Hotel Playa Paraiso: Would avoid this resort

Pro’s: Great beach/nightly entertainment/great coffee Con’s: Rooms are very rundown and neglected of any maintenance/had a ring stolen from luggage/very cold pool/food is sub par throughout the resort/very limited drink choices

Valentin El Patriarca Varadero: Definitely not a five stars. May be two.

When we arrived to the resort and our room we found the bath tab was out of order, no towels at all, the telephone set was out of order. Room was dark, not enough lights. Only two bath towers we got on the next day, and it never have changed during all two weeks of our stay. Hand towels they just don't have. The food was poor, include buffet and all of a la carte. There is even no tea spoons and your ice cream one had to eat using table spoon, if there was luck to get it or may be by finger.  [... read more]Also there were mosquito. Cuba became less comfortable and more poor since our last visit 7 years ago.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Excellent Resort

Have enjoyed many trouble free and completely satisfying vacations at Brisas. However, when things go wrong an hotel’s flexibility and willingness to make changes and special arrangements are highlighted. On my most recent visit the management and staff were extremely helpful and supportive as I coped with a serious health issue. Providing transportation to the local clinic, doctor’s visit to my room, daily follow up by resident nurse, offer to have meals delivered to my room, late check out a [... read more]nd keeping tabs on my condition and needs (extra blankets). This is an hotel whose management and staff ensure that your needs are their priority regardless of the circumstances. Thank you.

Sol Caribe Beach: Front desk staff made this review LOW

The Beach was great. The food was very good. The bar staff are fantastic. The coffee bar was a great experience. Maid service was great. The front desk staff not up to par. The room I reserved was supposed to be 2 beds. They gave me a 1 bed room. I had 2 Teenagers' with me. When we asked if could get the room we booked, they rolled their eyes. We had to take what they gave us. The Wifii was no good at all. A lady infront of me was asking about the Wiifii. The front desk girl out-and-o [... read more]ut lied to her. Front desk said Wiifii was fine. Everyone else in hotel was good. Front desk told the lady her cell phone was the problem. We had a maintenance door above our room banging all night. (It was a windy week). For 3 days we asked that it be closed. Front desk said, "All I can do is write it down" Took 4 tries to get a beach towel. Then we were never able to trade it in for clean ones.

Playa Pesquero: Very Nice Resort Given the Circumstances

Everything at the resort was well prepared. They are suffering though due to the country's state of affairs. The resort only had eggs one day out of seven. According to the locals this was because the county's current leader is diverting all funds to the military and there is nothing left for non essentials. No one in Cuba wants anything to do with Cuban Pesos so don't believe the travel websites (including this one) when they say Cuba's currency is Pesos. They only want Canadian or US currency [... read more] in bills (no coins).Even the currency exchange booths at the resort and airport won't take it. The currency exchange websites say 1 Canadian dollar = approx 17 Cuban Pesos but in reality if you try to use it at a market thay want at least 150 Pesos in eqivelent to 1 dollar. We did enjoy the resort. It is well laid out. The help is very friendly. In fact our daughter is contimplating going back in April with a friend. I recommend taking a 2 hour horse and buggy taxi excursion from a local. They will take you places you wouldn't normally see and our driver only wanted $25 for the three of us. We gave him $100 because of the excellent effort he made, the time spent, and he was training a new driver.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Disappointed

The hotel has a nice layout but has shortfall in upkeep and basic stocking of rooms. The door wouldn't lock and maintenence was informed but was still not working properly. The food was horrendous barely palatable and I'm not a picky person. The beach is amazing so only points for location. The staff are friendly but minimalistic in response . Currently there is a food shortage so the omelets station was cooking up the stuff to go in the omelets but no eggs were added and plating it for lined u [... read more]p clientele. I got food poisoning quite badly during stay here and heard another whole family on the airplane coming home had food poisoning as well. Wouldn't stay here again and has actually left a bad mark to not want to come to cuba again in the future . Will stick to Mexico instead.

Grand Aston Cayo Paredon Beach Resort: Great resort

Resort is very nice, clean, comfortable,. Beach is amazing. Food and beverages not good at all. I was expecting food being not great, but it was much worse than I thought. But overall value of this resort is good.

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Good resort, but not amazing

Swimming pool and beach are very good .food adjust like 4 star hotel. Room is big， But the drain in the bathroom of my room was clogged, so I moved to another room, and the drain in the sink was clogged, but they fixed it later.

