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In 1940, clairvoyant (a person with abnormal power of seeing in the mind what is happening or what exists a distance) Edgar Cayce predicted that the lost continent of Atlantis would start to rise again in the vicinity of The Bahamas in 1968 or 1969. Since then, 37 years have passed and many major events have happened, such as The Great Britain granted The Bahamas internal self-rule in 1964, Huber Ingraham became prime minister in 1992, and Perry Gladstone Christie elected prime minister in the 2002 general election. The lost continent of Atlantis, however, has still not been found.

Bimini, a tiny grouping of islands, was located some 50 miles off the coast of Florida (USA). The Caribbean Indians said that that this group of islands gush magical waters called the ‘fountain of eternal youth’. It was told that someone drank the water from this fountain and was cured of all his illnesses as well as able to retain his youth. Juan Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer, was intrigued by this legend and thus, he set out to find Bimini in 1512. He set sail from Puerto Rico, missed Bimini and landed on Florida.

The mystery surrounding Bimini did not end with legend of the mystical fountain. In 1968, aircraft pilots reported that glimpses of wall or building foundations were seen in the water of the north island of Bimini. The discovery stirred worldwide interest and further investigation was held. The results of the investigation revealed that the foundations look more like roadways rather than walls. According to experts, a more satisfying answer would be that this strange phenomenon is entirely due to natural formations. Till this day, it is still a mystery as to whether the roadways really belong to the lost continent of Atlantis or exist due to natural formations.

Casting all the legends, myths and mystical tales aside, Bimini is indeed a wonderful place to visit. It is one of the best places known for game fishing, diving and snorkeling. The offshore reefs, which are located 3 miles off the island, attract millions of colorful fishes. Snorkelers are able to enjoy seeing black coral gardens and blue holes. Perhaps, they may also see the infamous roadways of the lost Atlantis on the sea floor! Divers can explore the wrecked motorized yacht which sank in the shallow waters of the coast in 1929. Apart from these wonderful explorations, other places of interest you can visit include the Healing Hole, the Shark Mounds, the Fountain of Youth and the Devils Triangle.

Albert Einstein once said, ‘The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious’. Indeed, it would be a wonderful experience to visit a fascinating place, like the Bimini, The Bahamas, with such intriguing and mystifying tales. It is worth taking the chance to explore this mysterious place as well as enjoy the vast variety of activities it offers

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Below, we’ve compiled a brief guide some of the absolute best beaches in the Caribbean. But, bear in mind as you read: time of year is just as important as location. You’ve kind of got to nail just the right season. In the winter, even the Caribbean can get cold, and in the summer, it’s just too crowded. Of course, we’ve listed some more out of the way, less touristy beaches, as well.

Little Bay in Anguilla, West Indies

Little Bay is shaped like a half moon facing the sea. The entire bay is completely surrounded by high cliffs, providing beautiful ambience and tranquil atmosphere. You’re not likely to see too many other people here, as access is by boat only.

Shoal Bay, Anguilla

Shoal Bay is very close to Little Bay. Many people consider Shoal to be the best beach in Anguilla, but… well, you be the judge. Just know that, if many people consider it to be the best beach in the area, well, that means that many people will be there. Our recommendation: take a look at Shoal Bay. If it’s a little too crowded for your tastes, well, Little Bay is just a hop, skip, and a jump away.

Johnson’s Point in Antiqua

This little chain of hidden-away coves is covered in soft, white sand beaches. Just southwest of Antigua, this spot is awesome for the view at sunset. Nearby, you’ll find Pigeon Point, which is a great place for snorkeling.

Pink Sand Beach in the Bahamas, Harbor Island

Pink Sand Beach is a small islet just off Eleuthera Island. Pink Sand Beach has actually been voted as the world’s very best beach by a number of travel magazines, and holds the honor of being the most photographed beach in the world. The name comes from the sugar white coral sand mixed with flecks of red plankton, lending a nice, soft pink color to the beach. The beach stretches for about three miles, and, while popular for photographers, can still provide some serenity and quiet, as it is fairly out of the way, and most tourists in the Caribbean head straight to the more obvious spots like Shoal Bay.

