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Get to know a bit more about our Cuban lifestyle

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Cuban history

Cuban history is a rich tapestry woven with indigenous roots, colonial influences, struggles for independence, and revolutionary zeal. Originally inhabited by the Taíno and Ciboney peoples, Cuba was claimed by Spain in 1492 when Christopher Columbus arrived on the island. For centuries, it served as a key colony in the Spanish Empire, its economy largely driven by sugar, tobacco, and the forced labor of enslaved Africans.

In the 19th century, Cubans began fighting for independence, leading to the Ten Years' War (1868-1878) and eventually the Cuban War of Independence, which culminated in 1898 with the intervention of the United States in the Spanish-American War. Cuba gained formal independence in 1902, but U.S. influence remained strong through much of the early 20th century.

The mid-20th century brought significant change with the Cuban Revolution, led by Fidel Castro, Ernesto "Che" Guevara, and their comrades. In 1959, they overthrew the U.S.-backed dictator Fulgencio Batista, establishing a socialist state that aligned closely with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This era saw dramatic shifts in Cuban society, including nationalization of industries, land reforms, and a focus on education and healthcare.

Cuba's relationship with the United States became highly strained, leading to events such as the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961 and the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. Despite economic hardships following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cuba has maintained its socialist government and remains a symbol of resistance against imperialism in the eyes of many.

Today, Cuba continues to evolve, balancing its revolutionary legacy with the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. Its culture, deeply influenced by African, Spanish, and indigenous roots, remains vibrant and resilient, symbolized by its music, art, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Cuban People & culture

Cuban people and culture are a vibrant blend of diverse influences, reflecting the island's rich history. The population is a melting pot of African, Spanish, Indigenous, and other immigrant roots, creating a unique cultural mosaic. This diversity is evident in Cuba's music, dance, cuisine, and traditions, all of which are infused with a lively spirit and deep sense of community.

Cuban music is world-renowned, with genres like son, salsa, and rumba capturing the rhythmic essence of the island. The beats of Afro-Cuban percussion, combined with Spanish guitar and other instruments, create a sound that is both soulful and infectious. Dance is an integral part of Cuban life, with spontaneous dancing often breaking out in the streets, reflecting the joy and passion that characterize Cuban culture.

Family is central to Cuban society, with strong ties between generations. This sense of unity extends to the broader community, where sharing and helping one another are common values. Despite economic challenges, Cuban people are known for their resilience, resourcefulness, and optimism, often expressed through the saying "resolver," which means to find a way or make do.

Cuban cuisine is another reflection of the island's cultural diversity, combining Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors. Staples like rice and beans, plantains, pork, and fresh tropical fruits are often seasoned with garlic, cumin, and citrus, creating dishes that are simple yet flavorful.

Religion in Cuba is also a blend, with Catholicism coexisting alongside Santería, a syncretic religion that merges African Yoruba beliefs with Catholicism. This spiritual diversity is celebrated in various festivals and rituals throughout the year.

Cuban art and literature have a long tradition of expressing the struggles and hopes of the people. From the works of José Martí to the murals of Havana, Cuban creativity reflects a deep connection to the island's history and a desire for freedom and identity.

Overall, Cuban culture is a testament to the island's rich history and the indomitable spirit of its people. It's a culture that celebrates life in all its forms, with a rhythm and vibrancy that is unmistakably Cuban

Cuban cuisine

Key Ingredients:

Rice and Beans: A staple in Cuban cuisine, often served as a dish called Moros y Cristianos (black beans and rice) or Arroz con Frijoles (rice with beans).
Pork: Widely used in Cuban dishes, often marinated with citrus juices and garlic, then slow-cooked. Lechón Asado (roast pork) is a popular dish, especially during celebrations.
Plantains: A versatile ingredient, plantains can be fried into tostones (twice-fried plantains) or sweetened into maduros (ripe, fried plantains).
Yuca: Also known as cassava, yuca is often boiled and served with a garlic sauce called mojo.
Citrus and Spices: Cuban dishes are often seasoned with a blend of garlic, cumin, oregano, and citrus juices, giving the food a tangy and aromatic flavor.

