A trip to Cuba –living the senses of luxury

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CUBA REAL TOURS

MELIÁ HOTELS INTERNATIONAL

CUBA

ROYAL MOMENTS

HAVANA

TRINIDAD

VARADERO

CAYO SANTA MARIA

PLAYA ESMERALDA

SANTIAGO DE CUBA

ROYAL MOMENTS

Copyright © 2012 by Cuba Real Tours, Meliá Hotel s International . All rights reserved .For information about permission to reproduce selections f rom this broschure, write

Cuba Real Tours, www.cubarealtours.com, Meliá Hotel s International , www.meliacuba.comDesign by Leone Ming, Visible Marketing, Liechtenstein, www.leoneming.com

Photos by Cuba Real Tours, Meliá Hotel s 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

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Introducing our deluxe tour“Culture and history, a relaxed atmosphere and excellent food,

all perfectly complemented by a choice cigar and a glass of well-

aged rum. When you think about it, what more does one need?

Take advantage of the opportunity to get to know Cuba, a country

still evolving. In this truly unique country, you can witness the

inter play 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.”

We are CUBA REAL TOURS. We specialise in Royal Moments: a

concept designed to offer unprecedented immersion into Cuba’s

music, dance and arts, its food and culture, its architecture and

natural environment; as well as to get you up close and personal

with its people – because in Cuba, it’s all about the people!

CUBA REAL TOURS, founded in

2000, is a Swiss travel agency with

its head office in Havana, Cuba.

Backed by more than 10 years of

experience, we are the undisputed

leader in the luxury travel segment.

CUBA REAL TOURS offers Royal

Moments and unique experiences –

both essential features of our tailor-

made holidays for the sophisticated

traveller. If you would like to find

out more, please visit our website at

www.cubarealtours.com

CUBA FOR CONNAISSEURS – OUR DELUXE TOUR

Cuba Real Tours

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Royal Service at Meliá Hotels International

“ Royal Service, an exclusive hotel within the hotel, a world of privacy, attentive care, and first-class amenities, providing a genuinely 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-

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, per-

sonal 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, charac-

terised by amazing flavours and original aromas, is a part of our

identity – so too are distinction and intimacy as offered by the ex-

otic 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.

A PRIVILEGED EXPERIENCE

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Trinidad

Cienfuegos

Cayo Largo

“Cuba, I love you, marvellous land, lovely people...” Song by Sexto Sentido (see CD)

CUBA

Viñales

Havana

Varadero

CamagueyPlaya Esmeralda

Santiago

Cayo Santa Maria

Paradisus Río de Oro, Playa Esmeralda

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Cuba

Cuba facts

Cuba is situated in the Caribbean Sea at the confluence

of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

With 11 million Spanish-speaking inhabitants and

measuring 1250 kilometres from east to west,

Cuba is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean.

No other country in the region can offer such a mix of

nature, history, music, architectural beauty and

culture. Each year 2.5 million visitors from around the

world are drawn to the country’s many tourist

attractions, which include:

• 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

You have travelled the world: Thailand, Kenya, Brazil. You know all the “hot spots”: New York, Paris, Dubai. So why Cuba?Cuba is refreshingly different! It simply cannot be compared. It re-

mains a hidden gem waiting for the luxury traveller – a challenge!

Today’s Cuba is exciting, contradictory, emotionally touching and

always surprising. We invite you on a private journey through a

world of beautiful landscapes – explore the flair of colonial cities,

relax at pristine beaches, take in the history and meet interesting

people.

As Cuba experiences unprecedented change, now is the per-

fect 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!

DISCOVERING THE SPIRIT OF AN ISLAND!

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Kapiteltitel

ROYAL MOMENTS

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.

“Royal Moments – because in Cuba, every day promises a pleasant surprise.”

Meliá Buenavista, Cayo Santa María

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Royal Service at Meliá Cohiba

Dinner with a traditional

Cuban floor show

at the Havana Café

MELIÁ COHIBA, ELEGANT AND SUMPTUOUSJust a few metres from Havana’s famous Malecón esplanade, the

upper floors of a 22-storey tower are reserved for Royal Service

guests. Here, elegant rooms with impressive panoramic views

and all the amenities ensure the maximum comfort, while the

ambience characteristic of a luxury accommodation is completed

by attentive personalised services, such as room-service break-

fast 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”

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Royal Service at Meliá Habana

Meliá Habana is modern, welcoming and comfortable, and lo-

cated in the heart of the residential and business district of Mira-

mar. Ideally situated on Havana’s coastline, it boasts an inspiring

atmosphere with beautiful views from the balconies and pano-

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”

MELIÁ HABANA, COMFORT AND NATURE IN THE CITY

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Hotel Saratoga

Originally built in the 1930s, the

hotel swiftly became one of Havana’s

most stylish establishments and a

favourite haunt of Cuba’s writers,

musicians, artists and socialites.

Behind Hotel Saratoga’s historical

facade, you will find an interesting

mix of style, comfort, and the

ultimate in modern technology.

www.hotel-saratoga.com

HOTEL SARATOGA – STYLE AND LUXURY IN OLD HAVANA

As eclectic as the city itselfWithin close reach of the many attractions and of Havana’s

historical centre is Hotel Saratoga, Old Havana’s grandest hotel.