Playa Pesquero: Amazing resort

I stayed in resort for a week. Just came back. I liked this resort very much. It is clean, well maintained. Large grounds, lots of trees and greenery, one buffet restaurant, 3 restaurants for lunch amd dinner and 4 al-a-cart restaurants. Service is ok, Food is ok, not so great but good enough. We had eggs only one day. But you can tell that they are doing the best they can, they are very innovative and creative in representing the food. Pools are very nice, there are 5 or 6 of them, I’ve bee [... read more]n to many hotels in Cuba but I have never seen this many pools. It is good value and good family resort. I will go back March. Loved it!

Sol Caribe Beach: Ok

Check in was total chaos..we were a group of 17 and had only 1 person at counter.. food was good beach was good rooms clean..provided bus for us but weren’t going to let me on way back to airport..somehow I wasn’t on their list..no idea why..

Gran Muthu Imperial: Nice resort

Beautiful place, food was amazing, we thoroughly enjoyed our meals. It is not a good choice for people who prefer beach over pool, you have to walk quite a ways to sandy beach, Water is very beautiful, we got 4 windy days from hurricanes off Florida coast but still managed to get a nice tan. 1 full day of heavy rains. Shortage of clean towels for room only once were ours changed, also toilet paper was scarce, the maids did the best they could. Beach towel was never changed , we managed as we we [... read more]re enjoying the beautiful infinity pool. The staff was amazing and so were the gusts it was quiet for the first few days then got considerably busier. I suggest bringing towel and toilet paper for emergency use, but definitely recommend this resort, quick side note as of November it was no longer adult only, we did not know that,. There were a few kids but well behaved .Highly recommend the Cuban, international and Mediterranean dinners, they were fabulous, can’t comment on shows as we did not see them , as they were in the lobby

Tryp Cayo Coco: Amazing place

Tryp was exactly what I needed! I had no idea what to expect and I was overwhelmed by the friendliest staff who went out of their way to make sure our stay was excellent and comfortable. So much food and a very wide variety. Chefs prepared such amazing meals for us and the wait staff, bartenders made sure we never went without. Pool was beautiful and so clean with the ocean just over the bridge.

Melia Cayo Santa Maria: Wonderful Family Resort

As usual, the Melia Cayo Santa Maria provided us with another wonderful vacation. Friendly staff, great a la Carte dinners which were easy to book, a sparkling clean pool, and a beautifully maintained beach were some of the highlights of this smaller family resort.

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Resort: Great time overall with a sour ending

We enjoyed our stay at this resort and met many friendly staff members Great beach and pool area as well There was one instance on our last day that unfortunately sour our experience when customer service forced our daughter and son in law staying on a separate room to pay for a towel that they never had to start with . There was only on bath towel in the room from the first day they got there. Room maid said they were short of towels and so they just made do with one towel all week and  [... read more]yet they demanded payment on check out for a second towel that they never had.

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Resort: Beware

Beware the Extortioners and Thieves We had a decent time at the Grand Muthu Americante until the last day when we were extorted by the house keeper, customer service, manager and the representative from Air Canada vacations. On the 1st day at the resort our room had no bath towels. On the second day I returned to the room after breakfast to our housekeeper and informed her we had no bath towels. She said that they were out but gave me an extra blue beach towel and said they would get us a bat [... read more]h towel when she had one available. We came back that evening to one bath towel. The rest of the vacation we had 3 beach and 1 bath towel thinking this was the best we were going to get. Then on the last day (perfectly timed) as the bus is arriving to take us to the airport we are confronted by a customer service rep saying that we stole towels and owed them $30 USD. After explaining the situation the customer service rep goes to the Muthu rep at the bus and tells him that they are not to leave until we pay. We repeatedly told them to search our bags, each time they decline. We repeatedly asked to talk to the manager, Ramon, who is in a “meeting” and refuses to come talk to us. The bus is now completely loaded and waiting on us. It’s only at this point that the Air Canada rep(Oscar) gets involved and tells us just to pay them so we can get going. We tell them to pull our bags from the bus and we will take a taxi. They refuse. Now holding our luggage hostage. This is when I clue in that it’s a clever rouse. Out of frustration I open my wallet and offer cash to settle it. They refuse demanding Credit Card Payment. Now what are you going to do? The bus is waiting, they have your luggage, you’re stuck! In the end we had to pay. Moral of the story… when you get to the hotel take an inventory of everything in your room, report everything to the front desk and take notes of names and times you went to them and bring a credit card that you don’t mind cancelling…. To be called thieves and deal with mediocre food and drink was totally not worth it.

Playa Luxury Cayo Las Brujas: Great vacation - will return!

