Cuba is probably THE most popular destination for Quebecers who want to spend a week in the sun during the Quebec winter. It is affordable, the beaches are magnificent, and several direct flights from Montreal and Quebec serve the island.
Here are 7 luxurious all-inclusive places to take it easy in Cuba:
1. Méliá International Varadero
5 stars
At the entrance to Varadero, the Méliá International is a brand new hotel that offers several activities, both for families and for adults looking for tranquility. The sections “The Level family” or “The Level adult only” are a must to be entitled to a ton of additional services. You will have an a la carte restaurant open for all meals, a full minibar, a reserved swimming pool, access to the hydrothermal circuit at the YHI spa and a reserved area at the beach, to name a few advantages. The spacious and bright rooms at the cutting edge of technology promise a cozy stay. Plus, the hotel is just a short walk from downtown Varadero and two hours from Havana if you feel like exploring the surrounding area.
2. Paradisus Rio de Oro Resort and Spa, Holguin
5 stars
In Holguín, the Paradisius Rio de Oro Resort and Spa is located in the Bahía de Naranjo nature reserve in which hides a magnificent coral reef. Swim from the beach with mask and snorkel to discover different tropical fish! The gastronomic offer should delight more than one because there are eight restaurants and several bars where you can refresh yourself. Thanks to the “Royal Service” upgrade, you are guaranteed exemplary service, access to an à la carte restaurant for all your meals, a butler, a choice of comfortable pillows and a reserved section to the sea and to the swimming pool.
3. Pullman Cayo Coco
5 stars
In the splendid Jardines del Rey archipelago, on Las Coloradas beach, the Pullman Cayo Coco is the ideal place to get away from the routine. The view from the lobby over the turquoise sea creates a “wow effect” upon arrival. There are six swimming pools, eight restaurants and eleven bars on site, as well as several activities and courses, from aerobics to language lessons. For a VIP service, opt for “The Collection” which includes, among other things, a welcome cocktail, a bottle of rum in the room and a late check-out. Children are not left behind! There is a mini-club for 5-12 year olds and a swimming pool reserved for them.
4. Royalton Cayo Santa Maria
5 stars
The Royalton Cayo Santa Maria is a modern, adults-only property located directly on a white-sand beach. For a luxury stay, the Diamond ClubTM section offers access to superior service and a peaceful swimming pool. Dine at one or more of the three à la carte restaurants and savor the local drinks offered at one of the five bars.
5. Melia Buenavista, Cayo Santa Maria
5 stars
Located in the heart of the Buenavista Biosphere Reserve, the Méliá Buenavista has not one, but three beaches where you can bask. Just like the Méliá International, “The Level” section offers a range of additional luxuries, including butler service to cater to your wildest desires. Whether you prefer to take a siesta in one of the Balinese beds by the pool or go on an excursion to observe the seabed while snorkeling, the choice is entirely up to you.
6. Valentine Cayo Cross
4 1/2 stars
The Valentin Cayo Cruz is a magnificent modern and elegant complex where you can rest away from mass tourism. With these many restaurants, you will have the choice of meals with Caribbean, Mexican, Italian flavors or even delicious seafood. To avoid exhausting you during the holidays, the establishment offers a golf cart shuttle service that can thus get you from your room to the beach quickly. And for cravings at any time of the day, the 24-hour snack bar will satisfy all appetites.
7. Grand Head William
4 1/2 stars
A few kilometers from one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Pilar, the Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo stands out for its warm hospitality. There is a magnificent infinity pool where there are many activities, as well as two other quieter ones. Children will love it thanks to the playground with a water park and a swimming pool with water jets. Go on an adventure in the surroundings to see the highest dunes in the Caribbean, the coral reef or discover the Cayo Media Luna islet.
Important to know!
About food
Cuba has some difficulties in terms of food supply and this is reflected in the food available at all inclusives. The problems have existed for several years, but the pandemic and the tightening of US sanctions have only made the situation worse. All in all, you can eat well in most hotels in Cuba. Just don’t expect to find everything on the menu every day and be understanding.
About star rating
The star rating of properties may differ between tour operators. In addition, it is important to know that a 5 star in Cuba does not offer the same degree of luxury as a 5 star in another southern destination such as Mexico. Ask your travel consultant.
