This area used to be a budget destination and lacked high-end resorts, so we are thrilled to share the exciting news of the opening of Melia Peninsula Trinidad Hotel (above) and the Mystique Trinidad La Popa by Royalton (below) which along with the existing Iberostar Grand Trinidad bring a huge improvement to the hotel offerings in this part of Cuba.

These new accommodations offer modern facilities and amenities with an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication, enhanced room designs for comfort and style, improved dinning options and upgraded technology which will elevate guest’s stay and create unforgettable experiences.

Also new this winter season is the two flights weekly by Sunwing to Cienfuegos (from Toronto and Montreal) making easier for Canadians to enjoy these two destinations that offer an impressive combination of cities with architectural treasures, lush mountains and serene beaches.

Cienfuegos

Cienfuegos, known as “The Pearl of the South” is one of Cuba’s most beautiful cities. It is an architectural gem displaying many French touches, art nouveau and art deco styles where the streets are broad and majestic.

When in Cienfuegos be sure to visit Marti square, located in the city centre, or stroll along Prado Promenade, a major route and the longest avenue of its kind in Cuba, extending to the seawall drive.

The people of Cienfuegos are warm, friendly and very hospitable. They are also great music lovers and there are many cultural events to enjoy.

Rancho Luna Beach is just 18 kilometers outside the city and the resort there is popular with Canadians. The scuba diving is excellent here.

Trinidad

This city, located in South central Cuba, which many call “the museum city of the Caribbean,” is one of the most complete and best-preserved colonial cities in the country. In 1988 UNESCO declared Trinidad and the neighboring Sugar mill Valley world heritage sites. Nearly all of its mansions, public squares and churches have been restored to their original appearance, preserving the splendor of this settlement, which was founded in 1514.

The historic city centre covers 55 blocks and includes more than 1,200 buildings. Start your exploration from Trinidad’s beautiful Main Square. It is second only to Havana’s Cathedral Square. Stroll down the cobblestone streets or tour aboard a horse drawn carriage. There are many beautiful mansions with porticos, red roof tiles, artistic balconies and intricate grillwork to admire.

When in Trinidad, be sure to treat yourself to a Canchánchara, a refreshing cocktail made from rum, lime juice, honey and ice, which is served in the bar bearing the same name; invented by the guerrilla fighters during the first war of independence against Spain, the Canchanchara is considered to be Cuba’s oldest cocktail.

Another excellent option is to go on an excursion to Topes de Collantes, up in the heart of the Escambray Mountains.

We can’t wait to welcome Canadians to this revived part of the island where they can enjoy Cuba’s rich cultural mosaic and diversity and experience its magical realism.