Cuba holidays - travel guide - activities & sights

With its hypnotic beats, colourful costumes and sensual steps, the art of Salsa dancing originated in Cuba, although it is now often bears a North American interpretation in other destinations. Experience Cuban Salsa in its purest form, and witness the experienced rhythms of professional dancers. Alternatively, for those feeling brave, why not try your hand at it yourself.

Boasting the World's largest expanse of coral reef, Cuba is a haven for diving enthusiasts from around the globe. Varadero in particular is a real marine hotspot, with 30 quality dive sights. Explore the depths crystal-clear waters, and witness the vivid hues of the extraordinary marine life.

With its abundance stunning architecture, ancient monuments and imposing fortresses, as well as ornate churches, convents and palaces, it is no surprise that Old Havana was made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. Founded by the Spanish in 1519, the city became a key stopping point for treasure-laden galleons, and rapidly became one of the World's major shipbuilding centres. Spanish influence is still evident in the city, with many claiming it resembles the picturesque town of Cadiz. Many of the buildings fell into ruin during the late 20th century, however city has maintained its charm, and still has a lot to offer.

Encircled by mountains, and scattered with dramatic rock formations, the scenic Viñales Valley is the ideal place for exploration - take a leisurely stroll through the lush landscape, exploring the numerous caves and caverns that line the route. Traditional agricultural techniques are still employed in the area, in particular with regards to the farming of tobacco. As a result, UNESCO made the area a World Heritage site in 1999, recognising the importance of the region on the island's economic and agricultural future.

Acclaimed as one of the World's premier centres for quality cigar production, Cuba is home to some of the most well-known brands, including the Partegas and Romeo y Julieta factories. Witness the art and production of the cigar, and experience the aroma of some of the World's very best tobacco. Of course, at the end of your tour there is the opportunity to stock up on the hand-made products, perhaps the perfect souvenir for those you have left at home!

With it's eye-catching six-storey pink distillation tower, it is no surprise that the Bacardi distillery is called the 'Cathedral of Rum.' Covering a huge expanse of 127 acres, the World's largest and most famous rum-producer has been in operation century ago, and still produces more around 100,000 gallons of the spirit each day. During your tour you will experience a trolley ride around the distillery and bottling plant, an informative museum and a delicious rum cocktail, before ending with the opportunity to snap up some bottles of your own as mementos of your trip.