{"id":6847,"date":"2022-03-28T13:14:39","date_gmt":"2022-03-28T17:14:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/?p=6847"},"modified":"2023-11-13T13:50:28","modified_gmt":"2023-11-13T18:50:28","slug":"cuban-traditions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuban-traditions\/","title":{"rendered":"Bizarre Cuban Traditions that Reveal the True Cuban Culture (2023)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Are you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/how-to-travel-to-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">planning to travel to Cuba<\/a>? Armed with<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cuban-Spanish-101-Bilingual-Dictionary-ebook\/dp\/B01MT03YZS?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1546550379&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=spanish+phrase+book+for+travel+in+cuba&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=a41f3268386e8ccbcc6aabaa3186d3f5&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> your phrasebook<\/a> and a little understanding of Cuban traditions, you\u2019ll find your travels so much more rewarding.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you just love reading about different cultures, Cuban traditions can also be a fascinating subject for study.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuba is a mix of people with Ta\u00edno, Spanish and African backgrounds, and its traditions reflect this diversity of cultures. Traditions from Catholicism and \u201cSanter\u00eda\u201d often sit side by side with more secular practices, creating a rich and unique tapestry of beliefs that add to the beauty and vitality of this island nation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While a true study of Cuban culture requires far more depth, we hope you\u2019ll enjoy a little insight into these popular customs that make Cuba wonderfully colorful and vibrant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ideabox-toc ib-block-toc\" data-anchors='h2,h3' data-collapsable='false' ><div class=\"ib-toc-container ib-toc-list-style-bullets ib-toc-hierarchical ib-toc-expanded\"><div class=\"ib-toc-header\" style=\"background-color:#f0f0f0\"><div class=\"ib-toc-header-title\">In this article&#8230;<\/div><\/div><div class=\"ib-toc-separator\" style=\"height:2px\"><\/div><div class=\"ib-toc-body\" style=\"background-color:#f9f9f9;font-size:18px\"><ul class=\"ib-toc-anchors\"><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-cuban-christmas-traditions\">Cuban Christmas Traditions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"551\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus-850x551.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6859\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus-850x551.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus-400x259.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus-100x65.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus-694x450.jpg 694w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Christmas-in-Cuba-Santa-Claus.jpg 972w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Christmas is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/best-time-to-visit-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">best times to visit Cuba<\/a>. The weather is still warm (yes, even in December!), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/sand-fleas-and-mosquitoes-in-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">mosquitoes<\/a> won\u2019t bug you, and you can experience popular Cuban traditions during Christmas and New Year\u2019s Eve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-how-is-christmas-celebrated-in-cuba\">How is Christmas celebrated in Cuba?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Christmas celebrations in Cuba begin late in the evening, meaning most adults and even children are awake to welcome Christmas day as the clock chimes midnight.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Celebrants wish each other a \u201cFeliz Navidad\u201d. While Santa Claus isn\u2019t quite as popular in Cuban traditions as elsewhere, he is popular with children. They call him Santi Clo or Papa Noel. Some children may hang stockings for him to fill, although it\u2019s not a widespread tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Families may decorate with a favorite heirloom like a Nativity set. Most will toast friends and loved ones with a glass of rum.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Christmas season ends on the sixth of January, known as Epiphany or Day of the Three Kings. While it\u2019s seen as more of a religious holiday, street celebrations in parts of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-havana-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">Havana<\/a> still resemble Carnival celebrations throughout Latin America. Dancing, music, and good food make a lovely end to Christmas in Cuba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-traditional-christmas-foods-in-cuba\">Traditional Christmas foods in Cuba<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To a Cuban, any celebration is an excuse to roast a whole pig and serve it with tasty trimmings. Christmas in Cuba is no different.