Crane Beach, Barbados

The Crane Beach is only accessible through the Crane Resort, and is said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados. You can access the beach without staying at the Crane Resort by paying a small fee. The landscape is comprised of soft white sand, azure water, and huge cliffs.

Owen Island, Little Cayman, Cayman Islands

Little Cayman is renowned for its seclusion with the smallest population (less than 200 residents) of the Caymans and a size of just 12 square miles. Owen Island, a tiny islet roughly 200 yards away, opposite Little Cayman’s Southern Cross Club resort, offers even more pristine seclusion. Although some have been known to swim to the island, most people rent a boat or hire someone to row them across. With no buildings, roads or development, Owen Island offers uncluttered snorkeling, diving, and powdery white sand surrounded by azure water. You are likely to have the place all to yourself, but since there are no restaurants or food stands, you will need to bring plenty of food and water to last you for the day.

Las Galeras, Dominican Republic

Many Americans overlook the beautiful Dominican Republic but the small country is becoming more popular as a safe and affordable Caribbean alternative. One choice spot is the small town of Las Galeras in the northeastern Samaná Peninsula. Las Galeras is the jumping-off point for other secluded beaches, including Playa Rincón Playa Frontón, and Playa Madama, a narrow beach along the area’s dramatic shoreline. Local restaurants serve drinks and fresh seafood. Don’t underestimate the beauty of this island.

Negril Beach in Jamaica

Negril beach is one of the top nudist beaches of Jamaica, but be warned, you might have to deal with the local hecklers! Still, the atmosphere is pretty laid back (hey, it’s Jamaica!). Even with the locals, it’s a bit more tranquil than say, Bloody Bay Beach (don’t worry, it’s just a name!). Be warned, there have been a few reports of thefts in the area.

Playa Flamenco in Puerto Rico, Culebra Island

Beautiful, wide sandy beaches, very minor commercial development, excellent for snorkeling and birdwatching, and, not very well known to the tourists. What more do you need to know? Here you have beauty, serenity, and wildlife, all in spades. You can’t even reach the hotels without walking around some cliffs first.

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos, Provo Island

If you’re a NASA buff, you may remember John Glenn having spotted the forty Turks and Caicos islands from space and declaring “That must be paradise”. Sadly, that was decades ago. This spot is certainly still gorgeous, and it does have historical significance, however, it’s slowly but surely becoming the Fast Food Restaurant capital of the area.

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Even if you’re not a gambler, you will enjoy a trip to the country’s most popular vacation destination – Las Vegas. Around 36 million people visit Las Vegas every year and enjoy the spectacular shows, dining and shopping. In recent years, Las Vegas has become more of a family destination; it is also relatively inexpensive in terms of accommodation and dining. The casinos slash prices for many items assuming the cost will be made up at the slot machines and the card tables.

Florida is one of the country’s most visited states, largely due to the weather as well as the lasting popularity of Disney World. The Orlando area also boasts around 100 other attractions and theme parks. Disney World is a great place for families; however in recent years, it has successfully appealed more to couples without children. It’s easy to find a hotel room here. The Orlando area has well over 100,000 hotel rooms to suit all tastes and budgets.

Almost as popular as Orlando is Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. More than 100 golf courses make this one of the best golfing destinations anywhere; although Myrtle Beach also offers plenty of family activities, outlet shopping and live shows. It’s also relatively inexpensive to vacation here; and if you have had enough of the crowds, the beautiful and historic city of Charleston is within easy reach.

Three of America’s largest and most well known cities are among the most popular vacation destinations – New York, Chicago and San Francisco. All three of these cities have world class tourist attractions, shopping and cultural attractions. Some of the best museums in the world can be found here, including New York’s Metropolitan Museum which attracts over 4 million art lovers every year.

America’s most visited National Park is the Great Smoky Mountains Park, which straddles the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. The park attracts around 10 million visitors every year who come to hike, bird watch and camp or simply enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere. Gatlinburg is the biggest resort in the Smokies, offering a wide range of family themed activities, casual dining and reasonably priced accommodation.

