Little to no recent information is posted on Faro Luna. The size of this facility probably is a prime contributor to this fact. In addition, trying to write a comprehensive report is proving to be rather challenging. Although a number of shortcomings can be easily listed which would put a very negative spin on the place, we actually had a great time. It is hard to convey this feeling in a few lines. Given the strong support we have received on other detailed reports we have posted, we have decided to take the time to share our thoughts.
For those wanting only the bottom line, here it is.
This resort is a very quiet place and not particularly suitable for individuals looking for a vacation and/or party atmosphere. Many of the typical complaints surrounding Cuban resorts can be easily found at this resort. If you are looking for rest and relaxation, a place to gather your thoughts, this might be a good budget priced facility to consider. The food is rather repetitive but well prepared. For us, price would be a prime consideration in booking a return visit to Faro Luna.
CUBA: Just like all hotels are not suitable to all travellers, so are countries. Cuba has been the subject of a trade embargo for close to 50 years. To think that it has not had an effect on many things we take for granted is rather naïve. We happen to think Cuba is a great destination and find new reasons each time we go. Others appear to focus their attention towards criticism and/or complaints. After awhile, it gets rather monotonous. The pricing should be your first clue. In this case, if it sounds too good to be true then take for granted it is. People, please do your homework and either stay at home or find a more suitable destination.
Is Cuba for You? The following are some of the more common irritants:
Things are of a low quality, missing or broken. Well, “Welcome to Cuba“. If this bothers you or if it is a problem, then use your head and feet rather than your mouth! If you complain, you only have yourself to blame. It should not come as a surprise as there is no shortage of information. So, on occasion expect a cold shower assuming there is even water. Do you actually think there are no bugs, insects, etc. in warm, humid climates? If there are none then, what chemicals are they using? We would prefer to see the odd bug rather than worry about what unknown substance we are breathing.
The buffet is repetitive, bland, they run out, they don’t have my favourite salad dressing/condiment or they serve funny things. First, you do not go to Cuba for the food. Second, do you constantly need to put everything in sight on your plate? If there is a problem with hygiene or some other factor that could adversely affect our health then, we are all ears.
Beverages such as beer, wine and soft drinks run out or the coffee machine does not always work. The drinks don’t taste like they do at home (watered down). The bartender does not know how to make a good drink. Actually, he/she probably does, the problem is American products are not available and Cuban substitutes are generally inferior. They have no diet drinks. They only have those little plastic cups. Again , if this is a problem then why are you going?
The staff do not speak English and only work if you give them tips, etc. Sorry, this can be true but, our experience is the attitude of some people makes them their own worst enemy. First, do you speak Spanish? Second, English you say, well what about those who speak French , German, Dutch, Italian or ……..? How about a smile instead of a frown and the occasional please or thank you. Bottom line, we have had occasion to be appalled and embarrassed to admit we are from the same country as some people. Canadians are often identified as preferred tourists but some seem to work hard to tarnish our image. We do not tip repetitively, but we do show people common respect and by the end of our trip, we have shown our appreciation to those who helped make our trip enjoyable.
The list could go on and we apologize for the lecture. The point is, these are some of the more typical issues to expect in budget priced resorts in Cuba. In our view, this applies to anything less than 4 stars. Actually, as they get older, we would include most 4 star resorts. Please do your homework. It is well worth your time and effort.
If you are still reading and wish to know something about Faro Luna, this is what we experienced during our recent visit.
Before Leaving: Sunwing has a good section on restricted items that will be confiscated without return by Cuban customs officials. If you are not familiar with the rules, you might want to peruse them otherwise, it could be costly. Keep in mind this is Cuba so, make sure you bring all the items you need. The brand name products we use are for the most part produced by American companies hence, not available in Cuba. Things like over the counter medications and sun screens are good examples. Also, make sure you are conversant with airport security rules ( hand luggage) otherwise, banned items will be confiscated. Take CANADIAN MONEY. US money is subject to a 10% premium on exchange. Also, credit cards drawn on US financial institutions or their foreign subsidiaries do not work. Example of popular ones in Canada are AMEX, CITI, MBNA. Cards issued by Canadian banks work. Forget ATMs and travellers cheques (typically issued by US based financials) You will require your passport for credit card withdrawals as most Cuban banks will require that you present proper identification. You may be able to provide a photocopy which is a good thing since, the reps typically suggest it is not wise to take your passport off site. The lowest exchange rate we got was $1.12 Canadian for $1.00 Convertible Peso (CUC). The airport is a good place but keep in mind there is a minimum 7% (rounded) spread between Buy and Sell. Sometimes paying a little more actually ends up costing less. Also, the hotel appears to convert cash only and all excursions are cash only payments at this location The departure tax is $25.00 CUC per person ( cash only).
The Trip: You will be provided a two sided tourist visa that you will be required to complete. Sunwing staff took us through it. If you make any mistakes, you will have to purchase a new one from Cuban Customs at a cost of $20.00 CUC. This also applies to any scratched out items. Also, the second part that is returned to you is required upon departure. Do not lose it. One solution is to place it immediately in your passport.
The Location: It is slightly remote but far less than others we have visited. The immediate area has a little village and is a 10 minute walk from Rancho Luna. In the past, you could use both facilities. This year, you are no longer permitted and the security guards are constantly on the watch. Less than 5 minutes off site there is a diving shop and a dolphin pen to visit. Admission is $10.00 CUC per person plus a small charge for camera and/or film equipment. Concerning personal security, there was considerable police presence off site and guards on site. The locals we encountered during off site walks paid little attention to us. There is a little store near the main entry and articles (liquor we are told) are actually very well priced. Occasionally , there is a horse drawn taxi at the front entry for local tours.
