SANTIAGO DE CUBA — It’s easy to combine two Cuban destinations on one trip, as Hola Sun showed on its recent fam to Holguin and Santiago de Cuba.

The fam aimed to showcase the splendour of eastern Cuba – and to show off the ease of creating a two-destination vacation, thanks to Holguin and Santiago de Cuba’s proximity.

Hola Sun Holidays, the Cuba Specialist, treated fam participants to a two-for-one trip in style. For highlights from the Holguin portion of the trip, click here.

In Santiago de Cuba agents and media stayed at the Hotel Cubanacan Imperial, located right in the heart of the city, the country’s second largest. The hotel’s colonial architecture sets a historic tone, plus there’s a rooftop garden with bar that hosts live music and offers scenic views of the city. The hotel is also home to a restaurant, a snack bar, and a lobby bar.

The Iberostar Imperial is just a short walk from Céspedes Park, the main square surrounded by the former City Hall, the House of Diego Velázquez, and the old Club San Carlos. There’s also the Metropolitan Cathedral at the head of the square – it’s a sight to see, especially at night when it’s all lit up. Just off the square is Casa de La Trova ‘Pepe Sánchez’, a live music venue replete with high-energy dancing and plenty of friendly Cubans looking to strike up conversations.

Another popular site to visit on Santiago de Cuba’s coast is the fortress known as Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, or colloquially, ‘El Morro.’ Built in 1638, its original purpose was to defend against attacks by pirates and privateers, hence the Museum of Piracy found within its walls. It also later served as a jail. Today this picturesque complex is open for exploration, serving as a memorial to the battles against pirates, anti-colonial struggles and the revolution. Visitors can dine next door at El Morro Restaurant, which offers stunning panoramic views of the fortress, city and bay.

For another authentic Cuban dining experience steps from Iberostar Imperial, clients can visit Bodeguita del Medio and leave their signature, or tag, on the walls before they leave.

Views of the bay from El Morro

Santiago de Cuba provides travellers with an opportunity to discover another, perhaps more off the beaten path, destination in Cuba. It can also be an option for clients who feel they’ve adequately covered Havana and Varadero and are looking for a new kind of Cuban experience.

Hola Sun’s package and hotel options ensure clients will make the most of their time when they’re here. For assistance planning and booking a Santiago de Cuba getaway for clients, visit HolaSunHolidays.ca.