Cuba is a land rich in history, culture and biodiversity. It was the focus of the Spanish-American War, Castro’s Revolution and the Missile Crisis that almost started World War III. Its baseball-loving people are a blend of Spanish, African, Taíno and Asian roots. It has scattered mountains, tropical plains, lush wetlands and stunning beaches, not to mention colonial cities that seem frozen in time. Cuba is forbidden fruit for most Americans, but a thriving vacation destination for others. There’s so much to know and discover about this complex Latin Caribbean island so we’ve compiled a random list of practical to quirky info. Pour yourself a mojito, light a cigar, put on some son music and peruse these 16 interesting facts about Cuba.
1. It’s Bigger Than you Think
Cuba is the largest country in the Caribbean and the 17th largest island in the world. It’s not just one island, either. The Republic of Cuba is actually an archipelago that includes the main island of Cuba, Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth) and over 4000 small cays and islets.
