TOP Questions About Travelling to Cuba Cayo Coco Santa Maria Varadero (OUR TOP 9)

[@theresapalmer-s8p]

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your Cuba videos. We were in Cayo Coco at Memories Caribe and learned alot from your video. Thanks so much and keep up the great work. I have spred the word of your channel and hope to see you reap the benefits.

[@Finding-Fish]

That’s Awesome!!!! Great Beach!!!!! Mike

[@hobbyist888hifi]

Love your Cuba video series. You’re a kind and good person 👍.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Hobbyist!!! Heading to Thailand to make that Series!!! In London Uk to make an Easter Special with Jenny And back in Cuba hitting hopefully 8 different resorts and off resort activities coming soon

[@georgeslehner7733]

I love the way you present CUBA. I went to CUBA more than 15 times in the past 10 years and NEVER I had to complaint about cleanliness. CUBA still CUBA, not a place for gastronomy, but for well warming people that does their best with what they have. What I look for, think of, may be not what you look for. For what they have to offer, beach, service, kindness, i think you get more than what you pay for.

[@Finding-Fish]

Well Said George!!! Well Said!!! Mike

[@edfrankowski7508]

Good information on this video for those who are thinking about Cuba for a vacation

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Ed

[@sassygal4727]

Thanks Mike for these vlogs. I booked a trip to go to varadero next week. I made mistake of reading reviews and feel a lot of them were so negative. I will go with what you say.... I'm expecting to go with flow on possible shortages etc and hopefully it's a relaxing time. I'm going for the beach.

[@Finding-Fish]

You will have a great time!!!! I’m in Thailand Check me out Mike

[@theodorereading5785]

Grate video again sir You hit the nail on the head with this one. Thanks Mike

[@Finding-Fish]

Thank you Sir Mike

[@miriamdiaz5292]

Going into town and donating clothing to the local is a great as they are certainly have greater challenges.

[@Dutchy-1168]

Cuba …. THE best value for your dollar in the Caribbean ❤

[@Finding-Fish]

Totally

[@LisaIannucci-e9n]

Great video and helpful info! You are awesome!

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks So Much!!!

[@reneetheroux6898]

Thanks Mike, this last video was very helpful. I’m in Cuba for the first time and enjoy it. It’s true that some things come and go but I don’t care about little stuff. The people I met and the ocean waves are what makes my memories. Here in the Paradisus Varadero there’s even rose wine. No shortage at all except for the eggs. But we have cheese and other pastries. Hot water, toilet paper no problem. Thanks for the explanation. I found out that they really like US dollar.

[@Finding-Fish]

Awesome Glad You’re enjoying your time Rene!!

[@sassygal4727]

Your comment is reassuring. I'm going next week and I dont think the little things will bother me.... nice beach and friendly people sounds great.

[@lotusmotyl645]

I've always had a great time in all the different resorts I've been to..Cuba. Cuba has most beautiful beaches -Love your videos thanks so much ...Maik😊..love your wife and you..💞

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Lotus!!! I appreciate your comment Mike

[@sassygal4727]

Hi there, Have you been to memories varadero. Do you have any advice for first time in cuba. Thanks

[@ronshaver7681]

Refreshing honesty Mike. Keeping expectations in check. Guests to Cuba have the sun (not guaranteed but hopefuly), the sand, a full belly (as long as you're not too picky), your thirst quenched and a roof over your head. But the best is the beautiful smiles and warm reception from the resort staff who truly are appreciative that you have chosen them for your vacation. It is a beautiful thing and it's not like that in some other countries when it comes to tourists and tourism. So relax, immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy the time away from snow, work and everyday pressures. There will be time enough to be miserable when you get back home.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Ron!!!! thanks for your comment Mike See you in Thailand soon

[@LoloDawn]

Fab video! Hopefully this puts some minds at ease and/or helps people set reasonable expectations.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Lolo Thanks for watching and you comment!!! I’ve had a lot of comments from subscribers travelling to Cuba right now and most are positive!!! Yes Cuba issues still continue but more travellers are more informed and aware and have the ability to navigate the issues

[@conniehansen3630]

I love Cuba, I've always had a great time in all the different resorts I've been to...sure there were small issues but that's life, it gets fixed and we move on. Love your videos and have fun in Thailand.

