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"Varadero"
We booked a two week escape at Melia Marina hotel in Varadero, from July 1st till 15th, a 5 star excellent hotel, located at the tip of the Hicacos peninsula with a picturesque Marina on one side and a sandy beach on the other side.
Our flight was remarkably smooth, landing slightly ahead of schedule After going through the customs, we picked up our preordered Cuban tourist sim card guaranteeing us seamless internet connectivity no matter where we go. To our pleasant surprise, we found 4G coverage prevalent across densely populated areas. The speed wasn’t great as in Canada, but it was ranging around 30mbps, much more than required ! Outside the airport we were warmly greeted by the local agent Boris, that made sure we take the right bus. The bus transfer was around 45 minutes as we had the last stop on its schedule. It didn’t feel long at all, as Boris provided us with a great entertainment with lots of interesting facts about Varadero and Cuba. We came to knowledge that lots of things have changed in Cuba after the Covid closure, there is no more convertible pesos and all prices in the stores are in $USD. Also, credit card payment option is available at almost any store or bus (excluding cards issued by US banks).
Arriving at the hotel around noon, our first encounter was with the amiable Alfredo, the hotel’s Bellman. An excellent and friendly personality guy wished us a warm welcome in his excellent English. As our room was not ready yet because the check in was at 4pm, he suggested for us to take out some Cuban weather friendly clothes from our suitcases and use the washrooms for a quick change before he puts it in the storage. Anything short felt much more comfortable than jeans lols. That was a great suggestion! We settled outside the main bar on the balcony, under the sun umbrellas and had a nice cappuccinos and some cold beer and water. Around 3pm Alfredo surprised us by advising that our room was ready an hour a head of schedule! After getting our keys and the WiFi logins (the WiFi is amazing around the hotel, especially in the room, as every room has it’s own WiFi AP just behind the TV; also there was a AP at the beach, so we had some WiFi there as well), he took out our luggage from the storage and showed us the way to our room.
The room was very clean and huge, around 450 square feet, it was a corner unit that was overlooking the pool and the ocean in the back. Such a great view we had from the 5th floor!
Quickly we changed into swimming suits and went to discover the beach. The beach was located just over the main road and we had to cross a small bridge to get to it. We had the option to take a battery powered three row golf cart type of a vehicle, but we decided to do some exploration instead. Leaving the hotel building, the walk took us to the main pool area surrounded by beautiful palm trees, a great wet bar where you can have a nice refreshment while still in the pool and a regular pool bar that was offering different snacks from hot-dogs, hamburgers to fries, crockets and pizza. Passing this bar in our way through the bridge we could take a glance at the ocean. The closer we were getting to the beach, our hearts were pumping faster as the turquoise ocean waters were revealing more and more by every step we made. Finally we were there, at the great white sand beach and couldn’t believe it, this is paradise!
We had a great couple of hours before we went back for dinner.
I was really surprised by the hotel, as a lot of people in the past few months on one of the online trip platforms were really complaining about the food, the service they were getting from the waiters or any other employees. None of those complaints were true! Considering that at the moment it’s a huge crisis in Cuba, we still had a great variety of food every day, which didn’t really change much from day to day, but still you could eat a different meal every day. Despite the online complaints of a few visitors for not having basics, like butter, there was butter every single day during our two weeks stay! Read few complains that no chicken was on the menu, just pork, didn’t experience it during the two weeks stay, there was a choice of chicken and pork every single day and on a couple of occasions there was even beef. As I came to know, beef is really hard to find in Cuba as it’s very expensive, around USD$16 per kilogram. Anyways, we were just fine with the amazingly prepared BBQ chicken and pork in front of us by one of the great chefs. Also, there was a great choice of fish and shellfish everyday.
Regarding the employees in the restaurant, I can say only one thing, they really did their best to make our visit as pleasant as possible. Always there when you need them, they even learned that myself and my spouse like sparkling water with our meal, so every time we came to eat, by the time we were around picking food, the sparkling water was already on our table. That’s one of the things that really deserve a great tip! I would contradict anyone who would say the waiters were lazy! It’s the opposite! Really amazing people that work from dawn to dusk trying to please different characters!
