Havana is situated on the northwest coast of Cuba, serving as the capital of the Republic of Cuba. It holds the central roles in politics, economy, culture, and tourism in the country. With a population exceeding 2.2 million, it stands as the largest city within the West Indies. Bordered by the city of Mariel to the west, facing the Gulf of Mexico to the north, and bordered by the Almendares River to the east, Havana boasts a population of over 2 million residents. Positioned within a tropical climate, it enjoys pleasant seasons and moderate temperatures, earning it the moniker "Pearl of the Caribbean."