Destination information
In Cuba, holidays have that ‘something special’ that sets them apart. The Caribbean's biggest island offers all the pleasures we associate with this part of the world: sun, sea, sand and a laid-back vibe - but with a difference. For Cuba's extraordinary history, its years of self-sufficiency and its unique Afro-Latin culture make for a holiday destination that's like nowhere else on earth.
Cuba holidays offer you a very different take on life. How do those 1950s American cars keep going, you'll ask yourself. How come the shop that was empty on Tuesday is full today? Life has a random edge to it that will probably be like nothing you have experienced before, but adopt that essential laid-back attitude, light up a Havana cigar, order a rum cocktail and that special Cuban vibe will get under your skin.
You'll also be totally enchanted by the beautiful colonial buildings and romantically faded grandeur of the capital, Havana. Holidays here provide a chance to take in some of the best Spanish colonial architecture in the Americas, much of it untouched since it was built! Wander down the quaint street Calle Obispo to admire the old-fashioned shop windows and tiny cafés. This leads to Plaza de Armas with its fine old buildings. Don't forget to visit Castillo de la Punta and Castillo de la Real Fuerza - Cuba's oldest building.
After all this culture you'll probably need a break, and where better than the island's famed beach destination - Varadero, famous for its unspoiled white sands and crystal-clear waters. Alternatively you can escape to relax on the beautiful, untouched island of Cayo Santa Maria or snorkel through the fantastic corals and reefs off Guardalavaca. If you're looking for an all inclusive holiday, Cuba is a fabulous destination. A growing number of resorts here offer all-inclusive packages - and these are Caribbean all-inclusive experiences with a difference too. Because the island is largely self-sufficient, you can sample truly local food and drink, rather than the international brands we're so used to.
You can't possibly have escaped the worldwide salsa craze, and in Cuba you can experience that wonderful music to the max. Come and sample it all, immersing yourself in the spirit of Cuba - drink the rum, smoke the cigars, dance the salsa and live 'la vida dulce'!
Read on to find out more about our all inclusive holidays to Cuba and our Havana citybreak add-ons
Star attractions
- Historic Havana
- Imposing Fortresses
- Rum and Cigar Factories
- 1950s Vintage Cars
- Stunning Beaches
- Excellent Water Sports
- Unspoiled Diving
- Swim with Dolphins
Additional info
White Sands and Sea Life
Varadero is Cuba's premier beach destination whilst Jibacoa lies between Varadero and Havana and is a quieter, more secluded beach resort. Dive amongst exquisite coral reefs, swim with the dolphins or take a glass-bottom boat ride!
Cuban Culture
The cigar and rum factories in Havana and Pinar Del Rio are well worth a visit with Cuba's Viazul Bus - a terrific way to travel round. Hemingway's Villa 'Finca Vigia', a few miles southeast of Havana, is also recommended.
Havana Life
Ideal for a city break or day trip away from the beach, in Havana you can pay homage to Hemingway, visit museums, shop at La Rampa and relax with a mojito in one of the author?s favourite bars, El Bodegita del Media.
Salsa
Music and dance are very important to the Cubans, so make like the natives and learn to salsa! After a few lessons join the locals in one of the many lively venues in Havana and Varadero.
FREE Island Experience
Varadero guests can enjoy a FREE experience to Cardenas City, where the Cuban national flag was flown for the first time in 1850 atop the La Dominica Hotel. Sights include museums, a rum factory and picturesque cathedral.
Total Flexibility
Tailor-make your ideal Caribbean holiday by combining hotels we feature in different destinations. Why not try a twin- or triple-centre holiday across different islands. How about Panama in Central America.
Weather and climate
Getting there
Flight details - You can fly twice weekly non-stop from London Gatwick to Havana on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service. Local departure tax is currently Convertible Pesos 25 per person, and needs to be paid in cash at the airport on departure.
Flight time - 9 hours 40 min.
Transfers
Havana Airport to Havana Hotel - For packages: 1-2 persons £20, 3-6 persons £40, 7-12 persons £80. Tailormade Itineraries: 1-2 persons £40, 3-6 persons £60, 7-12 persons £120.
Havana to Jibacoa - For packages: 1-2 persons £65, 3-6 persons £100, 7-12 persons £110.
Havana to Varadero - For packages: 1-2 persons £90, 3-6 persons £ 160, 7-12 persons £ 160.
Handy stuff
Important information:
Regarding credit cards and Visas in Cuba
Please Note: Credit cards issued by US banks and US Dollar currency is not accepted in Cuba.
Visas: UK passport holders currently require a Tourist Visa (£15). These can be obtained from Virgin Holidays at the time of booking. Non-UK passport holders should contact the consulate for entry requirements: Cuban Consulate, 167 High Holborn, London WC1V 6PA. Tel 020 7240 2488. You need to exchange Sterling for Cuban Pesos locally and these cannot be converted back into Sterling.
Local Living
Small beer - £1.00
Can of coke - £1.00
Loaf of bread - £1.50
Bottle of wine - £7.50
The above are approx local supermarket costs.
Time difference - GMT -5 hours.
Language - Spanish.
Currency - Convertible Peso (CUC).