Varadero, as the sun-kissed jewel of the Caribbean, attracts visitors with its captivating blend of turquoise ocean waves, fine powdery sand and an atmosphere that resonates with tranquility.
Its beaches are a tapestry of tropical delight. The coastline stretches for over 20 kilometers, offering great space for both relaxation and exploration. The soft, golden sands extend like a warm invitation, gently cradling the azure waves that rhythmically kiss the shore.
The beach’s sands, fine and powdery, are a delight to the senses. As you walk along the shoreline, the sand seems to whisper stories of the sea’s adventures. It molds itself perfectly to the contours of your feet, leaving behind a comforting trail as you stroll along the water’s edge. The sensation of sinking into the grains is a therapeutic embrace, inviting you to unwind and relish in the moment.
The ocean that stretches beyond the shore transitions from the turquoise shades near the coast to deeper blues as it extends towards the horizon. Its clarity is unparalleled, offering glimpses of vibrant marine life that inhabit its depths.
Waves arrive in a rhythmic cadence, each one a testament to the ocean’s eternal dance with the moon and the winds. The sound is both soothing and invigorating, a constant reminder of the forces that shape this dynamic landscape. As the sun makes its journey across the sky, the water’s surface glistens like a field of diamonds, capturing the sunlight in a brilliant display that never fails to inspire awe.
One can’t help but be captivated by the rich maritime life that calls this ocean home. Pelicans soar gracefully overhead, their wings casting fleeting shadows on the water’s surface as they hunt for their next meal. Seagulls add their voices to the symphony of nature, their calls carrying both a sense of freedom and a connection to the sea’s timeless rhythms.
The beachscape transforms as the day progresses. Mornings offer a serene ambiance, perfect for introspection and meditation as the sun rises in a blaze of oranges and pinks, casting its gentle glow upon the land. The midday sun paints the waters with a vivid intensity, inviting sunbathers to recline on loungers and revel in the warmth. As the sun begins its descent, the horizon transforms into a canvas of fiery hues, a breathtaking spectacle that leaves its audience in awe of nature’s artistry.
Beyond the allure of the sand and sea, Varadero’s beaches are fringed with lush vegetation, contributing to the area’s natural charm. Palm trees sway gently in the coastal breeze, their leaves rustling like a soft symphony that accompanies the ocean’s melody.
In Varadero, the beach and ocean are more than just natural features; they’re embodiments of a dreamlike escape, a place where time slows down, and worries fade away. It’s a destination where the spirit of adventure meets the tranquility of the sea, where vibrant marine life dances beneath the waves, and where every sunset leaves an indelible mark on the heart. Varadero’s beaches and ocean stand as a testament to the beauty of the natural world, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a paradise that remains etched in memory long after the journey ends.
On July 5th, we had booked a Taxi trip to Habana with a 1952 Ford that was amazingly restored into it’s original condition with a Hyundai engine. It had an AC built in as well!
Havana is around 150km from Varadero, so around 2h of non stop ride via Via Blanca, one of the best highways in Cuba. We were really surprised that despite how poor Cuba as a country is, this road was better than some of our highways here in Canada. Overall, it took us around 2h30 hours, with a half a hour stop at Bacunayagua bridge that had one of the most amazing views in Cuba. This bridge marks the border between the provinces of Havana and Matanzas, a genuine jewel of Cuban architecture that extends for 114 m and has a height of 110 m. The bridge is made of laminated metal with its construction finished in 1960. It weighs almost 100 tones! It can be considered the most complex and daring construction of its type in Cuba designed by the famous architect Luis Saenz Duplace. It is also known as the “Mother in-law” bridge, between the locals.
After around an hour drive from the bridge, we arrived in Havana and began our day by exploring the historic heart of the city, Old Havana, strolling through the charming cobbled streets and admiring the beautiful colonial architecture. We had a great local guide, who presented Havana in its best light with all the good and bad things. Havana was founded in 1519 by the Spanish, and it is one of the oldest cities in the Americas. Throughout its history, it has been a strategic port for the Spanish Empire and played a vital role in the trade routes between the New and Old Worlds.