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Less about presents and more about family togetherness, love, and companionship, Noche Buena -or Christmas Eve- sees a table loaded with traditional favorites. They include black beans and rice, roasted pork, and fried plantains. For dessert, a rich rice pudding or the deep-fried doughnuts known as bu\u00f1uelos make a delightfully sweet end to the meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Watch out for those <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/eating-in-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">low-quality street foods and unsafe tap water<\/a>, though. You won\u2019t want to get sick just before the new year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-cuban-new-year%E2%80%99s-traditions\">Cuban New Year\u2019s Traditions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"603\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig-850x603.jpg\" alt=\"Cuban New Year's Tradition - Roasting a Pig\" class=\"wp-image-6861\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig-850x603.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig-400x284.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig-100x71.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig-634x450.jpg 634w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-New-Years-Tradition-Roasting-a-Pig.jpg 905w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cuban New Year\u2019s traditions entail plenty of food and superstitions to leave the bad luck behind and welcome the good fortune of the new year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-cuban-new-year%E2%80%99s-food-traditions\">Cuban New Year\u2019s food traditions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Food and holidays are always inextricably linked. Cubans are no exception when it comes to special dishes for celebrating the New Year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-turr%C3%B3n-or-torrone\">Turr\u00f3n or torrone<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A favorite food at Christmas in Cuba and New Year\u2019s is<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/El-Almendro-Traditional-Spanish-Torrone\/dp\/B0037INTB4?crid=2VXBHQZROXXQX&amp;keywords=turron&amp;qid=1643746040&amp;sprefix=turron%2Caps%2C102&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=ABZEPE4ZM6XNX&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEySk05QzQ2WlhKWTQ0JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTI2NjI1S0dKQ0ZIMVdRSDJYJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAwNTk3MzFSNFpVVURDVFBVQ0gmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=0bf3f259cce7b2a15163faada79bd88c&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> turr\u00f3n<\/a>. Turron is a dense sweet made from sugar, honey, and egg whites, embedded with almonds or other flavorful nuts. It\u2019s a traditional way to end the feast and begin the New Year on a sweet note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-sidra-and-grapes\">Sidra and grapes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>No New Year\u2019s celebration is complete without<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Martinellis-Sparkling-Apple-25-4oz-Bottle\/dp\/B07GX53XWN?keywords=sparkling+cider&amp;qid=1643746414&amp;sprefix=sparkling+cid%2Caps%2C95&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;smid=AKRECHI0R19BM&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExSVpFNUpFUUJaT01EJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjMzOTQ3MjRBWVJKNkZLREhVJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAzMzUxMzRLRlIwUkFOSEdSOUUmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=49b8e95f9d3d182d2c3c71e40fa05536&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> sidra<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Red-Seedless-Grapes-3-lb\/dp\/B09MDSWXRW?crid=1T1EPM8UOGRAN&amp;keywords=grapes&amp;qid=1643746670&amp;s=grocery&amp;sprefix=grapes%2Cgrocery%2C93&amp;sr=1-3&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=04913cded5aacc56f8f436534771d8b5&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> grapes<\/a>, however.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuban traditions often have very murky origins, so it\u2019s difficult to say where this practice originated. Still, many New Year\u2019s parties include each guest eating 12 grapes while making a wish for each grape as it\u2019s eaten before washing them all down with a gulp from a glass of apple cider.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This should ideally happen in the first minute of the New Year after the clock strikes midnight. Otherwise, the wishes might not come true. Some believe you may not even make it through the year if you haven\u2019t finished all 12 grapes by the first minute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-crema-de-vie\">Crema de vie<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to sidra, no New Year\u2019s celebration is complete without crema de vie. The rum-laced egg nog accompanies many New Year\u2019s toasts, like wishing everyone a \u201cPr\u00f3spero A\u00f1o Nuevo.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-roasted-pig\">Roasted pig<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Roasting a whole pig on New Year\u2019s Eve is a widespread tradition in Cuba. Many Cuban families breed a pig throughout the year to slaughter and grill it on the last day of the year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>See, a pig roast is a significant event in Cuba. Close friends and families gather to celebrate a special occasion or just good fortune. Roasting a whole pig is an iconic tradition in Cuba built into Cuban culture.