This was our 4th time at Angsana, and just as good as the first three visits. We were there December 9-16th. Occupancy was low at around 120 guests, maybe fewer at times. This made it extra quiet and never a line up for omelets or at the grills. There was no evening live entertainment at all. This was a first for us. We presume it was due to the low occupancy. The staff were friendly, service was excellent, food was great even though there are shortages with some items (eg. no potatoes, bu [... read more]t the banana chips were delicious!). The weather was very windy, which forced us to spend most of our time at the pool instead of the beach. No fault of the resort, but they certainly stepped up service around the pool, bringing drinks right to our chairs at times. Our room in block 7 on the 2nd floor, and was exceptionally clean every day. Cleanest of all four visits to this resort. I don't know her name to give her a shout out, but she was excellent. We flew Sunwing again, but will try a different carrier next time. Sunwing was late by almost 2 hours heading down, and an hour late coming home. A little tired of their inconsistencies. The staff on the flight going down were awesome, but on the way back not so much. The flight on the way down was an actual Sunwing plane and staff, but on the way back was a sub-contracted airline that supports Sunwing. Definitely not the same standards.

Paradisus Rio De Oro: 10th Anniversary at Paradisus

We came here on our honeymoon and wanted to return on our 10th to celebrate. We weren't disappointed. The resort is absolutely lovely, very natural, no plastic palm trees here. Even the expansive lobby is gorgeous. The resort is in a nature preserve area so everything is beautiful. The resort itself is not enormous, which is nice; you can get around without having to hop on a bus to get to dinner (like at some mega-resorts) and you actually have the opportunity to meet people if you choose. T [... read more]his time, like last time, we found ourselves amongst a group of folks who were just wonderful, and we spent a lot of time at the pool and lobby bars with them, but if you don't feel like socializing, no big deal. We got a Junior Suite, which is one of the little bungalows that house two rooms. These rooms are nice, with an outdoor shower (love 'em) and chairs out back in a little "yard" where we reclined and watched the stars one night (no mosquitos there somehow!) There's bottled water and beer in the fridge for ya; the cleaning staff did a wonderful job. We had a few minor issues - our door lock didn't work, but they had it repaired as quickly as they could. This isn't even really a negative for me. It's the real world; s**t happens. Don't feel like it reflects on the Rio de Oro. The staff are remarkably friendly and warm; if it's an act, they're all very good at it (read: I don't think it's an act, for most). The entertainment is excellent, especially the live Cuban bands. There's a lot of live music here, which is amazing. People were helpful and gracious and sincerely thankful when tipped, and never felt like tipping was necessary for being well-treated by staff. That said, tip, and bring needed goods, for the love of all that is holy. Folks need it. Some folks may not love the beach, because they want one of those miles-long white sand beaches in all the brochures. The Rio de Oro's beach has been eroded naturally over the years so it's a big shorter, and there's coral and rocks. For us, none of this was a problem at all. It's a gorgeous ocean and there's sun, what more do you need? The pool is great as well. It wasn't overly crowded the week we went so we had no problems getting chairs and spots at either. We were here to rest, so we didn't do any off-site excursions but by all reports from friends, they were great (snorkeling, driving Jeeps, beach lunches, etc). Food is a big complaint when people talk about Cuba but food in the Holguin area is generally pretty solid. We were happy with every meal we had. Cuba's fuel shortages and other challenges, including the ridiculously long-lasting US embargo, have meant that it's hard to get, well, things in general, so you have to be forgiving of that (and if you're not, why are you in Cuba?). So one day they might not have something at the buffet; the next day, they have it. The first hamburger I had was pretty bare-bones but tasty; the second was loaded up and also tasty. The chefs here always made due with what they had and it was always good. The food at the buffet was always good especially the omelette station at breakfast. The a la carte restaurants were all excellent, and they threw in an extra reservation for us because the resort wasn't packed. Even the wines were pretty great. The Rio de Oro is several decades old. There's a few signs of wear and tear, but there's also signs of constant improvement, despite economic and social issues in the country. They re-roofed the beach restaurant while we were there, and were doing all kinds of other work. None of it was distracting or problematic; when they closed the beach restaurant they replaced it with a beachside barbecue which, honestly, was fantastic. Talking briefly with the (newish) General Manager, they are working to update the place one step at a time. Not to sound too spacey or abstract...but this place just gives me good vibes. It feels good. It's quiet, friendly, and lovely. We'll be back agian.

