While Toronto winters usually consist of dreary skies and head-throbbing cold spells, finding an affordable vacation filled with sunshine and better days is actually easier than you think.
Travellers and budgeters of all kinds will find Cuba to be one of (if not) the best options for a Caribbean getaway. With vibrant culture, sprawling beaches, and endless entertainment at your fingertips, Cuba is also easier on the wallet. Plus, the flight is just 3.5 hours from Toronto.
But what kind of traveller are you, and where should you go? Find the perfect hotel in Cuba to match your travel persona (and your tax bracket), so all you have to do is buy a ticket.
The ritzy and luxurious
Elegant travellers will fit in perfectly at the lavish, 5-star world of Hotel Playa Luxury — and its overwater bungalows! — where tranquillity and ritz meet in stunning Cayo Guillermo, at a fraction of the price.
From Toronto, these are some of the closest overwater bungalows you can find if you’re looking for this type of luxury experience.
It’s an idyllic sanctuary set against sandy beaches and Caribbean blue waters — steps away from the famous Playa Pilar beach. Top-of-the-line amenities and spacious suites surrounded by Caribbean beauty, and all at an affordable price, what’s not to love?!
You can grab a flight and hotel starting at $2,300 per person for seven stunning nights.
Beach lovers
Beach bums will love a stay at Playa Cayo Santa Maria with its white sandy shores and deep blue waters (also kid-friendly) starting at $1,875 per person for the flight and hotel.
Or go for the all-inclusive Playa Costa Verde for a tropical and lush paradise escape, starting at just $1,569 per person for flight and hotel.
Don’t count out Hotel Playa Pesquero (starting at $1,489 for the flight and hotel) situated on the dream-worthy Playa Pesquero beach, which has a 4.8-star rating on Sunwing.
No matter which of these resorts you stay in, you can guarantee beach days, sunshine, and the warm sand between your toes!
For dancing queens & party rockers
Resonance Musique is your all-inclusive Cuban haven if your vacation must include good times on the dance floor. Think beach party paradise where Canadian DJs, themed pool parties, and energetic activities are a daily occurrence. 
With four equally unique locations on the island, (including an adults-only resort in Varadero with a swim-up cave bar), Resonance Musique resorts promise tropical fun all day and all night — sequin outfits not included.
A sweet seven-night stay at Resonance Musique starts at around $1,000.
For culture creatures & vintage seekers
Keep the Royalton Habana on your radar for a modernist stay in downtown Habana, complete with picturesque sea views. Immerse yourself in authentic Cuban culture while unwinding in the Royalton’s trendy decor, accommodations and rooftop pool.
Thanks to the hotel’s premium location, you’re close to Paseo del Prado, a historic city boulevard and promenade that splits the Central Habana and Old Havana neighbourhoods; the 8-kilometre sea roadway known as the Malecon; and the must-visit Morro fortress and castle at the Port of Havana, an architectural feat more than 400-years-old. Snag a seven-night hotel stay starting at $1,700.
More old school at heart? Step back in time to golden Habana at the charming Mystique Regis Habana, a boutique hotel with 1900s vibes.
Pulling out all the stops with curated vintage glamour and modern amenities, plus city-scape views — Mystique Habana is perfect for travellers with an appreciation for the classics and starts from $2,100 for seven nights.
Steps away from the UNESCO-recognized Old Havana district, get lost among the city’s iconic, energetic streets and dancing plazas (à la Hemingway) before bringing it back to Mystique for a well-deserved meal at one of its two full-service restaurants.
The best hotels in Cuba
Cuba dreaming? More like Cuba living! With just a quick and direct 3.5-hour trip from Toronto, it really couldn’t be easier to escape the cold without annihilating your bank account.
No matter how you vacay, do it in Cuba and get more from your trip. Book your next vacation through Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing Vacations, Hola Sun Holiday, or Air Transat today!
