It’s really good to have some other activities planned when travelling, especially when you’re visiting a resort that you don’t plan on leaving. When we go to Cuba, for example, it’s no big deal to pop into Havana for a day or book an excursion. Places like Mexico, on the other hand, can be more dangerous for tourists so we’re not always eager to go out and about.

Things to do at a Resort

When you’re visiting a resort, look for these activities to check out while you’re there. Some of them can be found at almost any resort hotel, while others might only apply to certain ones.

The best way to find out what’s available is to talk to the resort concierge, your travel agent, or even the front desk.

Free Shows

Every resort I’ve stayed in so far has had some kind of entertainment. Whether it’s a small concert put on by a local band or a play, there’s usually some kind of free entertainment to be watched. The most common type of free show you’re going to see is music, which can be a great way to absorb some local culture without leaving the resort.

Make sure you find out the schedule beforehand and see if there’s any reservations required.

Shopping

Most resorts have a few shopping options that you can check out without having to go out and about. This is great if you’re not familiar with the area, or just generally stay on resort.

Most of the time, resort shopping is designed for tourists and it’s going to be more expensive than local markets, so keep that in mind. Still, you can get a lot of neat souvenirs right in your resort gift shop and if you take out the cost of transportation, they’re probably not much more expensive.

Another cool thing that some resorts do is allow select locals to set up mini markets within the resort to sell handmade items.

Fancy Dinner

A lot of resorts have different tiers of restaurants. Usually the buffet is for everyone, but there’s often certain dining options that are reservation only for dinner. Some will have an extra cost, but most offer at least one dinner for free if you’re all inclusive.

Make sure you book your dinner reservation on the first day of your stay because they tend to fill up quickly.

Nightclub or Nightlife

A lot of modern resorts have nightclubs now, which is great for adults who want to party a bit while they’re away. If you’re at an all inclusive admission is usually included, and so are your drinks.

Some resorts also offer evening parties that are for all ages, so if you’re travelling with kids that’s a great option.

Classes or Lessons

There are so many of these it’s almost impossible to list all the options you might find. Most commonly, though, resorts will have: Yoga, dance lessons (including for couples), art classes, fitness classes, snorkeling, surfing, and stuff for the kids.

Some of these lessons are drop in, others you’ll need to pre register for. Most of the time, though, they’re included with your stay. Make sure you’re aware of the schedule and location of anything you want to attend.

Free Rentals

Most resorts have a bunch of equipment that guests can rent out, free of charge. Surfboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, bikes, and sports equipment like balls or racquets.

A lot of people don’t realize what options are out there, so definitely check with your resort to see what’s available and what the process is for reserving equipment.

Make Some Friends

On our last trip we managed to suddenly become best friends after a night of drinking with meeting some fellow Canadians. There’s something about the relaxed environment of a resort that just makes it easier to start conversations with other people who are hanging around.

Since people visit resorts from all over, it’s also a fun way to meet people from different parts of the world without having to travel all over.

Check Out Unique Amenities

Every resort is different, but most offer something unique in each one. Some have wellness centers with a gym or even massages (sometimes one is included!). Others might have unique entertainment options like arcades or movie theatres.

Whether it’s big stuff like its own golf course or checking out their in house coffee shop, you’re likely to find something fun to do if you’ve booked the right resort.

Explore

Some of the most fun I’ve had on vacation is just walking around the resort. There’s usually so much to see and often secret areas that you never even knew were there. Make sure to scope out every restaurant on your adventure, too, just in case.

You probably will also find information about your local area or extra services you can book. Make sure you check those out early in your stay. Some things, like a massage or special meal, can happen right in your room!

Hopefully you’ll have fun trying out these things to do at a resort. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with lying on the beach for a week too! Get that relaxation in while you can.

The post Things to do at a Resort Besides the Pool or Beach appeared first on Travel and Adventure Life.

