Selectum Family Resort Varadero: Beautiful new resort with mediocre beach

We vacationed at the Selectum Family Resort from April 13-20th. We had an absolutely wonderful time. The rooms are well equipped, having everything we needed including a nice hair dryer, iron and ironing board. Our housekeeper did a great job cleaning our room, including changing our towels when asked. We booked 4 a la cartes, Italian, Cuban, International and Italian again, all of them served delicious meals, including a birthday cake for dessert. Our server Teresa at the Italian restauran [... read more]t was an absolute sweetheart. Activities at the pool included bingo and name that tune/movie title. The entertainment team are very active and friendly. A big shoutout to our new buddy Jhoan and his crew. Unfortunately we are big beach people and the beach here didn't live up to our expectations, but this didn't stop us from basking in the sun while listening to the waves.(We knew the beach situation before booking but still gave it a try) You definitely need water shoes to enter the water, as there are alot of large rocks. As others have mentioned there is a clear spot to the left, it's few minute walk, however there are no chairs or palapas there. As for the pool area, it's in direct sunlight so you definitely need a spot with an umbrella or one of the palapas. They are saved quite early in the morning and we only managed to grab one once. They were building more as we were there. Service at all bars was top notch, although slow at times, but we were on vacation, so who cares. The day before we left was very busy, there were alot of locals visiting and having a blast. All in all we had a great time, the only reason we would not return is because of the beach. Oh, one other thing, the Varadero Hop On Hop Off bus changed their pricing, we were told by our Sunwing rep it was $5 CDN or US, well the lady on the bus taking the money said it was $7.50 CDN/$15 for 2 people. I couldn't help but think we were getting ripped off, considering they don't take any change. We went again 5 days later and she was only taking credit cards. Apparently she's lost too much money the last month due to exchange? I think she was trying to cash in on tourists. This had nothing to do with the resort but I wanted others to be aware.

Sol Cayo Coco: Excellent service

We had a great time with our young family. The resort is dated, but other than that it is a wonderful place to stay. The staff goes above and beyond to make your stay special. Food is good and the kids club was wonderful! Will definitely be returning.

Memories Caribe Beach Resort: Flys

Sorry I was very dissatisfied with your place , the place had so many flys, it was bad enough but the constant spraying from the air plane above and the flys on the food turned me off and seeing the people spraying the tables was enough, the drinks what they did have were bad and half time no cups . I must say staff were great but for one guy calling me sweetly pie who was also rude to my sister . The maids did a very good job on our rooms which were tired and old a rustie fridge and gave us  [... read more]water when they could . The staff at main bar and coffee bar did their best with supply’s they had which wasn’t much . Sorry I will not be returning .

Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas: Amazing resort!

Second time at the Grand Aston Las Brujas and surely not the last. The staff is very curteous and the rooms (always block 3 for me) is very well kept and extremely clean. The beds are comfortable. Food is good, drinks are amazing and coffee at the lobby bar is succulent. Strongly recommend this resort.

Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria: Amazing time

The staff are so nice and inviting making sure we were always topped up with drinks, the resort was great and food was good, the beach was so nice. Rooms were great amd so was the views. Definitely will be back.

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Would Go Back in a Heartbeat

I just got back home from Cuba two days ago, so I may still be riding the high of a wonderful vacation, so take that as you will. Playa Alameda was really nice. Friendly staff, beautiful grounds, and an all around lovely stay. The resort was quiet and calm; an excellent place for rejuvenation and relaxation. My biggest complaints are the food (not bad, just not particularly good either), and the beach (gets stony about 15' from shore). From talking to people from other resorts, the food thing se [... read more]ems to be consistent all around, and can easily be solved by supporting local restaurants. It won't put much of a dent in your budget as the prices are very affordable. As for the beach I'll just say this: water shoes will be your friend. Problem solved. All this being said, I would absolutely stay there again in the future. And I'm a random person on the internet, so you know you can trust me.

Playa Vista Azul: Very nice resort!! Beautiful view from our room!!

The hotel was very nice! We went with the premium upgrade! Our friend Jose took good care of us, as well as Diana and Yuri! They tried very hard to make our trip the most enjoyable! Well worth it! Food was good! We went to the Coral restaurant every morning for breakfast. It was delicious food! Cappuccino’s were so good!! Our bartenders, Raymel & Carlton, at the pool took very good care of us! The people were amazing! So friendly! The manager, Arasay was the nicest lady! She couldnâ [... read more]€™t do enough for us! We were celebrating an anniversary and a birthday and Arasay & Jose made reservations at the international restaurant were we enjoyed a delicious dinner and a big cake for both celebrations! We will most definitely be returning as the people made it a very special and memorable holiday!

Paradisus Varadero: Loved it. I will be back.