Some of the other most popular national parks that should be visited for their unique and wonderful scenery are Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. The island of Puerto Rico contains the only tropical rain forest in the US national park system. If you really would like to escape the crowds, visit the Southwest United States. This sparsely populated area contains much of the country’s most dramatic scenery.

The Caribbean has always been popular with US vacationers. It’s close enough to be easy to reach, but different enough to be considered exotic. There are plenty of Caribbean islands to choose from; whether you want night life, a European ambience, a variety of outdoor activities or just miles of secluded beaches. Also, it’s easy to get there, many US airlines offer nonstop service to several islands.

Hawaii has the appeal of being far enough away to feel different – but still offering all the conveniences of home as well as no language barrier. The Hawaiian Islands still retain much of their culture and traditions; although many people visit there simply for the beautiful beaches, almost perfect year round weather and the chance to get way from it all for a few days.

Mexico is a popular vacation destination – and not just because it’s so easy to get to. Around 30 million people travel “south of the border” every year to experience not only the country’s beautiful beaches and resorts, but a vibrant and fascinating culture as well as some spectacular Mayan remains. Also, no trip to Mexico would be complete without sampling the country’s unique cuisine.

Outside North America, France is the most visited country in the world, attracting around 90 million tourists every year. It’s no mystery, France really does have something for everyone, including historic cities and towns, beautiful countryside, great works of art and, of course, some superb food and wine. You could spend your entire vacation in Paris without seeing everything the city has to offer. This multitude of activities gives you an excuse to return someday, especially with that special someone.

Once considered off-limits to all but the most adventurous, China has quietly become one of the top few destinations for tourists. China hosted the 2008 Olympic Games which gave the country’s popularity a big boost. A trip to this country is a unique and unforgettable experience. The country offers some of the world’s most dramatic scenery, vibrant cities, world famous sights and one of the oldest cultures anywhere. Not to be missed is China’s famous Great Wall.

Everybody will have their own idea as to what makes a good vacation. With so many options, the hardest part is deciding where to go.

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Vacation in Caribbean – Take a Cruise for Discounted Luxury

If you want to vacation in Caribbean taking a cruise is one of the options for you. There are a lot of benefits to taking a cruise. For one thing, the itinerary is set so it takes out the guesswork.  They also offer guests a luxury experience because the cruise companies really go out of there way to make the cruise welcoming and fun. There are also some great deals so you get the best of both worlds – you can have luxury while still saving money.

Is a cruise for you?

I’ve taken cruises before and I can tell you that they’re a lot of fun. Not only that but it’s nice to have every aspect of your trip taken care of. However, this type of vacation is not for everyone. Before you book it you need to consider if you’re the type that likes tours and preplanning or if you would rather leave room for spontaneity?

Which Islands?

Your next order of business is to think about which islands you want to visit when you vacation in Caribbean. The islands you can choose from include Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Antigua, St. Lucia, The Virgin Islands, Trinidad, Anguilla, and the Caymen Islands. There are a lot more – you’ll need to look at the cruise packages to see which islands they include.

Finding Great Deals on Cruises

Your next step is to find a good deal on a cruise. There’s really no need to pay full price. Here are some ideas for finding discounts.

If you do some digging, you can find phenomenal prices on your Caribbean cruise.

If you want to travel in Caribbean a cruise is a very good option. Though the itinerary is fixed, you can still determine what you will be doing at the ports-of-call. This is the type of vacation that really does offer something for everyone.

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There comes a time in every snowy, bitterly cold, sun-starved winter season that even the hardiest optimists want to crawl under the covers and stay there until the first signs of warm weather. This year, instead of hibernating in a cocoon of blankets, consider booking a relaxing cruise to the southern Caribbean to recharge your batteries and remind you how exciting life away from the nearest heating vent can be.

