Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas: Great Family friendly resort!

Rooms were immaculate, no bugs and always clean with toilet paper, bottled water and towels replenished daily. The pool was massive and my daughter enjoyed a whole day of handstands and swimming like a mermaid!! The beach was about a 10 minute walk (closer to adult only side) but there was a shuttle that would help guests go the distance if they didn’t want to walk. Pool bar staff were hilarious and made the whole day enjoyable! Staff preferred US money or Canadian bills… toonies and loon [... read more]ies are useless to them they will be grateful to exchange them for bills as they cannot use them in Cuba. The swim with dolphins excursion was AMAZING! Only about 15 min bus ride from the resort, about 40 mins in the water swimming with them, a dolphin show and then lobster lunch! For $40 Canadian I got 140 pictures emailed me that I could print when I got home! The only negatives were the food was repetitive in the buffet. Bring syrup, hot sauces or any condiments you enjoy. We had eggs, no bacon. Sausages were hot dogs lol. We had bread with all meals and there were a pasta and fried rice station. The al a cartes were awesome! There is a pizza place by the adult only but it costs to go (about $8-$10 Canadian) but well worth it! There was also an Asian restaurant that was fee-for food but we didn’t try there! We would definitely go back just a bit more prepared next time!

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Resort: Great Resort

Resort was clean and modern for Cuba standards. It's nice that the buildings all connect for the most part so it was easy connecting with friends staying in different locations. Considering all the shortages we heard about from other resorts, we were pretty stocked all week. Nice that there is an opportunity to get off the resort by bike or horse and buggy with nearby shops and people. Beach was beautiful sand and soft (some crowding at times, would suggest taking a walk down to the other resort [... read more]s on the same beach). Views were amazing. The place does lack a little bit of the character of the older resorts as it is more modern but that's more down to taste. The food options were two buffet locations, a beach grill (burger/hot dog/ ham sandwich and chips), and 4 al le cart options (International (which I would skip), Asian, Italian, Indian). We did meet some people who got in the Adults only section which has a lot of premiums including their own restaurant and pool. As we don't have kids and if we went again, we would try to get into that deal as they seemed to have priority on a lot. All in all it was a great stay and a welcome return to Cuba

Aston Costa Verde Beach Resort: Wonderfully situated resort - the good and the bad

Hotel is pretty typical for the caribbean, concrete and bright colors. Not necessarily a bad thing, or a good thing, it is just common in the area and works well. The biggest pool is very shallow so not sure what use it is, the deeper pool that actually comes up to your chest is elsewhere on the grounds but really nice on hot days. The food. ok, so we all know, nobody goes to cuba for the food. Before arriving we had read about food shortages and travellers with no access to lunch or so [... read more]metimes even rum. I've been to varadero twice but never holguin, so i was prepared! brought tabasco, a spice wheel, ketchup and soy sauce. Much to my surprise it was rarely needed :o I'm not sure what magic this resort has but the food was the best in any cuban resort i've had before. Rooms are pretty typical, well laid out, the AC i think is on a timer on/off of some sort to conserve energy, it was a real pain to figure out. hot water in shower was great, pressure sucked but it did the job. cleaning staff were amazing. so friendly and grateful, wonderful to interact with. Language barriers. Holguin is not Veradero, i would classify it as more authentic cuba, and i actually really enjoyed it a lot more. That being said, i had been preparing for the trip using a Babbel+ app on my phone for 6 months, and boy am i glad i did. Very few people i met were fluent in english, even at the resort. It was a struggle most of the time to get my point or question across, but knowing the spanish i did helped 1000% being able to ask questions Who What When Where, know hours and time on a clock, count to 10, know cuanto cuesta (how much does that cost?), etc. basic stuff but it helped a lot at the resort and when we travelled to Holguin in a private taxi ($100 for the entire day for a group of 4), we found almost nobody spoke any engish at all, so even ordering a couple beers ($1 cristal) or lunch in my terrible spanish seemed to work. The times when we had internet access using google translate helped a ton. money down there, don't bring loonies and toonies, don't be 'those people'. cubans can't exchange them for money, they're worthless. tip in bills. go to the bank, get USD, bring at least $60 in $1 bills, and maybe $300 in 20's or something. that's all you'll need, everything we booked took credit card at the hotel. bringing back rum. i was disappointed that i couldn't find any of the rum i wanted to buy. everywhere i looked they only had havana club varieties. here's a tip though, bring back as many bottles as you want, just claim it at customs when you return to your country, you'll pay $20 and be on your way, it's no big deal, just don't lie or it's a huge fine, and yes, they know, they've seen the xray of your bag the beaches! amazing, of the 3 resorts in the area, this one had the best beach and water. However, that being said, my wife broke her toe in the ocean and i got pretty cut up, there is coral and stone in the shallow parts of the water that you might not see, bring WATER SHOES and be careful not to fall if there are waves. if you make it out to about waist high water you'll be pleased by all the fish swimming around you. crumble a couple ritz crackers in the water and 100 will appear out of nowhere, it's insane hahaha but fun

