Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine April 2018 | Page 216

Baracoa.
I
t is an interesting fact that the very first
colonial settlement on this island remains
today, an almost untouched town,
relatively free from the mass tourism
characteristic of many other Cuban cities.
As you survey the landscape of this north-eastern
village, you’ll realize that there is lush greenery
everywhere you look, certainly a feature that will
appeal to lovers of nature - an eco tourist paradise -
rivers, waterfalls, exotic and endangered plants and
animals. Hiking the rainforest of the Cuchillas de Toa,
therefore, is a must for the adventurous, but it is best
to do so with a guide.
Secluded beaches, cobblestone streets, a delightful
promenade and of course, delicious food! Fried
plantains, fried chicken, beans, fish, vegetables in
coconut sauce, cucurucho, just to name a few. Being
cocoa, banana and coconut farmers, the people here
live simple lives, but you’ll find some of the best
tasting chocolate, you’ve ever had, right here in this
village.
On your next visit to Cuba, visit Baracoa. From Santiago
de Cuba a bus will get you there in four hours. From
Havana, you’ll be there in two hours by plane.