Australia

Pavlova

A popular Australian dessert made from a meringue base, topped with cream and fresh fruits. It can be found in most bakeries and restaurants across Australia.

Must-Try!

Empanadas

Savory pastries filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables, often served as street food in Cuba. Look for them in local bakeries and street food stalls.

Queen Victoria Market

Located in Melbourne, it is one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls.

Havana Street Food Market

In the heart of Havana, this vibrant market is the perfect place to sample authentic Cuban street food such as Cubano sandwiches and grilled plantains.

Australia

1. Respect for Personal Space: Australians value their personal space and generally prefer to stand about an arm's length apart when interacting. It's important to be mindful of this comfort zone in social situations. 2. Informal Communication: Australians often use first names quickly and maintain a casual tone in conversations. Humor and colloquial expressions are common, so be prepared for friendly banter. 3. Indigenous Culture Awareness: Show respect and awareness of Australia’s Indigenous cultures. Acknowledging traditional owners of the land and understanding their history and contributions is important.

Cuba

1. Warm Greetings: Cubans are known for their warmth and friendliness. A firm handshake, a smile, and a personal touch, like a hug or kiss on the cheek, are common when meeting someone for the first time. 2. Respect for Elders: It is customary to show high regard for older individuals in Cuban society. Addressing older people with titles of respect and listening to their advice is important. 3. Embrace Cultural Ties: Engage in conversations about music and dance, which are integral to Cuban culture. Showing appreciation for cultural events and traditions can enhance interpersonal relationships.

Tipping

In Australia, tipping is not customary and is often considered optional. While it is becoming more common in certain sectors such as fine dining, a tip of around 10% is generally considered generous if service has been exceptional. In contrast, Cuba has a different approach where tipping is more widely accepted and appreciated due to the low wages of service workers. It's common for tourists to leave tips of around 10-15% in restaurants and to offer small change to taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Payment

Payment practices in Australia mainly revolve around cashless transactions, with credit and debit cards being widely accepted across all types of establishments. Mobile payment apps and tap-and-go systems are very popular. In Cuba, payment practices can be quite different, as the country operates on a dual currency system with the Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). Tourists typically use CUC, and cash transactions are more common. Credit cards are accepted in some places, but issues with international banking can pose challenges for visitors.

European Australians

The largest demographic group in Australia, primarily of British and Irish descent.

Indigenous Australians

Includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, representing a significant cultural heritage.

Asian Australians

A growing population in Australia, with significant communities from China, India, and the Philippines.

Other Ethnic Groups

Includes people from various backgrounds such as Middle Eastern, African, and Pacific Islander communities.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Both Australia and Cuba offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, particularly in major cities. Look for restaurants and cafes that specifically cater to these dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be less common in Cuba, many Australian restaurants and cafes offer gluten-free menus. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.