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The world has its eye on Cuba this year. The Caribbean island nation of some 11 million inhabitants has been topping news headlines and travel industry must-see lists, and for good reason. With its turquoise waters, unbelievably preserved wildlife habitats, distinctive music, rich history, lively culture, classic cars, and cigars, Cuba is stunning and unique. And with the recent political détente between the Cuban and U.S. governments, Cuba is more accessible to Americans now than it has been in decades.

The charming seaside town of Caibarién, in the Villa Clara province on Cuba’s northern coast, lies far from the island’s tourist trail, yet offers noteworthy attractions, from community art projects and deliciously fresh seafood, to one of Cuba’s most renowned festivals, and the pristine white beaches of “Los Cayos.”

For those seeking insight into authentic Cuban life, this wonderfully offbeat destination merits a visit. In Caibarien, you’ll find fragile crumbling buildings, extra-friendly locals and a way of life seemingly stuck in a bygone era.

With rhythmic, steady steps, uninterrupted and in continuous circle, the dance initiating the long-lived traditional Fiesta del Kiribá y Nengón, alive since more than a century,  reveals the primary cells of the Cuban son

Sunscreen, toothpaste, wet wipes, Advil, female products, insect repellant: forgetting these basic items is not an option when packing for Cuba. The buzz surrounding the island’s open-door policy toward Americans is heartening. But don’t forget, the embargo is still on—which means the most common necessities remain scarce in Cuba’s state-run shops.

After five decades of diplomatic chilliness between our countries, American businesses may finally get to build new relationships in Cuba. Many Americans would like to explore the potential economic benefits of new trade markets, investment opportunities, and business partnerships in such industries as medicine, agriculture, education, freight, telecommunications, travel, lodging, and food. Although President Obama has made commercial travel to Cuba easier, regulations remain.

Fifty years ago, Beatles music, considered a decadent symbol of capitalism, was banned in Cuba. But much has changed.