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-cuban-rum\">Cuban rum<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuban rum is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.esquire.com\/food-drink\/drinks\/a52223\/cuban-rum-guide\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"follow external noopener noreferrer\">one of the best in the world<\/a>, which is one of the most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/facts-about-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">interesting facts about Cuba.<\/a> For Cubans, rum is just part of the national identity. There is no major celebration in Cuba without Havana Club, Ron Santiago, or Mulata.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For Cubans, rum is personal and, sometimes, the best friend.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a shame that Americans are forbidden from tasting the fantastic Cuban rum in the US. This is a prohibition part of a larger set of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuba-travel-restrictions\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">US travel restrictions to Cuba<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-throwing-a-bucket-of-water-out\">Throwing a bucket of water out<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"539\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Throwing-Bucket-of-Water.jpg\" alt=\"Cuba New Year's Tradition - Throwing Bucket of Water\" class=\"wp-image-6863\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Throwing-Bucket-of-Water.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Throwing-Bucket-of-Water-400x308.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Throwing-Bucket-of-Water-100x77.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Throwing-Bucket-of-Water-584x450.jpg 584w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>To dispel any negativity accumulated throughout the previous year, households will save the bucket of dirty water left over from mopping and cleaning before the celebration.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At midnight, someone tosses this bucket of water out of the door and into the street, symbolically riding everyone in the household of any bad luck.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-burning-effigies\">Burning effigies<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Burning-the-Effigy.jpg\" alt=\"Cuba New Year's Tradition - Burning the Effigy\" class=\"wp-image-6865\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Burning-the-Effigy.jpg 755w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Burning-the-Effigy-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Burning-the-Effigy-100x67.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Burning-the-Effigy-675x450.jpg 675w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Another way to dispel misfortune is by burning a rag doll (\u201cmu\u00f1eco\u201d). It is often the size of a human and dressed in whatever fanciful attire its maker deems appropriate. Celebrants can bid the old year good riddance while welcoming in the new by burning the doll at midnight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-midnight-walk-with-a-suitcase\">Midnight walk with a suitcase<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"454\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Midnight-Walk-with-Suitcase.jpg\" alt=\"Cuba New Year's Tradition - Midnight Walk with Suitcase\" class=\"wp-image-6867\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Midnight-Walk-with-Suitcase.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Midnight-Walk-with-Suitcase-400x259.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Midnight-Walk-with-Suitcase-100x65.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuba-New-Years-Tradition-Midnight-Walk-with-Suitcase-694x450.jpg 694w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: OnCuba News<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>For Cubans who aspire to travel the following year, walking at midnight on New Year\u2019s Eve with a packed suitcase is believed to assist their travel plans. In Havana, celebrants may walk along the Malec\u00f3n, tossing a letter inscribed with their hopes for the next year into the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-cuban-wedding-traditions\">Cuban Wedding Traditions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"506\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Bride-Riding-Convertible.jpg\" alt=\"Cuban Wedding Tradition - Bride Riding Convertible\" class=\"wp-image-6870\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Bride-Riding-Convertible.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Bride-Riding-Convertible-400x238.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Bride-Riding-Convertible-100x60.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Bride-Riding-Convertible-700x417.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Several political factors inevitably made their mark on Cuban wedding traditions over the last 60 years.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern couples in Cuba enjoy dating and relationships but<a href=\"https:\/\/www.brown.edu\/research\/projects\/tracing-cuba-us-connections\/news\/2017\/12\/death-and-rebirth-cuban-wedding-ceremony\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"follow external noopener noreferrer\"> see little need<\/a> for a lavish wedding that will cost many months of their combined wages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They also don\u2019t feel a religious ceremony is required and see little need to make things official with a government document. This leaves most modern couples enjoying exclusivity by moving in together without worrying about official marital status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For other couples, there\u2019s been a resurgence of traditional weddings in Cuba in the last few years. Especially when<a href=\"https:\/\/misiones.cubaminrex.cu\/en\/usa\/consular-services#poder_matrimonio\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"follow external noopener noreferrer\"> marrying a foreigner<\/a> who prefers a celebratory wedding event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-traditional-weddings\">Traditional Weddings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuban wedding ceremonies are often a bureaucratic affair held in a government office. The real celebration for the couple and their guests occurs at the reception.