Blau Varadero: Beautiful and Friendly

Traveled December 3-10. First time at this resort. Will be back again for sure. Room: little outdated but clean and functioning. Great maid service, cute towel and blanket displays all week. Handwritten notes from staff. comfortable beds, great view. Air worked really well and always had lots of hot water and pressure. Lobby / central area: Loved the vines, so pretty, especially at night. Lots of places to sit, chat, relax, listen to music or hang out. Loved the open concept. Didn't make [... read more] you feel like you were in a high rise. Not sure what the open area between the rooms on the inside. Could do something with it to make it look nicer or cleaner. Only complaint. Ohh and we got stuck a few times on the elevator. Not a big deal, ring the bell and within minuets you are moving again. Food: Had heard mixed reviews on the Al carte so we skipped it. I have a very sensitive stomach and never ever went hungry. Infact was able to eat the bread there unlike back home. Food was decent, lots of it. Didn't eat half the snacks I brought just in case. It is Cuba... lower your expectations and you will be happy and full. Staff: They are all so friendly and helpful. Can't speak highly enough about them. Smiles all day every day. A few very helpful helping secure decorations for my birthday dinner and baked me a cake. So sweet of them and truly appreciated. Beach: Close second behind Cayo Coco. Clean well kept. Bar and bathroom close by. Entertainment staff fun and energetic. Pool: Large pool, lots of room to swim or float in. Different levels of water. Beauitful. Entertainment: Live music throughout the day and night around the pool and lobby bar. Two great sax players, good rock band, great water show. No shows at the Theatre. 5/7 nights we danced for several hours in the beach bar. Great music, great bartender and friendly DJ. He was open to requests and did a great job, The other two-nights DJ would not play anything you asked for, only played techno beat overlays. Was horrible... we are not all in our 20's liking that style. Sad too as it was my birthday and was looking forward to dancing all night. Walked out to the street watched a bunch of old cars drive by. Took one to town to go for dinner and dancing at the Beatles bar. Amazing rick band that night. Dinner was disappointing. Lack of options. Should have eaten on the resort. Already planning next the next trip back. Beautiful beaches, resort and people. Its CUBA... leave your stuffy attitudes and high expectations at home and enjoy it. Clean, friendly and sunshine. Can't ask for more!!

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Save your money book elsewhere

We started with one room that smelt so bad like must and mold we had them move us to another room. Also the safe in the first room had no batteries in it. Second room there is mold all over the bathroom tub and sink. But we stayed in there rather than having to move once again. Our second night here we went to the front desk because we had a couple minor issues with the room and we were told maintenance would be up in 20 minutes. Well 3 days later and we still have not seen a maintenance guy. [... read more] Breakfast at the buffet we have seen eggs only twice but you have to line up for them for 20 minutes or more. They have shrivelled up pancakes but no syrup for them. There is next to no selection for breakfast at all. The servers bring you coffee or juice but don’t come back to see if you are ok or need a top up. Lunch has been ok not a lot of selection but we did find something. Dinners have been a mess next to nothing in selection and the food is cold even when they bring it freshly from the back. Also want to point out absolutely nothing is labeled with what it is so you have no idea what you are taking whether or not you will like it. We did the Italian alacarte the one night. We ordered chicken. The chicken was extremely dry and rubbery to the point we had a hard time cutting it with the knives. The cheese soup tasted like kraft dinner sauce and the chocolate cake tasted like the box it come in. The Japanese restaurant was amazing we did enjoy that. And the show that goes with it was on point. WiFi has been horrible on one minute off the next. No WiFi at the pool or beach either. Booted off and can’t get back on for some time. It was even very weak when on the balcony. Housekeeping the room was cleaned daily but not once all week were the towels changed just folded and put back on the shower rail. Our shower was only a wand which we had to tuck into a pole to have a shower. Otherwise hold the wand the whole time. The weather this week wasn’t as friendly as Cuba weather should be so we spent a lot of time in the lobby. We waited hours and had to flag the server down to even get anything in there. The bar was always lined up so that also took a lot of time just trying to get a drink. The entertainment team is awesome they keep the crowd going and the evening shows have been great. Also not once has the elevator in building 16 worked. Overall this wasn’t a great experience and we will not be returning here. Definitely not a 4.5 star. I would give it maybe a 2.5 to a 3. I do understand that there are shortages in Cuba but service isn’t great either and in my opinion that makes or breaks a resort. Unfortunately this one is a break for me.

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: VERY POOR CHAIRS BY THE OCEAN AND THE POOL

I am not the only one complaining from pain caused by the lounge chairs scattered throughout this resort along side of the pool & the chairs by the ocean even worse. Had a great time other than having to come back and straight off to the doctor. Sciatica pain in BOTH legs, very unfortunate, started day 2. URGENT****** THIS RESORT NEEDS TO INVEST IN NEW LOUNGE CHAIRS.