US Cuba has only one McDonald's - and it's different from every other Maccies
There is only one McDonald's in the whole of Cuba and it is placed in Guantanamo Bay - though none of the local people can take a trip to it for a Big Mac
McDonald's golden arches are a global phenomenon, but one of the most bizarre locations for this fast-food giant is in Cuba – and it's not frequented by Cubans craving a Big Mac. Nestled in Guantanamo Bay, where the US still exerts territorial control, this particular McDonald's opened its doors in 1986.
Strikingly different from other outlets, this McDonald's sits adjacent to the notorious detention camp, serving only the base's personnel.
With some of the world's most dangerous alleged terrorists just a stone's throw away, it's probably the last place you'd expect to see a Maccies.
Despite the welcoming presence of a sizeable Ronald McDonald and the tropical backdrop of palm trees, the restaurant is also encircled by barbed wire.
McDonald's has stated that they have no intentions of expanding their presence in Cuba, suggesting this might be the only branch for many years to come.
Philip Johnson of New York University has referred to it as a "site of comfort and nostalgia" for those stationed at the base.
A 2002 newsletter remarked: "McDonald's: the name alone is synonymous with the fast food industry, and the legendary tastes of the various delights served here are all seasoned with years of tradition."
The internet's been abuzz over a TikTok influencer's claim that Guantanamo Bay harbours the best McDonald's branch, with Coast Guard member Sarah dishing the details to her followers: "Rumor has it that the McDonald's in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, is the best, so I am in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba — and we are going to try the McDonald's."
Sarah raved about the wings being "fire" and a "ten out of ten," while asserting the crispy chicken sandwich was "so much better than in the United States."
Dating back to 1889, when the US helped dismiss the Spanish, Guantanamo Bay Naval Base remains a slice of America in Cuba, intriguingly existing beyond both Cuban and certain American laws, as noted by elEconomista.
Despite Cuba's socialist stance, which typically shuns capitalist icons like McDonald's, Guantanamo Bay also plays host to other American fast-food giants such as Subway, KFC, Taco Bell, and even houses a Starbucks coffee shop, complete with a Pizza Hut Express.
Seemingly paradoxical, profits from these capitalist enterprises are ploughed into welfare activities, boosting morale among US service personnel and their relatives stationed there.
A significant chapter in the history of Guantanamo Bay dates back to 1903, when a treaty saw Cuba leasing it to America, with the US acknowledging Cuba's national sovereignty in return.
However, in the present day, the stunning Caribbean nation disputes the legitimacy of this treaty, viewing it as an occupied territory.
Despite this disagreement, American personnel continue to be stationed there, and notably, numerous suspected terrorists were detained there post-9/11 due to the absence of laws permitting their imprisonment without trial.
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Daily Mirror
5 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
US Cuba has only one McDonald's - and it's different from every other Maccies
There is only one McDonald's in the whole of Cuba and it is placed in Guantanamo Bay - though none of the local people can take a trip to it for a Big Mac McDonald's golden arches are a global phenomenon, but one of the most bizarre locations for this fast-food giant is in Cuba – and it's not frequented by Cubans craving a Big Mac. Nestled in Guantanamo Bay, where the US still exerts territorial control, this particular McDonald's opened its doors in 1986. Strikingly different from other outlets, this McDonald's sits adjacent to the notorious detention camp, serving only the base's personnel. With some of the world's most dangerous alleged terrorists just a stone's throw away, it's probably the last place you'd expect to see a Maccies. Despite the welcoming presence of a sizeable Ronald McDonald and the tropical backdrop of palm trees, the restaurant is also encircled by barbed wire. McDonald's has stated that they have no intentions of expanding their presence in Cuba, suggesting this might be the only branch for many years to come. Philip Johnson of New York University has referred to it as a "site of comfort and nostalgia" for those stationed at the base. A 2002 newsletter remarked: "McDonald's: the name alone is synonymous with the fast food industry, and the legendary tastes of the various delights served here are all seasoned with years of tradition." The internet's been abuzz over a TikTok influencer's claim that Guantanamo Bay harbours the best McDonald's branch, with Coast Guard member Sarah dishing the details to her followers: "Rumor has it that the McDonald's in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, is the best, so I am in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba — and we are going to try the McDonald's." Sarah raved about the wings being "fire" and a "ten out of ten," while asserting the crispy chicken sandwich was "so much better than in the United States." Dating back to 1889, when the US helped dismiss the Spanish, Guantanamo Bay Naval Base remains a slice of America in Cuba, intriguingly existing beyond both Cuban and certain American laws, as noted by elEconomista. Despite Cuba's socialist stance, which typically shuns capitalist icons like McDonald's, Guantanamo Bay also plays host to other American fast-food giants such as Subway, KFC, Taco Bell, and even houses a Starbucks coffee shop, complete with a Pizza Hut Express. Seemingly paradoxical, profits from these capitalist enterprises are ploughed into welfare activities, boosting morale among US service personnel and their relatives stationed there. A significant chapter in the history of Guantanamo Bay dates back to 1903, when a treaty saw Cuba leasing it to America, with the US acknowledging Cuba's national sovereignty in return. However, in the present day, the stunning Caribbean nation disputes the legitimacy of this treaty, viewing it as an occupied territory. Despite this disagreement, American personnel continue to be stationed there, and notably, numerous suspected terrorists were detained there post-9/11 due to the absence of laws permitting their imprisonment without trial.