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Couples may walk or ride in a convertible <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/classic-cars-in-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">classic car<\/a> to the site, with well-wishers cheering and waving as they pass by. While the reception location can vary between a garden, a home, or a rented hall, no reception is complete without a band supplying music for the inevitable joyous dancing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gifts are mostly modest, including makeup kits, underwear and other clothes, home decor gifts, and Cuban liquors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15-traditional-cuban-wedding-clothing\">Traditional Cuban Wedding Clothing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Brides traditionally wear white to denote purity, and sumptuous fabrics like silk or satin with handmade lace are favored by those brides celebrating with a classic wedding aesthetic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The groom should avoid seeing the bride before the ceremony. It\u2019s a sign of bad luck!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The groom most often dons a black wedding suit, although wearing a more casual attire is not uncommon.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16-wedding-reception-traditions\">Wedding Reception Traditions<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Throwing-Rice.jpg\" alt=\"Cuban Wedding Tradition - Throwing Rice\" class=\"wp-image-6872\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Throwing-Rice.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Throwing-Rice-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Wedding-Tradition-Throwing-Rice-100x67.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The most common wedding reception traditions in Cuba include cutting the cake, tossing the bouquet, removing the garter, and throwing rice at the end of the ceremony. None of these traditions were born on the island, but Cubans adopted them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"17-cutting-the-cake\">Cutting the cake<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The bride and groom slice a cake while holding a knife together. Then, they feed each other.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"18-bouquet-toss\">Bouquet toss<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The bride tosses her bouquet over her shoulder to the unmarried women present. Whoever catches it will marry next!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"19-garter-removal\">Garter removal<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The groom removes the garter from the bride\u2019s leg with his teeth while everyone watches. Then, the groom tosses the band to a line of single men present at the wedding. The one who catches it will be the next to marry.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"20-throwing-rice\">Throwing rice<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Tossing rice at the just-married couple is a wish of prosperity and good fortune. Cubans know this, and almost everyone throws rice at the exit of the ceremony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"21-cuban-dating-traditions\">Cuban Dating Traditions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"509\" height=\"339\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Dating-Tradition-Cuban-Couple-Kissing.jpg\" alt=\"Cuban Dating Tradition - Cuban Couple Kissing\" class=\"wp-image-6874\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Dating-Tradition-Cuban-Couple-Kissing.jpg 509w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Dating-Tradition-Cuban-Couple-Kissing-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Dating-Tradition-Cuban-Couple-Kissing-100x67.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Most Cubans love music and dancing, so dates will often occur in a club that offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy both. The art of \u201cpiropeo\u201d, or flirting, comes naturally to most Cubans and is vital to courtship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"22-matters-of-love\">Matters of Love<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cubans are stereotyped as passionate and affectionate in all aspects of their lives. This is undoubtedly true when it comes to dating.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cubans can be naturally flirtatious and charming but prefer getting to know another person very well before considering a committed relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuban men are gentlemen and like to treat their date to the best they can afford. Even if what they can afford is to watch a movie together. They\u2019re also much less reserved than men in other cultures and are happy to approach a woman they admire and ask her out on a date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Foreigners visiting Cuba might be overwhelmed by a charming and gregarious \u201cjinetero\u201d who\u2019s looking for love.