The Isle of Youth is the Cuban archipelago's second biggest island. Territorially classified as a special municipality, it includes other smaller keus and islets, among them Cayo Largo del Sur, a important tourist resort.
Nueva Gerona, founded in 1802, is the capital of the Isle of Youth. Camrgo, Guanaja, Siguanera, Santiago, La evangelista, Isla de Pinos, or Isle of the Parrots (in feference to the large local populatin of these birds) are some of the names that the place has had, wich is why some also call it " isle of the thousand names"
A well-preserved environment and a diversity of natural resources, the existence of many places of historical and archaeological importance, combine with the growing hotel and service infrastructure, including an international airport, to turn the isle into an emerging tourist resort.
Visitors to the Isle of Youth would find it interesting to get cquainted with the Sucu-sucu, a local rhythm and dance.
They will equally appreciate the work of master ceramists or or that of tens of sculptors who have been at the heart of the territory's thriving visual arts movement. Participation at the traditional Marble and Sun Contest, held at Cayo Largo del Sur, is also suggested.
For more pleasant stay we recommend to visit: *Playa Bibijagua: Very near Nueva Gerona, this beach stand out for the blackish color of its sand, a direct consequence of the seawater erosive effect over the basalt rock.
*Los Indios - San Felipe Natural Reservation: A large population of endemic flora and fauna specimens can be admired at this place, located on the isle's southern part.
*Punta Francés: A National Marine Park located on the isle's outhwesternmost point. It stands out for its attactive landscapes and small beaches protected by coral reefs and separated from each other by coastal slopes and headlands.
* El Colony International Diving Center : Located 46 kilometers from Nueva Gerona, and near Cabo Francés. The PHOTOSUB Underwater Photograph Competition takes place here every year.
* Cayo Largo del Sur, Cayo Rosario , Cayo Cantiles and Cayo Iguana : Those keys only inhabited for abundant fishing make this place ideal for diving and underwater photography, joing a large population of monkeys and iguanas.
