Discover Varadero, Matanzas & Prepare Your Best Trip to the Beach!

Home , Che Guevara Mausoleum, Varadero

| editorial COUNCIL PresidentS: Janet Ayala, Ivis Fernández Peña, José Manso informaTIOn MANAGER: Juan Pardo COORDINATION AND ediTIOn: Yarianys González y Aimel Gutiérrez TRADUCTION: Danays Arzuaga design: Yamile Salomón, Maylén Borrero distribution: Pedro Beauballet printing: Publicitur S.A.

YEAR 2013 ISSN 1995-946X

Oficina Nacional de Información Turística Calle 28 No. 303, e/ 3ra. y 5ta. Miramar, Playa. La Habana. Tel: (53 7) 204 6635 E-mail: [email protected]

4 | | 5 Welcome to: VARADERO Dear readers: We are pleased to welcome you to Varadero, the most famous beach in Cuba and one of the most important destinations in the Caribbean.

The transparency of its waters, the different tones of blue, the fine white sand, the warm weather, the vegetation and the open landscape turn this location into an unforgettable resort.

It is located only 138 km from Havana City, on the northern coast of the province of Matanzas, and close to the cities of Matanzas and Cárdenas, both of them full of history and heritage and cultural values.

From Varadero you will be able to travel to any of the interesting places of the Cuban geography. We will also provide for you our typical cocktails and our excellent cuisine, the good music, the Cuban joy, our dances and culture in its different expressions. All sea-related sports have their ideal place in Varadero. There is also an excellent 18 hole-golf course.

Varadero is also very proud to offer a great security for its visitors as well as the warmth and hospitality of its people who are always willing to share their joy, culture and European and African roots, turning Cuban into the best host. Come to enjoy with us all the blue of the Caribbean and you will make sure that Varadero is more than a dream; Varadero is for you.

6 | | 7 HOTELS

Paradisus Varadero Hotel

Sol Meliá Cuba Sun Beach roC Occidental Meliá Las Américas (53 45) 61 3446 / Arenas Doradas Occidental Allegro (53 45) 66 7600 66 7490 (53 45) 66 8150 Varadero (53 45) 66 8288 Paradisus Varadero Palma Real Club Barlovento (53 45) 66 8700 (53 45) 61 4555 (53 45) 66 7140 hotelEs riu Riu Varadero Paradisus Puntarenas Blue bay (53 45) 66 7966 Princesa del Mar (53 45) 66 7125 Playa Caleta (53 45) 66 7200 (53 45) 66 7120-24 H10 Meliá Las Américas Hotel Iberostar OCEAN VARADERO Meliá Península Iberostar Varadero Sandals EL PATRIARCA Varadero (53 45) 66 9999 Sandals Royal (53 45) 66 8166 (53 45) 66 8800 Hicacos Iberostar Taínos (53 45) 66 8844 Islazul Meliá Varadero (53 45) 66 8656 Los Delfines (53 45) 66 7013 Accor (53 45) 66 7720-21 Iberostar Alameda Mercure MELIÁ MARINA (53 45) 66 8822 Cuatro Palmas Mar del Sur VARADERO (53 45) 66 7040 (53 45) 61 2246 (53 45 ) 66 7330 Iberostar Laguna Azul CORALIA CLUB Acuazul-Varazul Meliá Las Antillas (53 45) 66 7900 Playa de Oro (53 45) 66 7132 (53 45) 66 8470 (53 45) 66 8566 Super Clubs Oasis Sol Palmeras Breezes Varadero Blau (53 45) 66 7380-82 (53 45) 66 7009 (53 45) 66 7030 Blau marina Varadero Breezes Bella Costa Hotel (53 45) 66 7545 Villa la Mar Sol Sirenas-Coral Breezes Bella Costa (53 45) 61 2181 / (53 45) 66 8070 (53 45) 66 7713 BLAU Marina 61 4515-20 (53 45) 66 9966 Gran Caribe Barceló Herradura Varadero Barceló Solymar - Cubanacán (53 45) 61 3703 Internacional Arenas Blancas Tuxpan (53 45) 66 7038-39 (53 45 ) 61 4499 / (53 45) 66 7260 Pullman-Dos Mares 61 4450 (53 45) 61 2702 Club Tortuga Aguas Azules (53 45) 61 4747 MEMORIES (53 45) 66 8243 MOTEL PUNTA BLANCA MEMORIES VARADERO (53 45) 66 2210-11 Club Kawama (53 45) 66 7599 Globalia (53 45) 61 4416 Las Morlas Motel Ledo MEMORIES ROYAL (53 45) 66 7230-32 (53 45) 61 3206 Villa Cuba HICACOS Teléf.(53 45 ) 66 8280 (53 45 ) 66 8844 Turquesa Club Amigo Tropical Tortuga Hotel (53 45) 66 8471 (53 45) 61 3915

8 | HOTELS HOTELS | 9 RESTAURANTS La fondue Specialty in fondue. 1ra. Ave. y calle 64, Varadero. (53 45) 66 7747

Casa del Chef Pizza Caribe Cuban, international, Italian and Italian food. Chinese food. Dársena Varadero. Calle 12 esq. a 1ra. Ave., Varadero (53 45) 66 7666 (53 45) 61 3606 Chez Plaza Lai Lai International food. Chinese food. Centro de Convenciones 1ra. Ave. y calle 18, Varadero. Plaza América. (53 45) 66 7793 (53 45) 66 8181 ext. 270