[@Finding-Fish]

thanks Connie!!! come with me!!! i'll be back in Cuba In April ish through till January making content Mike

[@HiddenJackpots]

This was a very informative video Mike, thanks for doing it! I shared it on my Facebook page (not the Hidden Jackpots one, but my personal page it'll get more views). Can't wait for your video on Grand Aston

[@Finding-Fish]

Out Saturday!!! Also have a video out Friday for a thank you to all!!!

[@mhairifox7753]

Best food ever....Los Cactos, Varadero. Best steak dinner of my life.....Josone Park, La Campana.

[@draganjerinic8384]

Smart.. Thank you, and enjoy. Remember... I'm watching you..😂😂😂

[@Finding-Fish]

Love it!!! Thanks for your support!!! I appreciate it dragan Mike See you in Thailand soon

[@greenappealpropertycare8808]

Another good one. Thanks Mike!

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Greenappeal!!! Thanks for watching and your support Mike

[@yanglu4607]

Mike, I really enjoy your video. I got eaten alive at the memories flamingo beach by sand flea. 2 months past, still haven't healed. I wasn't sure what they were initially but they were super itchy. Thank you for sharing that topic.

[@Finding-Fish]

Sorry to hear that Honestly I hope you get better, I think next time take Reacton

[@yanglu4607]

Thank you, Mike

[@cathybildson-cardoso6485]

Hello Mike - another informative video. My husband and I have been to Cuba many times between the 2 of us. We have gone to different resorts each time. We can honestly say that every resort we have been to from Playa Costa Verde to Hotel Kawama to the Sols in Cayo Coco and Cayo Largo have been very clean. Are they dated yes, we prefer smaller low- rise resorts to newer higher rise, that's just us. We have had some maintenance issues that the staff are more than happy to help if they can. The food has always been great. The time we went to Hotel Kawama for a last minute deal, the food was delicious. I believe it's one of the first resorts in Varadero, very old needing some repairs but quaint. We love Cuba and will continue to go for the beach and of course the people. Can't wait to see your videos on Thailand.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Cathy for the amazing comments!!!! i appreciate it and yes i love low rise resorts too!!! heading to Thailand Saturday!

[@facts247]

Great Video. The question about food quality is like asking if all restaurants have the same food quality in a city, it varies so i think it is what it is. One of the issues is that there are all inclusives and you dont decide "I'm not going to eat here anymore" like you would at home in your city and not use the particular restuarant again. You can't goto another resort and eat :-). Thanks for the video and bon voyage.

[@Finding-Fish]

Good point!

[@karelstanec878]

Hey Mike. Another great video!👌👏👏🍻

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Karel

[@shawnlabonte8650]

Hello Mike! Great video. Can't wait to see your videos on Thailand.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thank you for watching and your comment! Heading out Saturday!

[@burtonjames7129]

Thanks for the honest reviews. I've been to some resorts in Cuba and always had a great time. And for the money you pay you really get a lot, considering the amazing climate, nature the country offers. I'm not surprise that the tourist industry suffers when the country is under sanctions, but they really try hard to make things nice for you and that I utterly appreciate. Looking forward to going back to Cuba.

[@Finding-Fish]

Absolutely BurtonJames, Well said Mike

[@stevenschindler8342]

Great Info Mkke. Thanks Steve S

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Steve Thanks for watching!!! Mike

[@RedRockMaintenance]

100% agree with you. The food I still have;t figured out either. Last resort we were at there pastries were not good, but the resort before that had tons of pastries. Great video Mike

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks Scottie I appreciate your support

[@mexifin]

You are one Awesome guy. Great video 👍🏾🇨🇦

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks MEXI!!!! thanks for your Comment and Support!!! Mike(fish)

[@aidenravy]

Also things like ppl leaving dishes outside the rooms in the public ash tray that might be there a day two before its picked up

[@Finding-Fish]

Yes!!! Good point!!

