Cuba is a picturesque island which attracts travellers with its unique culture, history, magic and scenery. Also termed the ‘Pearl of the Antilles’, Cuba is one of the top tourism destinations in the Caribbean.
The country has witnessed a confluence of different cultures and people, which has influenced the way of life. In fact, the local people are known for their love for fun and celebrations. Moreover, they are always friendly to visitors as well as compatriots.
A traveller can reach Cuba either by taking a flight or by ship. There are 10 international airports and 15 regional airports in the country. Being an island surrounded by the sea, Cuba has four cruise terminals and 15 international marinas. All these facilities enable tourism to flourish.
A coco ride
While visiting Cuba, tourists can choose from a wide variety of transportation options for sightseeing like in any other country. However, for the best experience, don’t travel by the taxis or vintage classic cars from the US seen everywhere on the streets but hire a ‘coco’.
Coco is the Cuban version of India’s auto-rickshaw. The three-wheel coco taxi service was launched in Cuba during the late 1990s. Even though the service was introduced to attract tourists, coco is now widely used by local people also, especially in cities like Havana, Varadero and Trinidad.
Coco has three wheels and the body is painted in yellow colour. Having a fibreglass body and two-stroke engine, the vehicle can carry two passengers apart from the driver. Cocos have now become so popular in Havana that they literally fill many streets. However, there are two types of cocos. While one caters to tourists, the other offers services to local people. Both differ in colour as well as fares.
Magical Havana
Havana, the capital of Cuba, also has its largest port and is the biggest commercial centre. The sections of the old Havana city have now been preserved as UNESCO world heritage sites. Located on the banks of the Havana Bay on the northern side of Cuba, Havana is also the biggest Caribbean city.
Havana is considered a treasure of western colonial architecture and the ideal means of relishing the sights is indeed by coco.
