Luxe Beat Magazine Special Edition Put a Pin in It! | Page 31

Features
T a el
reflections of Cuban artists through
the years, who chose to express
their reactions to a variety of
historical, political and social events.
Food is an integral part of any
society and Cuba is no different.
You’ll notice that Cubans view
mealtimes as social gatherings and
reasons for extended family and
friends to get together. Though our
group had been prepared to expect
the food to be bland and repetitive,
we were pleasantly surprised to find
this not to be the case. We
encountered much more than the
Cuban dietary staples of black beans
and rice. Cuban cuisine is a fusion
of Spanish, African and Caribbean
flavors. There are also some Chinese
influence, especially in Havana. We
sampled an array of tasty options,
from fresh grilled fish and ceviche
to homemade pastas and paellas.
And every meal is finished off with
a cup of strong Cuban coffee or
espresso. As for libations, there are
many favorites, from the proverbial
mojito and Cuba Libre to the daiquiri
and El Presidente, among others.
The daiquiri was popularized by
the bar La Floridita and championed
by Ernest Hemingway, who was
a regular visit to this renowned
watering hole in Old Havana.
A statue of the famed writer
is installed next to the bar and
photos of him dot the walls. The
venerated establishment and its
lively scene attracts visitors
from around the globe.
One of the best ways to enjoy
Cuban food is to dine at a “paladar,”
a small, family-run restaurant,
usually in a converted part of a
home. These charming, intimate
settings are a wonderful way to
experience a meal, where you’re
guaranteed to get authentic,
local cuisine, great service and
an unforgettable ambiance that
often includes live music.
It’s the people of this unique
country that will leave the most
lasting impression on you. Despite
being oppressed and economically
depressed for so many years, they
remarkably still retain a sense of
optimism and joie de vivre. They
are warm, open and hospitable to
visitors, eager to talk about current
events and share their culture,
as well as their hopes and dreams
for the future. It’s through such
cherished interactions that you will
experience the true spirit of Cuba.
For more information about Insight
Cuba’s tour options to Cuba, visit:
www.insightcuba.com.

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