Esquina Cuba Pizza Piaza Creole food. Italian food. 1ra. Ave. y calle 36, Varadero. Centro de Convenciones (53 45) 61 4019 Plaza América. (53 45) 66 8181 ext. 346 El Toro International food and different kinds RANCHÓN BELLAMAR of meats, with special cut types. International food. 1ra. Ave. y calle 25, Varadero. 1ra. / 16 y 17, Varadero. mesón del quijote (53 45) 66 7145 [53 45] 66 8563 Spanish and international food. Reparto La Torre, Varadero. La Vicaria CASA DE AL (53 45) 66 7796 International food. International food. Calle 38 y 1ra. Ave., Varadero. Rpto. Kawama, Varadero. (53 45) 61 4721 [53 45] 66 8018

El Dante KIKI-S CLUB Italian food. International food. 1ra. Ave. e/ 56 y 59. 1ra. y Calle 8, Varadero. (53 45) 66 7228 [53 45] 61 4115

LAS AMÉRICAS EL MALLORCA International food. Shellfish and fish. Autopista Sur Km 8, Varadero. 1ra. y Calle 62, Varadero. Tel: (5345) 66 7388 [53 45] 66 7746

La Barbacoa CASTEL NUOVO International food , different kinds of Italian food. meats and special cut types. 1ra, y Calle 11, Varadero. Calle 64 esq. a 1ra. Ave., Varadero. [53 45] 66 7786 (53 45) 66 7795 LA BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO El Criollo Traditional Cuban food. Calle 18 y 1ra. Ave., Varadero. Ave. Playa y Calle 40, Varadero. (53 45) 61 4794 [53 45] 66 7784

10 | RESTAURANTS | 11 TRAVEL AGENCIES TRIPS

If you want to get informed on the different available offers, NAUTICALS please contact the hotels tourism bureaus. Día Marinero (SAILING DAY) Coach pick up at the hotels. Yatch cruise through the turquoise waters of the northern cays of Varadero. Deep Sea Fishing (fishes could be cooked and tasted). Snorkeling in adjacent coral reefs. Cubanacán Agencia de Viajes Ecotur Swimming time at an exclusive beach Calle 30 y 3ra. Ave. 1ra. Ave. / 26 y 27 area. Time for leisure at Cayo Blanco, (53 45) 66 7061 (53 45) 61 4884/ 66 8612 one of Varadero adjacent Cays. Lunch. [email protected] [email protected] Open bar on board the yatch and while Cayo Blanco Seafari at Cayo Blanco. Coach pick up at the hotels Return to the hotels. Catamaran cruise through the turquoise waters of the southern Paradiso cultural Cubamar Viajes coast of Varadero. Snorkeling in 1ra. Ave. Esq. Calle 36 1ra. y 15, adjacent coral reefs. Time for leisure (53 45) 61 2506/61 4758-59 Edificio Varazul 2do. Piso at Cayo Blanco. Lunch. [email protected] (53 45) 66 8855 Open bar and live entertainment on [email protected] board the catamaran and while at Cayo Blanco. Return to the hotels.

Cayo Blanco Beach Havanatur Gaviota Tours Calle 40 / 1ra. y 3ra. Calle 13 y Autopista. (53 45) 66 7027/66 7589 (53 45) 61 1844/61 2475 [email protected] [email protected]

Cubatur 1ra. Ave. esq. a 33 (53 45) 66 7216-17 [email protected] Sailing Day

Catamaran Tour (Marina Marlin) Coach pick up at the hotels. Catamaran cruise through the CAYO BLANCO PLUS SEAFARI turquoise waters of the Varadero An interacting encounter with north / south coast. Open bar and live dolphins, also including a photo entertainment on board the when kissing the dolphin at Varadero catamaran and while at Cayo Blanco. Delphinarium. Return to the hotels.

12 | TRAVEL AGENCIES TRIPS | 13 Boat Adventure Coach pick up at the hotels. A tour guide included. Jet Ski or speedboat tour, cruising through mangroves and channels of the canal de Chapelín Fishing and the Bay of Cárdenas. Coach pick up at the hotels. boat adventure Return to the hotels. Information: Fishing boat equipped with all Aquarays tours is necessary implements and tools also offered. for fishing at the northern Playa Coral Snorkeling–Cueva de Saturno coast of Varadero. Coach pick up at the hotels. Snorkeling in adjacent Open bar on board. coral reefs at Playa Coral. Snorkeling and Return to the hotels. swimming time at Cueva de Saturno. Return to the hotels.

SUNSET WALK

Coach pick up at the hotels. Catamaran cruise through the turquoise waters of the southern coast of Varadero. Time for leisure at Cayo Blanco, one of Varadero adjacent cays. Lunch. Open bar on board the catamaran. Return to the hotels.

BOAT TRIP WITH SNORKELING Pick up at the hotels. Boat trip where you can appreciate the charms of our seas. Snorkeling in Crucero del Sol Seafari the coral reef. Open bar on board. Alternatives: Return to hotels. Standard program Crucero del Sol Seafari including dinner at Pick up at the hotels. Catamaran ride where you Kike-Kcho restaurant. can see the beauty of our seas. Snorkeling in the coral reef. Interactive meeting Standard program with the dolphins. without interacting Beach time at Cayo Blanco. with the dolphins. Lunch with delicacies from the sea. Open bar on board and at Cayo Blanco. Return to the hotels.