The Hotel Complex: The good news is that it is less than 30 minutes from Cienfuegos airport. Be careful, since some flights land in other cities and the travelling time can be long. The hotel comprises 3 distinct buildings which house some 40 units. Virtually, all have great ocean views. The surrounding area makes for a great setting and the sunsets over the lighthouse can be spectacular. The 200 block appears to be most coveted. We were in a second floor 300 unit which also had a great view. Many elements of the hotel including our room were modernizations. In typical Cuban fashion, things are done in stages and items that are still in relatively good shape are recycled. There is one dining room and a pool bar that serves snacks. Actually the snacks are simple to remember, a ham and cheese sandwich. Your option is plain or grilled. You could ask for either the cheese or ham to be removed for greater variety!! There is a basic store on site and a lonely animator. The bar is equipped with a music system that is simply too small to crank out very loud sounds. You will have to find the maid for beach towels.
The pool is in good shape and there is more than sufficient loungers, chairs and tables. Actually, there are seldom more than a dozen people in the pool area during the day. There is no direct beach access as the property is located on a bluff with a rocky shoreline. Less that 5 minutes away, there is a decent public beach. The hotel provides no services on this beach but there are local services available at moderate prices. Cubans use this beach especially on weekends so, you will find yourself having to share space. Sadly, some people seem to have an issue with being close to them. We were there on several occasions and never had any issues.
Our Room: We were in a second floor 300 unit. It was very clean with a lot of new furniture. Ample storage space and a free safety box. Two double beds with low end mattresses and bed long single pillows . Our unit had no fridge but we were told some of the 200 series units did. The wall sleeve A/C unit was quiet compared to some we have had. TV with CNN coverage. Common front balcony ( no dividing wall) with two new chairs and a table per unit. Be selective when you choose to leave the patio door curtains open!
The Food: Meal times are posted and the staff observes the times in a very punctual fashion. This is especially true when it comes time to close the doors. Many of the common complaints previously eluded to apply to the food you will be served. They ran out of white wine one day and the coffee machine only partially functioned. This being said, we found the food well prepared and had no problems filling our plate. For the most part, the waiters do not serve beverages. You will find yourself going to the in-restaurant bar to have your glass filled. On occasion, waiters will save you the trip but tipping does not appear to be the prime motivator that produces this courtesy. During busy periods, used dishes can accumulate on your table. Also, if you come late, you may have to scrounge around for missing utensils. There is an outside terrace. Some people use it however, be forewarned that there are a few dogs and cats who call the hotel home. For the most part, they are timid and stay a respectful distance. They will sit around in the hopes of getting some table scraps. If you forget something inside, take for granted a cat will quickly find its way onto any unguarded table. Actually, writing about our experience makes it sound worst than it really was.
The Staff: This is a small facility and many of the front line personnel work a double shift followed by a day off. We found them courteous and willing to help. Many can speak English. Any problems we brought to their attention ( no water in our room, no hot water and a broken safe door) were taken care of quickly.
Communications: There is no internet access at Faro Luna and we were led to believe none at Rancho Luna. If you want to call home you are strongly recommended to purchase a calling card. They start at $10.00 CUC and basically last 5 minutes.
Excursions: Of all the places we have visited so far in Cuba, Cienfuegos is by far the region offering the most varied and among the best priced excursions. Many are offered for less than $20.00 CUC per person. There is even a full day trip to Havana for $33.00 CUC per person but your meal is at your expense. A meal for two in a decent restaurant can cost less than $15.00 CUC but think more in the $25.00 CUC range if you add liquor and/or desserts. Local taxi rides are a function of distance. Many short distance rides are $2.00 to $3.00 CUC. A one way ride into Cienfuegos is $10.00 to $12.00 CUC. Taxis called by the hotel are typically minivans that can easily accommodate 4 adults. If you can hook up with another couple, it reduces the cost . Also, always ask the price first and don’t be afraid to request the lower price when a range is quoted by hotel staff. We encountered people who were charged $2.00 one way and $3.00 for the return trip. If you like the driver, ask if he will pick you up at a designated time and place. We especially liked our self guided tour of Cienfuegos. The taxi driver took the time to map out where to go and the time needed to complete the circuit. If you get tired of walking, there are different types of taxis available. Don’t worry, you do not have to find them, they will find you.
If you go to the popular tourist destination of Trinidad del Sur a UNESCO site, expect to be constantly bugged by people looking for anything they can hustle from you . In particular, be leery of little children as they can be used as bait. Sadly, it is a problem! This being the case, we are glad we took the time to visit this location and strongly recommend that if you chose to go that you consider being part of a guided tour ( $13.00 CUC+/- per person). The bus can be a great refuge.
Who is at the hotel?: Typically, there are many Canadians from flights arriving from Toronto and Montreal. A good number were taking extensive Spanish courses. On several occasions, small chartered tours used these facilities for one and two day stops. They were typically European from: Spain, France, Germany and England. You will also have some Cuban families who are being rewarded with a state paid vacation .
Bottom line: This is not a suitable facility for all travellers. Actually, those looking for a little more action might want to consider Rancho Luna. By the way, you can buy a day pass to Rancho Luna for $15.00 CUC per person (9 AM to 5 PM) all inclusive without room or supper. If a quiet place is something you seek at a reasonable price, you might want to consider Faro Luna. Personally, we would have no qualms returning to this hotel even though we have identified a number of shortcomings.
Hope you find the information helpful. Have a safe and pleasant trip.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
