Cuba Golf

[jsttaylor]

Anybody ever golfed in Cuba? Our package includes unlimited golf. Is it worth while to bring the clubs? Rentals are kind of expensive if we want to play more than once.

[jeffc]

where are you going in Cuba? Its a big island ;-).

[mpare]

My guess is that you're going to Varadero. If so, bring your clubs for sure. It is a very nice course [here's the link:http://www.varaderogolfclub.com/en/home.asp ] and a lot tougher than some folks think. This is especially so when the wind is up, which it always is. Also, chipping out of the Bermuda grass is a real challenge if you've never tried it. My advice to you is not to play from the tips (7,000 yards). The wind and distance will kill you. When your round is over, have a beer as what used to be the Dupont (yes, that family) estate overlooking the ocean. You will love it. Bring lots of balls. You really don't want to buy them in Cuba. Unless things have changed dramatically since I was last there, their availability is almost non-existent and the price would be ridiculously high.

Have fun.

[jsttaylor]

Yes Veradero. Thanks & I'll bring lots of balls.

[Pinshark]

make sure to end up at the dupont mansion around sunset its a GREAT place for a beverage or two!

[EO26]

Where did you buy your vacation package ? unlimited golf sounds great

[jsttaylor]

Purchased through a local agent in Winchester but I know you can buy it online at www.nolitours.com.
It's at the Breezes Bella Costa superclubs in Veradero.

[Newbie]

We just got back last evening from the Bella Costa. I played the course 9 times. Don't let the all inclusive golf fool you. The green fee is "free". Last week I walked over a fence and walked to and from the course each day...last day I was there they fixed the fence so no walking to the course...now it's 10 a day for a cab to and from the course.... Carts are mandatory and cost 44 dollars CUC. The course will not allow 1/2 cart fees.

[jsttaylor]

Thanks Newbie.

[Golfer_Gofer]

How many stars is the resort you're staying in JST?

[jsttaylor]

It's a 4 star but it does look a little bit older. Still very nice looking.

[Golfer_Gofer]

thats good.. in Cuba 4 star would be the minimum I would stay at. You'll find the food a little to be desired compared to other Islands down there just because they can't get anything from the states. Other than that Cuba is fantastic, very friendly people.

[mpare]

Don't expect gourmet meals. With that in mind, the country has many virtues. The people could not be nicer. The beaches are spectacular. The rum and local beer are great. The Cristal beer is thirst quenching, but not unique enough for my taste. If you can find any, try a Hatuey (Indian head label). It's one of the best beers I've had anywhere. They have resumed brewing it in country.

thats good.. in Cuba 4 star would be the minimum I would stay at. You'll find the food a little to be desired compared to other Islands down there just because they can't get anything from the states. Other than that Cuba is fantastic, very friendly people.

[Pinshark]

Food in Cuba not good, Rum excellent, cigars excellent beer also excellent.....A great place for a holiday if you ask me and if you can get into Havana for a day I highly recommend that.

[jeffc]

we stayed at the Sandals Royal Hicacos which is or at least was, the best resort in Veradero. It was less than a year old when we were there and for the most part excellent. The food was quite good, though perhaps not as good for the same level of resort on another island. The rum is excellent, the beaches are beautiful and the beer is tasty (when isn't it)? and the people of cuba are some of the nicest and happiest you will find anywhere, despite their limited means. And I also recommend getting into Havana for the day if you can - well worth it regardless the cost, just don't buy any Cohiba's on the street and watch your wallet.

[AJP007]

I just got back from Cuba. This is my second trip. We were there last January, Cuba is beautiful but man the food sucks. We stayed at the Melia Varedero and last year at Melia Las Americas.

AS FOR GOLF
Go on a pass. Because it is damn expensive.
Fees are: 55CUC for cart ; 80CUC green fees; 70CUC for clubs.
$100 Canadian Dollars = 70CUC.
So not exactly cheap.

The course is ok course and some scenic holes.
BUT EVERY GREEN WITH HE EXCEPTION OF NUMBER 9 AND 18 SUCK.
It was just sand and gravel.

I played 5 days and if it wasn't free passes with the hotel, this course is no big deal.

Oh yeah, and the course is packed like sardines regardless of when you book.
I recommend you get the first tee of and play and open 9.
Because after 7:30 am it is 5 hours time for a round.

Cuba has changed a lot of late and this was definately my last trip to Cuba. But sun is good this time of year.

[Chambokl]

Breezes Bella Costa superclubs... stayed there about 10 years ago... It was really nice but is now getting a bit older.

Last time we stayed at the Iberostar Varadero. It was a great place... the cubans are so nice and polite.

I have been to DR, everything is nice but the people keep bugging you about everything, trying to sell you crap, do your braids, etc...

In Cuba, you have peace. Nobody is pestering you (unless you go to Havana). I like the food and anyway I don't really go there to eat but to enjoy the sun, the beach, the people and the drinks...lol.

I just love going to Cuba... lots of Canadians from all over... might be going back this year. I was thinking about Santa Clara.

Enjoy your trip...

[Golfer_Gofer]

I recommend Holgiun/Guardalavaca - Paradisus Rio De Oro its a 5 star resort. I stayed there 2 years ago and it was an amazing trip ...food as always sub par but the resort was amazing with good day trips... no golf on that part of the island though