Captivating Cuba

Last week Jasna gave you an overview of Salsa in Cuba. But what would Salsa be without the music?

Cuba pulses with a rhythm that is all its own, and music is key to the experience. It's everywhere on the island: on the beach, in houses, on the streets. We've already talked about some of Cubas festivals here, and how much music is a part of them. It's really wonderful to be surrounded by it all when you're on the island - there's nothing like it anywhere else.

Still (as you'd imagine), the island doesn't have one set style. Influences from immigration, European colonialism and freed slaves have worked together (and sometimes in opposition) to the point where Cuba offers many different types of music for visitors.

Cuban music is an eclectic mix of styles, with anything from jazz to classical European work played. You can visit some of the world's best jazz clubs in Havana or Santiago de Cuba, and then dance the night away as you choose: you can go for salsa dancing on the beach, or visit the more traditional clubs and dance fandangos and paso dobles into the small hours (my favourite).

Salsa (or Timba, as Cubans call it) is, however, one of the most popular styles on the island at the moment. The swinging beat compliments Cuba's festivals and dances perfectly, and can be heard along the length and breadth of the island. There's nothing like leaving behind stilted British sensibilities and letting yourself go salsa crazy on a trip to Salsa's true home.

Jasna's already mentioned our Salsa in Spring Holiday, but I can't help repeating it. It'd be a great Valentine's day gift of your partner, and also lets you experience some of Cuba's best music first hand - and there's nothing stopping you experiencing all the styles of music on offer in Cuba while you're there!

More on Cuba and Cuban music in the weeks and months to come, as well as comments and opinions from people who have already travelled with us to Cuba for you to read and enjoy.

See you later,
Peter

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