Meliá Las Dunas, located in the Cayo Santa María resort area in the northern part of Villa Clara province, was recognized as the "Leading Resort in Cuba" during the 2021 World Travel Awards.
Meliá Las Dunas offers an "All-Inclusive" accommodation plan. It is a 5-star hotel located right on the beach. It is marketed as an ideal space for family vacations, weddings, and honeymoons.
The hotel is set to reopen on November 1st after several months of renovations, along with the launch of the health program Stay Safe with Meliá, approved to tackle the coronavirus crisis, which has had a significant impact on the people of Cuba in recent months.
The facility is managed by the Spanish company Meliá Hotels International. They claim it is a Smoke-Free establishment and offers guests free and unlimited access to the Internet via Wi-Fi, a privilege not enjoyed by Cubans anywhere on the island.
The World Travel Awards are regarded as one of the most significant awards in the tourism industry. They are based on the selection of thousands of travelers and industry professionals through online voting.
This year, Cuba was also awarded at the international competition as the Leading Cultural Destination in the Caribbean. Paradoxically, the country is experiencing one of its worst economic, political, social, and health crises. Furthermore, activity in cultural institutions and communities was almost nonexistent in the past year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
On November 15th, the Cuban government will reopen the country's borders to international travelers. Several Meliá hotels are set to resume operations across the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the award for Meliá Las Dunas and tourism in Cuba.
Why was the Meliá Las Dunas awarded at the 2021 World Travel Awards?
The Meliá Las Dunas was awarded "Leading Resort in Cuba" at the World Travel Awards 2021 due to its outstanding tourist offerings in the Cayo Santa María beach resort, Villa Clara. This recognition is based on the votes of thousands of travelers and professionals in the tourism sector.
What features make Meliá Las Dunas special for tourists?
The Meliá Las Dunas is a 5-star hotel with an "All-Inclusive" plan, located on the beachfront. It is marketed as an ideal space for family vacations, weddings, and honeymoons, offering free and unlimited access to the internet, which is quite uncommon in Cuba.
How does Cuba rank in the tourism sector according to the 2021 World Travel Awards?
Cuba was recognized as the Best Cultural Destination in the Caribbean for 2021 by the World Travel Awards, despite the serious economic, political, and social crises it faces. This acknowledgment highlights the country's cultural potential in international tourism.
What challenges does the tourism sector in Cuba currently face?
Despite the accolades, Cuba faces significant challenges such as resource shortages, an energy crisis, and a prioritization of investments in tourism over basic services. These issues create a contradictory image of the country as a tourist destination while neglecting the fundamental needs of its population.
What is the impact of the relationship between Meliá Hotels International and the Cuban regime?
The relationship between Meliá Hotels International and the Cuban regime is controversial, as luxury hotels are being built while key sectors such as health and basic infrastructure are neglected. This partnership has been criticized for perpetuating an economic model that primarily benefits the government and its foreign partners.
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