The magazine you hold in your hands was printed while wonderful news was sweeping across our beautiful island. Abdala, one of the five vaccine candidates developed in Cuba’s laboratory network, was approved for emergency use by the Center for State Control of Medicines, Equipment and Medical Devices (CECMED) with an efficacy of 92.28 percent in preventing COVID-19 infection after three doses. This places it among the top in the world and is a triumph for the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB).

In these times that the planet is experiencing due to the new coronavirus pandemic plagueing humanity, CubaPlus magazine joins in huge applause in recognition of the work carried out by Cuban and world health personnel to confront the terrible disease. Likewise, this recognition is extended to all people who in one way or another also offer their contribution on many fronts, such as in the production of medicines and food, in the sale of essential products, in the transportation of patients and in the press, in charge of reporting the daily situation, as well as many other important tasks.

With the beginning of a new year new we all start new plans and projects to brighten our lives and 2019 will be no exception. Beyond personal plans, there are fresh projects being rolled out around the country, for everyone's benefit.

Two important events are taking place as this edition of CubaPLUS goes out. General elections in Cuba will see delegates elected to the municipal and provincial assemblies as well as the National Assembly and the Poder Popular (People's Power). Secondly FIHAV, the Feria Internacional de La Habana or Havana International Fair

At the close of this edition Havana prepared itself to officially receive the title of City of Wonders chosen by thousands of people in the third annual competition held by the Swiss New7Wonders Foundation. The Cuban capital got the award for its "mythical attraction, warm and welcoming atmosphere and the charisma and conviviality of its inhabitants."

Dear Readers, Nautical sports are a major attraction for sea lovers. The 35th edition of the International Tourism Fair (FITCuba 2015) which will be held in Jardines del Rey from May 5 to May 7 will be dedicated to nautical tourism and to Italy, the fair's guest country.

Cuba is always a great place to visit, and that’s even truer this year, as 2014 promises many interesting developments in the country’s economy, culture, tourism and society as a whole. And Cubaplus is delighted to bring you updates, recommendations and insight into many of these events. For pleasure boaters, new regulations now allow recreational vessels to remain in the country for up to five years, a period that can be extended, and paperwork for docking in Cuba’s marinas has been improved and simplified, with a new website for routine procedures, according to an official announcement.

It is a pleasure to welcome you to the latest issue of Cubaplus, our 23rd. As you delve into its many offerings, I am sure you'll agree that it continues to provide the usual variety of quality articles that provide a window into the reality of Cuba.

As the main city and capital of Cuba, Havana is the centre of all visits to Cuba. While in the country's capital, you should check out our article entitled A Tour of Havana as your guide to the wonders, both architectural and historic, of the city. Included is Vedado, the sensational Paseo del Prado where you can take a shaded promenade along the border between the modern and old city, Old Havana itself which is a must for any visit, the luscious and refreshing Metropolitan Park located along the Almendares River, and much, much more. If you're particularly attracted to Gothic architecture, you'll find an article that will help you include stunning examples of this style in your walk around Havana.

I am pleased to welcome you to issue 13 of Cubaplus magazine. In all the years I have been living in Cuba I have witnessed wonderful moments and had unforgettable experiences. One of the many is the sensational Habanos Festival and I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to be a part of it.

I'm extremely delighted to present to you issue 8 of CubaPLUS magazine. Following our tradition, we are offering you a varied selection of Cuban topics and news. This time we are presenting a great deal of art and music. Our staff had to choose among a great number of Cuban musicians and artists.

Welcome to another edition of our magazine dedicated to the most relevant places and figures of Cuban society and leisure. For this September issue we want to offer you a broad spectrum of information on Cuba and its people as well as the great opportunities this country has for Canadians in general.