A trip to Cuba – living the senses of luxury
CUBA RE AL TOURS
5
MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL
7
CUBA
8
ROYAL MOMENTS
12
HAVANA
14
TRINIDAD
16
VARADERO
18
CAYO SANTA MARIA
20
PL AYA ESMERALDA
22
SANTIAGO DE CUBA
24
ROYAL MOMENTS
25
Copyright © 2012 by Cuba Real Tours, Meliá Hotels International . All rights reserved . For information about permission to reproduce selections from this broschure, write Cuba Real Tours, www.cubarealtours.com, Meliá Hotels International , www.meliacuba .com Design by Leone Ming, Visible Marketing, Liechtenstein, www.leoneming.com Photos by Cuba Real Tours, Meliá Hotels International . All rights reserved . Printed in Liechtenstein.
“ He could feel he was inside the current now and he could see the lights of the beach colonies along the shore. He knew where he was now and it was nothing to get home.” The Old man and the Sea by Ernest Hemmingway
4
Cuba Real Tours
CUBA FOR CONNAISSEURS – OUR DELUXE TOUR Introducing our deluxe tour “Culture and history, a relaxed atmosphere and excellent food, all perfectly complemented by a choice cigar and a glass of wellaged rum. When you think about it, what more does one need? Take advantage of the opportunity to get to know Cuba, a country
5
still evolving. In this truly unique country, you can witness the interplay of the old and the new, presented in a way clearly beyond the capabilities of traditional holiday destinations. Ex perience Cuba’s varied tourist attractions, its rich culture and its up-and-coming culinary locales.”
CUBA REAL TOURS, founded in 2000, is a Swiss travel agency with
We are CUBA REAL TOURS. We specialise in Royal Moments: a
its head office in Havana, Cuba.
concept designed to offer unprecedented immersion into Cuba’s
Backed by more than 10 years of
music, dance and arts, its food and culture, its architecture and
experience, we are the undisputed
natural environment; as well as to get you up close and personal
leader in the luxury travel segment.
with its people – because in Cuba, it’s all about the people!
CUBA REAL TOURS offers Royal Moments and unique experiences – both essential features of our tailormade holidays for the sophisticated traveller. If you would like to find out more, please visit our website at www.cubarealtours.com
6
Royal Service at Meliá Hotels International
A PRIVILEGED EXPERIENCE Royal Service, a world of subtle details, the maximum expression of luxury, perfected by Meliá Hotels International’s Cuba resorts. This service offers areas with personalised attention for our discerning guests, taking advantage of the much-coveted upper floors or the best areas of the resorts. Imagine an oasis of luxuri-
7
ous suites and villas, all complete with butler service and created with the maximum comfort in mind. Here you can enjoy industry firsts such as personal reception and concierge services, personal restaurant and bar, as well as exclusive private beaches and pools. Royal Service stands for elegant and refined surroundings for the enjoyment of a truly unique experience. Haute cuisine, characterised by amazing flavours and original aromas, is a part of our identity – so too are distinction and intimacy as offered by the exotic beaches and welcoming cities. With our dedicated service, attentive care and the most exquisite amenities, we guarantee unforgettable experiences for the body and senses. An oasis of peace as you enjoy Cuba and experience its rich culture.
“ Royal Service, an exclusive hotel within the hotel, a world of privacy, attentive care, and first-class amenities, providing a genuinely privileged experience.”
Varadero Viñales
Havana
8
Cienfuegos Cayo Largo
CUBA
“Cuba, I love you, marvellous land, lovely people...” Song by Sexto Sentido (see CD)
Trinidad
Cayo Santa Maria
Camaguey
Playa Esmeralda
Santiago
Paradisus RĂo de Oro, Playa Esmeralda
10
Cuba
DISCOVERING THE SPIRIT OF AN ISL AND! You have travelled the world: Thailand, Kenya, Brazil. You know all the “hot spots”: New York, Paris, Dubai. So why Cuba?
With 11 million Spanish-speaking inhabitants and
Cuba is refreshingly different! It simply cannot be compared. It re-
measuring 1250 kilometres from east to west,
mains a hidden gem waiting for the luxury traveller – a challenge!
Cuba is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean.
Today’s Cuba is exciting, contradictory, emotionally touching and
No other country in the region can offer such a mix of
always surprising. We invite you on a private journey through a
Cuba facts Cuba is situated in the Caribbean Sea at the confluence of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
nature, history, music, architectural beauty and culture. Each year 2.5 million visitors from around the
world of beautiful landscapes – explore the flair of colonial cities,
world are drawn to the country’s many tourist
relax at pristine beaches, take in the history and meet interesting
attractions, which include:
people. As Cuba experiences unprecedented change, now is the perfect time to visit. Experience the old as well as the new Cuba. A world of 1950s nostalgia and a socialist dream as it embraces the future. Feel its rhythm and its soul! Discover the spirit of an island!