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Good stay but wouldn't return

Room: we had standard room and no ocean view. Our room had NO wifi connection which was really inconvenient. Had to use wifi in lobby. The oceanview rooms has sustainable wifi. Room had no wash rag but had shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. The elevators on our side that were close to 1117 were  out of service for our entire stay. We used the stairs since it was only 1 floor. The stairwell was never cleaned either. Our room had minimal storage for clothes. Only had ONE hanger. Some days h [... read more]otel could not provide clean towels. One day we left our dirty towels on the floor so that they could replace them. We came back to the same dirty towels folded neatly on our bed. The rooms are very damp at times. When I climbed into my bed at night, the sheets felt moist and was quite an uncomfortable feeling. Beach: beautiful but rocky. Bring water shoes or walk carefully. There is a much nicer beach 10 minutes away. Playa Blanca. No rocks. White sand. Water is calm and stunning. There's a bus $10 there and back that you can take it to get there. It goes into downtown Varadero where you can explore and shop. Could even get decent tasting food there too. Entertainment: mediocre. Some day activities and night shows. We would have appreciated a disco club. Tip for the hotel-The desk that is under the TV has empty space. Most resorts that I've been to use that space to include 6 to 8 drawers. That would have been helpful. Another tip for the hotel- educate your staff on the food menu. I asked 2 staff if the breakfast meat that was labeled 'hot dog' contained pork. They assured me it was not pork and told me it was chicken. They also kept repeating that it was hot dog, which indicated to me they didn't  have a clear understanding of hot dogs. Hot dogs can be pork, beef, chicken or all 3. I do not eat pork so it was important for me to know what was inside them. Sure enough when my friend tried it, she confirmed it was pork. Luckily I don't have a food allergy to pork, but this is concerning especially to someone whom has a food allergy or avoids eating pork for religious reasons. At the very least each food item should be clearly labeled. If it's a meat, it should indicate what type of meat. For late checkouts: resort offers late checkout for an extra $17US/ hour. We thought that was excellent. OR you can book a room for an hour for changing and showering before you leave. Rooms is based on availability. You will need to request early in the am. Overall the staff at the Grand Aston is friendly and helpful. The resort grounds is gorgeous. Rooms are clean but lacks basic necessities. The beach is not the best in Varadero. Drinks are just ok. The Pina colada by the beach bar is the best Pina colada on the resort. It's made differently at other bars and taste sweeter. Although I would not return to this resort, my party and I had a lot of fun.

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: Not worth it

Big problems with the food supplies. The drinking water was missing, the alternative glass bottles was stinky as a hell, as well the water itself was very chlorine taste. The cola was missing as well. The food was nothing special, below the average. The beach was good, but a lot of plastic thrush at the sand.

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Cuba

The resort was okay…where does one start with the issues…we had a kettle but no condiments, twin beds in an adult resort, no hand towels or wash cloths, had to use the same bath towel all week…now for the food…best meal all week was going into Varadero for pizza…worst buffet I have ever tried, a lot of sauces to go on?… Entertainment…well, after a night or two how much dancing can one watch. Now for the trip home…what a nightmare, waiting 9 hours to be picked up, finally getting to the air [... read more]port and told Sunwing was offering a complimentary snack for the inconvenience…we got a stale hotdog bun with a piece of cheese and a bottle of water…now let me ask you…would you entertain eating a hotdog bun slapped with a piece of cheese…people where choking it down with the warm bottle of water…

