CubaPLUS Magazine

Cuba is taking part in the 15th International Festival of Arts, Cultures, and Gastronomy of Our Peoples, continuing today in Nicaragua as a platform to foster unity and solidarity among nations. The event, celebrating its second and final day this Sunday, brings together artists, entrepreneurs, cultural promoters, and representatives from nearly 40 countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as 12 international organizations.

The eastern province of Camagüey continues to strengthen its presence along the popular itineraries travelers choose when exploring the island. As Cuba’s largest province, Camagüey stands out as a destination of captivating contrasts, where colonial history blends effortlessly with dreamlike landscapes. Promoted by Cuba's Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) as a highly diverse hub, its comprehensive offerings range from the cultural heritage of its provincial capital to the pristine beaches of its outlying cays. The crowning jewel of the city of Camagüey is its Historic Center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008. Spanning 54 hectares, this historic core is famous for its unique urban layout within the Caribbean—a labyrinth of winding streets, narrow alleyways, and irregular squares designed, according to legend, to confuse the pirates who once raided the settlement. More reminiscent of an Arab medina than a typical Spanish colonial town, this layout represents an exceptional example of European medieval urban planning transplanted to the Americas. A stroll along its cobblestone streets reveals a harmonious architectural ensemble where Neoclassical, Eclectic, Art Deco, and Neocolonial structures stand alongside imposing Baroque churches, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Candelaria—the city’s most important landmark—and the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, renowned for its catacombs. Squares like Plaza de los Trabajadores, Plaza del Carmen, and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are essential stops for soaking in everyday life and local art. Indeed, Plaza del Carmen is home to the workshop of acclaimed artist Martha Jiménez, famous for her life-sized bronze sculptures of local figures, including Las Cotorras ("The Gossips"). Beyond its urban charm, Camagüey serves as the gateway to two of Cuba’s principal archipelagos: Sabana-Camagüey (known as Jardines del Rey) to the north, and Jardines de la Reina to the south. Its primary beach destinations are Playa Santa Lucía, near Cayo Sabinal, and Cayo Cruz, both drawing visitors with their crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. These destinations—together with the natural landscapes of the Sierra del Chorrillo and the historic town of Guáimaro, where Cuba’s first constitution was signed—round out a diverse offering tailored to sun-and-sand vacationers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike. With hospitality roots dating back to 19th-century inns that took off with the development of Santa Lucía Beach in the 1970s, Camagüey stands as a destination that seamlessly adapts to the demands of international travel while preserving its authentic Cuban soul. (Taken from Prensa Latina)

The eastern Cuban province of Holguín guards many treasures today, waiting to be discovered by those who visit the region. Located in the northern part of the island’s eastern region, the province of Holguín has established itself as Cuba’s third most important tourism destination—and for good reason. Its offerings combine dreamlike beaches, lush nature, ancient history, and a vibrant cultural life, making it a truly unique place. Holguín’s primary magnet is its stunning coastline. With over 41 beaches stretching across its 350 kilometers of northern shoreline, the province boasts some of the whitest sands and clearest waters in the Caribbean.

Nestled in the picturesque town of San Luis, in the western province of Pinar del Río, the former home of Cuban singer-songwriter Polo Montañez—affectionately known as “El Guajiro Natural” (The Natural Countryman)—is dedicated to honoring his life and work. Montañez gained fame for a distinctive musical style that seamlessly blended traditional rural roots with contemporary influences. The house where Montañez once lived has been transformed into a museum to preserve his legacy and offer visitors an intimate look into his life, artistic trajectory, and enduring impact on Cuban culture.

Cuba is seeking to jointly develop its railway transport sector with Russia, the island nation’s First Deputy Minister of Transportation, Luis Roberto Roces, stated today in an interview with the news outlet Prime.ru. “Seventy percent of our country’s rolling stock is of Russian origin, and we are deeply interested in carrying out various projects with the Eurasian nation,” Roces explained. Attending the International Transport Summit hosted in Moscow, the official underscored the critical priority Cuba places on advancing its rail network, particularly amid current conditions marked by the intensification of the U.S. economic blockade against the island.

On August 5, the Cubanacan Hotel Group marks its 39th anniversary, taking pride in having created unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking to discover the true essence of Cuba, according to a statement released on the company's official Facebook page. “For nearly four decades, we have offered the finest way to experience Cuba, delivering hospitality, authenticity, and unique moments at every destination,” the post reads. To maintain its service of excellence for nearly 40 years, the group has relied on a highly skilled team of professionals who spare no effort in ensuring guests enjoy exceptional vacations. This dedication has earned Cubanacan the lasting trust of travelers, travel agents, and tour operators alike.

