Our Sunny and Relaxing Cuban Honeymoon + 6 Months of Marriage

It’s hard to believe, but this month marks six months since Sam and I tied the knot!

It has gone by so quickly that I actually forgot to share the few snaps I took during the honeymoon, so our six month anniversary seemed like a good time as any, am I right?

So let’s start off with the destination – we ended up in CUBA! I was initially set on Uzbekistan (a little unusual, I know), but in the end it didn’t seem like a very reasonable spot considering we had just come back to Canada after 15 months of galavanting around the world. Since I had won a trip to Cuba earlier in the year (wohoo!), Sam and I decided to turn that into our honeymoon and we headed down to Cayo Santa Maria for a full week of beach-bumming.

Our Relaxing Trip To Cuba: Not Exactly Backpacking To The Max

I wish I could tell you we spent the week crisscrossing the island and exploring little colonial towns (isn’t that what travel bloggers are supposed to do?), but the truth is we didn’t leave the resort. Normally we’re the complete opposite – I’m talking about that “spring out of bed, grab the day pack, and head out for a full day of exploring” attitude – but by the time we got to Cuba we just wanted to relax.

Our days started out with a tropical breakfast, then a few hours down at the beach, I’d have my nose in a book, we’d grab some lunch, spend a couple of hours at the pool, return to the beach, and next thing you knew it was time for dinner.

I’m going to go ahead and say Cuba has the best beaches in the Caribbean.

A bit of a surreal sunset.

The one morning we got up to watch the sunrise.

And now on to the wisdom. What exactly have I learned during the past 6 months of married life?

I married a closet chef.

Yes, the boy can cook but I only discovered that about 5 months into married life. I have a feeling he was waiting for my “domestic instincts” to kick in, but when that didn’t happen, the choice was either starve or start cooking, and start cooking he did. Sam has created some amazing pasta sauces with pears and kiwis – it sounds weird, but it’s magic. AND he likes to go grocery shopping (which I don’t do) – I sure hit the jackpot with that one!

Divide and conquer is the key to doing house chores.

So, I’m not the neatest person, and neither is Sam. This wasn’t a huge surprise since we’ve travelled together. I’ve seen our suitcases explode and the belongings scatter themselves the minute we check into a hotel or guesthouse… That being said, neither of us wanted our new apartment to look like a pigsty, so we’ve split the duties. He cooks, I do laundry. He does the dishes, I do the vacuuming. It works.

A little space is good.

Sam and I spend more time together than your average couple. When we were backpacking we spent 24 hours a day together, and now that we’re both in school completing the same degree, well, we probably still spend close to 24 hours a day together. I’m used to his company and I like having him around, but I’m also one of those quiet contemplators who likes a little space and silence. So we’ve learned to give each other that space; that could mean working in different rooms, or one person going over to the library (and that’s usually Sam because I’m allergic to winter).

It’s important not to get lost in the ‘we’.

I think this is especially important for the introverts. I prefer small gatherings or one-on-one chats with people, so when you throw me into a big social setting I tend to feel like a fish out of water. What do I do? I stick with Sam because he’s chatty, which means I have to chat to less strangers. I know, bad, very bad! Because I’m well aware of my habit, I’ve been purposely trying to push myself out of my comfort zone. Case in point: I recently attended a travel networking event in Washington DC on my own (ha! sounds so easy when I type it). The first 10 minutes were brutal, as is to be expected when you walk into a room full of strangers, but I survived and I even made a few new friends by the end of the evening.

And those are my little nuggets of wisdom. Not a particularly long list, but hey, it’s only been 6 months!

Happy anniversary, Sam!

Cayo Santa María Honeymoon Guide: Tips, Planner and More

Where to Go in Cuba for a Beachy Honeymoon

Cayo Santa María totally delivered for us—powdery white sand, electric-turquoise water, and resort-to-beach living. But Cuba is spoiled for shores. A quick vibe check to help you choose:

Choosing Your Resort Like a Pro

Not all “all-inclusive” is created equal. Think through your vibe and then match the property.

Adults-Only vs. Family-Friendly vs. Split Resorts

• Adults-Only: Quiet pools, candlelit dinners, spa-first energy.
• Family-Friendly: Bigger buffets, livelier entertainment, more activity choices.
• Split Properties: Shared grounds with dedicated adults-only zones.

Room Categories Cheat Sheet

• Garden View: Budget-friendly, quieter, lush mornings.
• Ocean View: Sunrise coffee with a horizon—worth the premium if you’ll use your balcony a lot.
• Swim-Up / Preferred Club: Instant pool; private check-ins, lounge access, or upgraded mini-bars may apply.