Melia Cayo Coco: Definitely the best resort in Cuba

Me and my two friends thoroughly enjoyed our time at Melia Cayo Coco. We loved how small it was, meaning we never had to fight for beach or pool chairs (a huge plus at a resort). All of the servers (shout out Joel at the main buffet and Charles, the omelette guy!) were incredibly friendly, kind and appreciative of generous tips. The beach is absolutely spectacular; probably the most beautiful beach I've ever seen in my life aside from Cayo Santa Maria, also in Cuba. The rooms were slightly rundo [... read more]wn, but that is to be expected at most resorts — they were perfectly fine, comfortable beds and the AC worked very well. We had some issues with water pressure and heat, but again, to be expected in Cuba. We loved the excursions... Highly recommend doing the one to Playa Pilar and renting a catamaran to go snorkelling only a few minutes right from the main beach of the resort (the catamaran is free, based off tips, and snorkelling is $20 each). The food was definitely the best I've ever had in Cuba... but this is not to say it was really good, it was good at times and passable most days, and we got very bored of it by a few days in. Having said that, there was always something to eat, but if you are vegetarian you will feel very limited by the choices. The 24/7 snack bar was our favourite spot... Simple pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, etc. We did really appreciate that the main buffet ALWAYS had fresh lettuce and fixings to make salads. It's important to understand that Cuba is in a food crisis and their own people do not have access to food, so it's a privilege to have what we do at the resort. We chose one night to go to the Mediterranean restaurant and my two friends got VERY bad food poisoning from the pasta or tempura, which they are still dealing with almost a week after getting back. The mosquitoes are only bad if you are near the lagoon/on the grass near the lagoon and at the airport at night, otherwise we didn't experience any mosquitoes really at our normal room or in the back area of our room. I would definitely recommend this resort, especially if you are middle aged or older — it's very quiet and quaint, no one really bugs you to buy drinks or play games and the night entertainment was great!

Club Amigo Atlantico Guardalavaca: resort

the only thing we liked was the beach until the working ladies showed up and harassed the male tourists and no security to chase them away. there was no meat for meals. Selection was terrible food wise

Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria: Food and supply shortages!! Staff were amazing though.

While we've been going to this resort for quite a few years, there is definitely a lack of many things this year. They ran out of eggs, chicken, toilet paper and even beer was running out by 1pm at the beach bar. This trip was way overpriced for what was included. Agencies selling these all-inclusive trips to Cuba need to warn clients about the extreme shortages at the resorts. We are so thankful for our amazing friends working there that brought us their own extras from home to make us f [... read more]eel more welcome. We love them!

Hotel Los Cactus: Great Resort and Staff

My wife and I just returned from an 11 day stay at Los Cactus. It was our first time at this resort, and had been recommended by several friends that have been vacationing there for many years. We have been to Cuba and Varadero many times in the past and were pleasantly surprised with this resort, the layout, staff, beach, etc. The staff at this resort are truly amazing and they really go out of their way to make your stay a great experience. We always say that you don't go to Cuba for the foo [... read more]d, but we ate lobster 5 times during our stay there! My wife loved the pasta bar and the A la Carte's were great! Cuba is having some food supply issues (eggs, beef, condiments) and we did enquire with other vacationers that stayed at many other resorts and it became clear that most resorts seem to be having some supply issues. We also determined that the price to stay at this resort was much cheaper than many other resorts in the area, and for you golfers, golf is included in your stay at Los Cactus, so we golfed several times at the Varadero Golf Course, overlooking the ocean. We went into Veradero several times, many markets and restaurants to include the Varadero 60 (make a reservation), great venue and menu, highly recommended, 3 piece classic rock band, amazing food and service. We also went into Cardenas by taxi (25 minute ride) and ate at a fantastic restaurant there too. A great night at the Beatles bar in Varadero, this is a don't miss for anyone wanting a "fun night on the town", and meeting many other Canadians having a great time. As mentioned in other reviews, there are Russians vacationing at this resort (separate buildings), and all the other resorts in Cuba. It came to our attention that they are getting reduced pricing from the Cuban government. We met some very nice Russian people, and others we chose to not to meet, no different than how we choose to socialize with people from other countries. A big thanks to all the staff at Los Cactus for all your hard work, your endless smiles and friendship. We would definitely return to Los Cactus, and look forward to coming back. The Los Cactus is a 4 star resort, and the staff are 6 star, so we feel totally comfortable giving this resort a 5 star rating.

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Great resort

All the employees were great especially Henny, Julio, Elvis, Javier and Adonis.( sorry for spelling). The food was some of the best we have had in Cuba. Parts of the resort are in some need of repair or renovation but overall descent. Beaches are amazing, no seaweed just soft white sand. Been to many resorts in Cuba and this one is at the top of the list.

Roc Barlovento: Best little resort

We have been going to this resort for 15 years. And sometimes 2 to 3 times a year it’s like home away from home. Many shortages now but we don’t care the beach and the ocean is still the best. The employees are going through hard times as well and get most of the brunt of things they first hand get all the complaining. They still smile and try to make the best of everything and are very creative with what they do have to work with. If you are going on vacation for the food find somewhere else [... read more] to go. I have always managed well with what is provided. Guess I’m a good camper LOL

Don Lino Hotel: Club amigo

We were moved to the club amigo due to issues at the don lino. We did get a chance to visit the don lino and it was a small resort and the grounds looked good. We did stay at the club amigo and we really enjoyed this resort. The rooms were cleaned and well maintained. The pools were clean and not over crowded. The Cubans that were at the resort were friendly and polite. For whatever reason it was guest from other countries that gave us the evil eyes for whatever reason lol. They always ha [... read more]d something to eat and it’s typical Cuban food with the usual taste. The bread was fresh as was the salads. The ice was very yummy and they had different flavour almost each day. The pool bars and lobby bar and the 24 hr bar had all the same drinks and I wasn’t fussy so I drank what they had and enjoyed it. All in all the club amigo was a very well run hotel and I would recommend it as a good destination.

