Canadian Travel News Was There: Memories Cayo Largo

July 7, 2023 ctn_admin

Working in travel, I’m often asked for my recommendations for vacations, everything from family to romance to getaways with friends, so I’ve started a regular column on where I’ve stayed and how it rates.

First, I think it’s important to understand how I look at properties and why I would recommend one.  My overall basis for any judgement is simple: you’ve saved for your trip, booked your time off work and you want to have the best experience possible within your budget.

For some that’s lying on a beach all day sipping drinks, for others, it’s using a hotel for a place to crash while you’re out exploring.  It also should be easy – if you can only grab something to eat or drink during certain hours, that will factor into a recommendation. Safety is always a priority, especially when travelling with kids.

With all that in mind, here’s a look the Memories Cayo Largo.

About the property – There are two Memories properties in Cayo Largo – Memories Cayo Largo and Grand Memories Cayo Largo, which has an adults-only property called Sanctuary attached to it.  We visited the Grand and stayed at Memories Cayo Largo.
Memories has just under 300 rooms, making it a smaller resort than a lot of other sun destinations.

It’s important to note that there are only 11 properties on the island of Cayo Largo, all now owned by Sunwing and Blue Diamond Resorts.  This means the level of service is heightening to match other Sunwing/Blue Diamond properties.  There is a special agreement in place with the Cuban government to facilitate imports faster than other places in the country, making simple Canadian favourites like ketchup and Caesers, available.

Memories Cayo Largo is a quick drive from the airport – about 7 minutes.

Food & Drink – It’s no secret that Cuba in general is known for not having great food, but Memories Cayo Largo is different. The best thing we liked about the buffets were there were always stations serving made-to-order dishes; at breakfast it’s omelets and crepes, at lunch it was often pizzas and pasta and dinner had a great selection of fish and fresh meats. The restaurants were also very good, they also have lobster night which is included. The drinks are very good – top brands such as Grey Goose and a delicious offering of freshly made smoothies and non-alcoholic drinks. (try the blended coffee – though we of course added Bailey’s to it). There is no room service, which really is only an issue if you wanted to chill on your balcony with some wine – you have to go and get it yourself.

Rooms – Rooms are spacious; the one we stayed in was a suite which was complete with a separate living room which had a pullout sofa bed, and a 2^nd bathroom – perfect for families.  The structure itself is low and resembles villas more than big hotel style; at only two stories they’re quite charming and give off a real “beachy” vibe.  The beds and air conditioning have been upgraded and are very comfortable. Rooms come with a butler who help you with everything you need from booking a spa reservation to carrying your luggage.

Beach & Pools – Being a smaller resort, there is only one large pool, that’s separated by a walkway.  One side tends to be a bit louder in terms of music and activities, while the other a bit quieter, providing great options for every traveller. The beach is perfect – calm most days and clear, sargassum was not an issue while we were there.  The only complaint about the beach is that could be a bit tricky to access if you have mobility issues.  While the walk to the beach is on a wooden deck, there are a few steps to take down and there is no drink or food service on the beach.  That’s easily fixed with a quick jaunt up a few rocks on a pathway to the bar hut and buffet area, but it would be difficult for anyone with any mobility issues. 

Entertainment – There is a theatre in the evening and during the day a fun crew comes around the pool area to engage guests in games of trivia and such for prizes. We won a “guess that tune contest” and took home a cute little Cuban coffee mug, which is a great keepsake. The performers are all very talented and full of energy, you can tell they truly enjoy their work.

Spa – We had a massage by the beach which we would highly recommend.  (actually, we did recommend to another guest and he felt the same).  At only $35 US, it’s also a steal.

Recommendation – Memories Cayo Largo is a great, budget friendly resort for girl getaways, family reunions or just as an escape after a stressful time. There aren’t a lot of activities for children, so we could see that being an issue for families.  However, they are currently updating the resort and we could see it being a great place also for weddings once it’s finished.  The location is stunning and would provide a perfect backdrop.

It must also be said that we visit a lot of resorts and the Memories Cayo Largo staff are by far some of the best.  60% of guests at Memories Cayo Largo are repeat guests and we can see why; when you go you’re treated like family.  We’ll definitely go back “home.”

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