Deciding on the Cruise for You

Finding the cruise that fits into both your schedule and budget can be a frustrating task, especially if it’s your fist time. However, organizing your getaway need not be such a headache as long as you can decide upon a few factors:

Length: Cruises come in all shapes and sizes, from five-hour jaunts to month-long commitments, but most travelers choose something in between. The most popular trips last 5 days, 7 days or 2 weeks.

When to Travel: Sailing dates are available for nearly every date imaginable, but not all dates are priced equally. Caribbean cruising high seasons are winter and summer, with prices nearly doubling for all cabins around the winter holidays. In general, winter rates for a five-day cruise begin at $300 per person for the most modest lodgings — an inside cabin with no window and smaller quarters — and can reach up to $1500 or more for spacious suites featuring lots of windows and a private balcony.

Destination: Choosing the Southern Caribbean as your destination is a wise choice because of its popularity among cruise lines; more ships going where you want to go means more chances at finding a trip that fits.

On Board Activities

The activities available on cruise ships can vary depending on how large the ship itself is and what type of cruise you decide to take. For instance, family cruises will feature extensive programs for both kids and families, affording parents both time alone to enjoy themselves and fun opportunities to spend time as a family. Some ships also feature their own special touches like ice skating rinks and rock climbing walls, but in general, most cruises put their own twists on classic amenities including:

First rate spas where passengers can get massages, luxurious facials and maybe some more interesting offerings like acupuncture or aromatherapy

Musicals and Broadway-style shows sure to thrill any audience with world-class talent and offerings

Swimming pools and water parks from surf parks to wave pools and amazing water slides

A plethora of dining options where you may be tempted to spend an inordinate amount of your time — expect to find a whole range of fare from indulgent fine dining to options for guests with special diets.

Ports of Call

The Southern Caribbean is one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations owing to its nearly perfect climate, crystal clear waters and pristine white sands beaches, but especially for the number and incredible variety of diverse and fascinating ports concentrated in a relatively small area. For example, a typical seven-day cruise departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico can visit ports in Aruba, Curacao, Dominica and St. Thomas before heading back to its home port.

Calls at port are passengers’ opportunities to experience a world where snow only exists on mountain peaks and relaxation is a way of life. Stays in port can last anywhere from a few hours up to a few days, depending on the sort of cruise you’ve booked, and on shore activities range anywhere from lazing on white sanded beaches after a hike through the jungle to haggling with the locals for some remarkable souvenirs. Berthing on a cruise ship gives you the added bonus of having an ever-present relaxing, safe and secure (albeit floating) haven to escape to when you need a break.

Some other popular and exciting opportunities when you go ashore include:

Snorkeling and SCUBA diving: whether it’s your first time with a snorkel or you’re a veteran diver, guided classes and expeditions to breathtaking locations below the waves are available year-round at most Southern Caribbean locations

White sand beaches: while on shore, cruise crew staff can help you book a private beachside cabana for the day or the night where you can sip drinks in the sand under the palms.

Island adventure tours: many islands of the Southern Caribbean offer visitors the chance to tour their unique geographic marvels. You can see Aruba’s untamed coast on an off-road jeep safari or explore the mangrove trees on a guided kayaking excursion.

If you can find a moment amid the adventure, fun and relaxation, pick up a pen and drop a line to your poor shivering friends and relatives up north. Because after all, there’s no shame in gloating over your perfect vacation.