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A walk on one of the fantastic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/best-beaches-in-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">Cuban beaches<\/a>, rum, perhaps a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/experiences\/havana-by-night-dance-where-cubans-dance_2372857\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">dance under the stars<\/a>, and it won\u2019t be long before the shyest visitor succumbs to Cuban charm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"23-the-importance-of-family\">The Importance of Family<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Dating in Cuba often means spending time with that person\u2019s whole family, enjoying a big meal, and the companionship of parents, cousins, aunts, and uncles.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Introducing the boyfriend to the parents is still a live tradition in Cuba. This act is called \u201cpedir la entrada\u201d, which means asking the parents for permission to date their daughter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"24-cuban-superstitions\">Cuban Superstitions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"680\" height=\"437\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Superstitions-Mal-de-Ojo.jpg\" alt=\"Cuban Superstitions - Mal de Ojo\" class=\"wp-image-6877\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Superstitions-Mal-de-Ojo.jpg 680w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Superstitions-Mal-de-Ojo-400x257.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Superstitions-Mal-de-Ojo-100x64.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 680px) 100vw, 680px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>People often take little superstitions they grew up with for granted, subconsciously avoiding things that might bring bad luck. Cubans are no different. The blending of<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/experiences\/ache-one-day-religion-tour-in-havana_2372894\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\"> Catholicism and Santer\u00eda<\/a> on the island brought a range of beliefs meant to avert disaster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"25-avoid-bad-luck\">Avoid bad luck<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cubans believe in bad luck. Here are some popular Cuban superstitions that Cuban say bring bad luck:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Spilling salt on the floor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaving hats on the bed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeping cracked mirrors in the house.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting out of bed with the left foot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting married in a black dress can bring bad fortune to the married couple.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaving a purse on the floor will make your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuban-currency\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">Cuban Pesos<\/a> run away.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaving uncovered mirrors during a lighting storm will attract lightning strikes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you happen to visit a Cuban household, make sure you don\u2019t bring bad luck by doing any of the above!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"26-protect-the-little-ones-against-mal-de-ojo\">Protect the little ones against Mal de Ojo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Cuba also joins many other Latin American cultures in believing that the evil eye, or Mal de Ojo, comes from envious stares, bringing bad luck to the unfortunate target.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As infants are particularly vulnerable to this calamity, they need protection in the form of an &#8220;azabache&#8221;, or onyx gemstone often carved in the shape of a fist and incorporated into jewelry pieces such as a red bracelet or pin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"27-most-popular-cuban-traditions\">Most Popular Cuban Traditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With such a wealth of beliefs adding color to every celebration, from marriage to Christmas in Cuba, it\u2019s easy to see why Cubans love their traditions.&nbsp;Here are the most popular traditions that make up the Cuban way of life:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The Christmas season ends on the sixth of January, known as Epiphany or Day of the Three Kings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Santa Claus is known as Santi Clo or Papa Noel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traditional Christmas and New Year&#8217;s Eve foods in Cuba include black beans and rice, roasted pork, fried plantains, turr\u00f3n or torrone, sidra and grapes, crema de vie, and rum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cubans eat 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight on New Year&#8217;s Eve, making a wish with each one. Not finishing all 12 grapes by the first minute may bring bad luck for the year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cuban New Year&#8217;s traditions include various superstitions to bring good luck and ward off bad luck. This includes throwing a bucket of water out, burning effigies, and walking at midnight with a suitcase with the hope of traveling next year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flirting is known on the island as \u201cpiropeto\u201d and it\u2019s the traditional start to courtship.