Varadero, Cuba
A snapshot of the history of Varadero
When the Spanish arrived to the peninsula, they disrupted the natural habitat of the original inhabitants. Massive deforestation took place as the wood was needed for repairs of their ships. At that time, it was called the “Dry Dock” from where the name Varadero is derived.
Holiday destination for rich Cubans in the 19th century
At that point it became the prime holiday destination in Cuba. Albeit, mainly for the rich farmers who built their splendid villas on the beach. In the 20th century, they were replaced by rich Americans. Al Capone and important Cubans such as President Batista were among them. In the 1950s, mass tourism commenced in Varadero.
Post Cuban revolution
Following the revolution, properties were expropriated and the general public gained access to the area. Since the opening of Cuba to international tourism, Varadero has turned into the most visited destination in the country.
Travelling to Varadero
Off I am from Cienfuegos to Varadero on a Viazul bus. It is the only one going directly to Varadero without passing through Havana. I got my ticket 24 hours before. However, I was still a bit anxious as it was arriving all the way from Trinidad. Hence, it was not ascertained that there would actually be a seat left for me on the bus although I had a ticket.
I was lucky and so was a Canadian travelling with a bicycle. He actually did not have a ticket let alone a place in the luggage compartment for the bicycle. While he managed to get a seat and his bike loaded on the bus, other passengers where not that fortunate.
Giron and the “Bay of Pigs”
On route, we stopped in Giron where in 1961 seaborne forces of armed Cuban exiles with some external help invaded the Bay of Pigs. It turned out to be an unsuccessful attempt to overthrow the Castro government. There is small museum dedicated to the historical conflict.
Pretty but rocky beaches
There are a number of very good spots for swimming around Giron. However, the shore is mainly rocky which means the water is really clear but often a bit difficult to access. But I was not out to be at the beach and had not included a stay over at Pigs Bay.
Unscheduled stop
Later on, we had another unscheduled stop. The bus driver wanted to buy a chicken and some fresh milk from some farmers along the road side.
My hotel in Varadero
I had booked my 5-star hotel on the Hicacos peninsula in an agency in Havana. The sales lady insisted that the only way to go was an all-inclusive hotel. Although not a fan of these deals, I decided to give it a try. Well, the first impression of was good.
Second impression
The second was a bit less impressive. The umbrella on the beach was in very dear need for some repair. In addition, it took four days to receive one of the included beach towels. Luckily, I had my own but that was not the deal I had paid for.
All day entertainment in the hotel
If you are into the all-inclusive vacation with around the clock entertainment and sports activities available, this is a great place to stay.
Checking out Varadero town
The following day, I walked out from the hotel to the main street to catch a hop on hop off bus to Varadero town.
One of the stops was Plaza America which is a shopping centre. It has a well-equipped supermarket. I can say it was the best one I have seen in Cuba.
Finally, we arrived at the tourist market in Varadero town.
Walking to the centre
From there, I walked for some 15 minutes and got to the refurbished center of town. I passed a number of nice looking restaurants, a market, the popular Beatles Club and, of course, the Havana Club museum.
Now this is my definition of a great beach
I reached the park of Varadero. I ventured through a small pass way in the pine forest and got to the public beach and was blown away by the beauty of it.
Some private beaches
Turning towards the right, I could see some activity. There are a number of beach establishments pertaining to hotels. I also found a number of “casas” that can be rented. They are a great option if you opt out from the all-inclusive deal.
Finding my ride back
In order to get back to the hotel on the tourist bus, I realised that I did not know where to catch it.
Then I found these wooden benches on the side of the road indicating the bus stop.
I can’t get enough of these vintage oldtimer cars
I had to wait quite a while for my ride to arrive. In the meantime, I could not resist to take more pictures of these amazing vintage cars.
Marina of Varadero
Back in my accommodation, I went off for a walk on the beach all the way to the end of the peninsula passing hotel after hotel. Eventually, I got to the Marina de Varadero. It has a number of 5 star hotels, restaurants, shops and great catamarans for boat trips to the surrounding sites.
My personal tip – Get out of the hotel and explore
Concluding this contribution on Varadero: as soon as I left the all-inclusive hotel, I really started liking it. Plenty of places where to eat and spend the evening. But this is me – more out to connect to the local scene.
Bye Bye Cuba
This concludes my trip to Cuba but I know I will be back to explore Baracoa, the first capital town of Cuba. It is very secluded from the rest of Cuba and well-known for its spicy food.
Although not a fan of all-inclusive hotels, I still want to check out Jardin dei Reys, Cayo Bruca, Cayo Santa Lucia for the beauty of the nature.
By the way, Cubans are not allowed to go to the above mentioned areas. They need a special permit obtained by either working in one of the hotels or being on a family visit.
And, maybe I will rent one of the bikes provided by the Canadian government through an aid development program and cruise the area on a one-woman powered means of transportation.
Check out more things to do in Varadero. For more tips on Cuba click on Transportation in Cuba, What to Pack, Cuba visited as a sole female traveller.
My destinations in Cuba were Havana, Trinidad, Vignales, Cienfuegos, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.