In this face-off, Cuba vs. Jamaica, we explore two fascinating Caribbean countries. In one corner is a destination famous for iconic cigars, pristine sandy beaches, vintage cars, Spanish colonial architecture, and a restless history. In the other corner, a destination renowned for British colonial architecture as well as beautiful mountainous regions, reefy shorelines, rainforests, diving and snorkelling, and a distinct culture. Both Cuba and Jamaica are ideal for a rum-fueled escape by the sea, but each country offers a very different vacation experience. Discover which destination is right for you!
| Cuba | Jamaica | |
|---|---|---|
| Capital city | Havana | Kingston |
| Must-see spot | Bay of Pigs | Cool Blue Hole |
| Must-try dish | Ropa Vieja | Ackee and Saltfish |
| Famous museum | Museum of the Revolution | Bob Marley Museum |
Why you need to visit Cuba
It’s easy to see why Ernest Hemingway had a torrid affair with Cuba, the moment he stepped foot in the place, he fell in love. From the dichotomy of past and future, a unique and magical world has emerged, one that has mesmerised visitors who have come to its shores for decades. Cuba may feel like it is from a different era, but the enchantment of this island is how it lulls your senses into exhilaration. Whether it is the fragrant scent of cigars lingering in the air or the wind rushing through your hair as you drive around historical cities in a car from the 1950s, to feeling invigorated by salsa music or a landscape that steals your breath away, Cuba will take you on a journey.
When to visit Cuba
The best time to visit Cuba is towards the end of the year. Imagine Christmas in Old Havana? From December onwards until about April, you’ll get lovely weather. You may need to pack some layers for January and February though. The rainy season kicks off in May and goes well into June/July. Avoid travelling to Cuba in August, September, and October as hurricanes are highly possible, especially close to beach resorts.
Things to see in Cuba
Havana
As far as capital cities go, Havana is easily one of the brightest and most vibrant. The retro-chic vibes here are offset by a city imbued in artistic culture, the remnants of a revolution and a bohemian element that comes from the city’s eclectic selection of bars and cafes. Hang out at the Malecón and meet locals who like to party here late into the night on the weekend, walk among Vedado’s crumbling mansions, stroll through Old Havana with a newly-bought cigar, or lose yourself dancing salsa—something that seems to energise the entire city.
Trinidad
In 1988, Trinidad was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and Lonely Planet calls the city “Cuba’s oldest and most enchanting outdoor museum.” This old Spanish colonial settlement is so picturesque, and colourful rows of buildings pop against cobblestone streets. During the day you’ll see (and hear) donkeys, wander past the locals relaxing in the afternoon sun, and as night falls, experience the streets come to life with live music. Don’t miss out on the sugary white sands of Playa Ancón, nearby hiking, and waterfalls.
Viñales
Although you’ll find live salsa in the main square and plenty of drinks laced with rum, that’s not the point of Viñales. In a landscape filled with tobacco fields where you can hike, go horse-riding, and cycle, embrace a slower pace of life that’s just as vivid. The streets will be abuzz with visitors strolling past dollhouse-like casas where others will be perched watching the world go by them. Don’t leave without stopping at a tobacco field and buying some handmade cigars.
Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos is a maritime city known as the Pearl of the South and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the French, it possesses a very different atmosphere to the rest of Cuba. Like the city, life here has an interesting mesh of influences: French sophistication, Caribbean spirit, and Spanish traditions.
Varadero
Varadero is the perfect day trip from Havana. It’s a top-rated beach resort that can get very busy, but the white sands make up for the crowds. The beach is just one reason to visit, also check out the Bellmar Caves, and visit Parque Josone where you can see botanical gardens, lakes, wildlife, and bridges.
Santiago de Cuba
Santiago de Cuba may be known for its colonial history, but it is also culturally rich. Salsa and many other Cuban music genres were born in the city, Don Facundo Bacardí opened his first rum factory here, and it was from here that Fidel Castro led a revolution. Head to the centre of the town, Parque Cespedes, or explore the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a 17th-century fortress that overlooks the bay.
What to do in Cuba
There are so many things to experience in Cuba and even half a lifetime wasn’t enough for Hemingway. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your adventure.
- Get lost in Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the best-preserved history in Cuba.
- Visit a tobacco field in Viñales to see how Cuba’s famous Cohiba cigars are made.
- Go to a salsa club, take a salsa class, or join in with locals spontaneously dancing salsa in the streets.
- Take a day trip to the beach.
- You don’t need a DeLorean to go back in time in Cuba; drive around in one of the vintage cars.
- Go hiking in the nature preserve park of Topes de Collantes, close to Trinidad. You’ll see stunning scenery like waterfalls and natural pools.
Best beaches in Cuba
The promise of sipping a rum cocktail by the sea is one of Cuba’s biggest lures, and the beaches live up to their reputation. Some of the spots on this list will be lined with other visitors hoping to make the most of the Caribbean sun while others are a secluded escape, but on any one of these beaches, life is good.
- Varadero
- Playa Ancon, Trinidad
- La Boca, Trinidad
- Playa Paraíso, Cayo Largo del Sur
- Playa Flamingo, Cayo Coco
- Cayo Las Brujas
- Cayo Levisa
Local food and drink in Cuba
Cuban cuisine is another way to explore the island, but more than the food, it’s the rituals around them that you need to experience.