•
Classic cars, rum and cigars
•
Hemingway, salsa and Tropicana
•
Beaches, mountains and exotic islands
•
Colonial Trinidad – Unesco World Heritage Site
•
Havana Nights and 1950s nostalgia
Main flight connections with Air France, KLM, Iberia, Condor, Virgin Atlantic, Aeroflot, Air Canada, Copa, Taca, Aeroméxico and others
11
Kapiteltitel
12
ROYAL MOMENTS
“Royal Moments – because in Cuba, every day promises a pleasant surprise.” To experience Royal Moments is to dive into a world of new sensations. It means finally grasping those moments that you have been imagining for a long time. It’s about unforgettable episodes in privileged spots and pampering your body and spirit. Royal Moments – a unique experience in Cuba, enjoyed at the best holiday resorts and the finest urban hotels.
Meliá Buenavista, Cayo Santa María
Kapiteltitel
14
Royal Service at Meliá Cohiba
MELIÁ COHIBA, ELEGANT AND SUMPTUOUS Just a few metres from Havana’s famous Malecón esplanade, the
Dinner with a traditional
upper floors of a 22-storey tower are reserved for Royal Service
Cuban floor show
guests. Here, elegant rooms with impressive panoramic views
at the Havana Café
and all the amenities ensure the maximum comfort, while the ambience characteristic of a luxury accommodation is completed
15
by attentive personalised services, such as room-service breakfast or dinner outdoors, a lift with direct access to the Royal floor, a VIP bar and lounge and butler service. Experience Royal Moments in Meliá Cohiba’s party hall, which is smartly designed in a fifties Havana theme and serves as a stage for the great Cuban orchestras.
Aficionado: Enjoy a cigar in the “Cigar tasting club”
Royal Service at Meliá Habana
MELIÁ HABANA, COMFORT AND NATURE IN THE CIT Y Meliá Habana is modern, welcoming and comfortable, and located in the heart of the residential and business district of Miramar. Ideally situated on Havana’s coastline, it boasts an inspiring atmosphere with beautiful views from the balconies and pano16
ramic lifts. Of course, the upper floors, tastefully decorated to emphasise their tropical splendour, are dedicated to our Royal Service guests, who can take advantage of the rooms equipped for maximum comfort and featuring balconies facing the sea.
“Memorable candlelight dinner in the oriental restaurant”
Hotel Saratoga
HOTEL SARATOGA – ST YLE AND LUXURY IN OLD HAVANA As eclectic as the city itself
Originally built in the 1930s, the
Within close reach of the many attractions and of Havana’s
hotel swiftly became one of Havana’s
historical centre is Hotel Saratoga, Old Havana’s grandest hotel.
most stylish establishments and a
This esteemed establishment, ornately designed with the his-
favourite haunt of Cuba’s writers,
torical features synonymous with Cuba, offers spacious rooms,
musicians, artists and socialites.
excellent cuisine, a rooftop terrace and pool with panoramic views of the city.
Behind Hotel Saratoga’s historical facade, you will find an interesting
Enjoy a Royal Moment: if the hustle and bustle of Havana has
mix of style, comfort, and the
drained your energy, take some time out to enjoy one of the re-
ultimate in modern technology.
laxing treatments at Hotel Saratoga’s tranquil spa, where every-
www.hotel-saratoga.com
day noise and stress are soon to be forgotten. Guests can enjoy services including massage and relaxation treatments as well as access to the whirlpool and steam bath.
17
Kapiteltitel
18
Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad
IBEROSTAR GRAND HOTEL – COLONIAL FL AIR IN TRINIDAD First-class comfort, style and elegance
Trinidad was declared a UNESCO
This fine hotel is the place to be in Trinidad and offers a pri- World Heritage Site in 1988. Among vate, relaxed atmosphere characterised by colonial flair and
its many highlights, experiencing
architecture. Centrally located near the very heart of the town, the
the cobblestone lanes and squares
Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad is perfectly suited to exploring the
surrounded by the mansions of
diverse heritage attractions by foot.
form er sugar barons, the museums, and the romantic nightlife is highly
Make your own Royal Moment – lose yourself in the warm Cuban
recommended for any traveller.
evening as you sit on your balcony or terrace with a refreshing Mojito, watching the magnificent scenery of the square.
