~Cuba 2012~

Ok I know, I know... your thinking, but Jess, its not even 2012 anymore. Well Tough! your getting some posts I've been meaning to get around to but never have finished. =)

So Luke and I went to Cuba in February as a Christmas present and I must say WE LOVED IT!

First off, this was our first "all inclusive" vacation and I see both the benefits and draw backs to such vacations.

~Pros~

• We enjoyed the fact that we didn't have to have large amounts of money on us (just money for tips and the small extras we wanted)
•  Meal times were several hours long so you went at your own pace
• There was tones of variety, and Luke loved the buffet. I was a little more discerning so I took advantage of the cooking stations they had (you pick out the pasta, sauces, meat, and toppings you want and they cook it in front of you).
• If you drink it would really be worth it but even as someone who doesn't we were able to wander up to the bars whenever we wanted with our mugs and get yummy pina coladas.
• Entertainment at night was fun and lively, we only joined in the festivities a few nights but it was great.
• 2 restaurant vouchers were included in the package for more intimate nights.

 

~Cons~

• The food taste different. You gotta remember that Cuba does not trade with a lot of countries due to the US/Cuba relations. That means no Heinz Ketchup, hot sauce, etc. So if you like that stuff bring some along.
• Its quite humid so it was hard to get use to sleeping in a damp room.
• Rooms are older because of relations again but well maintained and with some good tipping the maids take awesome care of you.

~Best Parts for us~

• Getting up when we wanted and walking 2 feet to the most gorgeous beaches imaginable.
• Friendly staff and meeting new people.
• Though its horrible to say, I noticed a huge difference between vacation spots with Americans and ones without. People were a lot less brash and in your face.
• The trip from the Island into Cuba for our day tour. LOVED THIS!!
• Spending time with my man.

~Recommendations~

• Bring some non-perishable snacks for your room. Extras can be uber expensive. I took fruit source bars, some chocolate, nuts, etc.
• Bring cards  or a travel crib board. It was so surreal to play crib on the beach in Cuba. Plus the "winner" of the week can be king or queen of Cuba till your return for a rematch.
• Have sun screen!
• Make sure you get your shots and take a travellers medication (for regular bowel movements, no matter what its different food and you need the medication to make sure your not on the toilet the whole time).
• Get a gigantic mug from Canadian Tire (or elsewhere if your from another country) so that you don't have to constantly be going back to the bars. Plus it stays cold longer!
• Bring your own huge beach towels.
• Leave some stuff behind for the locals. Your mugs were a hot commodity and we were actually asked for them when we left. We also left our towels and unused goods. Products are hard to come by there so it is appreciated.
• Take some extras from the dollar store or old hats you get from businesses if you tour Cuba. They LOVE anything with Canada on it. We even gave away gum.