Cuba's economic stimulus package...

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Rick1234567S

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Jan 4, 2026, 6:25:32 AM (3 days ago) Jan 4
to Meaningless nonsense
prompt: Do young Canadians go to Cuba on holidays?

Yes, young Canadians do go to Cuba, but recent years have seen mixed trends with some seeking affordable beach holidays (especially in Varadero) while others are drawn to exploring "real Cuba" or are deterred by negative reports, though it remains a top destination for Canadians overall. Young Canadians often find Cuba appealing for its beautiful beaches, affordability, and all-inclusive options, but some also venture beyond resorts for more authentic cultural experiences, despite ongoing issues like shortages and infrastructure challenges.
Why Young Canadians Go to Cuba:
Affordable Getaway: Cuba offers budget-friendly, all-inclusive resort options, a big draw for young travelers.
Beautiful Beaches: Varadero is famous for its stunning white sand and clear turquoise water, popular with all ages, including younger visitors.
Adventure & Culture: Some seek to experience the "real Cuba" through day trips or staying in smaller towns, exploring culture beyond the resorts.
Factors Influencing Travel:
Negative Press: Recent news reports highlight issues like food/water shortages, dirty facilities, and petty crime, causing some to reconsider.
"Plastic vs. Real Cuba": There's a debate among travelers and Cubans about whether the resort experience (Varadero) offers an authentic view of the country, with some preferring rural or city experiences.
Accessibility: Low-cost carriers still offer flights, making it accessible, though some routes have changed.
In Summary: Cuba remains a major destination for Canadians, including younger ones, for its value and beaches, but travelers should be aware of both its tropical appeal and current realities, with options ranging from all-inclusive resorts to deeper cultural exploration.
How much does it typically cost for a week?
A week-long holiday in 
 can cost anywhere from a 
few hundred dollars to over C$1,350+ per person, largely depending on travel style and the type of package booked. All-inclusive resort packages from major Canadian cities can often be found for under C$1,000 per person during off-peak times. 
Typical Cost Breakdown (Per Person, 7 Days)
The cost can vary significantly:
  • Budget Travel (Backpacking/Local Stays): For travelers on a tight budget staying in local "casas particulares" and eating at local spots, a week can cost as little as C$140 - C$350 for on-the-ground expenses (approx. $20-$50 USD per day), excluding flights.
  • Mid-Range Travel: A mid-range budget of around C$840 per week ($120 USD per day) allows for more flexibility with food and activities.
  • All-Inclusive Packages: These are a very popular option for Canadians and typically include flights, hotel, meals, and drinks.
    • Value Deals: Prices from cities like Toronto can start as low as C$495 - C$809 per person for a week (depending on the season and hotel rating).
    • Average Packages: More common prices for a standard 4-star all-inclusive are in the range of C$900 - C$1,350+ per person.
  • Luxury Travel: A luxury trip can average over $300 USD a day. 
Key Factors Affecting the Cost
  • Accommodation Style: Staying in a resort is often a fixed cost, while independent travel allows for more variable spending.
  • Time of Year: Prices are significantly lower during the off-season (late spring, summer, fall) and higher during peak winter months and holidays.
  • Departure City: Direct flights from major hubs like Toronto or Montreal often have the best package deals. Flights from smaller or Western Canadian airports, such as Victoria, BC, are typically more expensive and involve connections (see flight prices below).
  • Resort Rating: 3-star resorts are significantly cheaper than 4 or 5-star options, with quality and amenities varying accordingly.
  • Spending Habits: The amount of extra cash needed for private guides, souvenirs (like art or rum), premium drinks, and tipping can increase the overall cost. It is highly recommended to bring a "cushion" of extra cash. 
Flight Prices from Victoria, BC
Flights from Victoria to Cuba generally involve layovers and are priced higher than those from major Eastern Canadian hubs. Prices from Google Flights as of January 4, 2026:
Flight prices from Victoria to popular locations in Cuba: 
  • Varadero: 22 hr connecting from $735 (Jan 10–Jan 17)
  • Havana: 17 hr connecting from $777 (Jan 9–Jan 15)
  • Cayo Coco: 16 hr 45 min connecting from $1,232 (Jan 19–Jan 23)
  • Holguin: 12 hr 50 min connecting from $3,697 (Jan 21–Jan 25)

Rick1234567S

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Jan 4, 2026, 6:33:23 AM (3 days ago) Jan 4
to Meaningless nonsense
Is it possible to Canadians to lease 1 acre of land anywhere in Cuba to build cabins?

