CUBAN CULTURE
Cuban culture is diverse, complex, and truly fascinating. So many varying influences throughout its history including European, North American, and African, have helped shape an incredibly unique Cuban identity.
Cuba is a vibrant island known for its rich culture and diversity with Cuban culture being a vibrant blend of Spanish, African and Caribbean influences that’s evident in its music, food, religion and social customs. It's a culture of resilience, community, and a deep appreciation for the arts and music, with a strong tradition of enjoying life to the fullest.
During your stay, we will share with you a glimpse of Cuban culture and its people.
ARTS
Cuban art is a vibrant blend of diverse influences, reflecting the island’s rich cultural heritage. It incorporates elements of European, African, North and South American traditions, creating a unique artistic identity. Key features include the use of vibrant colors, a focus on Cuban themes and identity, and a diverse range of styles, from avant-garde to folk art.
Cuban art is a melting pot of European, African, and indigenous influences, shaping its unique character. Artists often explore themes of Cuban culture, history, and identity in their work. Cuban art is known for its use of bold and colorful palettes, reflecting the island's lively atmosphere.
The early 20th century saw the rise of Cuban avant-garde movements, characterized by the mixing of modern artistic genres. After the revolution, many artists embraced social realism, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the Cuban people. Street art and murals have become a prominent feature of the Cuban art scene, adding vibrancy and dynamism to public spaces.
The Cuban Revolution had a significant impact on the art scene, leading to the creation of a distinct style that reflects the country's socialist ideology. The Cuban government supports the arts through various initiatives, including funding for exhibitions and cultural exchanges.
You will experience arts throughout your stay with a guided tour of the Museum of Fine Arts Cuban edition as part of your trip.
FOOD
Cuban cuisine is a melting pot, reflecting influences from Indigenous Taino cultures, Spanish colonization, and African traditions. Cuban food heavily relies on local, seasonal produce and fresh seafood.
Rice and beans are fundamental to many Cuban dishes, often paired with meat, plantains, and salads.
Pork is a popular choice, often served roasted or in sandwiches. Other meats like chicken and an occasional beef are also common. Cuban cuisine is known for its bold and diverse flavors, often incorporating spices, tropical fruits, and root vegetables.
Different regions of Cuba have their own unique culinary traditions and dishes. You will experience typical Cuban cuisine in privately owned Cuban restaurants.
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HISTORY
Cuba's history begins with indigenous populations before being claimed by Spain in 1492. It was then a Spanish colony, with the introduction of slavery and a plantation economy focused on sugar.
After independence, Cuba faced political instability over most of the 20th century with a large and sometimes negative influence from the US. The political instability and influence over so much of the island by the US eventually resulted in a communist revolution led by Fidel Castro in 1959. Cuba was a point of contention during the Cold War, with the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Cuba received significant economic and military aid from the Soviet Union and eastern bloc nations.
The collapse of the Soviet Union led to a severe economic crisis in the 1990s called the Special Period. The U.S. has imposed an economic embargo on Cuba since the revolution and continues today which has kept Cuba’s economy in shambles. Our visit there helps individual Cubans operate private businesses outside of the government.
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