Popular Dishes:

Ropa Vieja: A national dish of Cuba, this consists of shredded beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, peppers, and spices, often served with rice and plantains.
Picadillo: A ground beef dish cooked with tomatoes, olives, raisins, and capers, offering a savory-sweet flavor. It’s typically served with rice.
Cuban Sandwich: A popular lunch item, the Cuban sandwich is made with Cuban bread, roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed and toasted until crispy.
Tamal Cubano: Similar to Mexican tamales, but Cuban tamales are made with seasoned meat mixed into the corn dough before being wrapped in corn husks and steamed.

Desserts and Drinks:

Flan: A creamy caramel custard dessert that’s a favorite in Cuban households.
Tres Leches Cake: A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream), resulting in a rich, moist dessert.
Cafecito: Cuban coffee is strong and sweet, often served as an espresso shot with sugar.
Mojito: A classic Cuban cocktail made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint, and soda water, offering a refreshing and tangy taste.

Cuban cuisine is not just about food; it’s about bringing people together to share in the joy of eating. Meals are often social events, where family and friends gather to enjoy good food, music, and conversation, making Cuban cuisine an integral part of the island’s vibrant culture.

Cuban cuisine is a flavorful fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, creating a unique culinary experience that reflects the island’s diverse cultural heritage. The cuisine is known for its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple yet satisfying dishes.

Cuban Music

African Roots

The foundation of Cuban music lies in its African roots, brought to the island by enslaved Africans. These roots are especially evident in the rhythms and percussion instruments that are central to many Cuban genres. Instruments like the conga, bongo, and bata drums, along with complex polyrhythms, are key features that have African origins. The call-and-response style of singing, also of African origin, is another hallmark of Cuban music.

Spanish Influence

Spanish colonization introduced European melodies, harmonies, and instruments, such as the guitar and piano, to Cuba. This fusion of African rhythms with Spanish melodies and forms created the basis for many Cuban musical styles. The use of string instruments, particularly the tres (a type of guitar), became prominent in Cuban music.

Emergence of Son Cubano

Son Cubano, a genre that emerged in the late 19th century, is perhaps the most important and influential form of Cuban music. Son combines Spanish lyrical traditions with African rhythms and instrumentation. It typically features a mix of string instruments, percussion, and vocals, and is known for its syncopated rhythms and danceable beats. Son Cubano laid the foundation for many other Cuban genres, including salsa.

Rumba and Afro-Cuban Music

Rumba, which developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is another key genre rooted in Afro-Cuban traditions. It’s characterized by its percussive rhythms and dynamic, improvisational nature, often accompanied by dance. Rumba became a significant influence on other Cuban music styles and has remained a symbol of Cuban cultural identity.

Danzón and Mambo

Danzón, originating in the late 19th century, is considered the national dance of Cuba. It combines European classical elements with Afro-Cuban rhythms and was popular in social settings. Mambo, which emerged in the 1940s, evolved from danzón and incorporated elements of jazz and big band music. Mambo became internationally popular, especially in the United States.

Salsa and Cuban Jazz

Salsa, which emerged in the mid-20th century, has its roots in Cuban son, but it was primarily developed in the Latin American communities of New York City. It blends Cuban rhythms with jazz and other Latin American musical styles. Cuban jazz, known as Afro-Cuban jazz or Latin jazz, also developed during this time, fusing jazz improvisation with Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Modern Cuban Music

Cuban music continued to evolve in the 20th century with the rise of genres like timba, a faster-paced, highly energetic form of Cuban salsa that incorporates funk and other contemporary styles. Today, Cuban music continues to innovate while staying deeply connected to its traditional roots. Artists like Buena Vista Social Club have brought global attention to Cuban music, showcasing its timeless appeal and cultural richness.

Global Influence

The global influence of Cuban music is immense. It has shaped and inspired genres around the world, from jazz and salsa to hip-hop and electronic music. Cuban rhythms and styles have become a crucial part of the world music scene, making Cuba a musical powerhouse despite its small size.

Cuban music is more than just entertainment; it’s a reflection of the island’s history, culture, and the resilience of its people. It’s a living tradition that continues to evolve, delighting audiences worldwide with its infectious rhythms and soulful melodies.