Fly into the Cuban capital of Havana and you will land at José Marti International Airport. But who was the man who lends his name to the airport and countless roads throughout the country?
José Marti was always a hugely productive member of Cuban society, born in 1853 when the island was still ruled by imperial Spain. At 15, he started publishing poems and later set up a patriotic newspaper called La Patria Libre (The Free Fatherland).
These political beliefs landed him in hot water with the Spanish and he was exiled to Spain, where he studied, wrote and taught. He later traveled around France, Mexico and Guatemala, developing his skills and his political beliefs, before setting up the Cuban Revolutionary Party in New York.
As well as a prolific writer, Marti became a figurehead of the Cuban independence movement and organized an invasion of the island in 1895. He died in the attempt to liberate his country from Spain, but Marti lives on in Cuban culture and remains a key cultural reference for people on the island.
His legacy is fairly unique among Cubans divided into those who remained on the island and those who fled abroad following the 1959 revolution, with both sides of the ideological divide citing Marti as an inspiration.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Apr 29, 2025Fairmont Royal York’s Spring Programming
Take in the Splendor of Spring, a curated selection of activities and events, at Fairmont Royal York.
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Slideshow
Apr 29, 20257 Must-See Sites in Sapporo, Japan
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are seven must-see sites in Sapporo, Japan.
Hotel
Apr 29, 20254 Hotels Taking Advantage of Summer Fridays
With summer around the corner, many companies in corporate America gear up for the start of summer Fridays. Summer Fridays can come in handy when making summer travel plans, and can give you some extra time to travel in the afternoon to enjoy a full weekend away. We’ve rounded up some hotels in destinations that are easy to get to and perfect for taking advantage of a summer Friday.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Surveys
Apr 28, 2025Study Reports Americans Increased Spending on 2025 Spring Break
Spring break may already be in your rearview mirror, and you might be looking forward to your summer vacay — but did you save enough cash after your springtime travel? A new study from Allianz Partners found Americans spent quite a bit more on their spring break trips this year than they did in 2024. The average spring break trip was $5,325 in 2025, more than a 10 percent increase from 2024.
ShareThis