An Overview of the Republic of Cuba

Cuba, beauty in simplicity, a haven, a paradise, anand revolt has succeeded in Cuba being a free
experience. One of the largest Caribbean islands,country today.
Cuba is all you can dream of and a little more. EndlessThe spirit of Cuba is well reflected in its anthem. The
sandy beaches, captivating culture, old-agephrase "do not fear a glorious death, because to die
architecture, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, it is afor the country is to live" portrays the fierce loyalty
place you would not want to leave. Cuba consists ofthe people have for its island. The Cuban national
the main island, the Isle of Youth and about 4,195flower is the butterfly jasmine, Trogon is its national
keys commonly known as cayos. It is 140 kilometersbird, and the royal palm is its national tree.
from the Bahamas and 180 kilometers from Florida.Think of a land with 6700 species of plants, 14,000
Cuba's 11,200,000 inhabitants predominantly speakspecies of invertebrates and 650 species of
Spanish. Journey with us as we take you down thevertebrates. Think Cuba. Hidden within its enchanting
alleys, past the favorite haunts and experience withforests, arid mountains and lush plains there is a
us the true magic of this virgin holiday destination.plethora of wildlife unique to this part of the world. It
Join us as we rediscover Cuba's past, revel in itsis a hikers dream come true, as the winding trails
present and predict what lies ahead.reveal over 350 species of birds. Cuba has four
History has recorded that Cuba was originally calledmountain ranges and Turquino (1,974 meters) is the
Cubanascnan. Christopher Columbus called it Juana.country's highest peak.
Colonization was credited to a Spanish soldier DiegoComfortable cotton is recommended for Cuba's
Velazquez who established Baracoa in the year 1511.warm climate. Although the average temperature
With his success he went on to establish Santiago dehovers around 25.5 degress centigrade, the average
Cuba in 1514 and Havana in 1515. Thus began the erarelative humidity is 78%. Depending upon the season,
of the Spanish rule. The 1830s sparked thea raincoat and an umbrella may come in handy too!
independence movement, which gained momentumCuba is full of must-see places. From the plantations
after 1886 when slavery was abolished. Cuba'sof Cuba's Pinar del Rio province to the Varadero
history has seen several phases. Some of greatbeach, from the Great Natural Park of Montemar to
success and some of great loss. It has traveledCienfuegos- The Southern pearl, the country is
many roads but has never lost focus on its finalbrimming in tourist attractions.
destination. This desire to triumph past persecution