The hotel, which has only 40 rooms, is the first of its kind to successfully capture the spirit of the local culture and tradition, combining it with modern comfort. www.iberostar.com
19
Kapiteltitel
20
Royal Service at Paradisus Varadero / Paradisus Princesa del Mar
LUXURY IN THE PARADISUS OF VARADERO Located on a stunning beach with alternating shades of blue are two elegant eco-resorts which surpass even the highest ex pectations of luxury and indulgence.
Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa This resort has set itself apart by offering Royal Service for the entire family. Here guests can enjoy elegant suites and garden villas, the exclusive à la carte restaurant Bella Mar, or the delightfully attentive butler service, able to prepare an à la carte breakfast on the terrace of your suite, or a selection of In room Spa treatments. At Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa, nothing is left to chance. Enjoy gourmet dinner and water ballet by the pool.
Paradisus Princesa del Mar Resort & Spa Is a Royal Service adults-only resort featuring industry innovations such as Swim-Up Suites – exclusive junior suites with direct, individual access to the pool and private Balinese beds on each terrace. Royal Service guests enjoy private pool and beach with concierge service.
“Discover the YHI Spa sanctuary of relaxation for body and soul with treatments based on Germaine & Capuccini cosmetics and natural local products...”
21
Kapiteltitel
22
Royal Service at Meliá Buenavista
MELIÁ BUENAVISTA, AN OASIS OF TRANQUILLIT Y This splendid adults-only resort is the only one of its kind in
Discover a world of emotions and
Cuba dedicated entirely to Royal Service. Conveniently nestled
sensations at an exquisite resort
between three beaches and virgin inlets, it promises seclusion
known not only for its unique loca-
and intimacy and is perfectly suited to those seeking some soli-
tion and exclusive facilities, but also
tude, tranquillity, and a breath of fresh air. The elegance of Meliá
for its wholehearted hospitality.
Buenavista artlessly enriches the natural aura of Cayo Santa Maria. A walk along the exotic beaches can be a memorable experience, so too can admiring the sunset while enjoying a cava and listening to the melodious sounds of a saxophone. Savour Royal Moments when tasting the best Cuban rums in the lobby bar, or when dining in the premium restaurant Los Navegantes, where you can enjoy enticing dishes characterised by unusual flavours and tasteful decorations. Lucky hotel guests can also witness the beautiful water ballet, which pays homage to Columbus’ arrival in Cuba.
23
Kapiteltitel
24
Royal Service at Paradisus Río de Oro
PARADISUS RÍO DE ORO, A WORLD APART Due to its authentic Cuban architecture, this luxury resort,
Admire the sunset from the exclusive
located at the Esmeralda beach in Holguín, integrates harmoni-
Royal Service beach as you dine by
ously with its surroundings. Here, Royal Service is emphasised
the fire and listen to live saxophone
in the holiday bungalows ideally situated on a gently sloping hill
music in this ecological paradise, or
with private access. These luxury accommodation would not
simply take in the view across the
be complete without our hallmark butler service and spa treat-
town of Gibara from the comfort of
ments in your room, as well as features and facilities such as VIP
your cosy bungalow, as you slowly
reception, a lounge hall, a pool with three different levels and an
enjoy a glass of cava and nibble on
exclusive à la carte restaurant, just to name a few. The garden
fresh fruit. Enjoy Royal Moments
villas with private pool and their serene terraces overlooking the
at a adults only Royal Service resort
sea are the ultimate expression of Royal Service luxury.
which has been rated in the world’s top 100 more than once.
Spend some much-deserved Royal Moments in the Yhi Spa Aguas de Oro, an oasis for the treatment of body and soul, with pavilions overlooking the ocean. Other wholesome activities, such as birdwatching in the resort’s small tropical forest, part of Bahía de Naranjo Nature Park, are also on offer.
25
Kapiteltitel
26
Royal Service at Meliá Santiago
MELIÁ SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CARIBBE AN FL AVOUR In the “most Caribbean” of the Cuban cities, this ultra-modern
Cuban cocktail tasting in the Bello
edifice towers above the well-known Avenida de las Americas.
bar from sunset until 1.00 a.m.,
Here, Royal Service guests have plenty to look forward to, such
featuring the traditional music of
as lifts with exclusive, direct access to the upper floors and the
Santiago de Cuba, the country’s
trendy Mirador Bar featuring splendid panoramic views of the
most authentic city.
country’s tallest mountain range as well as of Cuba’s secondlargest city. The luxury offerings extend to the hotel rooms, whose design and ambience pay homage to the rich traditions of Santiago de Cuba, the excellent range of amenities and the first-class service. Relax, dine or socialise in the spacious Santiago Café, filled with the rhythms, colours and flavours of the Caribbean – the perfect place to experience Royal Moments in the company of the best local interpreters.
