Santiago de Cuba is, according to many, the Capital of the Caribbean. Its mountainous terrains and winding roads connect the mighty Sierra Maestro to the Caribbean Sea. The rich history and vibrant culture of the city complements its scenic beauty. Santiago de Cuba travel tips provide information to make the best of your stay at this beautiful city.
Santiago de Cuba has a comfortable marine climate. Temperatures rarely go below 18ºC and seldom rise above 31ºC. July and August are the hottest months. September and October, as well as March, receive heavy rainfall.
Lodging information is an extremely important part of travel tips Santiago de Cuba. There are a number of lodging facilities in Santiago. State run accommodations are widely available, some of which are quite good in terms of services and facilities. Resorts, like the Sierra Mar Club Resort, are all-inclusive hospitality destinations.
There are a number of private hotels in Santiago de Cuba, which range from star accommodations to budget hotels. The Hotel Las Americas and the Sol Mella, popularly referred to as the Hotel Santiago are among the most popular ones. Other popular hotels include:
Los Galeones Club Lodge
Hotel Bucanero
Hotel Casa Granda
Maruchi and Cobo Guest House
Club Amigo Los Corales
The guests are advised to get their hotel bookings prior to their arrivals.
For most visitors, the best thing about Santiago de Cuba is its friendly and hospitable people. The ‘casa particulars’ are therefore, often thought to be the best places to stay. They are privately owned houses by Cuban nationals. A green triangular sign denotes a licensed casa particular. The license number and the address must be referred to the immigration officers. It must be noted, that Cubans are not allowed to host foreigners unrelated to them in their unlicensed homes, and can prosecuted for the same.
Food is available in the many government and private restaurants of the city. There are culinary delights from all over the world that are served at the Santiago restaurants. Some of the popular restaurants of Santiago are:
El Morro
El Toro
Patio De Los Dos Abuelo
Casa de Don Antonio
El Cayo
‘Walk-in’ guests are not entertained by the casa particulars, which serve meals only to the residing guests.
Sightseeing in Santiago de Cuba is mainly centered on the various historical monuments of the city. The must-visit places of the city are:
Cuartel Moncada
Parque Cespedes
San Pedro de la Roca Castle
Castillo del Morro
Museo Municipal Emilio Bacard Moreau
Santiago is also famous for the colorful events that are held at various times of the year. You can visit Santiago during festival times, and experience the vibrant culture of the city first hand. Some of the most popular events of the city are:
July 26 celebrations
Carnavales de Santiago
International Chorus Festival
Caribbean Islands Rally
The city also has a very vibrant lifestyle. Food and drinks are available at most of the nightclubs and discos.
Santiago is well connected to all major cities of the world through the Antonio Maceo International Airport. One can go around within the city using the well developed public transport system of the city. Cabs are also available near the major hotels. One is advised to finalize the fare before boarding if the cab does not have a meter.
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