14 | TRIPS | 15 Snorkeling Marina Dársena International in Varadero

overnight life aboard Marina Dársena International Other services: 112 docks - Protection and safety Coach pick up at the hotels. Services for yachting users depending - Water A two-day Catamaran cruise through on the docks, daily price and - Electricity the cays at the northern coast of discounts available when paying in - Cable TV Varadero, where you can appreciate advance. Docks with special prices for - Employees contract the charms of our seas. permanent customers. - Minor works Snorkeling in adjacent coral reefs. - Services involving third parties are Breakfast, lunch and dinner and open punctually paid depending on the bar on board included. price prearranged with the supplier. Return to the hotels. - Diesel and propane gas fuel supply - Ice sale - Crew rental

Coach pick up at hotels in Varadero. BATH WITH A tour guide included. Specialized Tourism Optional Dolphin Show (20 minutes). Services Our diving area extends along more than 40 miles DOLPHINS Bath with dolphins (15 minutes). to the North and South of Matanzas, including the Return to the hotels. nearby cays with spots located between 4 and 35 m deep, with 32 coral reefs, underwater caves, tunnels, and mudholes covered by corals of varied colours and forms where tropical multi-coloured fish specimens rhythmically swim.

The Barracuda International Center and Diving Barracuda International School boasts different facilities: school center, Diving Center 3 clubs included with hotels, 2 centers for tours and Underwater and Beach technical diving service, with a 200 pax per daily Activities. divers potential at your disposal. Diving Offers: 15 16 | TRIPS | 17 Perdiz / Caleta Buena, welcome Guamá Vapor TRIPS cocktail. Free time to swim and Coach picking up at hotels snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea. in Varadero Lunch. A tour guide included. Return to Varadero. A stop at the Snack Bar "Fiesta campesina". Boat tour in the “Laguna del Tesoro” and visit to a replica of an Indian Village (optional : aquaray supplement). Visit to Guama’s Crocodile breeding Farm . Lunch at Pio Cua restaurant. Cárdenas Visit to Fiesta Campesina Farm. Visit to the workshop of locomotives, City Tour Varadero – Cárdenas which dates back the 20th Century Picking up at the hotels. A tour guide and Australia Museum. included. Sightseeing tour of the city Crocodile Farm Get a ride on a tourist German steam of Cardenas including the Monument train built in 1913, with a stop at a to the Giant Crab, Monument of the sugar cane plantation, to taste sugar Bicycle and the Horse & Carriage, Matanzas City cane and delicious Guarapo. and Christopher Columbus park Return to Varadero. with the Catholic Church, the town’s City Tour Matanzas Craftsmanship palace, Oscar María de Coach picking up at the hotels. Nature Tour Caribbean Day Rojas museum and the Tropical Plants A tour guide included. Coach picking up at the hotels Garden. Sightseeing tour of Varadero City tour by Matanzas including A tour guide included. including the Historical area, the Flea landmarks such as: Teatro Sauto, Sightseeing tour to Peninsula de Market and Josone Park. (1 cocktail Plaza de la Vigía, “Pedro Esquerré” Zapata until Punta Perdiz. included). Free time at Plaza America. Gallery (Art Exhibitions), Ediciones Welcome cocktail. Return to the hotels. Vigía (Vigía publishing house), Casa Cuba-Australia Train Snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea. Amigos del Danzón, visit to the Visit to Guama’s Crocodile Farm . (ACAA) (Cuban Association of Artisans Speed boat ride through the and Artists), free time at Parque de la Peninsula de Zapata channels to Libertad. Amarillas Ranch. Cocktail. Creole food lunch. Visit to Bellamar Caves. Free time Time for horse riding, agro-tourist and souvenir shopping time. activities: sport fishing, boat rides, Return to hotels in Varadero. animal feeding. Return to Varadero. Nature Tour “Isla Paraíso” Information: Coach picking up at the hotels This tour could be done in Jeeps. Catamaran ride to appreciate the Guamá – Bahía de Cochinos Guamá channel (above) charm of our sea. Speed boat ride through the Peninsula Coach picking up at the hotels. Visit to “Paradise Island” Cayo de Zapata (below) Inclusion of Tour Guide. Romero. A stop at the "Parador Fiesta Snorkeling / Swimming time campesina" in the National Highway. to appreciate different marine species. Boat tour and visit to a replica of an Beach time. Indian Village. Lunch. Visit to Guama’s Crocodile Open bar on board the catamaran and breeding Farm . while at Cayo Blanco. Visit to Cueva de los Peces / Punta Return to the hotels.