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If you have packed your suitcases and are ready to take off for your summer vacation, consider vacationing on a sunny beach. Although it is a great idea, many are absolutely clueless about how to plan for all the necessities that are to be carried along to enjoy a beach holiday. Given below are a few tips that will make the job easier.Summer is the all-time favorite tourist season and hence, you should make sure that you have made hotel reservations in advance. In fact some of the destinations are so popular for summer holidays that they are overbooked months before summer arrives. Also, advance reservations will get you better rates.The second and one of the most important points to keep in mind is, always make it a point to set a budget. It is always better to carry traveler’s checks rather than cash, as they can be replaced. Or, if you are not used to handling and traveling with traveler’s checks, you could consider using credit cards. Most reputed resorts accept cards and you will also have the records of every transaction.  You should also make sure that the kids are being properly taken care of. People who have kids often spend the most part of their vacation time chasing their kids around. Therefore, make sure that if the children are traveling with you, the resort has adequate play area and a day care center. Many resorts also have separate activities planned for kids.You should check out the nightlife possible too, if you are an extrovert. Some of the best nightclubs are in Key West (favorite of Ernest Hemingway), Miami (home of Gloria Estefan), Honolulu and San Diego. You could consider vacation destinations with comedy clubs close at hand. There is nothing better than winding up a leisure day with a hearty laugh, if you enjoy slap-stick comedy and magic shows. You should also consider destinations where you could pursue water sports in summer. You could go snorkeling, scuba diving or just plain swimming if you love the water. You could indulge in hand gliding or parasailing if you are adventurous. Many locations also offer deep-sea fishing. In Florida you can attempt fishing in inland lakes for the Trophy Bass.Another important point to consider is to attempt learning the local language of the place you intend to visit or, visit a place where English is widely spoken. Jamaica, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Tahiti and the Dominican Republic are just some of the attractive vacation options.You should make sure that the transportation facilities in and out of the chosen holiday destination are efficient and flexible. Shopping is one activity without which, no vacation can be complete. Hence, you should make sure that the vacation spot has adequate shopping facilities.And finally, indulge in a holiday to a destination of your dreams. Trying out new locations and venturing further, adds to the thrill and adventure that can make the holiday a truly memorable one. You should not forget to carry your camera to capture all the sweet memories of the vacation.

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For many years of Traveling, i have been to many wonderful countries and some leave a memorable marks in my heart and i would love to comeback for more. I have come to conclusion to share these wonderful experience of my adventure from all over the world and i can honestly say, its nice to live in this wonderful earth we’ve shared. From Europe to Asia to North and South America: 1. New Zealand – peace and order, almost no crime rate, – simple living with lots of beautiful nature.

2.Denmark – you dont need a car, public transport works so well, on time buses and trains,people are so relaxed.

3.Ireland tie with Iceland – these 2 countries never been controversies with other like islams, they just being nice, warm and friendly people.

4.Norway – they dont have high tax rates like Denmark, – affordable foods and easy going people

5.Philiippines – i have to pick Philippines from Asian Countries ive been to, and yes, from the third world countries and yet it seems they are very happy and contented even they dont have much material as we do. I realized being happy is not just based on material things but comes from within.

6.Switzerland – has a stable, modern and one of the most capitalist economies in the world. It has the 2nd highest European rating after Ireland

7. Canada – known as the most gentlemen people in the world, laid back and  polite and they love hockey of course.   Likes to spend quality time watching Sports TV both men and women

8. Austria – is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of GDP (Gross domestic product) and has a well-developed social market economy. So much peaceful country.

9. Puerto Rico – I never seen such charming and beautiful people in my whole life, friendly and hospitable. – they love to dance all day long.

10. Sweden  and the Netherlands -  can boast of the fact that besides being quite a picturesque country, it has one of the most stable and also dynamic economies in the continent of Europe.  USA on the other hand is one of my top 20 list.

well, i asked  myself, what is happiness anyways?  basic needs of people such as food, health care, housing and such. Happiness to me is to wake up every morning start with a smile, meeting new people, green scenery, and peace of mind. In  western countries we have everything we need in life and yet we have the highest number of suicidal rates, depression issues. or mental problems. I come to my conclusion that true richness comes from within. how about you? and speaking  of traveling , i been using this travel site with trust and convenient

