With More Travel To Cuba, IBEROSTAR Is Well-Positioned

Lisa Iannucci
by Lisa Iannucci
Last updated: 5:00 AM ET, Tue February 23, 2016

PHOTO: The IBEROSTAR Playa Pilar in Cuba (Courtesy IBEROSTAR)

With a civil aviation agreement signed that has now allowed Americans to fly to Cuba on commercial airlines, the hospitality industry is scrambling for ways to benefit from the increased tourism.

One hotel chain already poised to benefit from the influx is IBEROSTAR.

IBEROSTAR has more than 100 properties in 16 countries, 11 of which are located in Cuba, and has been operating in the island country since 1988. Last December, the doors opened at The IBEROSTAR Playa Pilar Hotel, an all-inclusive property located in Cayo Guillermo and only approximately a half-hour from the nearby airport. Cayo Guillermo is a tiny island that is part of a group of several islands called Jardines del Rey and tourists will be attracted to its waterside location.

SEE MORE: A Look At IBEROSTAR Hotels And Resorts

This family-friendly resort has more than 450 rooms that include standard rooms, junior suites and family suites, and such amenities as a children's pool, waterpark, mini club, and more. When the adults need a break, Playa Pilar offers SPA Sensations, a huge wellness center by the sea which includes a sauna, hot springs, massage, yoga and tai chi.

There is a wide variety of entertainment and leisure activities for all ages on the property, including group games, dancing lessons, aerobics, aqua-gym, outdoor sports and themed parties and barbecues. If that's not enough, visitors can go for a once-in-a-lifetime swim with the dolphins at the local Dolphinarium. Playa Pilar also includes four specialized restaurants.

IBEROSTAR also owns the Parque Central hotel, located right in the heart of Havana, only a half-away from the airport. With its central location, 427 rooms and features that include a roof pool, IBEROSTAR is sure to benefit from the spike in travelers who are heading here to see the world renowned Tropicana Club, a cabaret club that launched in 1939.

SEE MORE: IBEROSTAR's Romantic Getaways

But IBEROSTAR isn't done yet. Later this year, vacationers can stay at their brand new 827-room IBEROSTAR Bella Vista located in Varadero, a popular resort town in the province of Matanzas, Cuba. The fabulous beach of Varadero, considered by COME to be the best beach in the world, will be the home for this new five star establishment in Cuba. The hotel opens its doors later this year. The Bella Vista is ideal for families and will have two room sections for families and adults.

Last year, there were multiple reports of an increase in Cuba tourism after the thaw in diplomatic relations. This year, travel agents are already reporting a spike in Americans wanting to see the Caribbean island.


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Lisa Iannucci

Lisa Iannucci

Lisa Iannucci has written many travel articles for national magazines and newspapers. Over the years, her travel articles have...

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