CubaPLUS Magazine

Situated on Cuba’s southern coast, just 12 kilometers from the historic city of Trinidad, Playa Ancón is a breathtaking coastal retreat. Renowned for its four kilometers of powdery white sand and translucent turquoise waters, it offers a sublime sanctuary for both total relaxation and spirited water sports. The beach is framed by a striking natural landscape where emerald mountains meet lush tropical greenery. Beneath the surface, the vibrant seabed invites divers and snorkelers to explore thriving coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea urchins.

In a major milestone for Cuban children, the “Quinta de los Molinos” Botanical Garden in Havana is set to unveil the country’s first-ever inclusive playground—a barrier-free space designed for all children to enjoy together. According to a recent update on the facility’s Facebook page, the new park has been envisioned as a truly universal space. Its design ensures that children who use wheelchairs and those who do not can share the same equipment and experiences without distinction.

Though it remains one of Cuba’s more secluded destinations, Playa Larga is a charming fishing village that serves as the gateway to the country’s largest wilderness area: the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park. This diverse ecosystem of wetlands, mangroves, coral reefs, and submarine canyons is home to a staggering array of colorful birds and tropical fish.

The vibrant Cuban town of Sagua la Grande continues to captivate visitors with its colorful charm in the central region of the archipelago. Having officially entered the island's tourism catalog, bolstered by its historic sites, nautical activities, and new hotels, this destination attracts both domestic and international travelers. The Palacio de Arena and Hotel Sagua were reopened as part of the 38th International Tourism Fair (FITCuba 2018), and since then, they have garnered significant attention.

As in many nations across the globe, Cuba celebrates International Women's Day on March 8th. This tribute is deeply deserved, recognizing that beyond their vital roles as mothers, wives, and daughters, women are a cornerstone of Cuban society and a formidable force driving the nation forward.

Situated at the westernmost tip of Pinar del Río province, María la Gorda is a diver’s paradise. Its crystalline waters and breathtaking sea beds—teeming with reefs and coral barriers—position this destination as one of the finest diving spots in Cuba and the entire Caribbean.

Despite facing challenges from climate impacts and global geopolitical uncertainties, the Caribbean remains a top global vacation choice for both seasoned "silver travelers"—those over 55 who prioritize freedom, flexibility, and adventure—and younger generations, according to Cuban academic José Luis Perelló.

Canadian travelers can continue to visit Cuba for both leisure and health tourism through several available transit options, despite the temporary suspension of direct flights from Canada until April 26.

It has been years since I first visited this beach, yet the image remains vivid in my mind. The sight of its fine, jet-black sand is truly breathtaking, especially for those encountering such a phenomenon for the first time.

Cuba’s magnificent Varadero beach has once again secured its place among the Caribbean’s top coastal destinations, according to the annual rankings by TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel platform.

There is an old adage that says: "To each their own colors, and for colors, the flowers." I would venture a modification: to each their own beaches, and for beaches, Sirena—for in the eyes of the many travelers who have graced its shores, it is undeniably one of Cuba’s most extraordinary coastal wonders.

Nestled in the iconic Cayo Largo del Sur, a hallmark of Cuban tourism, Playa Paraíso truly lives up to its name. Its powdery white sands and translucent turquoise waters—which remain pleasantly warm even during the winter months—combined with an atmosphere of profound seclusion, make this beach a singular destination. This spectacular stretch of coastline is a favorite among travelers visiting Cayo Largo, offering the perfect setting for an idyllic day in calm, shallow waters. Just one kilometer away lies the small islet of Cayo de los Monos, a distance easily covered by experienced swimmers. The islet serves as an excellent spot for water sports, particularly snorkeling, amidst its pristine surroundings.

While global travel offers a diverse array of categories—ranging from nature and culture to history, sports, adventure, and gastronomy—the "Sun and Beach" segment remains one of the most consistently popular among international travelers, particularly in Caribbean destinations. Cuba stands out as a premier Sun and Beach destination within the region. Beyond its near-perpetual summer climate, with average temperatures hovering between 26 and 28°C (79–82°F), the island boasts one of the most extensive coastlines in the Caribbean.

Cuba is currently at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through pioneering projects spearheaded by the University of Camagüey (UC). These programs, which include strategic international partnerships with Hebei University in China, have now expanded into an unprecedented editorial project designed for children.

The National Museum of Fine Arts of Cuba (MNBA) invites the public to discover the oldest artifacts in its collection—true masterpieces that bridge the gap between modern audiences and the millennia-old history of humanity.

The largest solo exhibition by virtuoso Cuban artist Roberto Fabelo, titled Medula (Marrow), is one of the highlights of the Cuban Art Building at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana.

Soroa, a highly sought-after destination for nature lovers visiting Cuba, is one of those places that captivates through its natural wonders. Chief among them is the Orchidarium, a Botanical Garden of national significance located in the municipality of Candelaria, in the western province of Artemisa.

The Organizing Committee of the premier global event for Cuban cigars has announced the postponement of the XXVI Habanos Festival, which was originally scheduled to take place from February 23 to 27. According to the official statement, the decision to postpone this upcoming edition aims to uphold the highest standards of quality, excellence, and premium experience for which the international event is renowned. This measure reflects a commitment to providing participants with an optimal environment for the full development of all activities, presentations, and networking opportunities that define this prestigious gathering.

Love and Friendship Day—more widely known around the world as Valentine's Day—has become a near-mandatory celebration. After all, who doesn't have a partner or a dear friend to toast to? One could argue it is practically impossible not to. In Cuba, these festivities are held in such high regard they are considered almost "sacred," making February 14 one of the most eagerly anticipated days of the year. Historical records show that Valentine’s Day has been celebrated in Cuba since February 14, 1841. On that day, the Tacón Theater (now the Gran Teatro de La Habana “Alicia Alonso”) premiered the contradanza “La Valentina” by Tomás Buelta y Flores.

Canadian hotel group Blue Diamond Resorts has issued an official statement emphasizing that “Cuba remains open to the world, welcoming those who choose the island for its beaches, its culture, and above all, its people.” Amid the country’s current circumstances and as part of a national operational realignment, certain hotel facilities have been temporarily closed to consolidate operations within properties that remain open and fully functional, the document explains.