Over the centuries, Havana’s architecture, culture, and society have been influenced by a mix of Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions, creating a unique identity which you can see even nowadays.
The Old Havana (La Habana Vieja) is a UNESCO World Heritage site, Old Havana is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and captivating architecture what we could see wandering through its cobblestone streets and discovering its great history though the words of our private tour guide.
First we visited Plaza de la Catedral (Cathedral Square) and were admiring the grandeur of the Catedral de San Cristobal, an impressive Baroque-style cathedral dating back to the 18th century. Its elegant facade made from stones near the sea on which you can clearly see coral leftovers and awe-inspiring interior are a testament to the city’s religious heritage.
Next, we visited Bodeguita del medio, a restaurant-bar that is claimed to be the birth place of the most famous Cuban cocktail, Mojito. It has been patronized by many famous poets, writers and artists. It’s rooms are full of curious objects, frames, photos and walls covered with signatures of famous or unknown customers, revealing the island’s past.
We went through Plaza de Armas (Arms Square), which is the oldest in Havana and is surrounded by impressive colonial buildings. What a great view of Castillo de la Real Fuerza (Castle of the Royal Force), built in the 16th century! This fortress is the oldest in the Americas and now houses the maritime museum, offering insights into Havana’s maritime past.
El Capitolio (The Capitol) is an impressive building modeled after the Capitol Building in Washington D.C., El Capitolio is an impressive building that once housed the Cuban Congress and now serves as the National Capitol Building.
Hemingway’s Havana: Through the words and showings we discovered the places associated with the iconic American writer, Ernest Hemingway, who lived in Havana for several years. We visited his former residence, Finca Vigía just from outside, which has been turned into a museum was unfortunately still closed after Covid
with announced reopening this November, but we enjoyed a refreshing daiquiri at his favorite bar, El Floridita where in he left corner you can see Hemingway’s full size statue still sitting at his favourite spot and watching all the tourists coming to see his bar.
Walking distance from El Floridita is the Parque Central, also known as Central Park, which is a bustling and iconic square located in the heart of Old Havana. It is a hub of activity and an essential landmark that showcases the city’s charm and history. This urban oasis has been a meeting point for locals and tourists alike for generations.
Parque Central is situated at the intersection of two major avenues, Paseo del Prado and Neptuno Street, at the very heart of Old Havana. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible to visitors exploring the city on foot or by car.
The park was originally laid out in the early 19th century as Plaza de Cristina, named after the Spanish queen. Later, it was renamed Plaza de Isabel II in honor of another Spanish queen. After Cuba gained independence from Spain in 1898, the square was renamed Parque Central.
Parque Central is surrounded by some of Havana’s most significant and grand buildings, showcasing a mix of architectural styles from various periods.
At the center of Parque Central stands a prominent statue of the Cuban national hero, José Martí. This statue, erected in 1905, pays homage to the poet, writer, and revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in Cuba’s fight for independence from Spain.
Parque Central is a lively spot where you can often find street performers, musicians, and dancers entertaining the crowds. The park’s lively atmosphere adds to the overall charm of the area.
The park serves as a social gathering place for locals and tourists alike. People come here to meet friends, enjoy the greenery, and engage in lively conversations, making it a perfect spot for people-watching and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Parque Central’s central location puts it within walking distance of several key attractions, including the Capitol Building, the Great Theatre of Havana, the National Museum of Fine Arts, and Old Havana’s charming streets.
Near the park we were approached by many people offering classic car tours, a popular activity in Havana. You can hire a vintage car and take a memorable ride around the city to explore its highlights.
Overall, Parque Central is not just a physical space but a vibrant symbol of Havana’s history, culture, and lively spirit. We stayed in the park for sometime to absorb its energy, and experience the essence of Cuban life in the heart of the city.
At the park we were picked up by our Taxi driver who took us on a car tour through the Havana streets and then to the Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolución). This vast square is dominated by the Jose Marti Memorial, a towering monument dedicated to Cuba’s national hero. The square has been the site of numerous historic events and speeches by Fidel Castro.
