From a previous kind of “backpacking” background (we’ve all been 20, haven’t we?), I wasn’t too sure about staying in an all inclusive and luxury resort and whether that would be my type of holiday. After having stayed at the Superclub Breezes Jibacoa last week, as part of an amazing first trip to Cuba (including the amazing Havana), I can say, I loved it!
Indeed, once you’ve understood that going all inclusive was more a question of not being bothered choosing between that or this activity or counting how much local currency you’ve got left (and – as usual – you haven’t taken enough) and not a matter of drinking and eating as much as possible as it is “free”, you then can make the most of it.
Making the most of it. Ok, that’s indeed not hesitating getting another drink because 1. you’re on holiday after all 2. you’re in Cuba and Mojitos are amazing (3. …you don’t drive). But it doesn’t stop here, at all.
Like most all inclusive holidays, Breezes Jibacoa is located by a wonderful beach where you can admire a still preserved Coral Reef and plenty of fishes with snorkelling equipment that is provided, enjoy the breeze on a catamaran ride with friendly and experienced (both!) staff, and of course, lay in the sun to make sure your colleagues are envious (mine are, by the way!).
Food. I had no idea what was to be expected, at all. Actually with made to order omelettes – by the popular Chef Nelson – and coffees, pancakes acclaimed by our Canadian friends, and fresh orange juice to kick start the day, and an a la carte grill restaurant on the beach for lunch, I was doing pretty well until lunchtime! Then came the best, dinner, with three choices: an outstanding buffet (serving grilled lobsters…) and two a la carte restaurants where you’d be served “fantastic” (said by a French guest should make it sound serious, shouldn’t it?) Italian or world cuisine, and good wine, considering Cuba is better know for its tobacco fields than vineyards!
Last but not least, having fun. Yes, that’s what we all want. A well deserved break isn’t only about sleeping on the beach (to a certain extent) and enjoying the activities mentioned above, it is also doing stuff! And we weren’t disappointed: between beach activities and sports offered, all animated with a young, friendly and perfectly English speaking team, there was no time to get bored. You can start the day with a 9am tennis tournament (late mojitos shouldn’t be an excuse), challenge your friends or fellow guests in a pool tournament or exercise on the beach or in the swimming pool.
So, for those still hesitating to go on an all inclusive luxury holiday I would definitely say, try it once, you will not be disappointed! I certainly wasn’t.