[@living-rightnow]

Thanks for sharing your travel videos. Love your Cuba series It's been a few years since I have been there so nice to have honest go with flow reports. Just got back from Varadero...it has changed for sure! Looking forward to seeing your Thailand videos! Wendy from NS

[@Finding-Fish]

Glad you like them! I'm in Thailand right now making videos Loving it... then head to London Uk Meet Jenny and make videos then head Back to Cuba Mike

[@living-rightnow]

@@Finding-Fish Mike, glad to see Jenny is meeting up with you in UK. Great! lots more content! UK must be pretty pricey!? Safe travels!

[@mhairifox7753]

I bring a suitcase full of white material and good thread. Baptism, Confirmation, Graduation and Wedding dresses can be made. And...I bring sewing patterns for dresses. Also, dress trimmings....rolls of beads, sunflowers, daisies. Anything to stitch on to projects.

[@jimchabai3163]

Your tipping advice is exactly correct. Please if you mention it again, try and encourage people to NOT bring bags of coins into the country. There's literally people on social media who are telling others to brings rolls of loonies and toonies, and that's how it all starts. Gracias.

[@Finding-Fish]

I’ve made lots of Videos stating this issue!!!

[@lauratorrance5061]

Nice! I want to go back now! We watched your videos prior to going to Cuba and my friend ran into you and said hello. I didn't know and thought I recognized you but didn't know how. Sorry for looking like a creep haha

[@Finding-Fish]

Lol I’m Glad you said hello!!! Thanks for watching Mike

[@draganjerinic8384]

Hola,Hola Amigo...I had water poisoning over there 2, water, but, I learned, so, before travel to Cuba, I take Ducoral, I think that's the name, and, no problem whatsoever ❤

[@Finding-Fish]

Do you eat fresh Fruit?

[@KardosoMedia]

I was in Cayo Coco a couple weeks ago and sadly I likely wont be back there for awhile. Having been to Cuba numerous times it has definitely deteriorated in the last year. We were at Memories Caribe and although the beach was amazing...everything else was quite the disaster. I hope things turn around for them but for now I will be heading to new destinations. Cheers brother. See you on the next one

[@Finding-Fish]

That’s too bad!!! And sad!!! What were some of the issues?

[@KardosoMedia]

@@Finding-Fish on check-in they gave us a regular room even though we had paid several $100 more for Al Fresco suite. They said they didnt have any available..We were a group of 12 all of which booked Al Fresco as well and only 3 couple got what they paid for. No compensation or even a sorry unfortunately. After talking to others this happened to many others as well. The Diamond Club breakfast was also a huge let down..waited 1.5hrs only to be served a cold omelette. Waited 45min one day just to take out order. Was never busy in there so didn't understand the wait times. The most notable negative were the black flies. I'm not talking a regular amount of flies or a bunch..But an absolutely insane infestation I nor even some of the staff have ever experienced. Thousands..no word of a lie on everything. The buffet food was covered in so many that most times you couldn't even tell what most of the food was. After 4 days they began to spray and fog which helped marginally. Apparently the garbage dump nearby has been recently neglected by the government which is causing this infestation. The one thing that really surprised us was the disinterested and rude staff. Having been to Cuba a ton of times I have never experienced this before. They have always been some of the nicest people. Of course there were a handful of gems like Fidel at the DC beach, Kathleen and Danalis at Bellinis but the majority of staff were downright rude and ignored everyone. We tipped very well but that didnt seem to matter. In over 20 years of travelling this was the first time I left with a bad taste in my mouth. I hope they can turn things around as the beach there is amazing but a beach shouldnt be the only thing that keeps a hotel afloat. Again...I had very low standards going in but was a major let down.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks for the info!!! That’s really to bad!!! Sorry to hear!!! That’s a real let down Mike

[@debracook8859]

It may be helpful to know Canadians can bring 3 bottles of wine into the country - that’s plenty of white wine for a week long visit - if you can’t live without it. Just grab it at the duty free shop at the airport.