Scottish Sun
9 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
America's beautiful capital is the perfect place to visit as country prepares to celebrate big birthday
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHERE to start a grand tour ahead of USA's 250th birthday? Well, kicking it off in the shadow of the White House was always going to be hard to Trump. 12 The U.S. Capitol dome Credit: Reuters 12 We stopped off outside The White House Credit: Mark Hannah/The Scottish Sun 12 Summer sunrise over Washington, D.C. Credit: Getty I spent a never-to-be-forgotten seven days touring the famous Capital Region of the United States, just before Uncle Sam celebrates his big birthday in 2026. Washington DC and the surrounding area are dripping with history. It's the political centre of America, after all. Not only is it the home of the President, it also stands as the cornerstone of a modern-day superpower. It wasn't clear whether the Donald was working in the Oval Office when we looked across the White House grounds at the start of our American adventure. But who'd blame him if he wanted to get out and about to explore the history on his own doorstep. The natural beauty and sensational sights of the Capital Region would provide anyone with a trip to remember. First up, was the National Mall, a two-mile stretch of land featuring some of the most historic landmarks in the States. I grew up watching TV series and movies set in the area, and always dreamed of seeing the White House and standing at the bottom of Capitol Hill. So naturally, when the opportunity came around, I jumped at it. And it blew my expectations out of the water. Within an hour of leaving Washington Dulles airport, I found myself in the heart of DC, surrounded by all of those landmarks I had seen so many times on small or big screens. We checked into the Willard InterContinental hotel and took off towards the sights I'd always wanted to glimpse. THE BEST OF USA The Mall was unlike anything I've ever seen before, like a city inside a city - one of the highlights of the trip. Down the centre, an enormous strip of undisturbed greenery, sandwiched by a wall of museums, art galleries, tourist sites, and more. I could see for miles, from the Washington Monument, all the way down to Capitol Hill, with clear blue skies and nothing but fresh air ahead of me, a far cry from my daily commute. DC is famous for moments marked throughout history. The assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Dr Martin Luther King's 'I have a dream' speech, and of course, as the home of the President - but there is far more to the city than you might think. 12 Within walking distance of several historic monuments, this region of the city is perfect for keen travellers Credit: Mark Hannah/The Scottish Sun 12 We took a trip around several stunning sights in the city - many of which are steeped in history Credit: EPA 12 The Chicken and waffles at Succotash Prime was delciious One of the staples of the Capital Region is its food. More specifically, its seafood. From oysters and crabs to seaweed and lobster. If it comes from the sea - it won't be hard to find here. I stopped at one of the city's famous restaurants - Succotash Prime, renowned locally for their oysters, and adaptations on several culinary favourites. But the ideal meal for me was a house special - a take on Chicken and waffles. GO: USA GO: CAPITAL REGION USA GETTING THERE: United Airlines flies from Edinburgh to Washington Dulles airport, from £763pp return. See GETTING/STAYING THERE: A nine night trip including three nights at The Willard in Washington DC, three nights at Kent Island Resort in Maryland, one night at the Marriott Tysons Mclean in Tysons, Virginia and two nights at the Hampton Inn and Suites Williamburg, Virginia, is from £2,199pp including flights on dates in September/October and car hire. See or call 08448 044 480. MORE INFO : For more on Capital Region see No doubt much of the finest seafood DC has to offer comes from the famous Chesapeake Bay, the perfect location for a fresh catch. And that's where we headed next. After crossing the DC border into Maryland, I met with fifth-generation angler Tyrone Meredith, who for decades has studied the bay, and found the perfect spots for crabbing, an industry vital to the state's culture and economy. After showing me how to prepare the perfect dish, I then tried my hand at it myself - but I think I'll maybe leave it to the experts in future! But I did master sitting on the docks on the Chesapeake Bay, enjoying a drink in the sun, looking out over the open expanse of water without a wave in sight - it was simply incredible. 12 Sunrise over dock and the Chesapeake Bay, in Maryland. 12 We tried our hand at preparing some of Maryland's famous freshly caught crab Credit: Mark Hannah/The Scottish Sun After a day out on the bay, touring the marina, and enjoying some of the finest food on offer, we checked into the beautiful Kent Island Resort. It's a remote hotel on the edge of the bay, perfect for both a trip away with the family or equally as a couple's holiday. The resort is perfect for those who enjoy a break from the madness, retreating into the comfort of your own company, without the background noise of a full-blown party in the distance. It made for a lovely night in after a day packed full of activities. Next up on the agenda, was a trip into Virginia. 