20 Mar Why Cuba is the Perfect University Summer Holiday Destination

If you’re a uni student, then there are probably two things occupying your mind right now. The first is your end of year exams and the second is your summer holiday. Unfortunately, we can’t help you with your exams (I mean, who in their right mind would study insurance?). But we can definitely help out with your summer holiday planning. We propose you ditch the usual haunts and head further afield to Cuba. Let us explain why.

Before we get into today’s post, if your student days are behind you but you’re considering Cuba for your honeymoon then read why we think Cuba is the perfect honeymoon destination. Or for another Caribbean holiday, read our guide to the best places to visit in Colombia. All our Sherpa Diary posts are packed full of travel tips and destination guides.

Why Cuba is the perfect uni summer holiday destination

Celebrate making that big step into the real world by travelling to a more grown up destination. Leave Magaluf and Ibiza to the freshers. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of partying to be done in Cuba.

Fall in love with Havana

Most holidays to Cuba begin in the capital, Havana. Its colourful colonial streets and “yank tank” cars will instantly transport you to the 1950s. Walking the streets of Havana can feel like being in a real life film set. The city can seem mindboggling at first. 50 years of neglect, the result of a US trade embargo, is evident in nearly every piece of architecture. But this just adds to the energy, charm and spirit of the place.

Begin exploring in old Havana, or Habana Vieja, as it’s called in Spanish. This is the historic centre of the city. Wander the colonial squares and breathe in the 500 year old atmosphere of the city. Then take a stroll along Malecón, the esplanade that runs along the northern shore of Havana.

While the past can be witnessed everywhere in Havana, the future is also taking route. Gradual economic reforms have led to the emergence of small private businesses throughout the city. Bohemian cafes, bars and restaurants are now springing up all over the place. And many of the most historic buildings are receiving some much needed refurbishment.

Get into the swing of things with Havana’s nightlife

When the sun goes down the partying slowly begins, with the partying getting into full swing around 10pm. The locals like to dress up for a night on the town, so ditch the shorts and flip flops. Salsa is of course one of the main attractions of Havana’s nightlife. But they’re also plenty of other things on offer.

Bar Monserrate is something of an institution. Cuban musicians play to packed crowds most nights of the week, while the bar staff make mojito after mojito. Or for something more contemporary, Café Bar Madrigal offers walls adorned with pop-art and cosy seating.

For nightclubs, try Fábrica de Arte Cubano an art’s space in a former cooking oil factory that hosts a nightclub in the basement every Thursday to Sunday. Or for some traditional salsa go to Salón Rosado de la Tropical. This outdoor venue hosts a live salsa band most weekends and is a favourite haunt for locals.

Unwind on the beach in Varadero

Varadero is famous for having one of the best stretches of beaches to be found anywhere in the Caribbean. The 13 mile stretch of blond sand is what draws the tourist to this spot, located about 90 miles from Havana.

This makes it the perfect place to unwind after partying in Havana. And while it’s nowhere near as cultured as the capital, Varedero offers plenty of fun and adventure. Go all inclusive for a few days and enjoy some stress free pampering and beach life. The place makes a great contrast if you backpack there from Havana, after being on the dusty road for a while.

Be sure to visit the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve and explore the Muslim Cave. There are also plenty of dive spots within easy reach. The most famous is the Ojo del Mégano, although this one is for experienced divers only. Or just relax on the beach for a few days. The choice is yours.

Travel insurance for Cuba

So if we’ve persuaded you to go to Cuba for your well earned university summer holiday, don’t forget to take out travel insurance. You must take out travel insurance for Cuba before entering the country. Proof of travel insurance must be presented when you enter the country.

With Coverontrip travel insurance, we offer a range of travel insurance policies for Cuba. 7 days of cover for a 21 year old starts at just £9.65. And this includes cover for medical emergencies, cancellation, baggage and money, plus lots more. So get a quote for Cuba travel insurance from Coverontrip today.