18 | trips trips | 19 Jeep safari Yumuri Coach picking up at the hotels. A tour guide included. Jeep safari rallying off road through the Cuban countryside to feast your eyes with Cuba’s lush vegetation and its history through its ruins. Visit and swimming time at “Cueva de Saturno”, regarded by many as one of the Island’s unique and unprecedented natural wonders. Snorkeling at Playa Coral coral reefs. Tour through the Yumuri Valley up to Rancho Gaviota, with visit to a farmer’s house and a coffee plantation. Rowing boat and horse rides are also possible. Lunch. Speed Boat ride through the waters of Canimar River,until “La Arboleda” ranch to swim in the river, take a rowing boat ride or simply relax watching the flora and fauna. haVana + Jeep safari Discover Tour Return to Varadero. Coach picking up at the hotels. A tour guide included. Nature Tour “Laguna de Maya” tabacos's factory Jeep safari rallying off road through Coach picking up at hotels Coach picking up at the hotels. the Cuban countryside to see Cuba’s in Varadero. A tour guide included. lush vegetation and history through A tour guide included. Stop over at Bacunayagua’s bridge look out point. its ruins. Round Trip air fare. Catamaran Snorkeling at Playa Coral coral reefs seafari on the Island. Visit to Cayo Visit to Rhum Museum. Speed Boat ride through the waters Iguana. Snorkeling at coral reefs. Visit to one of Havana’s Cigars Factory. of Canimar River, until “La Arboleda” Swimming time at a natural pool. Walking sight-seeing tour at Old Havana including Cathedral ranch to swim in the river, take a Swimming time at Playa Sirena. Square, Arms Square, Old Square and Saint Francis de Asis rowing boat ride or simply relax Lunch. Square. watching the flora and fauna. Open bar. Shopping time. Lunch. Return to Varadero. Lunch. Sightseeing tour across Matanzas to Sight-seeing tour at Modern Havana including Revolution Cayo Largo appreciate its cultural wealth: Plaza Square, “Malecón” seawall promenade, “Cristóbal Colón” de la Vigía, Parque de la Libertad, Coach picking up at the hotels Necropolis and Plaza del Mercado y Mirador de A tour guide included. Vedado Residential area. Monserrate. Snorkeling at Playa Coral. Visit and swimming time at “Cueva de Enjoy leisure time at Laguna de Free time at the National Capitol building. Saturno”, regarded by many as one of Maya, another opportunity to enjoy Return to Varadero. the Island’s unique and horse back and boat rides. unprecedented natural wonders. Return to Varadero

20 | TRIPS TRIPS | 21 special havana Havana`s"Malecón" havana overnight + pinar del río Coach picking up at the hotels. 1st Day: Rum Bottle + 1 Coke per person) A tour guide included. Coach pick up at the hotels. A tour 2nd Day: In route stop over at Bacunayagua’s bridge look out point. guide included. In route stop over at Breakfast at hotel. Visit to one museum. Bacunayagua’s bridge look out point. Departure from Havana hotel to Pinar Walking sight-seeing tour at Old Havana including Cathedral Visit to Rhum Museum. Walking del Rio. Square, Arms Square, Old Square and Saint Francis de Asis sight-seeing tour by the Old Havana Visit to a Cigars Factory. Square. Shopping time. including Cathedral Square, Arms Visit to Rancho La Guabina (horse Lunch . Square, Old Square and Saint Francis exhibition and show; horse riding Sight-seeing tour at Modern Havana including Revolution de Asis Square. Shopping time. Lunch and horse carriage tour, and visit to Square, “Malecón” seawall promenade, “Cristóbal Colón” at La Ferminia. Sight-seeing tour at Ranchón El Lago). Necropolis and Vedado Residential area. Modern Sightseeing tour by Viñales Valley Free time at the National Capitol building. Havana including Revolution Square, including “Los Jasmines Hotel” Check in at a hotel for clients to freshen up and change to get “Malecón” seawall promenade, look-out point, the Pre-historical ready for Tropicana. (One room for every 6 / 8 Pax is provided). “Cristóbal Colón” Necropolis and Mural, boat tour down Cueva del Dinner (Buffet) at the hotel . Tropicana Show. Vedado Residential area. Indio inner river and visit to the Return to Varadero. Free time at the National Capitol Palenque de los Cimarrones. building. Accommodation and dinner Lunch . Tropicana Show (Buffet) at hotel. Tropicana Show Return to Varadero including en route includes: (includes: 3 Years Old Havana Club stop at El Peñón del Fraile. 3 Years Old Havana Club Rum Bottle + 1 Coke per person. THREE CITIES Coach picking up at hotels in Varadero. Inclusion of tour guide. En route stop over at Snack Bar “Fiesta Campesina”

Potters House and Flea Market, Canchanchara and a museum.

cienfuegos City Tour at Cienfuegos city including the central park, Prado Promenade and Palacio del Valle, among other cultural and historical landmarks. Return to Varadero and en route stop over at Santa Clara city`s Armored Train Ranchón de Aguada de Pasajeros. santa clara City tour by Santa Clara city including Trinidad city Che Guevara’s Mausoleum and the Armored Train Museum. Departure for Trinidad . Lunch.

trinidad City Tour at Trinidad city, including Mayor Square, the Town’s Church, the

22 | | 23 24 | | 25 Visit to a Cigar Factory. Return to Varadero and en route stop over at Aguada de Pasajeros Ranchón.