http://www.cooltraveling.com/

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Are you ready for a great vacation in a sunny, warm, and possibly sandy area?  Ingredients for a hot holiday you’ll remember for a lifetime are easy to plan.  Here are a few to keep in mind:First, make sure your rooms at the resort are booked in advance.  Many of the best vacation resorts are fully booked ahead of time, and having reservations will make sure you have a roof over your head.  In fact, some of the best destinations are booked months in advance, so do your planning early.  Also remember that you may get better rates on your hotel by paying in advance.Second, make sure your money is safe.  Rather than carrying cash, use traveler’s checks.  If traveler’s checks are lost or stolen they can be quickly replaced.  Or, better yet, use a credit card.  Most resorts take the major bank cards.  You’ll have a record of your purchases and the ability to dispute any inaccurate claims.  If your card is lost or stolen, it can also be quickly replaced and you won’t be responsible for fraudulent purchases made with it.  Nothing could ruin a great vacation faster than having your cash lost or stolen with no way to replace it, so don’t take that chance.  Use credit cards or traveler’s checks and be safe.Third, make sure the kids are taken care of.  If your children are traveling with you, make sure the resort has adequate play areas and hopefully a daycare service so that you’ll really have a vacation without chasing the kids through the sand all the time.  Many resorts have activity directors for the children’s events, and the kids will have a great time.Next, what is the nightlife like?  If you and your significant other want to dance the night away, fantastic! Just make sure that the location you pick has a reputation for quality nightlife.  Warm vacation spots that pride themselves on good nightclubs include Key West – a favorite of Ernest Hemmingway; Miami the home of Gloria Estefan; Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Diego, and if you don’t mind skipping the beach, Las Vegas has some of the most exciting night life on earth.  And remember to take along some cab fare.  Definitely don’t drive when you’ve been drinking.Next think comedy.  Are there good comedy clubs in the area?  Nothing beats a good stand up comedian.  And if stand up isn’t your bag, what other entertainment do you prefer.  Magicians and musicians are always popular.Water sports and excitement go together, and most warm, sunny vacation spots include plenty of both.  How about parasailing or hang gliding?  What about Scuba diving, snorkeling, or swimming with the dolphins.  If you like the water but don’t want to get wet yourself, check out the deep sea fishing if you are ocean side.  If in Florida, remember all the inland lakes and the trophy bass they hold.Number seven in our list of necessities is a practical matter.  Make sure that either you speak the language of the natives, or they speak English.  That makes Jamaica a great hot spot, as well as Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.  Also Bermuda, Tahiti and the Dominican Republic are waiting to provide you with a wonderful vacation in paradise.Number eight is rather simple.  Is transport in and out of your vacation paradise easy?  Do they have a quality airport?  Or will you be driving.  Make sure the transportation needs are easily taken care of.Next, number nine, sure to be a hit with the ladies, is shopping.  Does your warm sunny vacation destination have adequate shopping facilities?  Nothing makes a woman happier than a chance to shop.Finally, the top necessity for your warm and sunny destination is that it be a place you’ve always wanted to visit.  Whether you’ve always desired a Florida beach, a California surfing wave, or a tropical island, make sure that your destination is one you’ve always wanted to visit.  And number eleven, as a bonus, is to bring along the video camcorder and still photo camera so that you can record the memories of your vacation and enjoy them for years to come.

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Which person visiting the Cuban capital  would not notice the presence of the Hotel Habana Libre in the appearance of the city? Its imposing construction, built on the top of a hill, leads one of the most representative areas of the Cuban capital: La Rampa. Its location is maybe its most distinctive trait. But it also has  some other subtle details: the light that issues when the sun hits its façade and its peculiar way of representing the best of the Cuban pictography. Even though it is not considered the emblem hotel of Cuba, condition carried by the Hotel Nacional, it is one of the best known in Cuba.

The current Hotel Habana Libre was founded on march 19 ,1958 after three years of construction, at a cost of 24 million dollars. It had then 630 rooms distributed in 30 floors, being at that moment one of the tallest buildings in Latin America. On the opening day , the American Company Hilton, to whom its management was entrusted for the next 20 years, tried hard to impress the visitors. At the main entrance, the fancy cars were welcome by tall doormen, well shaved up to their side burns and wearing impressive suits with helmets wrapped in colorful tissues ending in suggestive feathers, elegant ties, colorful tissue belts, shining shoes, all of it enhancing the already good- looking young men chosen to do that job.

The Hilton owners wanted to win over by starting to do things well from the very beginning. With the concession to the famous Hilton Hotels Corporation, proprietors intended to assure the services of the hotel with the presence of the American tourism, which they did for only a few months.