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Many boyfriends still need to ask the girl\u2019s parents for permission to date her. This is known as \u201cpedir la entrada\u201d.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most Cubans don\u2019t hold lavish weddings or engage in religious ceremonies. Many just go to a government office and sign the wedding paperwork, and that\u2019s about it.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some couples walk off the venue in a classic convertible car, with well-wishers cheering and waving as they pass by.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The most common wedding reception traditions in Cuba include cutting the cake, tossing the bouquet, removing the garter, and throwing rice at the end of the ceremony.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cubans avoid certain actions they believe may bring bad luck. They include spilling salt, leaving hats on beds, breaking or exposing mirrors during storms, leaving a purse on the floor, and getting married in a black dress.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding Cuban culture can be just as essential to take along on your visit as your<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/C-C-Womens-Weaved-Crushable-Embroidered\/dp\/B06Y2645GH\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ref_=w_bl_sl_ap_ap_web_15431824011&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=380424b246e30d12fb721910ad0a5699&amp;language=en_US\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> sunhat<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Outdoor-Water-Resistant-Waterproof-Sandproof-SC-CM-01\/dp\/B01FI1QXS8\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&amp;keywords=beach+blanket&amp;qid=1578774531&amp;sr=8-7&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=5fbd22c3f821619f97bb2467e612cd1e&amp;language=en_US\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"> beach blanket<\/a>. If you aren\u2019t Cuban, you might enjoy adding some of these fun New Year\u2019s practices or delicious Christmas dishes to your own celebrations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have any favorite Cuban traditions or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuba-travel-tips\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">travel tips<\/a> you\u2019d like to share? Be sure to comment below, as we\u2019d love to hear from you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"\" class=\"su-box su-box-style-noise resource-box\">\n<h4 class=\"su-box-title\" style=\"background-color: #333333; color: #ffffff; border-top-left-radius: 1px; border-top-right-radius: 1px;\">Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba<\/h4>\n<div class=\"su-box-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius: 1px; border-bottom-right-radius: 1px;\">\n<p><strong>Cuban Tourist Card \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>If your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuba-tourist-card-and-cuba-visa\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer follow\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\">Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa)<\/a>\u00a0isn\u2019t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through\u00a0<a tabindex=\"-1\" href=\"https:\/\/easytouristcard.com\/?aff=12\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"follow external noopener noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">EasyTouristCard<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>Travel Health Insurance \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can\u2019t skip it. Travelers can get <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/cuba-travel-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">travel health insurance for Cuba<\/a> via\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/insubuy.tp.st\/sRiaZR9q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">Insubuy<\/a>. Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Essential Items to Pack &#8211;\u00a0<\/strong>Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/First-Aid-Only-Piece-All-Purpose\/dp\/B000069EYA?keywords=first+aid+kit&amp;qid=1643123766&amp;sprefix=first+aid%2Caps%2C92&amp;sr=8-2-spons&amp;psc=1&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNzZDQldUWVc3UEo4JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTYxNjM2MUdCSE5PTTc4R0E0MiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjM5OTU4MjNHVEJKS0o5Q1FNVyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU%3D&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=63bb8ea5725a4424f0cef0f75a8cf785&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B074VGZ7SS\">First aid kit<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Germ-X-Original-Hand-Sanitizer-Ounce\/dp\/B0889WWM49?crid=1ONYGPYFMB7JS&amp;dchild=1&amp;keywords=hand+sanitizer&amp;qid=1612574010&amp;sprefix=hand+sanit%2Caps%2C185&amp;sr=8-6&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=d4bfaacc78ab76f478c27c4ce609f8cd&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B07MB73VSC\">Hand