Topes de Collantes – Trinidad Trinidad city Overnight Trinidad - Banao Overnight 1rst Day 1rst Day Coach picking up at the hotels Coach picking up at the hotels. A tour guide included. A tour guide included In route stop over at Snack Bar In route stop over at Snack Bar “Fiesta Campesina”. “Fiesta Campesina”. Trip throughout the towns of three City Tour by Cienfuegos city including Cuban provinces. its park, Prado Promenade and In route stop over at Fiesta Palacio del Valle, among other Campesina farm. cultural and historical landmarks. In route city tour of Cienfuegos city Departure for Trinidad. Lunch . including the central park, Prado City Tour at Trinidad city, including Promenade and Palacio del Valle, Mayor Square, the Town’s Church, the among other cultural and historical Potters House and Flea Market landmarks. Visit to the “Canchánchara” Bar to Lunch at El Cubano Restaurant, Varadero Golf Club savour and taste the popular Cuban located in the Escambray valley. drink bearing the same name. City Tour by Trinidad city, including Visit to a museum. Free time . Mayor Square, the Town’s Church, the Club Mansión Xanadú Accommodation and dinner (Buffet) at Potters House and Flea Market. a hotel in Trinidad . Visit to the “Canchánchara” Bar to Autopista Sur km 8 Tel.: (53 45) 66 7388 Optional night sightseeing of Trinidad. savour and taste the popular Cuban Facilities: 18 and 19 holes Green Fee, rental of bags, ball basket, drink bearing the same name. pull cart, golf classes, 9 holes and lockers. 2nd Day Accommodation in Topes de Collantes Breakfast at the hotel. Dinner at a restaurant typical of Visit to Torre Manaca Iznaga (Valle de the area. los Ingenios). Departure to Banao. 2nd Day Tour through the Escambray Breakfast. Mountain Ecological reserves. Tour on mountain military truck to Welcome cocktail and explanation on Guanayara valley. the reserve. Nature ramble to “El Rocío” water Pinky ride through the trail of the falls, enjoying the area’s environment mountain enjoying the flora and fauna while walking through the trail. of the area (clients who do not want to Lunch at “La Gallega” Ranch experience pinky rides can walk (300 Departure for Santa Clara city visiting meters to the Water Fall). Che Guevara’s square. Swimming time at the natural pool at Return to Varadero and en route stop “La Bella” Water Falls. Return (in the over at Aguada de Pasajeros Ranchón. same way). Lunch. Topes de Collantes Return to Banao. Departure to Santa Clara (via Santi Spiritus – National Highway). In route visit to Santa Clara city including Che Guevara’s Mausoleum and the Armoured Train Museum.

26 | TRIPS | 27 josone parK Varadero´s OPEN 1ra. Ave. e/ 56 y 59 Tel: (5345) 66 7228 Dolphinarium 9:30 am Amusement park. Autopista Sur km 12 1:30 pm Josone Park occupies around 8 he, and is covered by abundant and very well Tel.: (53 45) 66 8031 preserved vegetation. This is a great botanical garden with various natural attractions: from very small to enormous creeper violet plants, all-out in a peaceful loving atmosphere. Show and opportunity to swim with dolphins. A playground for children, photos and videos, craft shop and Cuban souvenirs.

28 | TRIPS | 29 NIGHT Cabaret Continental BUENA VISTA CLUBS Open Bar Discotheque. Carretera Las Américas km 1 SOCIAL CLUB Tel.: (53 45) 66 7038 Cueva del Pirata Km 12 Carretera Las Morlas. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7751

Palacio La Rumba Cuban music prima donnas Omara In a full theater and amid a grand Carretera Las Américas Km 3 1/2. Portuondo, Teté Caturla and Xiomara public reception, the Buena Vista Tel.: (53 45) 66 8210 Valdés celebrated the first Social Club members have managed anniversary of Buena Vista Social to overcome language barriers and Sala de Fiestas Mambo Club Club concerts in Varadero, a deluxe have everybody dancing. Carretera Las Morlas Km 14. option in the main sun and sand Tel.: (53 45) 66 8565 resort in Cuba. “Because we have the tastiness of the Continental Cabaret Cuban music, when Cuban music Tropicana Varadero Plaza América Convention Center has starts, people feel it. I don´t know Autopista a Varadero Km 41/2. presented since September 2006, on why, but everybody starts dancing”, Matanzas the first and third Wednesdays, the expressed Teté, the Cuban composer Tel.: (53 45) 26 5555 /26 5380 performances of Buena Vista Social Alejandro García Caturla`s youngest Club and its guests, only place for the daughter. La Comparsita Cultural CenTER project’s regular presentation outside Tel.: (53 45) 66 7415 the capital. At the end of each presentation, Calle 60 esq. a 3ra. Buena Vista members share out with To be close to such glorious people is the public. This proposal of Viajes Casa de la Música an opportunity which, as Canadian Paradiso Agency has already become Ave. Playa e/ 42 y 43 Mónica said, one could not let go bye. a distinctive feature of the city. Palacio de la Rumba Tel.: (53 45) 66 8918

The Beatles Bar Restaurant 1ra. esq. a 59. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7329

Tropicana Varadero

30 | NIGHT CLUBS | 31 Plaza América Commercial Center MEDICAL SHOPS Carretera Las Américas km 11. Marina Chapelín Varadero SERVICES International Pharmacy Tel.: (53 45) 66 8181 Fast Ferry y Autopista Sur, Varadero. Tel: (53 45) 66 8556 Hicacos Commercial Center 1ra. Ave. e/ 44 y 46, Varadero. Kawama Pharmacy Tel.: (53 45) 61 4610 LIFE Calle C y Rpto. Kawama, Varadero. Tel: (53 45) 61 4470 Plaza Caracol Commercial Center QUALITY 1ra. Ave. esq. a 54, Varadero. Royal Hicacos Hotel Tel.: (53 45) 66 8604 Varadero International Clinic International Pharmacy 1ra. Ave. e/ 60 y 61, Varadero. Autopista Sur Km 15, Varadero. Caimán Commercial Center Tel: (53 45) 66 7710-11/ 66 8611 Tel: (53 45) 66 8844 1ra. Ave. e/ 60 y 61, Varadero. Plaza América Comercial Center Tel.: (53 45) 66 8214