The 34th edition of the Havana International Book Fair will run from August 10 to 16, with preparations already complete at its main venue, the Línea y 18 Cultural Center in Havana’s Vedado neighborhood. At a press conference on Thursday, Juan Rodríguez Cabrera, President of the Cuban Book Institute, alongside Vice President Jessica Arteaga, unveiled the upcoming event’s program. This year’s fair features Russia as the Guest of Honor and is dedicated to the centennial of the birth of Cuba's historical leader, Fidel Castro.

Inaugurated in 1967, the primary mission of the Museum of the Revolution is to chronicle the pre-1959 revolutionary struggle that culminated in the overthrow of dictator Fulgencio Batista and Fidel Castro’s rise to power. Through a curated series of exhibits, documents, photographs, and historical artifacts, visitors can explore the key events leading to the revolutionary victory, as well as the influential figures who played a pivotal role in the movement, including Ernesto "Che" Guevara, Camilo Cienfuegos, and other leaders.

Marabana 2026, one of the most highly anticipated events on Cuba's sports calendar, is set to take place on November 15 in Havana, welcoming both local and international runners to the starting line.

Following press reports regarding the exit of Meliá and other hotel chains from Cuba, José Antonio Aguilera, the Tourism Counselor for the Southern Cone, reassured that "hotels on the island remain open, and the destination continues to operate normally."

While every museum holds its own appeal, one in particular stands out: the Napoleonic Museum. It houses a extraordinary collection of artifacts associated with the legendary military genius and first emperor of France.

Located in the central province of Cienfuegos, the Martín Infierno cavern system continues to captivate visitors and specialists alike with its majestic stalactite and stalagmite formations—a subterranean journey that unveils the island's millennia-old geology.

If there is one food that is universally adored, it is undoubtedly chocolate. International statistics suggest that over 90 percent of the global population consumes at least one kilogram of this product annually.

Spanish hotel groups Meliá, Iberostar, and Barceló have terminated their operations in Cuba. The withdrawal is a direct result of mounting operational constraints on the island stemming from the latest U.S. sanctions, which now target Cuba's Ministry of Tourism. A statement released this week by Meliá Hotels International announced that, effective Friday, July 24, the company will cease all operations on the island due to "significant operational, legal, economic, and financial difficulties" arising from the U.S. embargo.

Cuban sports legend Alberto Juantorena was honored during the Centro Caribe Sports centennial gala, held in the Dominican Republic as part of the events surrounding the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games, official sources confirmed today. Dominican President Luis Abinader presented the organization's prestigious "Athlete of the Centennial" award to Juantorena, a double Olympic champion in the 400m and 800m track events. The honor was accepted on his behalf by Roberto León Richards, President of the Cuban Olympic Committee.

Today, Cayo Largo del Sur offers more than enough reason to visit Cuba, thanks to its pristine nature, quiet intimacy, and perfect appeal for travelers seeking tranquility and solitude. This sentiment, shared by tour guides and promoted by the Ministry of Tourism (Mintur), reflects a destination whose natural promise transcends economic challenges and external skepticism. Once a remote and untouched corner of Cuba, Cayo Largo’s vibrant colors, pristine beaches, and hidden coves have long made it a prime destination for both tourism and environmental conservation.

To fully appreciate the National Museum of Decorative Arts, one must first appreciate the mansion that houses it. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, making a visit to the museum a true experience of "art within art." Built between 1924 and 1927, the beautiful mansion was originally envisioned as a French-style residence. However, two Cuban architects ultimately took charge of the project, culminating in a magnificent eclectic-style estate.

Today, the Santiago de Cuba Carnival continues to define the cultural, traditional, and tourism landscape of the island’s eastern region. Despite ongoing economic challenges, the event remains deeply embedded in the collective identity of the Cuban people. The eastern province of Santiago de Cuba is famous for its carnivals and other festivals, such as the Fire Festival (Fiesta del Fuego). These vibrant celebrations showcase a unique Caribbean character, characterized by the color, warmth, and charisma of the local population.

As an explosion of color and joy, the Charangas of Bejucal in Mayabeque stand out today as one of Cuba’s most internationally renowned traditional festivals. Despite the island's economic hardships, this celebration remains deeply rooted in the nation's collective memory and cultural heritage, making it a legacy well worth highlighting.

With just three days to go before the cauldron is lit once more in Santo Domingo, the city is poised to host the centennial edition of the Central American and Caribbean Games (CACGs)—a landmark event that stands as a symbol of regional integration through sports. Athletic venues are undergoing final preparations, and since the weekend, the Dominican capital has been welcoming thousands of athletes, coaches, judges, officials, and visitors arriving for the tournament.