40+ Strange Facts About Cuba That Most People Don’t Know

Officially called Republica de Cuba in Spanish, even though it is a communist country, Cuba has been improving its diplomatic ties with the U.S. Hopefully, very soon, all Americans will be able to travel to Cuba as freely as they want. The fascinating thing about Cuba is that it is a blend of diverse cultures and influences with a fascinating past. Here are some strange facts about the country you probably haven't seen.

Hitchhiking Is The Norm

If passenger space is available, government vehicles in Cuba are required to pick up hitchhikers. Because the country has few cars, hitchhiking is encouraged, and hitchhikers use designated areas. Riders are picked up on a first-come, first-served basis by drivers.

Hitchhiking is a form of transportation that involves approaching strangers and asking for a ride in their car or other vehicles. Hitchhiking became necessary following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Ballet Is Big Here

For the most part, the dance scene in Cuba has always revolved around salsa, son, and rumba. However, according to those in the know, the Caribbean Island is one of the main stages of the world's best ballet.

Ballet here took off after legendary ballerina Alicia Alonso founded the Ballet Nacional de Cuba in 1948, which is now one of the world's most prestigious dance companies. Despite some early difficulties, the company received crucial assistance from Fidel Castro and his revolutionary movement in 1959, after Alonso lent him her support.

Not Internet Friendly

Since the list's inception in 2006, Reporters Without Borders has designated Cuba as an "Internet Enemy." Certain websites are blocked by the Cuban government outright. While blocking access to specific websites is possible, it is not very widespread.

The censorship of the internet has loosened in recent years. For example, in 2007, the general public was able to purchase a computer legally. Digital media is beginning to play a more prominent role in disseminating information about events in Cuba to the rest of the world.

Travel Restrictions

Since 1960, when Fidel Castro took power, the U.S. government has restricted travel to Cuba, and this restriction continues to this day, owing to the fear of communism here.

Journalists, academics, government officials, those with immediate family members living on the island, and others licensed by the Treasury Department were initially excluded from sanctioned travel. These rules were changed in 2011 to allow all Americans to visit Cuba if they were on a "people-to-people" cultural exchange tour.