Guardalavaca

Guardalavaca exudes relaxation; tourists come here for the sun and the sea. This village, located 43.5 miles away from the airport of Holguin, offers an environment beyond comparison: miles and miles of white sand, lined with hotels. The beach of Guardalavaca is open to the public, including the Cubans, while the beach of Esmeralda is reserved for tourists only. Travel to Guardalavaca and you'll feel as though you stepped into Caribbean paradise.

Take a tour to Holguin, the birthplace of Fidel Castro, or to the museum of Chorro de Maita, an open-air site preserving the remains of an Indian village uncovered by excavation.

Guardalavaca is the place for sport and nature lovers: go diving, fishing, cycling on country roads or try and spot the dolphins.

Remember to avoid the cyclone season (October - November). Bring along light clothing and lots of sunscreen.

Avoid making negative or critical comments about Fidel Castro, or ask their opinion on the political regime; this may make Cubans feel uncomfortable.

Cuban cuisine is quite simple and not diverse. Chicken and rice are its main staples. It is common for potatoes, fried bananas and yams to be served with the main meal. Make it your mission to taste the local lobster!

Of course, Cuban rum is excellent, as are the cigars. The local shirts, known as guayabera and straw hats guajiro are also a good buy. As for the music, you will find many recordings by local artists.