What “All-Inclusive” Usually Includes vs. Extras

When to Visit + Weather Cheat Sheet

• Dry season: Nov–Apr. Sunny, breezy, dreamy. Peak holiday pricing around Dec–Feb.
• Shoulder sweet spot: Late Apr–early Jun. Warm water, fewer crowds.
• Wet/hurricane season: Jun–Nov (most activity Aug–Oct). Many couples still go; build flexibility, consider trip insurance, and watch forecasts.
• Sea temperatures: Warm year-round; the “ahhh” factor is strong.

A 7-Day, Blissed-Out Cayo Santa María Honeymoon (Zero-Rush Itinerary)

Day 1 – Arrive + Exhale
Check in, snag dinner reservations, walk the beach barefoot at sunset, then sleep like you invented vacation.

Day 2 – Slow Mornings + Ocean Therapy
Coffee + balcony + book. Beach cabana time. Dip, nap, repeat. Optional: couples massage late afternoon.

Day 3 – Pools, Pastels, & Piñas
A lazy pool crawl (shaded loungers, swim-up bar). Try the house cocktail. Sunset toes-in-the-sand photos.

Day 4 – Mini-Adventure (If You Want One)

• Option A: Catamaran & snorkel cruise (half day).
• Option B: Old town Remedios + Santa Clara culture loop (Che monument, colonial squares).
• Option C: Stay in resort bliss and upgrade to an à-la-carte tasting menu.

Day 5 – Wellness & Water
Morning stretch, light gym, hydrotherapy circuit (if the spa has one), sea swims in the afternoon.

Day 6 – Do-Nothing Day (the sacred one)
Silence the alarm. Long breakfast. Nap under a hat. Order that “one more piña colada.” Stargaze after dinner.

Day 7 – Memory Morning
Sunrise beach walk, final dips, a slow goodbye lunch. Pack with sand still on your ankles.

Romantic Mini-Excursions from Cayo Santa María

• Catamaran + Reef Snorkel: Sunshine, sea breeze, easy glide. Great for one “out and back” half day.
• Remedios (Town) + Santa Clara (City) Day: Colonial squares, local cafés, and history. Even if you adore the beach bubble, one culture day can be a beautiful contrast.
• Sandbar Hops: Many local boats whisk guests to shallow sandbars for those “standing in a sapphire sea” photos.

Spa, Wellness & Unplugging Ideas

• Couples massage + private jacuzzi (book ahead for sunset slots).
• DIY spa kit: Eye masks, mini essential oil roller, and your favorite sheet masks.
• Sunset stretch: 10-minute beach yoga works wonders after a book-and-lounger day.

What to Pack (Resort + Beach + “Just in Case”)

Beach & Pool

• Reef-safe SPF, lip balm with SPF, after-sun aloe
• Sun hat, rash guard, lightweight cover-up
• Collapsible insulated tumbler or reusable cup (keeps drinks frosty)
• Quick-dry towel or sarong (handy for off-resort outings)
• E-reader/hardcover + waterproof pouch

Evenings

• Breezy outfits; one “dress-up” look for photos/dinners
• Light sweater (A/C can be chilly)
• Comfy sandals (resort grounds can be vast)

Practicalities

• Universal adapter (Cuba uses a mix; many resorts have A/B sockets 110V, some outlets 220V—play it safe)
• Small first-aid kit: pain reliever, rehydration salts, motion sickness tabs, antihistamine
• Bug spray (esp. dusk)
• A few favorite snacks/condiments (peanut butter, hot sauce, seasoning packets—handy if you’re particular)
• Backup battery pack, charging cables
• Copies of important docs; offline maps

Money, Connectivity & Practicalities (No Surprises)

• Currency: Cuba’s local currency is the CUP. Resorts commonly accept tips in small bills of EUR or USD (ask at your property). ATMs and payment processing can be inconsistent, and US-issued bank cards often don’t work.
• Bring cash for tips and small extras; keep denominations small and tidy.
• Internet: Expect slower speeds. Many hotels have Wi-Fi; it may require a login or card. Download playlists, shows, books, and maps before you go.
• Power & water: Bottled drinking water is provided at resorts; don’t drink tap water. Charge devices safely with a surge-protected adapter if you have one.

Food & Drink: Managing Expectations (and Loving What You Get)

Cuban resorts can be wonderful, but supply chains can be quirky. A few ideas:

• Buffet strategy: Walk the full loop first; build plates around fresh grill stations, eggs-made-to-order, and seasonal fruit.
• Specialty dining: Book early; go for seafood or Cuban nights when offered.
• Snack insurance: If you’re snack-specific (granola bars, nuts), bring a small stash.
• Hydrate smart: Alternate cocktails with sparkling water or “limonada” over ice.

Cocktail Cliff Notes

• Mojito: Lime, mint, sugar, rum, soda—Cuban classic.
• Daiquiri: Light, limey, not the slushie you think (unless you request it).
• Piña Colada: Creamy pineapple daydream.
• Canchánchara: Honey, lime, rum; from Trinidad—order when you see it.