The Havana Hilton was an old project of Dr. Mario Lazo, a successful lawyer of the Havana society at that time. Lazo was stimulated with the contract signed by Hilton in 1948 with the government of Puerto Rico to build a hotel in San Juan. That would benefit the government with two thirds of the profits. So he tried to make business with the American Company but he did not find support among the Cuban powerful people at the end of the 40’s. He then tried to do it with the government, with independent organizations and even with the  Sugar Industry Retirement Funds but he could not seal the deal. The project was kept aside for a while. But, as it was expected, and because of the position that the Cuban destination was taking inside the American market, the project was revived, finding financial support in the Retirement Funds and Social Assistance of the Gastronomic Workers.

At first, it was thought to build the hotel in a different place than it is today. The initial project situated it in Centro Habana municipality, nearer to the old center of the city. But the owners realized that the city was growing towards the area known as Vedado and they decided to place it in its commercial heart: La Rampa. The first stone was set in 1955 in an area that was particularly uninhabited within the precious zone, where there already were stores, important company offices, several banks, the main radio and television network of the country, and some other hotels like the Saint John’s, the Capri and the National Hotel.

The Habana Hilton started to be in the preference of tourists interested in spending their holydays in Cuba. But its success did not last much. Ten months after the opening, the revolutionary process that was going on at the same time in the island, triumphed and so started the conflicts between the American government and the Cuban companies doing business with it. During the first years of the Cuban Revolution, the Hilton managers were doing large-scale dismissals and demands of money to the Cuban Government under the pretext that the hotel was in bankruptcy. This way, there were constant problems related with costs and the workers’ salaries, menacing with redundancies and the prohibition of the entrance of tourists to the country. This last thing was a latent menace due to the influence of the  hotel business in the world. The amount demanded by Hilton to the government was of two million pesos to be able , according to him, to support and keep the hotel opened. The Revolutionary Government, to avoid the conflict and  dismissals, gave the credit to the company.

After  the first few days of the Revolution  and during three months, the Continental Suite in room 2324 was used by Fidel Castro as the headquarters of the revolution where he delivered press conferences and attracted to the hotel international personalities who wanted to meet and to talk with the Cuban leader. Another immediate link between the hotel and the revolutionary process was the presence in two of the hotel floors of the first diplomatic representation of the Soviet Union in the island. The situation between Hilton and the Revolutionary Government became every day more difficult. The relationship between the management of the hotel and an attempt to kill Fidel Castro was proved. Finally, on June 11 of 1960,  the Revolutionary Government took over the hotel control and it changed its name as it is today, Hotel Habana Libre.

After its nationalization and with the turn experienced by the country which meant, among other things, the closing of casinos in the hotels and bets in general, the hotel had to face the sudden loss of its tourist attraction which it did not recover until the mid of the 70′ with the visit of  tourists from Canada and the former socialists countries above all. Its facilities were modified a little and some names were changed, for instance the luxurious casino became The Ambassadors’ Hall and the restaurant Trader Vick’ s became El Polinesio. During that time until the hotel recovered around 1974 and because of its wonderful facilities , it was the host of the most important national and international events that took place in Cuba.

Important personalities have stayed in the hotel since its opening besides those directly related with the Cuban government when the headquarters were there. Among them, presidents visiting the island; Valentina Tereskova, the world first female cosmonaut , Elizabeth ( Liz ) Taylor, Terry Moore, Sara Montiel, the Spanish singer, Mexican movie starts Dolores del Rio and Arturo de Cordova, Mario Moreno known as Cantinflas, Pedro Rico the magnificent Spanish singer, and more recently Matt Damon and Naomy Campbell among many other American glamorous world known personalities who have visited the hotel almost furtively,  violating the American government restrictions related to the embargo.

In the 90’s, due to the prosperity experienced by tourism in Cuba, three main hotel groups were created: Gran Caribe, Horizontes Hotels and Isla Azul, this last one for national tourism. The Habana Libre hotel was managed by the Gran Caribe Group in joined venture with Spain and the Guitar Hotels Group. Later on, its administration passed to the Spanish group Tryp Hotels who carried out a renovation of its facilities to adapt it to the demands of the current tourist market.