sanitizer<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Reusable-Breathable-Outdoor-Fashion-Protections\/dp\/B0876MZRWJ?ascsubtag=amzn1.osa.0835a493-aa04-4215-a25a-56df5c7f917b.ATVPDKIKX0DER.en_US&amp;cv_ct_cx=face+mask&amp;cv_ct_id=amzn1.osa.0835a493-aa04-4215-a25a-56df5c7f917b.ATVPDKIKX0DER.en_US&amp;cv_ct_pg=search&amp;cv_ct_we=asin&amp;cv_ct_wn=osp-single-source-earns-comm&amp;dchild=1&amp;keywords=face+mask&amp;pd_rd_i=B0876MZRWJ&amp;pd_rd_r=60103c07-abb9-466b-b438-c28371ec5402&amp;pd_rd_w=o5ToB&amp;pd_rd_wg=KPCGP&amp;pf_rd_p=09ff20e9-945b-4b59-906b-be3bf2ef914a&amp;pf_rd_r=KBTQ58CX213GK45SVSMJ&amp;qid=1612575610&amp;sr=1-1-64f3a41a-73ca-403a-923c-8152c45485fe&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=fc3b26906feb214f4d5d8673b438d785&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Face masks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/LifeStraw-Filter-2-Stage-Integrated-Backpacking\/dp\/B01G7SQBPQ\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1546549219&amp;sr=8-1-spons&amp;keywords=Water+bottle+with+built-in+filter&amp;psc=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=0759904a7c9b109f30f9215708e9d129&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B01G7SQBPQ\">Water bottle with filter<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Sun-Bum-Moisturizing-Protection-Hypoallergenic\/dp\/B00JE3DZ2E\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1546549329&amp;sr=8-6&amp;keywords=sunscreen+travel+size&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=61b9c7ba0f22b447134d1bc4fc4f1157&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B00JE3DZ2E\">Sunscreen<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/OFF-Deep-Woods-Insect-Repellent\/dp\/B019ZTXU2G\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=3c395f974ba2a3f62da9b168aaac059d&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B019ZTXU2G\">Mosquito repellent<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Unidapt-Europe-Quality-Adapter-Converter\/dp\/B077W89DK1?keywords=europe%2Bto%2Bus%2Bplug%2Badapter&amp;qid=1643122242&amp;s=electronics&amp;sprefix=europe%2Bto%2B%2Celectronics%2C77&amp;sr=1-1-spons&amp;spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyTUhSM1BKOFFKMjI2JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNzAxMzc5M01FQ0JMVDVMNkpFMyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMzczMjI4MVZBV1ZBR1YyS1lGRCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&amp;th=1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=a212f92c171cbd06415ed779d0e7aa30&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B07DBWFGJC\">Pin adapter (for Europeans)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Rough-Guide-Travel-eBooks-Guides\/dp\/1789194652?dchild=1&amp;keywords=cuba+travel+guide&amp;qid=1612573827&amp;sr=8-6&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=e3b15eae99bd918a0f7ef5ed9644b0ba&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"1501081942\">Travel guide<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cuban-Spanish-101-Bilingual-Dictionary-ebook\/dp\/B01MT03YZS\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1546550379&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=spanish+phrase+book+for+travel+in+cuba&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=863c9735d0139133ad3e6a6f4cb41234&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" data-amzn-asin=\"B01MT03YZS\">Spanish-English phrasebook<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Suggested Reading: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cubans-Ordinary-Lives-Extraordinary-Times\/dp\/0525522441?dchild=1&amp;keywords=book+about+cuba&amp;qid=1612575789&amp;sr=8-1&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=tourrepublic-20&amp;linkId=b89981520e1526ef8aea7230ad42a0ea&amp;language=en_US&amp;ref_=as_li_ss_tl\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Read our complete <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/things-to-bring-to-cuba\/\" data-wpel-link=\"internal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"follow noopener noreferrer\">packing list for Cuba<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Find Accommodations &#8211;\u00a0<\/strong>Find hotels or <em>casas particulares<\/em> (private accommodations) on <a href=\"https:\/\/skyscanner.pxf.io\/c\/2911619\/1027991\/13416?associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skyscanner.com%2Fhotels%2Fcuba%2Fhavana-hotels%2Fci-39872731\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Skyscanner<\/a>, which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Book Your Flight &#8211;\u00a0<\/strong>Book cheap flights to Cuba on <a href=\"https:\/\/skyscanner.pxf.io\/c\/2911619\/1027991\/13416?associateid=AFF_TRA_19354_00001&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skyscanner.com%2Fflights-to%2Fhav%2Fcheap-flights-to-havana-airport.html\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">Skyscanner<\/a>, our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you are visiting Cuba soon, understanding Cuban traditions will make your travels so much more rewarding.\u00a0Here&#8217;s what you must know about the Cuban culture.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":6877,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[349],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6847","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cuba-travel-resources"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Cuban-Superstitions-Mal-de-Ojo.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Tour Republic","author_link":"https:\/\/www.tourepublic.com\/blog\/author\/tour-republic-author\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Bizarre Cuban Traditions that Reveal the True Cuban Culture (2023)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you are visiting Cuba, understanding Cuban traditions will make your travels so much more 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