Answer no.

So trhen for 10 couoples to get together as a group there is no option for them?
While building private cabins or wild camping is not allowed, there are definitely options for a group of 10 couples (20 people total) to travel and stay together in Cuba legally and comfortably. The solution involves using existing, authorized accommodations designed for larger groups.
Here are the best options for your group:
1. Renting an Entire Private Villa or Large House
This is the best option for a group that wants a communal experience in a private setting.
  • How it Works: In popular tourist areas like Havana, Varadero, or Trinidad, there are large private homes (known as casas particulares or villas) that are licensed to rent to tourists. Some have multiple rooms and amenities like pools or shared living areas.
  • Capacity: Some villas can accommodate large groups. For example, some properties in Havana offer 8 bedrooms for up to 19 people, while others are advertised as "top spots for groups" with amenities like rooftops and pools.
  • Booking: These properties can be found and booked through international platforms like Airbnb or specialized local agencies. Contacting hosts directly via WhatsApp can sometimes yield better rates by avoiding middleman fees.
  • Key Insight: This allows the entire group to stay in a single location, offering a private, intimate environment for the duration of the trip. 
2. Staying in Multiple, Closely Located Casas Particulares
  • How it Works: If one single villa isn't available or suitable, the group can rent multiple individual casas particulares located in the same neighborhood or even on the same street.
  • Logistics: Hosts often know other local hosts and can help coordinate accommodations for larger groups nearby. The group can designate one house as a "base house" for meeting up and social activities.
  • Experience: This approach offers a more authentic, local experience, supporting Cuban families and immersing the group in a residential community. 
3. All-Inclusive Resorts or Hotels
  • How it Works: The group can book rooms at a resort. This provides a traditional vacation experience with all meals, drinks, and entertainment included.
  • Group Convenience: Resorts simplify logistics for a large group as everyone is in one complex with access to shared amenities like pools and beaches.
  • Booking: Many resorts are widely available to Canadians and can be booked through major travel agencies. 
In summary, the most suitable options for a large group seeking a shared experience in one location are renting a large private villa or booking a block of rooms at a resort. Neither of these involves illegal land use or camping, but they effectively meet the goal of the group staying together.

Rick1234567S

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Jan 4, 2026, 6:35:30 AM (3 days ago) Jan 4
to Meaningless nonsense
how much would that cost for a week?
The cost for a group of 10 couples (20 people) to stay together for a week in Cuba varies widely depending on the chosen accommodation style, ranging from budget-friendly 
casas particulares to all-inclusive resorts or private luxury villas.
Cost Estimates Per Person (7 Days)
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs per person for a week-long stay in Cuba (excluding international flights, which would be additional):

Accommodation Style 

Estimated Cost Per Person (on the ground expenses only)

Key Benefits for a Group

Multiple Casas Particulares

C$350 - C$700 (approx. $50-$100 CAD per day)

Authentic experience, flexible, more private than a hotel. Hosts often coordinate with neighbors to keep groups close together.

Renting a Large Private Villa/House

C$575 - C$1,200+ (depending on size and luxury)

Communal living, private amenities like a pool, can eat meals together. You would rent a whole property with multiple bedrooms.

