
As a fragile republic, in 1940 Cuba attempted to strengthen its democratic system, but mounting political radicalization and social strife culminated in a coup and subsequent dictatorship under Fulgencio Batista in 1952. From the 15th century, it was a colony of Spain until the Spanish–American War of 1898, when Cuba was occupied by the United States and gained nominal independence as a de facto United States protectorate in 1902. The territory that is now Cuba was inhabited by the Ciboney Taíno people from the 4th millennium BC until Spanish colonization in the 15th century. Cuba is the second-most populous country in the Caribbean after Haiti, with over 11 million inhabitants. The main island of Cuba is the largest island in Cuba and in the Caribbean, with an area of 104,556 km 2 (40,369 sq mi). The official area of the Republic of Cuba is 109,884 km 2 (42,426 sq mi) (without the territorial waters). Havana is the largest city and capital other major cities include Santiago de Cuba and Camagüey. Cuba is located at the east of the Yucatán Peninsula (Mexico), south of both the American state of Florida and the Bahamas, west of Hispaniola ( Haiti/ Dominican Republic), and north of both Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Cuba is located where the northern Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean meet. Welcoming hotels here include the Casa Buenavista, the Hostal El Pino and the Casa Jorge y Alicia.Cuba ( / ˈ k juː b ə/ ( listen) KEW-bə, Spanish: ( listen)), officially the Republic of Cuba (Spanish: República de Cuba ( listen)), is an island country comprising the island of Cuba, as well as Isla de la Juventud and several minor archipelagos. Jose Marti Park is another favorite nature-based attraction.

Enjoy some time out from the hustle and bustle at Cienfuegos Botanical Garden or Jardin Botanico Soledad de Cienfuegos.

Alternatively, use the Hotel Colon by Melia Hotels International as a base to discover nearby historic treasures. Comfortable stays here include the Puerto Principe and the Plaza. Camaguey: Casa Natal del Mayor (Ignacio Agramonte), Nicolas Guillen Birthplace and Nicolas Guillen Birthplace - these are just a few of the many attractions that entice history fans to this fascinating destination.Discover the best of this destination from comfortable stays like the Turquino (Mar Del Sur), the Aparthotel Mar Del Sur or the Acuazul. Cueva de Ambrosio is another fabulous place to spend time in the fresh air. Cardenas blends the buzz of urban life with nature-based attractions like Josone Park and Ambrosio Park. Cardenas: City slickers and nature enthusiasts alike will find loads to love about this place.Quality stays here include the LA Gran Piedra, the San Juan and the Hacienda El Caney.

Want to see more? Head to Diego Velazquez Museum, San Juan Memorial Hill and Monumento al Cimarron too. Santiago de Cuba: There are loads of historical attractions here to discover, with Cespedes Park, Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca del Morro and Casa de la Cultura Miguel Matamoros providing a fascinating glimpse into this area's past.

If you're staying for a little while, make sure you visit Lenin Park, National Botanical Garden and Parque Zoológico Nacional too. If you love nature you'll enjoy this place, with John Lennon Park, Parque Escaleras de Jaruco and Almendares Park waiting for you to discover.