12 We checked into the gorgeous Kent Island Resort in Queen Anne's County - a stunning hotel in a remote location, perfect for a quiet break from the action Credit: Mark Hannah/The Scottish Sun 12 Great Falls Park, has stunning views of the Potomac River On arrival, I stopped off at the incredible Great Falls Park, where there are the most incredible views of the famous Potomac River, which runs all the way from West Virginia, through DC and back into Maryland. I was mesmerised by the sheer scale of it all. As a child, my grandparents used to take me out to Rouken Glen Park in Glasgow every week, where a personal favourite was the waterfall by the pond. But compared to what awaited me at Great Falls, that 'waterfall' was nothing but a drop in the ocean. I could hear the falls from a mile away, well before I could see them. Hundreds of yards of crashing waves on the rocks, and water travelling faster than a speeding car - it was simply put one of the more amazing sights. The great part about the site is, you get the freedom to enjoy it however you like. There are several viewing points, information boards, food trucks, and entertainment for the family - it makes for a fabulous day out, and you take as much or as little time as you need. While sharing some similarities with its neighbours, Virginia provided its own unique experiences - one of which was a trip to the home of the first American President, George Washington. His life is celebrated, and preserved with exhibits at his home, Mount Vernon. When I visited, it was a typical Monday but you'd have thought it was a national holiday. 12 Mount Vernon - home to the first U.S. President, George Washington - showcases the history of his life before becoming President Credit: Mark Hannah/The Scottish Sun 12 At the top of the estate, is his home, which thousands of students queued for hours to tour There were hundreds, if not thousands of school pupils touring the site, huddled in groups each with their own historian. It really put into perspective the enormity of the USA and the importance of patriotism in the country. At the site, you can tour Washington's former home, the grounds that surround it, and even stop off at his tomb, where he and his wife are buried. There are plenty of photo opportunities with historians who have an incredible depth of knowledge on the history of Mount Vernon and George Washington. It was a trip I'll never forget and I will most definitely be returning to the region in the very near future. Oh and many happy returns, America.
Daily Mirror
11 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Brits ditch Spain for European hotspot with £1 pints and beautiful beaches
Spain has long been the favourite holiday hotspot for Brits. But with rising prices and furious anti-tourism protests, sunseekers are taking their suitcases elsewhere For decades, Brits have been flocking to Spain in search of sun and sangria - but there's been a notable shift in recent times that's driven beach lovers elsewhere. Overtourism protesters have been taking to the streets in Barcelona and the island of Majorca recently, brandishing water pistols against holidaymakers. Spain has been at the forefront of the anti-tourism protests currently sweeping Southern Europe. Campaigners are calling upon local and central governments to adequately regulate the industry. They have also taken issue with firms such as Airbnb, which they claim are pushing up rents. Meanwhile, rising costs and packed beaches have been driving British travellers away from popular Spanish resorts, in search of affordable tranquillity elsewhere. Back in 2024, Spain hosted a record 84 million international visitors, compared with 83 million in 2019, but it's expected this could well change this summer, with sunseekers instead making a beeline for a lesser-known hotspot with plenty to offer. Greek travel experts at Ionian Island Holidays have now revealed that more Brits are opting to travel to Greek islands such as Thassos, Lefkada and Agistri, the Daily Star reports. Here, they can relax for less while enjoying all the authentic local charm these picturesque islands have to offer. With scenic beaches and unique cultural gems, you can be assured of a memorable stay. Best of all, this little slice of paradise won't cost you the earth, and you could well find yourself gazing out across the ocean with a £1 or £2 pint in hand. According to a spokesperson for Ionian Island Holidays: "British holidaymakers are craving a slower pace and better value. Greece's smaller islands offer both—plus hospitality and scenery that rivals any postcard." The travel company has noted a significant upturn in bookings for these destinations, particularly during shoulder seasons such as May, June and September. Travellers can enjoy evenings out at family-run establishments where they can expect a warm welcome, and likely a complimentary glass of ouzo. The spokesperson revealed: "Many of these tavernas have been in families for generations. They care more about welcoming guests than maximising profit." Thrifty foodies will be in their element, on the islands of Kalymnos and Agistri, where it's not unusual to order Meze dishes of grilled vegetables, fried cheese or seafood for under €5 (£4.30), washed down with a 500ml draught beer or a carafe of house within the region €1.50 and €2.50 (£1.30 to £2.10). You can also enjoy classic Greek mains such as moussaka or souvlaki for €6 to €9 (£5 to £8), with many tavernas focusing on fresh, quality local ingredients. Expect fish caught in the nearby harbour, homegrown herbs, and locally pressed olive oil. Ionian Island Holidays shared: "It's not just cheap—it's authentic. These aren't tourist menus; they're cooking for neighbours, too." For just £25 to £35 per night, you can book yourself a double room at a guesthouse on Thassos or Lefkada. However, the focus here is on a community feel, which locals and visitors alike hope to protect. Ionian Island Holidays continued: "Visitors often say they feel like they're in a real community, not a tourist zone. That authenticity is priceless."