Casa del Habano 1ra. Ave. esq. a 63, Varadero. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7843

Casa del Ron 1ra. Ave. esq. a 63, Varadero. Tel.: (53 45) 66 8393

Kawama Sport, PUMA Plaza Caracol Comercial Center Deportiva, Calle 63 / 1ra. y 3ra. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7362 Varadero Spa Iberostar Varadero Hotel Centro Comercial Plaza América International Pharmacy Kawama Sport, ADIDAS Autopista Sur, Km. 11 1/2, Varadero. Autopista Sur Km 15, Varadero. Deportiva, 1ra. Ave. y 64. Tel: (53 45) 66 7881/ 66 8181 Tel: (53 45) 66 9999 Tel.: (53 45) 66 7691 Hicacos Spa Hicacos Commercial Center Verona. Deportiva REEBOK Centro Comercial Hicacos International Pharmacy Deportiva, Calle 63 / 1ra. y 3ra. Ave. Playa e/ 42 y 43, Varadero. 1ra. Ave. e/ 44 y 46, Varadero. Tel.: (53 45) 66 8349 Tel: (53 45) 61 4610-14 Tel: (53 45) 61 4610-14

Casa del Habano Mercado 31 Varadero Eye Clinic Calle 31 / 1ra. y 3ra. 1ra. Ave. e/ 42 y 43, Varadero. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7700. Tel: (53 45) 66 7525

Playazul Minimarket International Clinic Pharmacy Calle 13 / 1ra. y Caminos del Mar. 1ra. Ave. esq. a 61, Varadero. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7867. Tel: (53 45) 66 7710-11

Venus Fur Shop Plaza América Conventions Center Calle 13 / 1ra. y Caminos del Mar. International Pharmacy Tel.: (53 45) 61 2835. Autopista Sur Km 11 1/2, Varadero. Casa del Ron Tel: (53 45) 66 8042

32 | shops medical services | 33 TRANSPORT Tourist Bus Services

guamá Cuba Taxi In the morning Tels.: (5345) 61 4444 / 61 1616 8:30 AM Playa Girón Hotel - Caleta Buena - Hotel Playa Girón - Punta Perdiz - Cueva de los Peces - Hotel Playa Larga - Boca de Guamá 10:00 am. Transfer: To all cities and airports of the country. Trips to Ciudad de La Habana, Trinidad, Matanzas, 11:00 AM Boca de Guamá - Hotel Playa Larga - Cueva de los Peces Cárdenas, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, Playa Girón, – Punta Perdiz - Hotel Playa Girón - Caleta Buena - Hotel Playa Girón 12:30 pm. Playa Larga, Guamá, and others. In the afternoon 1:30 PM Hotel Playa Girón - Caleta Buena - Hotel Playa Girón– Punta Perdiz - Cueva de los Peces - Hotel Playa Larga - Boca de Guamá 3:00 pm. Rent a Car Modern and confortable cars. 3:30 PM Boca de Guamá - Hotel Playa Larga - Cueva de los Peces 24 reservation desk. – Punta Perdiz - Hotel Playa Girón - Caleta Buena - Hotel Playa Girón 4:30 pm. Tel: (5345) 66 7326

matanzas. interesting places Canimar Park / Varadero Tropicana / San Severino Castle / Vigía square and Tavern / Cuevas de Bellamar (Bellamar caves) / Teatro Sauto (Sauto theater)/ Rental of motorcycles and bicycles Palacio de Junco Museum / Café Atenas / Victoria de Girón Estadium/ Calle 38 y 1ra. Ave., Varadero. Museo Farmacéutico (pharmaceutical museum) / Monserrate / Tel: (5345) 61 3370 Palacio de Gobierno (government house) / Sala White (White hall) / Gener y del Monte Library / Cathedral / Training School for art teachers . timing Departure from Varadero Arrival in Matanzas 9:30 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 2:30 pm 2:00 pm 3:30 pm Varadero Bus Tour 3:30 pm 5:00 pm Hop-on Hop-off mode Varadero Beach Tour Tel: (5345) 61 9962 / 66 8992 Departure from Matanzas Arrival in Varadero 11:15 am 12:45 m 12:45 m 2:15 pm 3:45 pm 3:15 pm 5:15 pm 6:45 pm

34 | TRANSPORT | 35 vip LOUNGES Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport

When you are away from home due to pleasure or business, enjoy the benefits and kindness of VIP´s Lounges, designed for you, who are looking for relaxation and comfort.

