Inselhopping Karibik: Kuba & Dominikanische Republik

About the destination: Havana is the capital of Cuba and the epicenter of Cuban culture, brimming with visual artists, musicians, poets, dancers, actors, and writers. It is also home to the world-renowned Ballet Nacional. Havana is a city where history seeps from every street, building, church, and plaza. Its streets are adorned with vintage cars, baroque-style buildings, grand mansions, palaces, and beautiful courtyards. Stroll along the famous Malecon for breathtaking views of the Bay and the Morro Fortress, set against a backdrop of historic colonial architecture. Old Havana, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982, is the city's oldest section, a blend of narrow cobblestone streets, elegantly restored buildings, and ancient ruins. This area blends with modern and eclectic buildings, adding a touch of dynamic cosmopolitanism. The dome of the National Capitol Building towers over the Havana skyline. Inside, you'll find a statue of La Republica, the world's largest indoor bronze statue, a vast and historic gallery, a 25-carat diamond marking the city's exact center, and the headquarters of the Cuban Natural History Museum, which houses the country's largest natural history collection. Havana is home to two major cigar factories, with Partagas being the oldest. Visiting this working cigar factory is a must-do Havana experience. Havana is a unique and enticing city, buzzing with street life, joy, and charm.

About the destination: This city is the primary city of the province bearing the same name. It is one of the seven villages established by Diego Velázquez during the initial stages of the conquest and Spanish colonization of Cuba. From 1515, it served as the capital until the mid-16th century. The historic city center was designated a National Monument on October 10, 1978. It is often referred to as "the most Caribbean city in Cuba." Key attractions in Santiago de Cuba include: -Castle of San Pedro de la Roca: Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997, this castle is the most complete and best-preserved example of Hispanic American military architecture, primarily influenced by Italian and Renaissance design. -Sanctuary of la Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre: Declared the Patroness of Cuba in 1916 and crowned by Pope John Paul II during his visit to Cuba in 1998. The apparition of the Virgin de la Caridad is one of the city's legends. The current sanctuary, where mass is held every morning, dates back to 1927 and features a plate altar and other valuable ornamental objects. Beneath the Virgin's cabin is the Chapel of Miracles, a small space where believers leave various offerings of differing values. -The Big Stone: A treasure of eastern Cuba. This large stone, located nearly 1000 meters above sea level, bears witness to the Paleogene volcanism.

About the destination: Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic. It is situated on the south central coast of the island and is recognized as the oldest European city in the Americas. The Colonial Zone serves as an ideal starting point for tourists exploring Santo Domingo. This area, nestled between Independence Park and the Ozama River, is home to the first city established in the New World by European settlers. The first street in the Americas, Calle de Las Damas, is located here and showcases numerous examples of 15th and 16th century architecture, including the Ozama Fortress, the oldest fortress in the Americas, and the Alcázar de Colón. The Museo de las Casas Reales, a restored 16th century palace of the Spanish Court, is of significant historical interest and offers a fascinating look into the past. Close to the walled city, visitors can find the Cathedral Basilica Santa Maria la Menor, regarded as the first cathedral in the New World. As tourists wander the narrow streets of the Colonial Zone, they will feel as though history is coming to life. The Zone concludes at the Malecón, also known as George Washington Avenue. El Malecón is a seaside boulevard filled with bistros, bars, and discos, and is the site of the Dominican Carnival held in February. Santo Domingo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city brimming with historical colonial sites and exuding Latin charm from every street and plaza.

About the destination: Punta Cana is the name of a region in the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. Covering about 420,000 m2, the region is home to a coastline of sandy white beaches and to a "town" of the same name. Located in the province of La Altagracia and population estimated at 100,000, the region borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east. To the north, it borders Bávaro and El Cortecito beaches. It also limits with Cabeza de Toro, Cabo Engaño and further west with Juanillo. Despite the area being fairly deserted, the proximity of Punta Cana to other major resort areas such as Bávaro and Uvero Alto make the town one of the top Caribbean destinations.