BY: AMANDA STANCATI
Cuba is a celebrated destination among Canadians for its sun-kissed beaches, friendly people, and affordable prices. There are plenty of vacation packages from Toronto that range from budget-friendly to luxurious. We’ve narrowed down some of the best resorts in this Caribbean island for your next Cuba vacation.
Valentin Perla Blanca
If you’re looking for an adults-only vacation to really get away from it all, Valentin Perla Blanca is a great choice. Made for romance and relaxation, this 4.5 star resort opened just a few years ago in Cayo Santa Maria. Arrive at the Santa Clara airport and enjoy the 90-minute ride to the resort. Unpack in your guestroom with a balcony or terrace leading to views of the sea, pool, or garden. Between naps on the white sand beach and swims in the two pools, refuel at one of two buffets, the snack bar, or five la carte restaurants. Then? Back to the Bali bed, it is.
Iberostar Ensenachos
Worry-free family vacations are made easy at Iberostar hotels. The 4.5 star Iberostar Ensenachos set along Cayo Ensenachos is divided into three sections: 270 rooms in the PARK section for families, 190 rooms in the SPA section for adults only and 46 luxury villas in the secluded Grand Village section perfect for larger families or VIP guests. With a playground, water park, and mini club filled with activities, there will never be a dull moment for the kids. On the other hand, adults can take advantage of the wellness center with sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, Vichy shower, Scottish shower, jet shower, hot springs, and activities like yoga and tai-chi.
Melia Marina Varadero
Opened in 2013, this 5 star property is located on an eco reserve, just 15 minutes from central Varadero. Opt for the exclusive The Level Floor and get even more personalized service. If you love yachting, sailing, diving, and fishing, this resort is for you. Located on the Gaviota Varadero Marina and the Hicacos Peninsula, you get the best of water sports and beach life. Children will enjoy the activity program while parents can relax at the YHI Spa. Together, enjoy the pools, walk along the commercial promenade with shopping and entertainment, or stroll along the beach (reached just over a walkway 300m from the resort).
Playa Cayo Santa Maria
Playa Cayo Santa Maria is a good quality, budget-friendly, 4 star resort in Cuba. Set on the gorgeous white sands of Cayo Santa Maria beach, the resort offers a quiet atmosphere to relax and unwind. Good for families, you’ll find a playground, kids club, small kids pool, and connecting rooms. The property boasts eight pools, five restaurants, nine bars, a fitness center, two tennis courts, and a variety of non-motorized water sports. Grab a drink at the pool bar and then dive into a good book under a cabana: paradise.
Royalton Cayo Santa Maria
Luxury meets romance at this 5 star adults-only resort in Cayo Santa Maria. Royalton Cayo Santa Maria boasts many accolades including a 2016 Certificate of Excellence for its outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor®, TripAdvisor®’s #1 resort in Cayo Santa Maria, and 2016 Resort of the Year by Cuba Journal. Enjoy the all-suite guest rooms, world-class dining in three a la carte restaurants (no buffets, here), 24-hour room service, a fitness center, spa, sauna, and steam showers, an activity, and entertainment program, and picture-perfect grounds during your stay on this intimate property.
Playa Pesquero
A favorite among repeat visitors, the 4.5 star Playa Pesquero in Holguin is a large resort that appeals to all sorts of travelers. Located near Bahia de Naranjo National Park, the Dolphinarium and equipped with a children’s pool, kids club, and playground, the resort appeals to families too. There are great snorkeling opportunities at the beach, as well as three pools, ten restaurants, nine bars, a disco, fitness center, and ice cream parlor – to name a few draws – not to mention the long walking beach and good value for your money you’ll get on a vacation here.
Sunshine? Check. Beaches? Check. Flowing mojitos? Check. What more do you need?
