we visited in march and were never in the caribbean before, but had been told not to have high expectations. We brought small gifts to give staff that are not available otherwise and were very grateful to receive. I tried to make sure that anyone I had received service from got a t- shirt, pen, shoes, shampoo, children's clothes, or whatever I wasn't going to need to take back. I made sure I wrote a note and said what the item was and that it was a gift for them. No need to steal as they got little money tips and bigger gifts that I was grateful not to have to drag home. I never heard about anyone missing things when I was there.We received an incredible experience that I will never forget and encourage others to go and see for themselves with open eyes. It's a 3 star place and I was well taken care of as I use a cane to get around. I was offered a room on the bottom floor which was acceptable. Navigating to the beach over the sand dune was no big deal and the beach was cleaned by a work crew every morning to eliminate what came in from the tide. The salt water pool was very clean and felt great. Security made one feel comfortable after I got used to them by the 2nd day and then never gave them a second thought except to say hello on my way to and from the beach. Staff worked often very long hours yet were very pleasant. I was amused with the nursing station. The full massage was great and very inexpensive! Our room was very large with a safe, fridge and a 2 liter bottle of water for each of us. Entertainment is pleasant with a 4 peice band and dancers later on in the evening. We were lucky to have the Havana Club there so we did get a definite upgrade of service and a spectacular show that impressed me. The building is needing some repairs but that is Cuba right. The food was very plain but I had been told to expect that so I wasn't surprised. The bread was great! The coffee is great at the bar in the morning if you can't wait for the dinning room to open up. I wasn't going to Cuba for the food. The free bus into Havana twice a day was a great deal considering the first day I paid $22. for the tour to Havana. Mind you it did give me a better understanding of things and where I was. I should have taken more tours as the guys who went seemed to really enjoy themselves. Bring some bug spray for the evenings as they can come out. They didn't bother me except for the one night. I would recommend bringing your own asprin , bandages,and other first aid products as it can be hit and miss. Batteries were hard to find at the local resort store so be sure to bring back up batteries for camera and maybe your own little flashlight just in case. You just can't expect them to have things that we take for granted. Get off the resort and you will understand things better. Go with an open mind and you will be paid back in culture and many great memories. Remember we are a guest in their country so give them a little respect.





