Background:
My family loves to cruise and have been on many cruises on many cruise lines. We find it is a great way for multigenerational trips with far-flung family as it allows everyone to go at their own pace and gives some breathing room. We can spend all the time we want together and find places to do our own thing as well. Food/drink/entertainment are provided….and it’s all prepaid, so that’s a plus too.
This particular trip to Cuba sort of evolved over the winter months as a fun idea. I have been to Havana previously on a research trip where I spent 10 days traveling/studying issues related to education, literacy, children and poverty. That trip, with 7 other colleagues, was completely overseen by a government guide who was with us all day, almost every day (save a some time in the evening for meals). It was a fascinating glimpse into the culture and a chance to really get some sense of the issues that Cuban nationals contend with and their sense of pride/identity surrounding the Revolution. Having had this fantastic experience, I was excited when it looked like there were opportunities to take my family back to see Cuba.
We were in inside rooms, but even compared to other NCL ships, these were small and not very efficient. There weren’t many shelves to place things, very narrow drawers and a lot of wasted space in the bathrooms. There were only two plugs in the whole room (this after we unplugged the TV) making it hard to charge iPads/phones, etc. Also, this stateroom was booked for four people, yet there was only the double bed, one bunk and a half-couch that pulled out into a 3/4 length bed. This meant that one teen had to sleep with her feet hanging off the edge. A big deal? No…but considering we paid for 4 people (not 3 3/4) it was a bit odd.
The sand was hot and plentiful....making it hard to walk around as there weren't many paths without sand to move about. The beach was rocky when one entered the water. Bring water shoes! The water was clear and wonderful and the drinks IN the ocean were a fun plus!