groundswells, this shallow rock reef is not far from the old center of Havana (which means it can sometimes get crowded). Like many places on the north shore, the best time to hit the waves here is when there’s a massive storm in the Gulf of Mexico, sending the surf crashing on the Caribbean islands. There’s a shallow table reef here with some pretty jagged rocks, so it’s important not to head out at low tide. Because of the underwater topography, access to the surf can be difficult from the coastline, but there’s a random concrete slab sticking out into the ocean where many people find easier entry. <h3>Playas del Este</h3> Mostly known for great kitesurfing, Playas del Este near Havana also attracts the odd bodysurfer and surfer. This beach runs for 15mi (24km) along the northern coast. There are few facilities here and you really have to wait for a groundswell or a storm further north to enjoy proper waves. But if you’re into strapping on a kite, <a href="http://www.havanakiteboarding.com/">Havana Kiteboarding</a> have a surf shop in Playas del Este where you can rent and organize lessons. <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/cuba/playas-del-este-goats-on-the-road.jpg" /> <figcaption>Playas del Este. Photo credit: Goats on the Road </figcaption></figure> <h3>Calle 70</h3> This is Havana’s main break, and it’s not a safe one, so be careful. The waves are okay here, but they crash over a razor-sharp reef dotted with sea urchins and stone fish, so most serious falls here are known to leave the surfer cut and bloody. You can do lessons on this break, but there are better places in the country for beginners. <h3>Other locations worth mentioning</h3> Baconao: Along the south coast of the national park there are some good surfing opportunities. Sun Beach: There’s an average beach break here with decent and easy waves good for all surfers. There are some lifeguards here, who tend to shut the beach down if the waves get too big. Cabo de San Antonio: Also known to have adequate surfing during storms in the Gulf. If the waves are too tame, head to the Parque Nacional Península de Guanahacabibes at the tip of the peninsula for some crocodile spotting and cenote swimming. <h2 id="safety-tips">Dangers and safety tips</h2> Cuba still hasn’t fully caught on to surfing culture yet, so you may find that etiquette on the waves hasn’t quite evolved. Be on the defensive side and be vocal. There are no lifeguards on many of the beaches listed above, so try to be extra careful and be aware of sharp corals, jagged rocks, and some hard tabletop formations in places like La Setenta and Calle 70.  Cuban policies, combined with the American blockade, have made surfing in Cuba a pretty complicated endeavor, especially for locals who have a hard time getting their hands on boards, wax, and other essentials for the sport. While there are some places to rent gear, it’s best to bring your own from home if you can. Sometimes if you stay in <a href="/explore/caribbean/cuba/finding-and-booking-accommodation-in-cuba" target="_blank">casa particulars</a> near popular surf towns, you can find wax that other surf travelers have left behind. The owners can sometimes help you with surf tips and locations too.Goats on the Road 0