Prior to the 1980s, Cayo Largo was less frequently visited and, in fact, was not a home to permanent residents at the time, but the tides turned quickly when it became a sought-after destination for many all-inclusive resorts and earned its rightful place as one of the sunniest and most beautiful Cuban destinations for tropical vacations.

What brings vacationers back to Cayo Largo time and time again is the strong sense of community found there, and all the ways travellers can connect with its local culture.

Kindness is an open door

What makes Cayo Largo a repeat destination for Canadians is quite often the friendships they form with resort staff and locals during their time spent there. Creating a welcoming environment for all, regardless of age, race, or sexual orientation, is at the forefront of the experience Cubans offer to anyone who visits their island.

In addition to Spanish and English, many resort staff also speak French, making the island truly an inclusive experience for all Canadians from every province. They truly believe in an open-door policy – even for their own homes. Should travellers find their way off the resort to Isla del Sol, a small village about eight kilometres from the resort zone, they may encounter homes with their front doors wide open, a show of trust that is indicative of the strength of community in Cuba.

The streets are full of life

Walking through the local streets of Cayo Largo, travellers are sure to experience the thriving social scene this culture is known for. For some Canadians, dominoes may be a game they look back fondly on but, for Cubans, it’s a favourite pastime and now considered a universal game played by all genders, classes, and generations. It’s quite common that while off the resort, travellers will see locals playing dominoes while sharing a bottle of rum and, nearby, children playing soccer in the streets.

In Cayo Largo, all visitors are welcomed and encouraged to join in on both, however locals are equally content to simply connect in conversation over a fresh Cuban cigar.

Honouring Mother Nature

 Cayo Largo is unique because it offers travellers several resorts along the coast to choose from while prioritizing the preservation of its natural state, something incredibly important to Cuban culture. This dedication has made Cayo Largo world-renowned for its beaches, where even the most occupied are still pristine, and its prime snorkelling and diving conditions, with over 30 dive sites to explore the coral reef.

To learn more about the region’s efforts to protect its natural resources, sustainable fishing practices and wildlife conservation programs, vacationers are encouraged to engage with the locals. They’ll experience first-hand how proud the community is of maintaining the beauty of Cayo Largo and its thriving ecosystem.

Sunwing Vacations/Airlines offers weekly flights to Cayo Largo from select gateways across Canada, including Toronto and Montreal.