subject: Cuba All-inclusive: An Adventure [print this page] VIVA CUBA - instantly recognizable, vibrant full of 1950s American Buicks, people smoking fact Monte Christo Cuban cigars or perhaps your impression is more focused on communist Cuba Che Guevara and Castro.
Cuba is all that and more. I remember the first time I visited. The one hour trip from the airport to the Cuban all-inclusive resort was just like a free day trip. The coach driver and his assistant were a constant source of interesting information and anecdotes. With so few cars on the road, clean and no lives were on the streets it was reminiscent of images from the 1940s and 1950s.
Despite the turmoil of recent decades Cuba retains the charm, history and environment that need to be seen now. As soon as it opens its borders to the massive US market it will change. For the better? Go now and judge for yourself.
All-inclusive resorts
Cuba has a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts. Owned by the Cuban government run by companies based in Spain and Jamaica; the names will be instantly recognizable to anyone that vacations in the Caribbean or Mexico. They make an excellent base to explore all that Cuba has to offer making your vacation into an adventure to remember.
It's a case of - take me out and excite me, but bring me home for supper.
Anything from three starters five-star is available. The facilities and services vary tremendously and star rating system often appears flexible. Use a Cuban travel specialist, ask friends and family for personal recommendations or search the more reliable travel websites. If price is the key and all you want is a base for your trips a 3 Star might be all you need. In Cuba the small extra charge for a four or five star property will provide significantly better accommodation and food.
Excursions
Every all-inclusive resort and the tour companies that service them offer a range of half and full day excursions. These pre-organized trips, often with the obligatory stop at their cousin's gift shop [consumerism is infiltrating even Cuba], offer everything from visits to famous historical places, to adrenaline filled zip lining and catamaran cruises with rum punch and loud music.
These excursions are fully organized, easy to experience and can be loads of fun. But remember this is a packaged product and you'll be enjoying it with 20, 30 or even 40 other people.
Local tour companies.
Even in Cuba there is a choice of local tour companies and even the tour company at the resort probably has special tours for smaller groups. Mountain biking, snorkeling, scuba diving, environmental and bird watching, or other special interest options. The Internet is an excellent source of information.
Car rental.
Cuban roads are quiet and relatively easy to negotiate. However, signage away from major towns or cities is very variable and you do need an excellent map. You should also be careful driving at night. With the state of the economy many Cubans drive cars with little or no light. Also make sure you understand the local laws and never leave the scene of an accident. Typically minimum age for rental is 25, you do need your own countries driving license and make sure you have either the collision damage waiver or insurance.
The freedom of your own vehicle enables you to explore areas that most tourists will never see. If you take the time to learn a little Spanish you will find that Cubans are a friendly and interesting group.
Local taxis
Local taxis can be great option for two, three or four people. Often you can get recommendations from the main desk of the hotel or even other guests. Strictly speaking tourists should only use taxis that charge in Cuban convertibles. Even though these taxis are metered you should find them much cheaper than you're used to at home. Some taxis may even offer you a flat rate. Make sure you agree exactly what you're getting for your money. If you find a taxi driver with a reasonable command of English and local knowledge this can lead to some great vacation memories.
Making it work.
Do research before you leave for your vacation. Make a list of things you want to do and places you would like to visit. Try contacting the tour and excursion companies before you leave for vacation.
When youre at your destination theres always someone in the group that wants to be cheap. Resist the temptation and be prepared to pay a reasonable amount for your experiences. Especially with tour guides and taxi drivers you stand a better chance of booking them again if youve been fair.