Here’s 10 Things to Know About Varadero, Cuba

If you’re deciding whether or not to book a Varadero vacation, we’ve got you covered. Here’s all the things to know about Varadero.

1. What is There to do in Varadero?

There are three main elements to Varadero that make it a good week long destination, at the very least. First of which is the remarkably photogenic white sand beaches, which stretch along the Western side of the peninsula. Most all-inclusive resorts have direct access to the beach, which feature a wide variety of water sports, excursions and sunbathing opportunities.

The resorts themselves compliment the beauty of these waters with incredibly friendly staff, and endless activities. Most resorts are all-inclusive, so you can enjoy food and beverages to your heart’s content! Lastly is the town itself, with a welcoming and bustling night scene, restaurants, bars and markets to explore and enjoy. Next to the largest park in the area, Parque Josone, there’s also a legendary Beatles themed bar! Not to mention the Varadero Golf Club, as well.

2. There’s Resorts to fit Every Budget

Seriously. The resorts range dramatically in quality and price, but what you’ll always get is incredible hospitality. We’ve stayed at a mid-range resort that satisfied all of our needs, and gave us direct access to the gorgeous beaches. On the higher end, you’ll see more al’a carte restaurants (reservation dinners), spas and bars if that’s what you’re looking for. No matter what resort you go for, most of the beaches are open to tourists so you don’t have to worry about where your booking puts you.

3. CUC is King

CUC is the convertible currency allotted to tourists available for exchange. It’s equivalency is measured in USD, as opposed to the Cuban peso to prevent inflation. In Varadero, locals paid in CUC can exchange it for Cuban pesos, which makes their tourist industry thrive especially well here. Ensure that you’re always receiving CUC in change (marked on the bills), as you can’t spend Cuban pesos, or exchange them upon departure.

Lastly, you should only exchange what you expect to use. The exchange rate backwards is lower, so allot enough for tips and extras and take advantage of front-desk currency exchange in most resorts.

4. Varadero is Completely Self-Contained

If you’re just getting your feet wet travelling, Varadero is unique in that it’s cordoned off from the rest of Cuba. It’s designated as a tourist enclave, heavily policed and accessed through a checkpoint for tourists, workers and vendors only. Locals have limited access to the beaches, town and resorts of Varadero. On one hand it’s far more tourist saturated, yet also chock full of amenities if you’re looking for an easy and carefree beach vacation.

5. Pace Yourself at All-Inclusive Bars

Drinking in an all-inclusive resort in Varadero, Cuba is an experience like none other. If anything, it seems like sometimes they try to thin out the mix with the booze. Saying the cocktails are boozy would be an understatement. At one resort, they stretched a can of sprite we bought for mix by using vodka to thin it out between our cups! If you don’t call that good service, then stick to the beer!

Speaking of which, the beer you’ll usually find in two varieties. There two domsetic brands you’ll see. Cristal, a light lager, is dangerously drinkable as well as very crisp and enjoyable. Bucanero is a darker ale which, and I hate to sound disparaging, is usually served after the Cristal runs out. Spirits run free, and the beer does too!

6. 4G Cell Service is Pretty Much Everywhere

Recent years saw the first time most Cubans could access cell networks. Previously, they relied on closed wifi hotspots. That’s great news for tourists who can look forward to making Instagram posts from the beach, and not the resort lobby! Our experience was consistently good, with the 4G connection running more reliably than the pay-per-use wifi.

7. You Should Enjoy the Unreal Sunsets and Sunrises

Varadero is in many respects a tourist trap. Quite literally by its very conception. That being said, the view of these beaches is indescribably serene. Take the opportunity to venture out towards the water during sunset and sunrise for some truly Instagram-worthy pictures. You won’t regret it!

8. Go Off-Resort or A la’ Carte for Good Food

I’m sure we’ll touch on resort food in Cuba at a later date but suffice to say, it’s nothing to write home about. Lackluster buffets with endless rows of unnamed sauces, surprisingly mysterious, yet bland, variations of chicken and pork and a smattering of American style cuisine leave much to be desired. In short, you’re paying for the beach, not the buffets.

