With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches and impressive colonial architecture, it's not hard to see why Cuba has become a popular tourist destination. But few people realize that there are actually perfect alternatives here in Europe, that are aware that there are perfect alternatives that save you 10-hour flights and jet lag.
It is called “Little Havanna”“This thriving city on the southern coast of Spain boasts narrow streets and architecture that reflects the Cuban capital. Though much older than the Caribbean island founded around 100 BC, the social, cultural and architectural environment of this Andalusian city is Cuba. Furthermore, the city looks almost like an island, as there are water on its three sides.
The seaside city of Cadiz is the capital of the province of the same name, located southwest of the Iberian Peninsula and just next to the Atlantic Ocean.
Cadiz's old town features narrow, winding streets and squares that resemble those in Havana's historic centre. Its pastel coloured buildings and wrought iron balconies add to its charm. For those who really want to participate in the Cuban atmosphere, Havana Café is a place to go. According to one visitor, “The best Caipirinha you can find outside of Brazil.
In fact, Cadiz is so closely linked to Cuba that filmmakers are known to choose Spanish cities as their setting locations to simulate Cuba. For example, a famous scene from the James Bond film “Die Another Day” (2002) containing Halleberry was filmed in La Caleta Beach, Cadiz. Meanwhile, the entire 1979 film featuring Sean Connery was filmed in Cadiz.
The city boasts constantly warm climates, and rarely drops below 16c even in winter. There is also about 300 days of sunlight in a year that reminds you of it on a tropical island.
With its restaurants and bars, La Caleta's 1,476-foot sandy beach is the city's most popular and celebrated by both tourists and locals.
Holding the remains of the city's walls, the old town of Cadiz is characterized by its various quarters (El Popro, Lavinja and Santa Maria), which exhibits a marked contrast with the new areas of the town.
Other important landmarks that will hit you when exploring the city include Plaza demina, Church of San Antonion, the 17th century watchtower and Tabila Tower, located in the heart of the old town.
Direct flights from Gatwick Airport to Jeres (XRY) are available for just £84 in early July. Even cheaper, you can fly from Gatwick to Seville (SVQ) for just 41 pounds and then head for a day trip by an hour, 24-minute train.