Our next stop: The Christ of Havana, or “Cristo de La Habana” in Spanish, is a striking and iconic monument located on a hill known as Cerro de La Cabaña, overlooking the entrance to Havana Bay. The statue of Christ stands as a symbol of faith, hope, and cultural significance in this vibrant Caribbean city.
The idea for the Christ of Havana was conceived in the mid-20th century. Standing at a height of 20 meters (66 feet) and 320 tones in weight, the Christ of Havana was unveiled on Christmas Day in 1958, just days before Fidel Castro’s revolution reshaped the political landscape of Cuba. The timing of the statue’s completion added a layer of historical complexity to its meaning, as it now symbolized not only religious devotion but also resilience and unity in the face of change. The statue’s outstretched arms seem to embrace both the land and the sea, welcoming visitors to Havana while also watching over its people.
The statue was crafted by the famous Cuban artist, Jilma Madera, from white Italian Carrara marble, giving it a luminous and ethereal appearance, especially when illuminated by the tropical sun. Its elegant design and harmonious proportions exude a sense of serenity and tranquility, inviting both locals and tourists to contemplate and reflect. The statue’s location atop the hill, allows for breathtaking panoramic views of Havana and its picturesque harbor, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking both spiritual solace and a glimpse of the city’s beauty.
As Cuba continues to evolve and redefine its identity on the global stage, the Christ of Havana remains a steadfast presence, reminding both Cubans and visitors of the enduring power of faith, the beauty of art, and the importance of embracing diversity. Its towering figure and serene expression serve as a reminder that amidst the challenges of history, there are symbols that stand as beacons of light, guiding us towards unity, understanding, and a deeper connection with the spiritual and cultural dimensions of human existence. The Christ of Havana is more than just a statue; it is a symbol of Cuba’s complex history, unwavering faith, and artistic expression. Its commanding presence and profound meaning make it a must-visit attraction for those who seek to explore the intersection of spirituality, art, and culture in the heart of Havana.
Later that evening we were back at our hotel tired, but happy by the exquisite day we had.
The adventure continued by the daily beach enjoyment and evening Marina walks.
When we talk about Varadero, we refer to the one of the largest resort area in the Caribbean, situated in the province of Matanzas. Varadero beach if one of the best beaches in the world as rated on Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s choice since 2019, rated as second best in the whole world!
What’s better to explore the Varadero peninsula than taking a double decker bus that goes around all the largest resorts before driving you to the town. For just a USD5, paid by credit card only at the bus, you get a day pass and you can hop on, hop off the bus all day around and explore the area at your own pace. The bus ride itself is an amazing adventure that one can only experience in person.
I hope with the short video below I can share some of the excitement we had on the bus!
The first stop we had in Varadero, was the large flee market “Great Park of The Craft” (Gran Parque de la Artesanía) where we had a nice time shopping for souvenirs. All the prices at the bazaars are in dollars, but the good thing about us, Canadians is that our dollar is worth same as the US here. They don’t mind it if you shop in CAD or USD, the amount is the same! When giving back change, they even had Canadian coins! Yes, we were really surprised by this!
It was scorching hot inside the tents, but these people amazingly seat there from morning to late afternoon just to make a few extra dollars. From the bazaar we hopped on and off the bus few more times just to explore around and spend a little more money in the smaller bazaars that are all over the town.
Later in the afternoon we headed back to the hotel to have a French restaurant experience :). The summer is a low season in Cuba, so the hotel offered just four restaurants to choose from. Only one restaurant a day was opened, but the food was extremely delightful! Here a couple of photos from the French and Italian restaurants.
Day by day went in enjoyment and we were at our last day when we had to say goodbye to the pristine shores, turquoise ocean and the wonderful employees who really made our vacation impeccable. In the embrace of the sun-kissed shores, Hotel Melia Marina in Varadero, surpassed all our expectations from a country like Cuba, creating an unforgettable vacation. From the luxurious accommodation to the impeccable service, every moment was a testament to relaxation and indulgence. As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a golden glow on the marina’s tranquil waters, we were left with cherished memories of an exceptional getaway that will linger in our hearts for years to come.
Farewell Cuba! Until our paths cross again!
"Varadero"
Dream and Go
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