personalizED ServicES: Juan Gualberto Gómez Main Lounge. A private and comfortable room, away from crowded areas. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Greeting in entrance. A differentiated service while you are checking and ticketing. ADDRESS:Ave. Mártires de Barbados Km. 5 1/2, Carbonera, Cárdenas, Matanzas Pick-up and dispatch of checked baggage. Tel: (5345) 25 3612/ 24 7015 ext. 215 Fax: (5345) 25 3636 Passport and immigration control. Email: [email protected] Boarding priority. [email protected] Open Bar with variety of cocktails and all kind of drinks. [email protected] A variety of softdrinks, natural juice, coffee, tea and snacks. PASSENGER SERVICES: Television System for movies, musicals and news. Money Exchange First hand information. Duty Free shops Furniture specially designed for your comfort Cafeterias / Restaurants Table games. National and international telephone communications Magazines and newspapers in different languages. Post Office Flight schedules and tourism information. Travel Agencies Private toilets. Pharmacy / Medical Assistance Parking Lot adDITIONAL ServicES: Car rental Tourism information Photocopy of documents. Taxis. Rent a car. Hotel reservation. National and International telephone calls and fax mails. To request our services, you can use the following ways: Call your travel agency. VIP Check-in counters. Call: (53 45) 25 3636 E-mail: [email protected]

36 | TRANSPORT | 37 embaSSIES USEFUL Germany, Federal Republic of Calle 13, No. 652 esq. a B, Plaza, La Habana. INFORMATION Tel.: (53 7) 833 2539 / 833 2569

Brazil, Federative Republic of Lonja del Comercio. Lamparilla No. 2, K Floor, Habana Vieja. POST SERVICES Tel.: (53 7) 866 9052 / 866 9051

Cubanacán Express S.A. República Federativa de Brasil All types of tour-operation, custom regulations, temporary visits Lonja del Comercio. Lamparilla No.2, piso K, Habana Vieja, and post services. La Habana. BRANCHes: Tel: (53 7) 866 9052 / 866 9051

Pinar del Río: Varadero: Villa Clara: Bolivia, Republic of Beeper: 11947 Beeper: 3065 Beeper: 11948 Calle 26, No. 113 e/ 1ra. y 3ra., Miramar, Playa. Trunking: 202-3706-31 Trunking: 202-3706-27 Trunking: 202-3706-23 Tel.: (53 7) 204 2127 / 204 2426 Canada Cienfuegos: Sancti Spíritus: Ciego de Ávila: Calle 30, No. 518 esq. a 7ma., Miramar, Playa. Beeper: 11949 Beeper: 11950 Beeper: 11951 Tel.: (53 7) 204 2516 / 204 2382 Trunking: 202-3706-24 Trunking: 202-3706-32 Trunking: 202-3706-25 Canadian Consulate (VARADERO) Calle 13 No. 422 entre 1ra. Ave. y Camino del Mar Camagüey: Granma: Holguín: (53-45) 61 2078/ 66 7395 Beeper: 11952 Beeper: 11953 Beeper: 11954 China, Popular Republic Trunking: 202-3706-26 Trunking: 202-3706-29 Trunking: 202-3706-28 Calle C No. 551 e/ 13 y 15, Vedado, Plaza de la Revolución, La Habana. CURRENCY EXCHANGE Tel: (53 7) 833 3005 / 833 3614 Spain CREDIT CARDS MONEY Calle Cárcel No. 51 esq. a Zulueta, Habana Vieja, La Habana. Only VISA International, Master Card Tel: (53 7) 866 8029 / 886 8025-26 International and CABAL credit cards EXCHANGE are accepted. Varadero Airport France, Republic of Autopista Matanzas-Varadero, Calle 14 No. 312 e/ 3ra. y 5ta., Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Km 115. Tel: (53 7) 204 2132 / 201 3131 Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Kingdom of Gerencia Varadero Calle 34 No. 702/704 esq. a 7ma., Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Exception: The VISA and Master Card Ave. Playa e/ 41 y 42. Tel: (53 7) 204 1771 cards issued by financial institutions located in the United State of America Gerencia Matanzas or by branches of those banks located Medio e/ Matanzas y Jovellanos. Italy, Republic of in other countries are not accepted 5ta. Ave. No. 402 esq. a 4, Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Tel: (53 7) 204 5616 due to US regulations as part of the BFI Bank blockade on Cuba. Kawama. Mexico, United States of Calle 12 No. 518 esq. a 7ma., Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Metropolitan Bank Tel: (537) 204 7722-25 banKS Calle 36, e/ 1ra. y Autopista. Crédito y Comercio Varadero Bank Russia, Federation of 1ra. Ave. e/ 35 y36 Cadeca Plaza Hicacos 5ta. Ave. No. 6402 e/ 62 y 66, Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Tel: (5345) 61 2616 Ave. 1ra. y 59. Tel: (537) 204 2628 / 204 1060/ 204 1085

Banco Financiero Internacional BFI Ofice Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of 1ra. Ave. esq. a 32 Calle A. 5ta. Ave. No. 1601, esq. a 16, Miramar, Playa, La Habana. Tel.: (53 45) 66 7002 Tel: (53 7) 204 2662/ 204 2497 38 | useful information USEFUL INFORMATION | 39 SugGESTIONs FOR cuba haVana PENiNSULA DE ZAPATA NATURAL PARK Villa Clara Trinidad Cienfuegos

THE OTHER Varadero Varahicacos ecological reserve The Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, a protected area in Cuba, is also known by the well deserved name of The Other Varadero.

It cannot be otherwise, because it is inside the biggest beach resort of the Island, with numerous natural, historical, scientific and educational values, which make of it an interesting option for sun and sand tourism.

Diversity in tropical ecosystems, the presence of a rich flora, national and local, as well as migratory birds on certain moments of the year, makes of this a marvelous option for visitors. Here are also located the oldest saltworks ruins of Cuba and the Caribbean, archeological sites and aboriginal pictographies, looked after by a majestic endemic cactus known as The Patriarch, believed to be over 500 years old.