- Café Cubano – drinking a fresh brew of strong, sweet coffee every day is a ritual all over the country!
- Plantain – the best way to eat them is deep-fried and crunchy, either as tostones or mariquitas.
- Mojito – Cuba is renowned for its production of rum. Don’t leave without having the country’s signature cocktail.
- Milk Flan – a wobbly, delicious custardy dessert often eaten as an afternoon treat.
Why you need to visit Jamaica
The Caribbean is filled with islands that can floor travellers with the sheer magnitude of their beauty, but Jamaica is special and can hold its own against Cuba. Jamaica has a distinct rhythm, one that pulls you in, and not just because dancehall beats are ricocheting throughout the island. After all, it is the birthplace of reggae music and Bob Marley. While visitors to Cuba must follow a system created for tourism, in Jamaica, they are free to follow their own tempo. Understanding the pace of life here is half the experience. Made up of old and new world Caribbean flavours, white sands, shimmering ocean waters, and intriguing land and cityscapes, Jamaica is a tailor-made playground for cultural exploration and adventures under the sea or up above the clouds in mountain peaks.
When to visit Jamaica
The best months to visit Jamaica are October, November, and December. Peak travel season is usually from January to March; room rates spike in these months. Jamaica is much cheaper from June to November, but you run the risk of travelling during hurricane season. Some travellers will tell you there’s no best time to visit because the weather is always celebrated on this Caribbean island.
Things to see in Jamaica
Kingston
Somewhere between the Blue Mountains and the world’s seventh-largest harbour is Jamaica’s capital. Kingston is anything but dull. You can’t experience the island without spending a day or two in Kingston’s hustle and bustle. Visit one of the Caribbean’s best art museums, the National Gallery of Jamaica.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is indeed a tale of two cities: on the one hand, you have the spots that tourists’ brochures glean glossy pictures from, and on the other, you have the intoxicating clamour and grit of MoBay. The sweet spot between both is a stretch known as the Hip Strip, where vendors sling Bob Marley t-shirts, and all things jerk to willing visitors.
Negril
For five centuries Negril was a sleepy fishing community, but in the 1960s and 70s, hippies discovered the town’s delightful Seven Mile Beach, laidback culture, reggae soundtrack, and of black cliffs and fell in love with it. Today, Negril has borne almost fifty years of development, but much of its original character has been preserved.
Port Antonio
Formerly a banana port, Port Antonio ushered in the island’s first international tourists on a banana boat from the USA back in the 1890s. Since then it has hosted droves of tourists, but still held onto the original charm that lured visitors in the first place; an escape between the ocean and historic downtown.
Ocho Rios
Visitors flock to this one-time fishing village for some of Jamaica’s most famous tourist attractions: Dunn’s River Falls, Fern Gully, and Dolphin Cove can all be found in Ocho Rios. Developed as a destination for tourism in the 1980s, think of it as a gateway to explore the north coast and take advantage of the lively food scene, nightlife, and activities on offer.
What to do in Jamaica
In Jamaica, you should look for opportunities to experience the island’s natural wonders and local culture. Begin with some of these suggestions.
- Go party with the locals at a reggae club.
- Explore ghosts of the past at Rose Hall, an old Georgian mansion that offers tours of its haunted plantation.
- Visit Jamaica’s highest peak, Blue Mountain. Some of the best views in all of the Caribbean can be seen from this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Take a dip in an unspoilt natural wonder known as Blue Lagoon. It’s a 180-ft deep underwater sinkhole, and the position of the sun in the sky causes the water to change colour throughout the day.
- Visit Dunn’s River Falls. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jamaica for a reason. The waters fall in such a way that visitors can climb up to the top, which is 600ft high.
- Sip some Jamaican rum and chill by the beach.
- Buy some Bob Marley coffee.
Best beaches in Jamaica
On an island with the Caribbean sea on all sides, Jamaica was bound to have some of the world’s dreamiest beaches. Tucked away among the country’s lush forests, the silky white sand and crystal blue water go on for miles.
- Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay
- Cornwall Beach, Montego Bay
- Treasure Beach, South Coast
- Seven Mile Beach, Negril
- Boston Bay Beach, Port Antonio
- Mammee Bay Beach, Ocho Rios
Local food and drink in Jamaica
Jamaica’s story both past and present can be seen through the evolution of its cuisine.
- Patties – a tasty pastry that’s filled with meat, chicken, shrimp or vegetables. Don’t miss out on this essential street food experience!
- Jerk chicken – another famous Jamaican foodie staple that you have to try! Try to catch a jerk chicken festival on your trip.
- Rum Punch – this is a favourite cocktail with the locals.
- Goat Curry – hailing from South Asia, Jamaicans have added a unique spin on the traditional curry dish and made it their own.
From dancing to salsa or reggae, sipping a rum punch in Montego Bay or mojitos in Varadero and feasting on rice and beans or saltfish, both these countries are to die for! Whether you choose Cuba or Jamaica as your Caribbean destination, it’s going to be a trip to remember.
Would you prefer to travel to Cuba or Jamaica?