The new Habana Libre Hotel opened in December 1997 with the most representative works of the Cuban fine arts and handicraft completely restored, like that one of Alfredo Sosabravo placed at the entrance of the Buffet Restaurant. There is also at the lobby the beautiful Clepsidra, a work by the well- known Cuban artist Rita Longa.

Nowadays it continues to be the most representative hotel in the city with its 550 rooms, 7 suites and 31 junior suites as well as smokers rooms. Among their offers there are three very good restaurants: El Polinesio, Caribe and El Barracon; two fast food restaurants: La Rampa coffee shop and a Buffet restaurant. Three bars: El Patio, Siboney and Las Antillas. The hotel also offers other services: a business center, a modern Commercial Gallery at the lobby, conference rooms with a capacity for two thousand people, a beauty parlor and barber shop, bank, swimming pool, parking with a capacity for two hundred vehicles, laundry service. On the 25th floor there is the Panoramic Hall Sierra Maestra and the Disco- Cabaret Turquino, provided with a retractable roof with a splendid belvedere over the Cuban Caribbean.

The Habana Libre Hotel, a giant among the Havana hotels awaits for you if you choose the destination Cuba in your trips to the Caribbean.

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The CaribbeanA vacation at one of the islands in the Caribbean offers excitement as well as relaxation in a stunning, tropical setting. The eastern region of the islands, commonly known as the Lesser Antilles, Tobago and Trinidad, begins just east of Puerto Rico and stretches just about to the coast of Venezuela. These islands include impressive mountains, rain forests and black, as well as white, sandy beaches. The western portion of the Caribbean is well-known for the ancient Mayan ruins that abound, as well as for the luxurious resorts, carnivals and local festivities occurring frequently throughout the year. St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan and Barbados are among the most popular travel destinations in the southern Caribbean and offer tourists an authentic island experience. FranceParis, France, home of the famous Eiffel Tower, remains one of the world’s top travel destinations for honeymooners and travelers alike. Other cities in France that provide an ideal spot to vacation if you’re looking for beauty, charm and a rich sense of history are Lyon and Marseille. These gorgeous cities are filled with fascinating museums and feature numerous fragrant flower gardens. Rome, ItalyRome, Italy is perhaps one of the most beautiful and historic of European cities and also one of the most often visited by travelers. Ancient monuments, impressive museums, fountains as well as medieval churches and palaces, all lend to the old world charm of the city. There are also numerous restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine and plenty of exciting nightlife to be had as well. Other popular vacation spots to visit in Italy are the Vatican and St. Peter’s Cathedral, as well as the city of Venice, which was uniquely built right in the center of a lagoon. Venice has been deemed one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in the entire world with meandering canals and interesting architecture everywhere you look. HawaiiWith many gorgeous and unspoiled beaches to choose from, Hawaii and its smaller surrounding islands offer lush resorts, crystal blue waters and plenty of sunshine to visitors. Besides Hawaii, often called the “Big Island”, there are five other beautiful islands to visit such as Maui, which is the second largest of the group and features stunning volcanoes as well as breathtaking waterfalls. Other islands include Lanai, which is famous for its impressive rock formations as well as the distinct ambiance of romance, luxury and privacy. The state’s capital, Honolulu, is located on the island of Oahu, which is home to the majority of Hawaii’s population and boasts a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment.Las Vegas, NevadaLas Vegas, the most populous city in Nevada, is often referred to as “Sin City” or the “largest adult playground” in the world. But this famous vacation spot is no longer just about gambling and casinos. Now there are numerous family-friendly hotels, resorts and activities to choose from as well as plenty of exciting nightlife along the Strip for the adults. People vacationing in Las Vegas may also choose to visit nearby Lake Mead, which is the largest man-made lake in the United States and is only 22 miles from the Strip. The Hoover Dam, located in Black Canyon on the Colorado River about 30 miles southeast of Las Vegas, is also another impressive sight to see while visiting this area.