Off resort you’ll delve into a wonder of Cuban delicacies, available from a variety of restaurants and bars throughout town. There’s plenty to taste, as local haunts feed the families that work in the tourist industry. As well as vacationing Cubans who are relegated to certain hotels on the Hicacos peninsula. Did we mention the lovably tacky Beatles bar? Seriously, you’ve got to check it out!

9. Varadero Has It’s Own Airport

Can you fly directly to Varadero? The answer is yes! A short drive from Varadero itself is it’s own dedicated, fully-equipped international airport! Complete with a shuttle through your preferred travel agency, Varadero international airport is your first point of contact for currency exchange and transportation directly to the resorts. If you’re travelling without a tour operator, taxi drivers will be lined up ready to give you the ride of your life. Usually in an iconic classic car.

10. The Excursions Make the Trip!

Complete your stay on the ‘Cuban Riviera’ with some unforgettable and exciting excursions. There’s everything from jeep rental tours, to catamaran trips, snorkeling with dolphins and sailing! Each resort has a wealth of information on what activities are available near you, not to mention your tour operator as well. If your’e on the fence, it’s really a great way to earn that lounge time on the beach, and get some awesome pictures! Take advantage of affordable and exciting adventures while staying in Varadero.

Varadero is a sight for sore eyes, especially if you’re escaping a winter-not-so-wonderful-land! The beaches are some of the best in the world, and the hospitality is second to none. Have these 10 things to know about Varadero helped with your travel planning? Let us know!

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What booking last minute travel is really like

As a full time blogger I don’t have to worry too much about when it comes to my work schedule. I can basically work anywhere, and let’s be honest… Travelling is work when you write about your trips!

Recently I managed to score a great last minute deal to Cuba. The flight departure time was less than a week from when I booked! Sure, it’s not quite as spontaneous as just picking up and going – but it was something I did without any prior planning.

My experience booking last minute travel

First of all you have to have a job with some flexibility. Freelancing, retirement, or any job where you’re your own boss are pretty safe bets to be able to sneak away on a sudden vacation. Some employers are great, others not so much. Be aware of your schedule before booking any trip!

Here’s the good (and bad) that I discovered from my last minute vacation.

No anticipation

A huge part of travelling is the anticipation. Having a trip on the horizon, even if it’s far into the future, makes people happier. Since I booked last minute, I only had a week to get excited for my trip. In fact, I didn’t start getting really excited until a couple days before departure.

Lots to do beforehand

In my case I had to scramble and clear up some work items on my plate before going. Besides that, there was also a bit of shopping that needed to be done. (You have to have a new bathing suit!) Not to mention packing.

Booking last minute travel was a good deal

This is one advantage of booking closer to the departure date: the prices were great. I booked with a travel agent because the rates were the same and she managed to get me a room upgrade at no extra cost, too. Turns out we had the last booking available on that flight!

Helps with that spontaneity itch

I love being spontaneous so booking a last minute vacation was an exciting spur of the moment thing. It’s not often you can just decide on a whim to go somewhere so you have to take advantage of those chances when they come up!

No time for research

Personally I like to research before I go on vacation. For this trip, I did limited research both into the resort and where we were going. Thankfully I had family who’d been before. Plus online reviews were super helpful in making my last minute resort decision!

Another thing I like to do when going to a foreign country is learn some of their language. Of course you can’t learn every language with limited free time, but you can at least brush up on some common phrases. I speak French fluently and can sort of understand Spanish, but I would have liked to brush up on it a bit more before going.

Booking last minute travel made me feel really fortunate

One thing that’s hard to value is how a trip makes someone feel. By being able to pack up and go I was reminded how much I love my job. And who doesn’t enjoy making their social media followers envious, even just a little bit? There’s something special about a last minute trip that differs from planned travel.