Vacationers can go sight-seeing through different interpretative paths, have natural therapy and make ecological excursions.

40 | SUGGESTIONs FOR CUBA | 41 HAVana

It was founded on November 16th of 1519, under a leafy ceiba located in what is today the Plaza de Armas (Arms Square). Its geographical situation favored a fast economic development and became capital in 1553. It was the port of call of all convoys going from the New World to the European continent.

The amazing restoration process performed on its historic center which, together with the fortresses, was declared World Heritage in 1982, is something you should not miss during your visit.

In this city meet the best country’s traditions in a cosmopolitan and friendly environment. The architecture is a mixture of baroque, art-deco, neoclassic and many other styles. The capital of the island is also defined by its harbor, with its lighthouse welcoming all arriving vessels to Cuba.

42 | SUGGESTIONs FOR CUBA | 43 peninsula de zapata natural park

One of the most important at Playa Larga, specifically at Caleta ecosystems in Cuba and the largest Buena. Besides its natural richness, Ernesto Che Guevara Revolution Square humid area of the Caribbean join in a the area has historic importance for green environment: Parque Natural Cuba since 1961, due to its relation to Peninsula De Zapata. The park, Bay of Pigs mercenary invasion, which biosphere reserve, is one of the was defeated in 72 hours by the Cuban villa clara biggest of the country. With a unique army. This exhuberant place in Cuba Beautiful landscapes and the connection with the flora and fauna that allows you to be in will make you stop in many of its history of the country are distinctive facts of the direct contact with nature, this interesting places. One of these places central region of Cuba, comprising Santa Clara, virgin territory is located to the south are the Fiesta Campesina; the Laguna Trinidad and Remedios. Santa Clara, the city of Che, of Matanzas province and 157 km to del Tesoro, the largest natural lake in Remedios Parish Church safeguards the places that remind visitors the battle the south-east of Havana. There are Cuba; and the world famous replica of that determined the Triumph of the Revolution; 900 native species of plants, 115 of a taino village known as Guamá. Las Remedios and Trinidad —the latter the museum city them are endemic of Cuba and 5 are Salinas de Brito, the Natural of the Caribbean— keeps the trace of the most strictly local. The fauna is composed Swimming Pool of Caleta Buena, the authentic Hispanic heritage, while Topes de by many species of mammals, birds, Boca de Guamá crocodile breeding Collantes has a unique natural beauty. reptiles and amphibians, as well as farm, Los Cenotes in Playa Larga and many insects and other invertebrates. Playa Girón, so good for diving, and Following the steps of history. It is considered the natural refuge of Las Salinas and Santo Tomás First day: the Cuban crocodile. Even the international animal shelters are Road tour by Sierra de Cubitas and the cities of manjuari, a prehistoric fish, lives in places the visitor should not miss. Santa Clara Center (above) Esmeralda, Morón, Chambas, Yaguajay and its fresh waters . The manati, the only Santa Clara Cathedral (below) Caibarién. Visit to Remedios city (including aquatic herbivore mammal in the Seafood have a special place in this Montecristi cigars factory). world lives also in its sea waters. location. There are several restaurants offering this type of food Visit to Santa Clara: lunch in a local restaurant, tour Almost half of all bird species known like Caleta Buena, El Cenote and La by Ernesto Che Guevara Revolution Square and the in Cuba live permanently or Cueva de los Peces. At Fiesta monument to the armored train. Arrival at Topes de temporarily in this area. Some of them Campesina, El Ranchón and Colibrí Collantes. are endemic and other strictly local, you will find traditional Cuban food. like the Ferminia, the Cabrerito and After dinner you can have a good time Second day: the Gallinuela de Santo Tomás. of fun at the discotheque or snack-bar Bus tour by the mountains. Hiking, flora and fauna of the Playa Girón Hotel or at the Bar watching, swimming in the river. Lunch in the area. It is a unique product, where you Mirador of the Playa Larga Hotel. In Departure for Trinidad: visit to La Canchánchara will find an important fishing center, the menu you will have the delicious (enjoy a typical cocktail and Cuban music; visit to the and the International Diving Center aphrodisiac crocodile meat. Torre Manaca-Iznaga.

44 | SUGGESTIONs FOR CUBA SUGGESTIONs FOR CUBA | 45 trinidad This kind of city-museum was founded in 1514 by Spaniards, and is located between the sea and mountains. It was declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 1988. It is considered an architectural jewel. Being one of the first seven villages founded by Spaniards, it also has natural places that make it one of the most traditional and best welcomed places for visitors.

Among them are the Torre Manaca- Iznaga, located in the area where one of the most influencing families of the area made their fortune; the monumental Valle de los Ingenios, the beaches, the Topes de Collantes mountains near the city, together with the art and crafts traditions characterize the small city. Trinidad is located to the south- central area of Cuba on the sides of the Escambray mountain range.

cienfuegos Located in the south-central area of the Island, next to one of the most beautiful harbors in Cuba, Cienfuegos stands out for its rich French-influenced architecture.

It has buildings of important patrimonial values, especially in its historic center, which was declared World Heritage in 2005. It has excellent characteristics for the practice of many sea-related activities, due to its closeness to the calm waters of the bay.

46 | | 47 48 |