[@Finding-Fish]

That’s awesome!!! Per person too!!!! Thanks Debra For Sharing Mike

[@budeweiser1968]

Great video, lots of good information. Thank you.

[@Finding-Fish]

Glad it was helpful! thanks BUDEWEISER!!!!!1968

[@NewfeeFlip]

Just across your "Survivor" video and the intro was hilarious. Amazing videos so far! Regarding supplies i know you mentioned theres no pattern as to which resorts get supplies and which dont. But do you see any difference with the blue diamond resorts which I've read have arrangements with cuba to bring supplies from Canada, ie, sunwing resorts? Cant wait to watch more videos. Thanks!

[@Finding-Fish]

I’ve also heard that but I want to see for myself this year

[@pearly719]

❤❤

[@lynnstocker2931]

Biggest shortage we encountered Grand Memories Cayo Santa Maria Mar 5-12 no toilet paper! Never even got a roll in our room despite asking housekeeping. Still had a great time because I had packed TP & wipes but I couldn’t imagine if I hadn’t.

[@Finding-Fish]

good for you!!! i always pack it!!! i'm glad it never spoiled you holiday Mike

[@stephaniejagroop1458]

Hi! I love your videos and just returned from flamenco because of your videos! Can you please do a video of Grand Aston? A lot of people were asking about this resort. Thank you ♡ -steph

[@Finding-Fish]

Which one Paradon Is on the list but it’s constantly sold out!!!

[@PenguinOldTimeRadio]

just returned from Flamenco Jan 27th...what did you think of the resort, Steph?

[@draganjerinic8384]

Yes, but, I don't remember what I eat that day. I was told in hospital, it's a water, they knew...I have sensitive stomach, other people eat, drink what ever, no problem..I start using Ducoral, my dr. told me, and, no problem. I was drinking and brushing my teeth,from botled water 💧. I never had problem after. Cuba has most beautiful beaches . Mosquitoes, well...they eat me once, very good 😢😅

[@Finding-Fish]

Okay I always stay away from fresh fruits or anything handled by humans!!! Glad your good

[@MollyMadeCM]

Last time we went to caribe I think my boyfriend single handedly drank all their rum cause they ran out around day 4😂 came back though of course

[@Finding-Fish]

Lol MollyMadeCM Lol Mike

[@Dutchy-1168]

I love to bring good shoes to Cuba … but it’s hard because they take up so much space in my luggage ‼️‼️🇨🇦

[@Finding-Fish]

Absolutely love your thoughts

[@johnnyT.700]

Gonna be a good day. Keep up the honest reviews. Mike what camera or cameras are you using to video your adventures? And what size video format are you uploading them? Thanks.

[@Finding-Fish]

Some times Gopro Up load 1080p works best, keeps files sizes manageable Currently in Thailand..Videos out soon Mike

[@Blr6921]

Another informative video Mike. I am a Frequent CSM visitor. Also Love the Memories Caribe Cayo Coco. Not a fan of the beach at Grand Aston. Water shoes are a must there. Looking at Cayo Cruz for the next trip. Check it out. Looking forward to your review

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks for sharing WE LOVE memories Caribe CC too. ya the Grand Aston beach was OK, Let me know how CAYO CRUZ was when you get back!!! Mike

[@DonnaAlbrecht-g2p]

We love Cuba too 10 + trips, three trips in 2023. When are you going to Thailand? We have a trip planned Feb 23rd to March 10th this year.

[@Finding-Fish]

Heading out Saturday- March 1 have fun

[@tomb9658]

Long pants and shoes in the evening. Forget sandals. Bug spray. The mosquitos go for ankles.

[@Finding-Fish]

Totally

[@NenMar7]

When any resort says all inclusive, does that mean you can have food and drinks from any place of the resort like buffet, diamond or beach bar, pool section if any etc.. And another question please, is the tap water drinkable in cuba. Appreciated, thanks!