Getting There & Getting Around

• Cayo Santa María access: You’ll typically fly to Santa Clara (SNU), then cross the scenic pedraplén (causeway) by resort transfer.
• Transfers: Most package holidays include bus transfers; private transfers/taxis can be arranged for a quicker, quieter ride.
• Excursions: Book through trusted on-site desks or known operators; clarify what’s included (drinks, lunch, snorkeling gear) and timing.

Realistic Budgets (7 Nights, Two People)

Add extras: spa (from ),catamaran(), catamaran (),catamaran(–$$$), private dinner (), tips ($–/day).

Our Honest Pros & Cons of a Resort-Only Honeymoon

Pros

• Zero logistics once you arrive—true decompression
• Endless beach + pool time, nightly shows, no-thinking dinners
• Sunrises and sunsets framed by the same familiar shore (hello, ritual!)

Cons

• You can miss out on Cuba’s music-soaked towns & history unless you do a day trip
• Buffet fatigue is real—mix in à-la-cartes
• Internet speeds are awful or nonexistant

Pre-Trip Checklist (Print Me!)

• ☐ Valid passport + tourist card/entry requirements checked
• ☐ Comprehensive travel insurance (medical + trip interruption)
• ☐ Flights + transfers confirmed; dinner dress code noted
• ☐ Cash for tips (small denominations) + backup card(s)
• ☐ Sunscreen, hat, after-sun; bug spray
• ☐ Universal adapter + power bank; offline maps & entertainment downloaded
• ☐ Spa/romance add-ons pre-reserved (if must-have)
• ☐ Favorite snacks/condiments packed
• ☐ Emergency contacts + copies of documents stored separately
• ☐ Permission granted to be gloriously lazy

Honeymoon in Cuba Trip: 12-Question FAQ

Do I need a visa or tourist card to honeymoon in Cuba?

Most travelers need a tourist card (sometimes called a visa) to enter Cuba. Many airlines and tour operators include or sell it with your ticket; others require buying it in advance. Requirements vary by nationality, so confirm with your carrier or the Cuban consulate well before departure.

Can US citizens honeymoon in Cuba?

US regulations are unique. Tourist travel per se isn’t authorized; US visitors typically travel under one of the OFAC categories (e.g., “Support for the Cuban People”) and must follow specific rules, including avoiding certain entities. If you’re a US citizen or resident, consult current guidance and, if needed, get legal/agency advice before booking.

What currency should I bring for a resort stay?

Cuba’s local currency is the CUP. Resorts commonly accept tips in small EUR or USD bills (confirm with your property). ATMs and card payments can be inconsistent, and US-issued cards may not work. Bring enough cash for tips and extras, and keep bills crisp and small.

Is the drinking water safe?

Stick to bottled water at the resort (usually provided in rooms and restaurants). Avoid ice outside the resort and brush teeth with bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach. Hydration salts are smart to pack for hot beach days.

How reliable is the internet?

Plan for slow or spotty connectivity. or none at all Many resorts have Wi-Fi, sometimes with time-limited logins. Download playlists, series, books, and offline maps before you go. Treat it as a chance to truly unplug—your future selves will thank you.

When is the best time to honeymoon in Cuba?

Nov–Apr offers dry, breezy weather and peak sunshine. Late Apr–early Jun can be a lovely shoulder with fewer crowds. The rainy/hurricane season (Jun–Nov) still sees plenty of travelers; build flexibility and have travel insurance just in case.

Is Cuba safe for honeymooners?

Cuba is generally considered safe for visitors, especially in resort areas. Use common sense: keep valuables minimal, use hotel safes, and be mindful on excursions. Beaches and resorts are well-patrolled; always follow resort guidance and licensed tour operators.

What’s the dress code at dinner?

Most à-la-carte restaurants are resort casual-smart: sundresses, linen shirts, sandals (sometimes closed shoes requested for men), no wet swimwear, and avoid beach flip-flops at dinner. Buffets are more relaxed—still, a nice evening outfit elevates the mood.

Can I bring a drone?

Don’t. Drones are restricted and may be confiscated on arrival. If aerial shots are your dream, ask the resort if they have approved operators or vantage points for elevated photos.

What about medical care and travel insurance?

Bring comprehensive travel medical insurance (often required upon entry) and any prescriptions in original packaging. Resorts have on-site medical staff or can arrange transport to clinics. A small first-aid kit (plasters, antihistamines, pain reliever) is worth its weight in gold.

Will there be seaweed (sargassum)?

Sea conditions vary by season and location. The Atlantic-facing cays like Cayo Santa María often enjoy clean, clear water, but seaweed can appear anywhere depending on currents. Resorts typically groom their main beaches daily.

How many days should we plan?

For a pure relax-and-reconnect honeymoon, 7 nights is the sweet spot: you’ll fully decompress by day three, then float happily through the rest. If you want culture days (Havana, Trinidad, Santa Clara), consider 10–12 nights with a split: a few nights in a town, then the beach.