"The Caribbean paradise" Cuba by Vita500

My trip to Cuba was in so far a very unique experience, as I was fortunate enough to spend my week over the so-called 'Millennium' from December 31, 1999 to January 7, 2000, a date that was marked by spectacular fireworks, huge parties and unprecedented events taking place all around the world.
In Cuba, however, due to some differences in calculations of the Cubanian people, it turned out to be the year BEFORE the 'Millennium'.
Hence, no fireworks, no party, nothing special at all... but a cosy beach party with live music and sparkling wine.
Considering the worldwide excitement and unprecedented preparations, an indeed unique experience. ;-)

Map of Cuba and the red-marked Holguin province

Arriving at Holguin Airport, I spent the entire week in Cuba's North-Eastern homonymous Holguin province, in one of the two gorgeous hotel resorts along Playa Esmeralda, which could easily qualify as one of Cuba's nicest beaches. White and clean sand without any rocks, crystal clear, emerald green water... simply gorgeous!

Both resorts are situated side-by-side, in a relatively remote area with nothing else around... except of course the beautiful white beach and emerald green sea!

Private beach along Playa Esmeralda

I stayed in the "Sol Club Rio de Luna", a 4 star beach resort, situated on a spacious piece of land and offering everything you can possibly desire: cosy rooms, an extremely clean pool, delishes food and, last but not least, very friendly and obliging hotel personnel.
The facilities and restaurants could be shared with the adjacent Sol Rio de Mares.

The hotel had its own car, moped and bicycle rental shop.

I strongly recommend to rent a moped and explore the surrounding area. During my stay I covered the whole North-Eastern part and had so much fun to not only spend some time outside the hotel resort but also get to experience the local's living environment and visit the nearby sights.

• Pros:Splendid beaches, calmness and summer-sunshine
• Cons:Nothing I could think of
• In a nutshell:Relaxation for sunshine-lovers!