A honeymoon in Cuba is the perfect way to embark upon the journey that is married life. The island nation is an exotic and somewhat unique destination that offers pure luxury and rustic charm in equal measures.
So what are some of the best options if you opt for a Cuban honeymoon?
A Honeymoon by the Beach
Many large hotel resorts in Cuba will offer an all-inclusive honeymoon package. It’s not the cheapest option, but hey it’s your honeymoon! You’ll spend your being pampered with smiling and courteous staff on hand to cater to your every whim. It’s what you both deserve!
One of the downsides of such an experience is that you see very little of the rest of Cuba. Many all-inclusive resorts operate on this basis. It’s designed so that their guests arrive at the airport and are then immediately being whisked off to the resort. You’d only get a glimpse of Cuba out the window of the car to and from the airport. There’s a large number of these resorts in Varadero on the Hicacos Peninsula—a truly breathtaking spot.
Many resorts don’t even allow local Cubans to visit! So the only interaction you will have with the people is with the Cubans who work in the place. If you really want to get to know the real Cuba we suggest you might want to stay at a luxury resort for only some of your time in Cuba. Then take the rest of your time in the country to explore. The beaches are sensational, but there’s so much more on offer when it comes to a honeymoon in Cuba.
Some Rustic Alternative to a Resort Holiday
If you want to get away from generic luxury during your honeymoon in Cuba then head to Bayamo. Located in the south east corner of the island, it’s classed as a city. But with a population just north of 220,000 it’s not exactly a bustling metropolis. It’s not considered a must-see city in Cuba. However when it comes to visiting Cuba to ignore the city is to do yourself a disservice.
Bayamo was the third of seven cities founded by Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar. It was a strategic city in the Ten Years’ War (1868-1878). during which much of the town was destroyed and had to be rebuilt.
There are no large resorts here, but many lovely hotels and homely casa particulares (bed and breakfasts), allowing you to do your own thing. Most people get around by bike here, so you should rent one and join them. A key road leading out of Bayamo will take you to Manzanillo, some 70 km away. Manzanillo is a glorious beachside town, and you won’t have to put up with the crowds that are inevitable in the all-inclusive resorts. So it’s perfect if you don’t want to share your honeymoon in Cuba with thousands of other people.
The road between the two towns is dotted with many tiny villages. You can stop and explore for a few hours and see the real Cuba that few visitors get to experience.
A Honeymoon in Havana Cuba
If you don’t have a lot of time, you might wish to spend your Cuban honeymoon in the capital. Havana is a vibrant, lively and unique destination. Havana needs to be seen to be believed and is the perfect honeymoon destination. It’s a bustling metropolis and yet still has an undeniable laid back vibe. It’s a strange contradiction, to feel the hustle and bustle of the city and yet be in a place where everyone is so relaxed.
There’s so much to do in Havana, historic sights, crazy good nightlife and good dining too. The accommodation options range from pure luxury to budget bed and breakfasts.
But you don’t have to miss out on beach side relaxation either as there are some truly lovely beaches located in the north east of the city. Try to stay somewhere in or around Havana’s Old Town. If you stay around here it means you’re in walking distance of pretty much everything.
Or you could also try staying a little further away in Vedado. It’s a little further away but is home to many up and coming restaurants, galleries and nightclubs. Plus it’s a tad quieter!