This esteemed establishment, ornately designed with the his-

torical features synonymous with Cuba, offers spacious rooms,

excellent cuisine, a rooftop terrace and pool with panoramic

views of the city.

Enjoy a Royal Moment: if the hustle and bustle of Havana has

drained your energy, take some time out to enjoy one of the re-

laxing treatments at Hotel Saratoga’s tranquil spa, where every-

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.

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Iberostar Grand Hotel Trinidad

First-class comfort, style and eleganceThis fine hotel is the place to be in Trinidad and offers a pri-

vate, relaxed atmosphere characterised by colonial flair and

architecture. Centrally located near the very heart of the town, the

Ibero star Grand Hotel Trinidad is perfectly suited to exploring the

diverse heritage attractions by foot.

Make your own Royal Moment – lose yourself in the warm Cuban

evening as you sit on your balcony or terrace with a refreshing

Mojito, watching the magnificent scenery of the square.

Trinidad was declared a UNESCO

World Heritage Site in 1988. Among

its many highlights, experiencing

the cobblestone lanes and squares

surrounded by the mansions of

for mer sugar barons, the museums,

and the romantic nightlife is highly

recommended for any traveller.

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

IBEROSTAR GRAND HOTEL – COLONIAL FLAIR IN TRINIDAD

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Royal Service at Paradisus Varadero / Paradisus Princesa del Mar

LUXURYIN THE PARADISUS OF VARADERO

“Discover the YHI Spa sanctuary of relaxation for body and soul with treatments based on Germaine & Capuccini cosmetics and natural local products...”

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 & SpaThis 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 delight-

fully attentive butler service, able to prepare an à la carte break-

fast 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 & SpaIs a Royal Service adults-only resort featuring industry inno-

vations 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.

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Royal Service at Meliá Buenavista

This splendid adults-only resort is the only one of its kind in

Cuba dedicated entirely to Royal Service. Conveniently nestled

between three beaches and virgin inlets, it promises seclusion

and intimacy and is perfectly suited to those seeking some soli-

tude, tranquillity, and a breath of fresh air. The elegance of Meliá

Buenavista artlessly enriches the natural aura of Cayo Santa Maria.

A walk along the exotic beaches can be a memorable experi-

ence, 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.

Discover a world of emotions and

sensations at an exquisite resort

known not only for its unique loca-

tion and exclusive facilities, but also

for its wholehearted hospitality.

MELIÁ BUENAVISTA, AN OASIS OF TRANQUILLITY

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Royal Service at Paradisus Río de Oro

PARADISUS RÍO DE ORO, A WORLD APARTDue to its authentic Cuban architecture, this luxury resort,

located at the Esmeralda beach in Holguín, integrates harmoni-

ously with its surroundings. Here, Royal Service is emphasised

in the holiday bungalows ideally situated on a gently sloping hill

with private access. These luxury accommodation would not

be complete without our hallmark butler service and spa treat-

ments in your room, as well as features and facilities such as VIP

reception, a lounge hall, a pool with three different levels and an

exclusive à la carte restaurant, just to name a few. The garden

villas with private pool and their serene terraces overlooking the

sea are the ultimate expression of Royal Service luxury.

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.

Admire the sunset from the exclusive

Royal Service beach as you dine by

the fire and listen to live saxophone

music in this ecological paradise, or

simply take in the view across the

town of Gibara from the comfort of

your cosy bungalow, as you slowly

enjoy a glass of cava and nibble on

fresh fruit. Enjoy Royal Moments

at a adults only Royal Service resort

which has been rated in the world’s

top 100 more than once.

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Royal Service at Meliá Santiago

In the “most Caribbean” of the Cuban cities, this ultra-modern

edifice towers above the well-known Avenida de las Americas.

Here, Royal Service guests have plenty to look forward to, such

as lifts with exclusive, direct access to the upper floors and the

trendy Mirador Bar featuring splendid panoramic views of the

country’s tallest mountain range as well as of Cuba’s second-

largest 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.

Cuban cocktail tasting in the Bello

bar from sunset until 1.00 a.m.,

featuring the traditional music of

Santiago de Cuba, the country’s

most authentic city.

MELIÁ SANTIAGO DE CUBA, CARIBBEAN FLAVOUR

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Royal Moments by Cuba Real 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”.

We then meet Manolo, our guide. Outside a pink Cadillac is wait-

ing for us to take us to the hotel. Cuba, here we come!

Old Havana symphonyDuring 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 Cam-

erata 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 cigarAt Hotel Conde Villanueva’s humidor bar and cigar shop, we en-

joy a private cigar tasting with rum. Reynaldo, the torcedor, intro-

duces 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 MOMENTSBY CUBA REAL TOURS

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Royal Moments by Cuba Real Tours

Jane’s birthday presentIt’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 baseballWe 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.”

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Royal Moments by Cuba Real Tours

Fruta Bomba and MangoDriving 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

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 com-

ing out in my husband. One minute later, I see him and Jimmy

driving the train.

Where Fidel was bornWe 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 CaribbeanWe meet Jose Fuster, a renowned Cuban artist, living in the sub-

urbs 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

Meliá Hotels International CubaT +34 96 586 39 15info@meliacuba.eswww.royalservicecuba.com

Cuba Real ToursT +53 (0)7 834 42 51info@cubarealtours.euwww.cubarealtours.com