We took a short trip to Jardines del Rey, a group of tiny islands which sit just above Cuba’s northern coast. Known as the “Cuban Keys,” they are immortalized in two of Ernest Hemingway’s novels, “Islands in the Stream” and “The Old Man and the Sea.”
Hemingway spent a great deal of time camping, fishing and boating in the area during World War II and it’s easy to see why.
Cayo Coco, with its 13 miles of spectacular beaches, is named after the white ibis (coco), and is covered with thick patches of mangroves, palms and other lush vegetation. A variety of resorts—from the comfortable to the luxurious—line the coast. We chose the Melia Cayo Coco, the only 5 star property on the island.
Thoughtfully placed between the beach and a natural saltwater lagoon, this adults only resort has a large swimming pool, 4 restaurants, 5 bars, as well as scuba, bike, scooter, and car rental.
The resort offers massage facilities, but we chose to take an excursion to the Acuavida Thalasso Spa which overlooks the sea.
Programs are focused on wellness, relaxation, stress release and beauty, using a combination of high quality products with the natural elements of the marine ecosystem of the Caribbean Sea. We sipped cocktails at the sun drenched poolside bar and indulged ourselves with a mud bath, full body massage, hydro and aromatherapy.
Did I mention an afternoon swim with a dolphin???
Chef Chris Colburn 