All-Inclusive Resort

C$600 - C$1,350+ (package deals can include flights)

Hassle-free, all-inclusive, built-in entertainment and social activities. Easiest logistics for a large group.
Breakdown of Options
1. Staying in Multiple, Closely Located Casas Particulares
  • Accommodation Cost: Individual rooms in a casa particular typically range from C$20 - C$50 CAD per night for a room (which can fit two people). This would be approximately C$140 - C$350 per person for the week.
  • Daily Spending: You will also need money for food, drinks, and activities, budgeted at approximately C$50 - C$100 CAD per person, per day.
  • Total Per Person: C$350 - C$700 for the week (plus flights). 
2. Renting an Entire Private Villa or Large House
  • Accommodation Cost: Large villas can range from C$400 to C$1,700+ per night for the entire house. A mid-range villa for a week would cost roughly C$2,800 - C$4,900 for the property. Divided among 20 people, this is C$140 - C$245 per person for the week.
  • Daily Spending: You'd still need C$50 - C$100 per person per day for food, drinks, and activities.
  • Total Per Person: C$490 - C$945 for the week (plus flights).
  • Note: This option is highly social and provides excellent shared spaces like a pool or rooftop. 
3. All-Inclusive Resorts
  • Package Cost: All-inclusive deals from major Canadian cities can be found for as low as C$600 - C$800 per person, including flights and the week's stay. More premium or peak-season options run upwards of C$1,350 per person.
  • Total Per Person: C$600 - C$1,350+ for the week (package deals often include flights, check specific offers). 
Recommendation
For a large group seeking a balance of shared experience and value, renting a large private villa or multiple adjacent casas particulares is the most suitable option. The costs are manageable, and it offers the flexibility for the group to socialize privately. All-inclusive resorts offer the simplest logistics and can be very affordable if a good package deal is found

Rick1234567S

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Jan 4, 2026, 6:42:40 AM (3 days ago) Jan 4
to Meaningless nonsense
You see if I do anything for Cuba I shoot myself in the foot, the back the shoulder and make it all too expensive for you Canadians who like to go there.

700 a week, 700 for a flight, 700 for expenses drinks whatever. That's still 2,100 which for a Canadian is expensive. 
And they don't fix things up in Cuba look at the photos, everything looks like a ghetto but clean.

What is a better holiday all inclusive for 2,100 per person? There isn't one better than Cuba but you can stay in a 4 star hotel.

What is a good all inclusive holiday for a Canadian where it is warm in the winter total cost 2,100?
For a Canadian seeking a warm all-inclusive holiday in the winter for a total cost under 
C$2,100, excellent and affordable options are available in , the , and . 
These destinations offer packages from major Canadian cities, often including flights, that fall well within your budget during the winter season. 
Top Destinations and Typical Costs

Destination 

Typical 7-Day All-Inclusive Cost (incl. flights from major Canadian cities)

Highlights

 ()

~C$800 - C$1,300+

Known for affordability, safe atmosphere, and beautiful beaches. Packages can be found for under $1000 CAD.

 ()

~C$1,300 - C$2,100

Features a wide variety of resorts, vibrant culture, and extensive amenities. Many deals fall within your budget.

 ()

~C$1,200 - C$2,000

Offers a mix of resort experiences, rich historical sites (like Chichén Itzá), and lively culture.
Recommendations within your C$2,100 Budget 
You have a strong budget that can cover a good quality 3 or 4-star all-inclusive package, even with flights included. To maximize your value, consider:
  • Cuba
    :
     This is your most budget-friendly option. You can likely find a 4-star resort package including flights from a major city like Toronto for well under C$1,500, leaving plenty of extra budget for excursions or a higher-end resort.
  • Dominican Republic
    :
     Many excellent 3.5 and 4-star packages fall into the C$1,300 - C$1,800 range, providing great value for the quality of resorts.
  • Mexico
    :
     Similar to the 
    Dominican Republic
    Mexico
     offers strong options within your price range, particularly for the Riviera Maya or 
    Cancun
     areas
    .
     
Booking Considerations
  • Departure City: Prices from Eastern Canadian cities like Toronto and Montreal are often cheaper due to the high volume of winter vacation flights. Flights from Victoria, BC, will likely be more expensive and may require connections.
  • Booking Timing: Look for deals now for travel later in the winter (January, February) to secure the best prices.
  • Airlines/Agencies: Check all-inclusive package specialists like Sunwing, redtag.ca, and Expedia, as they often bundle flights and hotels for significant savings. 
By booking an all-inclusive package to one of these destinations, you can enjoy a warm winter getaway with a total cost well within your specified budget.
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