TRYP Cayo Coco

TRYP’s expansive pentagonal lobby is propped up by soaring columns to almost hover above resort grounds like a giant UFO. It opens up at the rear to frame fabulous views across what could easily be the water lover’s ultimate paradise: a giant freeform lagoon-style pool and palm treed grounds stretching to a pristine stretch of white sand and aqua beach worthy of a postcard. The property fans out in either direction from the main pool, with rooms in two and three level buildings dressed in yellow with white trim. Level grounds are meticulously maintained and offer multiple entry points to the beautiful beach where sunbathers are well catered to with plenty of deck chairs and equipment. Unlike many other Cayo Coco resorts which are exposed to the windy elements, TRYP’s clever layout protects its pools from wind conditions which can be a welcome asset on the breeziest days. The crowd typically consists of families, couples, and groups taking chilled time out between the beach and the various pools, so there’s plenty of space to spread out and find retreat. Although during our visit, a planeload of springbreakers was moving in for party season -- a seasonal event potential guests should keep in mind. 

Tryp Cayo Coco is located in the Ciego de Ávila province of Cayo Coco. Belonging to the Jardines del Rey archipelago off central Cuba, the tropical island is known for its stunning white-sand coastline which has proved a magnet for all-inclusive resorts that dot its northern edge. Many guests remain within hotel confines, however, island explorers can take the double decker hop-on and hop-off bus for around five dollars per day. Island highlights include Lenny’s restaurant -- famous for its fresh lobster (six minutes); Playa Pilar, arguably the region’s most beautiful beach (35 minutes); and the America’s largest colony of pink flamingos that call Cayo Coco’s marshlands home. For flights from Canada and Havana, the resort is a 20-minute drive from Jardines del Rey international airport. Greyhound-style coach transportation typically busses guests to and from the resort, but taxis are on hand at the airport, and they can be arranged with reception. Direct flights to the US are offered from Ignacio Agramonte Airport in Camaguey, about a three-hour drive from Cayo Coco, although the cab ride to or from Cayo Coco can exceed $150. 

Unfolding in two and three level blocks throughout the property, rooms are composed of standard and suite categories with garden, pool, or sea views. Dated decor blends white walls and floor tiles with matching furniture (work desks and wicker bedheads) in pistachio green with matching pistachio bedding accents. When pulled back, candy-striped curtains let in loads of light through wide glass sliders that open onto decent-sized balconies with plastic outdoor furniture. Some rooms have gorgeous beach views. All rooms feature twin beds which can be pushed together (functioning as a king) or remain apart. All rooms feature mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, kettles, irons and ironing boards, safes, and extra blankets. Note that Wi-Fi isn't available in the rooms, which is common in Cuba. Suites offer larger layouts with spacious terraces (and sunbeds), living/dining areas, two bathrooms (one with a hydromassage bath), and VIP perks like stocked minibars and turndown service. Accented with maroon and emerald tiling, bathrooms are spacious and feature marble vanities, shower/tub combos, and bidets. Hairdryers and a selection of toiletries are also provided. 

TRYP sits right next to Playa Larga -- an 800 meter long stretch of white sand and aqua water that’s ideal for swimming and water sports which include catamarans, pedal boats, water skiing, sailing, snorkelling, windsurfing, and fishing. A privately owned kite-surfing school is located just up the beach. A standout feature are the three freshwater pools -- including a quiet one for adults, another pool for kids, and a huge lagoon-style pool surrounded by sunbeds and shade palapas. All-inclusive rates cover Los Taguascos (international buffet), La Loma Azul (international a la carte), La Trattoria (Italian), Sozhou (Oriental), Casita Cubana (Cuban), El Mar (seafood), La Picua (light beachside meals), La Barcaza (light meals and snacks), and Las Antillas (snacks). An array of bars on offer include El Manglar (lobby bar by day, piano bar by night), El Delfin (main pool swim-up bar), and Ecologic (at the adult-only pool). Note that guests are limited to three visits to the a la carte restaurants per visit. Activities on offer throughout the day include beach volleyball, water polo, aerobics, aqua gym, and beginners’ diving classes. There’s also a Mini Club for the kids with an outdoor playground. Evening entertainment is provided daily. The beauty salon offers a selection of massages and treatments. A sports area features a fitness center, multi sports courts, and tennis. There’s an internet center in the lobby with desktop computers for guest use. Wi-Fi is available in the lobby, but it requires purchase of internet cards -- just like everywhere in Cuba.