Cuba has the largest fleet of ‘almendrones’ of the 40s and 50s, attractive for thousands of tourists
Cadillac, Chevrolet, Mustang, Plymouth or Buick … It is not uncommon to find the classic models of these cars if you are in Cuba. We are not talking about a movie inspired by the 50’s, it is the current reality of Cuba, turned into an outdoor museum of still running classic cars.
Cubans give the name of ‘almendrones‘ to all vehicles that were manufactured before 1960 and are still in circulation. These cars that currently stand out for their constant household repairs and its bright and vivid colors may be up to even 90 years old.
Cubans take it upon themselves to fix them, paint them and decorate them with the aim of making what could be junk an almost cult object for visitors. It is estimated that there are between 50,000 and 60,000 classic cars in Cuba, as if it were the 50s.
Obviously, these cars are one of the main attractions for the thousands of tourists who visit Cuba each year. There is no tourist who does not have a classic american car among their photos, either moving through the streets, parked on sidewalks or rented for a walk.
In fact, classic car tours to Pinar del Río Viñales, Playa Larga, Varadero and Havana, are a typical thing.
Furthermore, they are used as public transport. Taxis in Cuba are also classics, so even your first transfer from the airport seems to be a ride right out of a Grace Kelly movie.
Want a ride? We await you with an engine running at the door of BelleVue Puntarena Playa Caleta and of Bellevue Palma Real. Do not forget to bring your camera!
