With relations between the U.S. and Cuba relaxing somewhat, now is a big opportunity for people looking to visit. Of course, Cuban food and music are very prevalent in our culture, but we've been cut off for a spell. It's time to get a feel for the place where it all originates. Did you know that Cuba has a ton of beautiful resorts that Americans just haven't gotten to visit? Of course, going to an all-inclusive resort for a week is one of the few things that Americans can't get approval for, but Canadian visitors can go whenever they want. In the meantime, the rest of us can dream.
Meliá Cayo Coco
Meliá Cayo Coco has a lot to offer, from a colony of pink flamingos to rooms that are built on stilts right out over the waters of the lagoon where it's located. There are 250 rooms with 4 restaurants, 5 bars, hammocks, and a "nautical center" and "diving center" that seem to be two different things. This hotel is adults-only, which may be either an inconvenience or a blessing, depending on who you are.
TRYP Cayo Coco
Of course, having a family doesn't preclude you from staying at a Meliá resort. Try TRYP, the chain's more family-friendly option. The resort is surrounded by a natural lake inhabited by flamingos, and each resort section is connected by bridges. There are a boggling 10 restaurants and 7 bars at TRYP Cayo Coco, so you have plenty of options for your picky eaters. Given the hotel's family emphasis, the array of services for children and babies is no surprise. The facilities are a little older, which does seem to come up in reviews.
Memories Flamenco Beach Resort
Located in Jardines del Rey, Memories boasts an all-suite hotel. There are 624 suites that come in two sizes with either garden, ocean, or pool views. There are 3 restaurants plus a buffet, a 24-hour snack bar, and 5 bars. The resort is family-friendly and includes a kids' pool, a playground, and activities for children through a kids' club. There's even a lounge for teenagers. The staff is beyond helpful, and while guests don't tend to rave about the buffet, the a la carte restaurants are generally solid.
Iberostar Mojito
Since the mojito hails from Cuba, it seems natural that the drink would be named for some nearby town. That being said, it sure seems the resort here is actually named after the highball. It makes sense, then, that Iberostar Mojito has four bars, including a beach bar, aqua bar, and cigar lounge (this is Cuba, after all). There are also three restaurants plus a buffet, a disco, and two pools, one of which is adults-only. The array of watersports includes snorkeling, windsurfing, and water polo. In addition, the resort offers lessons in dance, billiards, and more.
Pestana Cayo Coco All Inclusive Beach Resort
Pestana Cayo Coco offers a wide variety of activities like sailing and horseback riding, which aren't necessarily things you see at every resort. In addition to the usual watersports like catamarans, they also offer scooters and a game room. There are four restaurants and five bars here, which is a pretty solid number. It may not be as expansive as TRYP, but it'll more than take care of you. Accommodations come in the form of 508 suites of two different sizes, both of which are done in vibrant accents against warm Cuban neutrals while including things like Wi-Fi and a balcony.
