Opinions on Cuba have been divided on the effect of Castro, the 40 years of US blockade, and then the collapse of the Soviet Union that followed. Although Cubans have all the necessities in life, such as food and education, they are still not able to think freely.

Fortunately, the country has recently undergone a transformation since its doors have been open to the global tourism in the 1990s. Travellers who want to gain a real knowledge of what life is like for the average Cubano, should stay at a casa particular (a private home with rooms to rent). This option also opens up to travelers the parts of the country that were originally inaccessible and off-limits. It is also a cheap option, freeing up your money to enjoy the nightlife that Havana is so famous for.

The heritage of the country is also in safe hands, as both historic Havana and Trinidad are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and have undergone a painstaking process of restoration and preservation. Walking around these cities is like taking a trip back in time.

The new concept of ‘ecotourism’ is being taken on here, and this is dues to the rehabilitation process from the blockade. This ecotourism means that you won’t find reckless expansion and resorts along the magnificent coastline, but instead you will find many pristine white beaches that are waiting to be explored.