[@Finding-Fish]

When your at a All Inclusive, And you pay regular(NO UpGrades) you get everything the resort offers... If you upgrade top Diamond!!!you get everything Plus Diamond upgrade. All bars, Beach bars, Restaurants Tap water in Cuba is questionable, Just drink Bottled Water

[@theresapalmer-s8p]

That hint about the coins is huge. Still saw people changing Cdn money into pesos and we told them NO!!!! don't do it. And I agree 1000% about taking care to give stuff to those who do not directly serve the customers.

[@Finding-Fish]

Thanks for watching and your comment!! Totally agree Mike

[@johnferrari3984]

Hi Mike, I have a question about locals vacationing in Cayo Santa Maria. It seems this location is over run by local guests. Have you noticed many local tourists in the Grand Aston? Thank you for your videos.

[@Finding-Fish]

Yes have have seen locals at every resort but nothing like the amount during COVID!!! 30 percent Cuban!!! More and more Cubans with money are travelling

[@johnferrari3984]

Is it only in Cayo Santa Maria that you have noticed a greater amount of locals. What about Cayo Coco area? thank you!@@Finding-Fish

[@justheart3369]

Good morning Mike, NIK here we are planning to go because to Cuba Santa Marie Iberostar Coral Enchonachos because of your video we greatly appreciate your review. Is there anything else you can tell us about the resort?

[@Finding-Fish]

Sounds great! Just ran into Subscribes that went to the Coral Level!!!they LOVED IT, that was LAST WEEK!!! Enjoy Mike

[@justheart3369]

Awesome thanks

[@Rose-dy5bb]

Great video as always!

[@Finding-Fish]

I appreciate that Mike

[@gordonsanders1486]

Thanks for another great video Mike!! I have a question about ice in drinks. I know there are no guarantees but generally are we safe to have ice in our drinks? We are off to Mystique Casa Perla next Tuesday and every time We view one of your Cuba videos We get more and more excited!!

[@Finding-Fish]

Good question! I have never had a problem with ICE, You could also ask if THE ICE IS SAFE!!! thats a great question and when i ask, I'm told that the resort filter all water(ICE)...

[@Finding-Fish]

you will have a great time

[@gordonsanders1486]

@@Finding-Fish Thanks Mike!!

[@archeu1994]

Im probably going to Las Dunas in a couple weeks. Did you visit it recently, did you like it ?

[@Finding-Fish]

I walked by it a few weeks back!!!! it might be on the list this 2024

[@jasoncampeau2948]

First time in Cuba was April 5th, we didn’t have crazy expectations and personality I was surprised it was really good, I’ve had worse food in DR so to each their own

[@Finding-Fish]

Jason!!!!! Cuba can always Surprise if you let it!! Mike

[@alasoua6900]

Great video, thanks for your honest feedback, this is really very helpful 🙏 one question if I may: Based on your experiences, how long does the water/power shortages last ? Is it more hours or days ? And what is the frequency ? Is it more once a week or could it be few times a week ? IMO these are the only critical shortages especially when you travel with kids and there should be more visibility on it from the travel agencies

[@Finding-Fish]

Power/water, outages very sporadic, not lasting very long! It doesn’t affect my travel and holiday because I expect it could happen (cheap vacation) but with the amount I usually pay I have to expect ups and downs. And I’m good with it!!! For travel companies, that’s why they offer such big discount to Cuba compared to Mexico and DR. Hope this helps Mike

[@alasoua6900]

@@Finding-Fish thanks for the answer 🙏

[@campwhatnot]

Hey Mike. Another great video!

[@Finding-Fish]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks Campwhatnot

[@adriancampbell8310]

Good morning Fish. :) One last question, did you say you get the best deals thru Trip Central. I'm seeing the odd deal at there site but there's not much. Is there another good site to use? I'm also wondering if it's best to book the trip a day or 2 before leaving? Any help here would be great. Many thanks.

