Holguin (Cuba)

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At Cuba's eastern edge, Holguin city and its province of beaches, waterfalls, historical sites and nature reserves captures everything that Cuba does best. The ancient provincial capital is a lattice of fading frescoes, grand plazas and lively beer and chicken joints but, despite its urban core, Holguin's not called the City of Parks for nothing. Head north to the coast, and parkland is replaced by silvery sands.

Beaches

With an indented coastline of 22 shimmering bays, fed by over thirty crystal clear rivers – among them Guayabo, the largest in the country – Holguin's seafront is mesmerizingly beautiful. Holguin's coral garden is one of the island's best – and sunbathing is easy, with so many stretches of fine, clean sand to discover. Holidays to Holguin enjoy Boca de las Esponjas, El Salto and Cañon de los Aguajíes – some of the island's best beaches, but, for those just wanting lazy days on the sands, you can pitch up just about anywhere on this gorgeous coastline.

Eating Out

Cuban staples like Yuca con Mojo; boiled cassava root soaked in hot garlic oil and Tamal; ground maize, often served with boiled pork are found in the town's authentic restaurants, and you'll not travel far before you taste your first plantain – a starchy, versatile banana, often fried into pancakes or mashed, like potatoes. Chicken with rice (arroz con pollo) is the most common, hunger-sating snack. International restaurants include popular Mediterranean, Chinese and Thai buffets.

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Shopping

The Cuban Arts and Crafts Foundation, Maceo y Libertad, is the place to head for craftwork and fine arts products from talented local artisans. Artex S.A., west of Central Park Square, offers a wide range of cultural products and souvenirs. The Market Square is vibrant with Cuban CD sellers, "La Cohoba" selling Cuban cigars and liquors, and "El Jigue", your first port of call for books, magazines and maps. Visit Fabrica de Muñecas Yoruba (Yoruba Doll Factory) – Yoruba is an African religion popular in Cuba with beautiful dolls part of their symbolism.

Nightlife

Dancers, musicians and entertainers regularly wow the crowds at Holguin's all-inclusive resorts – with a regular rosta of performers working all summer long. One of the best places in town to listen to classic son, boleros, trova or local music is Casa de la Trova – a world away from the flashy discos which make up most of Holguin's nightclub entertainments.

Attractions and Activities

You can get to the top of Hill of the Cross, a natural vantage point, by car, but, really, the most rewarding route is by steps – all 458 of them. Casa de la Cultura, is Holguin's cultural hub – with exhibitions, concerts and talks throughout the summer. The town museum is worth a peek. The city's Eddy Sunol Theatre (Calle Martí e/ Maceo y Libertad), the largest in the province, hosts all major dance, musical and theatrical companies from across the country and further afield. Sailing, paddle boating, banana boating, kayaking, catamaran sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving can all, easily, be enjoyed from Holquin's shores.