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Should You Check Your Suitcase

A lot of people opt to bring both a carry on bag and a suitcase. This is a good way to eliminate some of the problems on this list, but not everything. Plus you have to try and juggle two pieces of luggage throughout the airport!

We can’t solve your problem for you, but we can help you decided if you should check your suitcase or bring a carry on. Here’s some things to consider:

Are there any extra fees?

A lot of airlines are changing the way they do business. For some, only the carry on is free. Other airlines, especially discount ones, charge you for the carry on and the checked bag, and only allow a small personal item. Usually the price for a checked bag is steep so this can be a real part of your decision making.

Tip: check the airline’s checked bag policy and pricing. If you do opt to pay for a checked bag it’s usually cheaper to do it at booking or online than going to the check in counter.

Can you fit everything into your carry on?

Carry on bags are a lot smaller than the maximum sizes for checked luggage. If you’re planning a long trip then you might not be able to fit everything into a smaller suitcase. Pre-pack and make sure that everything you need fits inside your luggage before you make plans.

Tip: If you really want to just take carry on luggage you can stretch your space by packing some items in your personal item that fits under the seat (like a backpack) as well as wearing your bulkiest items on the flight.

Do you need to pack items that can’t go on a plane?

Certain things aren’t allowed in your carry on but are in your checked luggage. Most notably are larger bottles of liquids or gels. Everything from a souvenir bottle of wine to your favorite shampoo brand might have to be skipped if you don’t check a bag. Even travel sized liquids and gels are limited in quantity.

Tip: If you’re going somewhere that provides these items or you can easily buy them that might be an option too.

Should you check your suitcase if you have a connecting flight?

If you have a connecting flight, especially if it’s a close connection time, having to lug a small suitcase through the airport can be quite the plane. Especially if you’re travelling with kids or someone who needs extra help. Having your luggage forwarded to your destination makes these stops lighter.

Tip: If you want to keep your luggage with you during a connecting flight consider bringing a backpack rather than a small suitcase.

Will you need things during your travels?

If you’re travelling with young kids it makes sense to bring a carry on. Even if you’re already checking a bag! Make sure you have enough diapers and formula, and anything else you might need for your kids if you’re stuck on a plane or on a layover.

Tip: Pack your essentials in a carry on bag or at least a small backpack or purse. Don’t forget to include extra medication if you take it.

Do you want the hassle of bringing luggage through the airport?

Security is always worse with a carry on bag. You have to pull out liquids and gels and it’s one more thing to put through the scanner. While you’re waiting to board, you have to lug your carry on with you through the airport. Some people don’t mind, others find it annoying.

Tip: Pack all your liquids and gels on the top of your bag so they’re easier to pull out through security.

How quickly do you want to get off the plane?

Waiting for your checked bag to come out feels like forever. Especially if you’re in a hurry to get to your destination. Taking a carry on avoids this and makes getting of the plane (and on your way) way faster.

Tip: Some airlines gate check larger carry on bags. These sometimes can take a minute to arrive, but it’s still faster than checking a suitcase.

Is lost luggage a concern?

Although it’s rare, lost luggage does happen sometimes. Especially if your flight has multiple connections. If your luggage is essential, the safest way to make sure it arrives in one piece is to keep it with you.

Tip: Split your packing between a carry on and suitcase if it doesn’t all fit so you’re covered in an emergency.

Should you check yours suitcase with travel companions?

One more thing to consider here is your travelling companions. If you’re going with family or part of a tour group, other people might have checked luggage in your party. That means you’ll still be stuck waiting for their bags even if yours came off quick.

Tip: Coordinate with your party and see what everyone else is doing to help you make your decision.

Should you check your suitcase?

I’ve done it all; checked bag, carry on suitcase, and just a backpack. By far the checked bag was most convenient. The small suitcase was nice for shorter trips. And the backpack was pretty easy too.

I usually make my decision based on where I’m going, what I’m doing, and what the costs are to check or carry on a bag.

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