[@Finding-Fish]

its hard to find DEALS right now!!!!its High Season!!!!so the resorts and airlines don’t need to reduce fairs!!! but yes TripCentral, Sell-offs

[@adriancampbell8310]

@@Finding-Fish Thanks again Mike. I will probably book something last minute a few days prior to going, which will be either the last week of February or the first week of March.

[@debracook8859]

The administration has a system for conserving electricity. The power outages are allocated grid by grid so all people share the cuts and have access to the outage schedule so businesses and households can better manage their usage. Heavily populated areas have always had systematic power and water cuts - Cuba has been managing shortages since the embargo was imposed in 1962, and more recently during the Special Period in the 90s caused by the dissolution of the Soviet Union, one of Cubas most important trade partners. What Cuba is experiencing now is difficult if not impossible for the Canadian resort seeker to understand. And since the SP, the current period of supply depression is the worst. People aren’t just hungry. People are starving. I know resorters don’t want to hear this, and it makes them uncomfortable, but the egg issue doesn’t only affect the resort. It has been an issue with the Cuban for decades. The ration (when I was last there in 2022) was for two eggs per person per month. If vacationers want endless supply, go elsewhere and let the Cubans have the eggs. Foreigners will seldom see the suffering because Cubans are dignified and proud and have become really expert at concealing the truths of their struggles. This horrid lack isn’t new to them. There is a reason nearly 425,000 Cubans left for the United States alone in 2022 and 2023. And more left to live in other countries in Europe and South America. The workforce (people between the ages of 20 and 40) are bleeding out of the country. They deserve a better life. They deserve opportunity, and personally after living in Cuba half of every year prior to Covid, I can attest that the country is becoming the land of retired people (many of whom have been called back to work). It’s heartbreaking and I’m simply not confident that Cuba’s travel & tourism industry is going to remedy the problems. Personally I refuse to go back until stability is established and my dear friends have food and water along with the services they deserve. I can’t justify eating their precious eggs so I can indulge and enjoy their beaches. It feels wrong to me. Just my opinion. Sorry if this offends. But investing huge amounts of resources to keep mostly empty resorts open doesn’t make much sense to me. Give the fuel and food to the remaining Cubans. Tomorrow fuel costs in Cuba will triple. It’s truly diar. I’m saying all of this because it has to be understood. This is the truth. 😢

[@Alehandrovna]

Hi! How do you find such cheap deals? We are living outside of Ontario, in Québec. We tried several options with different sites but never found something cheaper then 800-900 for 4 days. Can you tell us you secret :) ? By the way, you are making great videos about Cuba.

[@Finding-Fish]

IT’s luck And I’m looking every day Early morning 4-5:am And thank you Mike

[@EMmediafilms]

Do many resorts have milk alternatives? Like even coconut milk?

[@Finding-Fish]

I have not seen Coconut Milk in My travels to Cuba!!!

[@ivardz8161]

what about wheater ?

[@jenniferfisher4912]

Not too many questions about the weather- people look that up and the weather is typically good- obviously hotter in the summer and rain usually comes and goes just as fast.

[@kcarvalho3139]

Hi Mike, have you been to the Iberostar Bellavista Varedero any review?

[@Finding-Fish]

Not yet!

[@kcarvalho3139]

Thanks for the reply Mike..love your channel.

[@whatdoinamemyself3151]

Hi mike, I am planning to go to cuba Iberostar Ensenachos in may, how do I get a good deal for the resort and a good price? When should i book it?

[@Finding-Fish]

If your going in May, wait until around Easter, prices should start to fall after March break

[@janetteellingham4982]

Cuba is making millions of dollars from the tourist trade. Why is the quality of food not improving. It was a real challenge for me to find things to eat when I was there with my 2 kids. If they prepared more of their national dishes it would probably improve the taste a lot. Everything other than bread, pizzas and omelettes is awful. That’s why the lack of tourists. Loved the people, the beaches and the resorts but the food is a downer

[@Finding-Fish]

yes!!!

[@franktriantafillos5197]

you must hate cuba lol

[@Finding-Fish]

LOL Frank lol