BY JULIE DELAHAYE From Daily Mirror UK

The Caribbean island is home to some seriously amazing sandy white beaches

When you think of Cuba, it’s Havana’s colourful buildings and classic 1950s-esque cars that spring to mind.

However, there’s so much more to the Caribbean island that makes it a tropical paradise – and thanks to Virgin Atlantic, it’s easier than ever to go exploring.

The airline launched a new flight route on Sunday from London Gatwick to Varadero, one of Cuba’s most popular beach resorts thanks to the pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue oceans.

Virgin Atlantic expects to transport 28,000 more Brits for a holiday in Cuba, after research conducted by the airline showed that in the last two years, a third of UK travellers have become more interested in checking out the island.

Not only has Cuba become an increasingly popular holiday hot spot, but the death of Fidel Castro has also played a role in igniting interest in the nation.

It’s not surprising that the resort of Varadero is topping the list for a go-to luxurious getaway: after all, it’s home to a string of all-inclusive hotels, award-winning spas and lusciously green golf courses.

Currently, almost half of holiday makers in Cuba have been landing in Havana and making the two-hour drive to Varadero.

Many have been spending a few days in the capital for a cultural break before heading off to unwind on the resort’s beaches.

Therefore, Virgin Atlantic is expecting a significant increase in the number of customers who arrive and depart from different airports – especially as they are the only UK airline to provide year-round service to both destinations.

To celebrate the inaugural flight, Virgin Holidays has launched a new booking service aptly named ‘Cars to Cuba’, so customers can ride in a classic car just like the ones you can spot across Havana’s busy streets. The offer includes a one-hour drive in a vintage Cuban car, a take-home voucher for salsa lessons and a hamper full of Cuban goodies.

Feeling inspired to spend your next sun-soaked holiday in Varadero? Click here for booking information on Virgin Atlantic’s new flight route.

IMAGES:

Virgin Holidays has launched a ‘Cars to Cuba’ service (Photo: James McCauley)

Virgin Atlantic is the only UK airline to offer year-round flights to Cuba (Photo: Getty)

A blue car from the 50’s travels along the road which passes the Capitol Building in Havana.The golden sunlight illuminating the colourful buildings in the background

Cuba (Photo: Getty)

For more on this story go to: http://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/travel/usa-long-haul/virgin-atlantic-launches-new-route-10148145