Grand Aston Cayo Paredon Beach Resort: Amazing resort, poor food

The resort is very good, the accommodation is superb. Several lovely swimming pools, gorgeous beach. Staff is friendly and pleasant. Now about the food: we all know that Cuba is facing shortages in every way so we didn't expect gourmet dining, however it was even worse than we expected. There wasn't much to choose from the first two days. No fruit at all, mostly cabbage, rice and dry pasta with a couple of spoons of watered down tomato paste. As far as alholic drinks, there was no wine in the  [... read more]entire resort, only beer and rum. The situation improved the 3rd day of our stay as they must have received new shipment of food. There were omelets in the morning and fried fish and chicken later in the day. However the lines to get this food were very very long. There was even wine in the evening but you had beg to get your glass refilled. There was no tea the entire week. Having said this, aside from the food, we still had a good time and enjoyed our stay.

Gran Muthu Cayo Santa Maria: Nice resort

The resort was nice. Beach beautiful. We went during a very very very low occupancy (maybe thats your thing) we ended up transferring to another resort. However, again. It was a nice resort. Clean. If you enjoy quiet time this resort is for you! Food? Well let’s just say we don’t go to Cuba for the food right.

Memories Jibacoa: Amazing Resort for Adults Only

Everything is great at this resort although this is is my second time there and we were not able to use the pool or ocean for days after just arriving because of the storm that came in. They worked so hard to get everything back up and running. The pool was ready on the last day of our stay in the later afternoon and we did go in for a short time and we were able to go in the ocean one day. Both are beautiful! It’s a smaller resort so it’s easy to get to everything and the people there are so ni [... read more]ce. Nice that it’s an adult resort only too. I love children but sometimes it’s nice to get away with just adults. ? They treat you like family. Always serving with a smile. Hard workers. Great food. Beautiful beach and beautiful views from the ocean view rooms. Everyone is willing to help in anyway. Can’t say enough about f the people that work there and the entertainment is so much fun! Especially the piano bar where there is karaoke, a guitar player who was amazing and a piano player. The bartender Miguel was excellent in serving your drinks! Great resort to go to if you’re looking for a more peaceful and smaller resort.

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Resort: Beautiful Resort

Clean beautiful beaches, lots of shade, white sand. Lovely pools. Comfy clean and modern rooms. Lots of food variety Friendly staff always willing to help we never had a problem finding tables or chairs for our family group either in restaurants or at pool or on beach

Memories Caribe Beach Resort: Beautiful resort

The resort was very beautiful from the palm trees to the flower's and the beach the different venues were decorated nicely. The public washrooms were kept impeccable and they decorated the sinks with hibiscus flowers everyday. Entertainment was good. Different choices everyday in the piano bar, at the pool and a beach party at night!! (Wear insect repellent) There were some shortages…items unavailable at times were bottled water, bread. The water that is available at the bar is good I drank alo [... read more]t of it. Save your bottle and refill at bar.

Blau Varadero: Amazing Resort Design

We were at Blau Varadero for 7 days in March 2024. The hotel is huge and spacious. Inside foyer and courtroom decorated with live plant festooned many floors high are quite impressive. The Select room we stayed in was quite big and nicely equipped. The room service was thorough and efficient. Room Tv program quality was terrible! Food was availabe as buffet. There were many vegetables, fruits and baked goods. Pork and beef were poorly cooked. Chicken were hard to find but edible. There were [... read more] no eggs or egg containing meals. The a la carte dinners were nicely set with the string quartet playing classical and popular music. The food was nicely served but again pork and beef were poorly cooked (either chewy or hard to bite), we settled for chicken and we were OK. Hospitality and eagerness of the staff to make guests happy were quite touching. For this alone we might consider going there again.

Memories Caribe Beach Resort: Fabulous time!

Beautiful and clean resort! Lots of activities to keep you entertained all day and evening. Staff are engaging and friendly! Food was good, lots of drinks available. Loved the beach party, disco and piano bar. Great entertainment nightly, truly enjoyable! Dancing into the night! Always great music throughout the resort and disco represented by DJ Tinta. The entertainment team was awesome!