Best General Cuba Travel Guides of 2025

Cuba: An American History by Ada Ferrer is an epic, Pulitzer Prize-winning book that covers Cuba's complex relationship with the United States from Columbus's arrival to the present day. Ferrer provides a detailed account of Cuba's evolution, including colonization, slavery, independence, and revolution, while also exploring the country's recurring presence in US affairs. This book offers insight into the history of both nations and encourages readers to imagine a new relationship with Cuba. The book is well-written, informative, and a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Cuba and its ties to the United States.

Hotel Cuba is a novel that follows the journey of two Russian Jewish sisters who flee their country during World War I and end up in the sultry world of 1920s Havana. The sisters are desperate to get to America, but discriminatory immigration laws bar their entry, and they are forced to find a way to start a new life in Cuba. The book is a heartbreaking family story that explores the courage of two women trying to create a new future in an enticing yet challenging new world. The author's writing is compelling, and the story is engaging and thought-provoking. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction with a touch of romance and drama.

Kinfolk Islands is a collection of 18 travel stories that takes readers on a journey to islands big and small. From Socotra in Yemen to Yakushima in Japan, each itinerary allows for true discovery and immersion. The book is filled with vibrant photography, practical guidance, and thoughtful reflections on why the idea of an island embodies so many of our travel fantasies. Believing that travel is as much a state of mind as an action or itinerary, Kinfolk celebrates a way of exploring our world that fosters thoughtful perspectives on the places we visit. Kinfolk Islands is a must-read for travel enthusiasts.

The World of Urban Sketching, by Stephanie Bower, is a stunning collection of more than 700 images from over 150 sketchers in 39 countries, showcasing the latest developments and innovations in the creative pursuit of on-location drawing and painting. The book is a visual feast of new techniques, styles, and approaches in color and linework, including digital, through step-by-step demonstrations and artists' tips. The author also shares valuable insights into creating artwork on location through artists' observations and advice. Overall, The World of Urban Sketching is an inspiring and informative combination of art and travel that will expand readers' skills and inspire them to pick up a pencil and sketch their world.

The Lonely Planet Cuba 10 Travel Guide is the ultimate companion for those seeking a comprehensive guide to exploring Cuba. This guide provides up-to-date information on the best experiences, hidden discoveries, and insider tips to help travelers save time and money. The guide also includes a pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with essential travel information. With over 80 maps, travelers can tailor their trip to their personal needs and interests. Overall, this guide is perfect for exploring both top sights and taking roads less traveled in Cuba.

The Night Travelers is a captivating multigenerational story that follows four women from the rise of Nazism to the fall of the Berlin Wall. The novel explores the power of motherly love and sacrifice as each woman embarks on a journey of self-discovery. From Ally, the young poet who must protect her mixed-race daughter from Hitler's deadly ideology, to Nadine, the scientist in Berlin dedicated to ensuring the dignity of the remains of those murdered by the Nazis, the characters are richly developed and compelling. The Night Travelers is a beautifully written and poignant novel that will leave readers deeply moved and reflective.

Lonely Planet Latin American Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary 9 is an essential travel companion for those planning a trip to Latin America. With over 3,500 words and phrases, this phrasebook offers a quick-reference dictionary, pronunciation guides, and practical phrases for common and emergency travel situations. The book also includes tips on culture, manners, and idioms to help travelers feel at ease. The user-friendly layout is organized by travel scenario categories, making it easy to find the right phrases for every situation. Overall, this phrasebook is a must-have for any traveler looking to fully immerse themselves in Latin American culture.

This cookbook, titled "A Taste of Latin America," is a delightful compilation of classic recipes from ten Latin American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, and Mexico. The cookbook includes vivid photographs, detailed recipes, and cultural background information for each country. Whether it's the spicy ceviche from Peru or the sweet dulce de leche desserts from Argentina, this cookbook offers something for every taste. The recipes are expertly crafted and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Overall, this cookbook is a must-have for anyone who wants to explore the rich culinary traditions of Latin America.

A Sense of Place is a beautifully crafted narrative by Dave Broom, exploring Scotch whiskey through its terroir. The book takes readers on a personal journey through the land, weather, history, craft, and culture that feeds and enhances the whisky itself. With pin-sharp writing and evocative photography by Christina Kernohan, this book is a treasure for any lover of single malt. Broom's ability to blend critical thinking, insight, and industry knowledge while giving the resulting mix a romantic twist is unparalleled. A Sense of Place is an engaging, humane, and important book that should be on every whiskey enthusiast's shelf.

VÁMONOS: Havana (English and Spanish Edition) by Lil’ Libros is a delightful bilingual children's book that introduces young readers to the vibrant city of Havana, Cuba. With colorful illustrations by Ana Godinez and simple text by Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein, this book takes children on a journey through the city's landmarks, traditions, and culture. The book's unique approach of presenting information in both English and Spanish makes it an excellent resource for bilingual families and language learners. Overall, VÁMONOS: Havana is a fun and educational read for children and adults alike.