Dear Readers,

Summer and the sea, they are inextricably intertwined, and that?s especially true in Cuba.

In this issue of Cubaplus, a number of our stories, options and offers have something to do with the sea and its special relationship with the people of this beautiful Caribbean island. Here are a few highlights:

Our account of the 63rd Ernest Hemingway Billfish Fishing Tournament, one of the oldest such sporting events in the world. If you?ve ever dreamed of catching a marlin in the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by good friends, history and that special Cuban touch, then you need to read this article! Deep-sea fisherman Dr. Martin Arostegui is a doctor by profession who took up fishing as a hobby. Now it is a full-time passion, and he has set 420 world records in this ?wholesome sport.? We share a few of his insights. Another sport enjoyed by ocean-lovers is underwater photography. Cuba was the venue this year for two great events: the 14th CMAS Underwater Photography World Championship, and the 3rd IMASUB International Underwater Photography Competition, in Cayo Largo Sur and Maria la Gorda, two spectacular locations. We have the details for you.

For boaters and divers, Cuba?s marinas are at your service. In this issue, we have information about Marina Hemingway, in Havana, and Marina Marlin Cienfuegos. As always, we have lots of information on Cuban culture. Learn about the special activities planned to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Cuba?s national fine arts museum?the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. We also have interviews with the young artist Alfredo Otero, master pianist Frank Fern?ndez, sculptor Martha Jim?nez, photographer Ernesto Javier Fern?ndez, painter Michel Mirabal and more. When you?re looking for refreshment on one of those blazing summer days, keep in mind that a Cuban classic has reopened: Sloppy Joe?s. Learn a little about its history and mystique. And our restaurant review focuses on Atelier, a family-run establishment where fine dining and elegance go hand-in-hand.

Cuba is known for the quality of its health care and in this issue, you can learn about CIREN, Cuba?s International Centre for Neurological Restoration, which offers innovative, successful therapy programs for neurological and general biological restoration that have won recognition and benefited thousands of patients in some 85 countries.

Tourism is flourishing in Cuba, and we have two reports on important industry events: FITCUBA 2013, the International Tourism Fair, and TURNAT 2013, the 9th International Nature Tourism Conference.

Finally, we want to thank all our friends who came to the Cubaplus 7th Anniversary celebration at the Hotel Nacional, which we report on in this issue. A wonderful venue, with great presentations, great entertainment, and great prospects for the future! Thank you all!

Articles in this edition:

• Tropicana the Meca of Open Air Extravaganzas
• Martí and the United States
• Boca de Guamá Protecting the Cuban Crocodile
• Invitation to Bayamo
• Camilo Guevara, Quests and motivations
• Renewable Energy, a Praiseworthy thy Option
• Gabriel Sánchez Toledo, the universality of his landscapes
• Havana, City Encounters and Good Omens.
• Marlin and Mayo Oldiri team up to promote recreational fishing in northern Cuba
• Boca de Guamá, Protecting the Cuban Crocodile
• Martí, and the United States
• Descemer Bueno, I have many reasons to be in Cuba
• Invitation to Bayamo
• The Mariel Special Zone, An Important Step by Cuba for Economic Development
• 2013 Havana International Trade Fair, A Large Canadian Presence
• Renewable Energy, a Praiseworthy thy Opcion
• Gabriel Sánchez, the Universality of his Landscapes
• Jacqueline Fumero, good taste and excellence
• Caguayo, Beyond Monumental Esculpture
• Medical attention and health care in Cuba, Serving the World
• Special Education in Cuba, Equal Opportunity for All
• Shoes, a passion for Liudmila López
• Casa Vieja Restaurant: a variety of options
• The Hostal Casa Habana: a confortable and welcoming place to stay
• BANCOEX, Venezuela exporta at the 2013 Havana International Trade Fair
• FIART, an encounter with Cuba's visual arts
• The Joy of Fishing on the Malecón
• The Havana Rhythm and Dance Festival
• Marlin and Mayo Oldiri team up to promote recreational fishing in northern Cuba
• A deep-sea fisherman
• Cuban motor racing, tradition and perseverance