27
Royal Moments by Cuba Real Tours
ROYAL MOMENTS BY CUBA RE AL TOURS The pink Cadillac We arrive at the José Martí International Airport! Holiday! Finally! A friendly lady at the gate escorts us to the VIP room, where we have our first mojito and a live band is playing “Guantanamera”. 28
We then meet Manolo, our guide. Outside a pink Cadillac is waiting for us to take us to the hotel. Cuba, here we come!
Old Havana symphony During our walking tour through Old Havana, we make a stop at San Francisco Square. The basilica seems to be closed, but Manolo knows how to get us inside. We hear violins. A training session? And then we see them: the 20 young ladies of Camerata Romeu, an all-female chamber orchestra. They perform a “Guacango” piece for us, mixing classic music with Cuban folk, using violins and cellos as drums, dancing rumba and singing ... What an incredible experience – simply outstanding!
Rolling our own cigar At Hotel Conde Villanueva’s humidor bar and cigar shop, we enjoy a private cigar tasting with rum. Reynaldo, the torcedor, introduces us to the art of rolling a perfect cigar. John is fascinated and wants to roll his own Cohiba! The result: not very convincing! We do keep it as a souvenir however.
Royal Moments by Cuba Real Tours
Jane’s birthday present It’s Jane’s birthday, and since she adores Cuban music, Manolo takes us to a small restaurant where we can see parts of the movie Buena Vista Social Club on a big pull-down screen. At some point during the movie, someone lifts the screen and a man appears behind. It’s Amadito Valdes – original member of the Buena Vista Social Club. Jane cannot believe her eyes, she saw him three years ago at a concert in London. After joining us for lunch, he teaches us how to play his instrument, the timbales, and finally gives Jane his sticks as a present: the golden sticks of the Buena Vista Social Club.
A passion for baseball We ask Manolo about baseball. Like every Cuban, he is a real fanatic. One day later, near the Morro Castle, he asks the driver to stop the car. He opens the trunk, taking out a wide range of equipment: an iron mask, gloves, caps, and bats. Now the game can begin. Jimmy decides that he should be the catcher and I the pitcher. Some children nearby join in the game, and with Jane cheering us on, we all have a great time.
The children of “Camaquito” In Camagüey we meet Mark, a Swiss citizen and founder of the Camaquito social project for children. We visit a small school built with the help of the organisation. A group of young children are dancing and singing along to the local Reggaeton. It’s really fascinating how they can move. A young girl then grabs Jimmy’s hand – our son’s first dancing lesson!
“ We have more than 10 years of experience and a very creative team, specialised in highend clients.”
29
Royal Moments by Cuba Real Tours
Fruta Bomba and Mango Driving on the way to Ciego de Ávila, Manolo tells us about the typical fruits of Cuba. “It’s mango season,” he says with a smile, taking his mobile phone to make a short call. Later in Ciego, we stop at the main square. Suddenly his uncle, his aunt and their whole family appear, saying hello to us and bringing us a basket full of mangoes, guavas, mamey and papayas.
Nostalgia on rails It’s Sunday morning and we decide to join a small group of other tourists for an excursion. Our excursion takes us for a ride on the nostalgic Hershey train, built in the 1920s by the famous American chocolate manufacturer. After leaving the small station of Guanabo, our fiesta begins with the “Salsa” open bar and live 30
music on board. Manolo takes us to the front of the train. “You wanna drive it?” the engine driver asks. I can see the child coming out in my husband. One minute later, I see him and Jimmy driving the train.
Where Fidel was born We find ourselves between Santiago and Holguín, pretty much in the middle of nowhere and surrounded by sugar cane. We leave the main road and follow a small street through the fields. After two miles, we reach an old finca. “Pssst!” whispers Manolo. “This is the place where Fidel was born.”
The Gaudí of the Caribbean We meet Jose Fuster, a renowned Cuban artist, living in the suburbs of Havana far outside of the reach of tourism. On the way to his house, we are greeted by impressive scenery: he has changed several streets, and a whole neighbourhood, into a ceramic art museum. The inhabitants are proud to be part of his project, and we are proud to meet him in person, thanks to Manolo.
www.royalservicecuba.com
Cuba Real Tours T +53 (0)7 834 42 51 info@cubarealtours.eu www.cubarealtours.com
Meliรก Hotels International Cuba T +34 96 586 39 15 info@meliacuba.es www.royalservicecuba.com