The resort itself is fantastically laid out. The beach is beautiful. The main pool was fantastic. The staff... all were friendly, helpful and outstanding. I won't say there weren't little issues now and again but they did what they could to fix the issues. If you go to them with problems and are rude right away thats probably why you arent happy with the service. Remember, they have a different climate that wears things down quickly. Yes, there were days the food at the buffet was limit [... read more]ed but we didn't go hungry. The lunch BBQ was always good. Felix..you are awesome. Our room was always well cleaned daily. Add to all the the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, great music and happy staff... that's enough to send me back again and again. By far my favorite stay in Varadero yet.

Valentin El Patriarca Varadero: The great disappointment

We visited the hotel for the second time. / first Nov 2019/ and we are very disappointed from the service, food. We arrived at midnight- no water in the room ,flooding in the bathroom. Every days complaints for changing the bath towels toilet paper and supplies for the mini bar./ we used to receive 20 beers for 10 days we received at least 5/. The food- everyday chicken, only 4 times pork and if you are among the first in the buffet. The entertainment was nice. At the end our luggage was dama [... read more]ged at the Varadero airport and part of it was stolen. We will not visit Cuba for the next 5 years. We already recommend this to our friends .

Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria: We Would Return If…

This vacation could have been near perfect except for one aspect. The beach, friendly staff, room, room issues fixed same day, WIFI so-so, beautiful grounds, and so on were all positive. We met so many wonderful people from QC, NB, & NS. The deal breaker for us was that the indoor buffet was closed for most of our 10-day stay. I have never heard of a resort doing this. Arriving at the first week of low season, they decided to make renovations to two indoor eating locations which included the  [... read more]buffet. The result was a smaller buffet, and most importantly being outside, a buffet swarmed by flies. Eventually we stopped eating from the buffet and only ate what came out of the kitchen that we could order.

Melia Cayo Coco: Melia Cayo Coco. Another wonderful stay

This was our second trip to Melia Cayo Coco this year. We had one of the best times out of the past 15 or more stays here. The service from all staff was excellent , everyone was very happy to help out with our requests. Thank you to Juan Carlos, Kennier, Yunismy,Haila and Gippsy. The food was delicious at the buffet and at the al la carts. Breakfast and lunches at the Ranchon (beach restaurant) very tasty with lobster on Cuban Day. Thanks to Champu, Orlando, Exay, Raul, Bravo and rest of [... read more] the staff in the kitchen. The service from the wait staff, not only are they wonderful at the job, they also sing and dance.Thanks to the Leandro, Osmany, Yusmelkys and Yaneisy. There is live music daily at lunch at the Ranchon with the ever popular Sol de Rio and another band who’s escapes me. The buffet has a wide variety of choices of food for everyone at breakfast and dinner, we did not have lunch at the buffet. There are some shortages we noticed but they did not affect us, such as pasta and pork. The buffet is quite noisy earlier in the evening at prime time. The staff do a great job greeting guests and providing warm and friendly atmosphere. Special thanks to Beatrice and Vivian for breakfast service and to Omar and Celia for dinner service. The resort has a high number of repeat guests. On this trip met many friends from Canada and friends who have been able to travel from the UK. The animation staff do a great job of engaging those guests interested in participating in games at the beach with boche, volleyball, dance lessons and Spanish lessons. They also have a fun rum tasting event which is quite entertaining . A big shout out to Rene, Julio, Nosleny, Annie, Victor,Chino, Yaneisy,Lia and Jilena, thanks for the fun everyday! There is nightly entertainment in the lobby, always from the piano Elim and all the other performers. On the main stage there a fantastic dance company putting on terrific shows. There was also performances by a circus troop, a rock band and a Michael Jackson show. The grounds are in great condition and well maintained by a great group of gardeners Borges, Rolando, Felipe and the numerous others. The beautiful beach stretches for miles and you can sail, snorkel and fish. The classic room we stayed in was dated, especially the shower and tub. We know they are slowly working on renovations. We appreciated that the room was very well cleaned everyday. A big problem was the lack water pressure and temperature at peak times between 5 and 6 pm when everyone was preparing to go to dinner. This can be very frustrating. The staff were prompt to try rectify the problem. The biggest reason we choose to return to the Melia Cayo Coco is the peaceful vibe. No booming music at the beach which is absolutely amazing! Very chill music around the pool in the morning. Over the years we have developed many friendships with the staff and each time we are warmly welcomed. Their excellent service truly appreciated!

The One Gallery Hotel: Started well, and then things went terribly!

I have travelled to Cuba many times, starting about 25 years ago, going almost every year. It was great to see how tourism has lifted the Cuban people, especially the ones working in the tourism industry. Over the years, I dropped off many items, colouring books, crayons, pencils, pens and soccer balls, to all the Cuban regions I visited as a traveller. It was always worth renting a scooter or a car to help these poor and suffering people compared to us Canadians. I remember dropping off items [... read more] at a local church/school and the priest telling me they need new educational school books. I have always loved the service and hospitality of the Cuban people. If you tip, it is always appreciated and respected. If you look at the monthly Cuban salary, that tip always mattered greatly to them. Unfortunately, my last trip to Hotel Selectum, Santa Maria, was terrible, making it my worst vacation in Cuba. The first few days were excellent; the Hotel was new, the beaches were great, the gym was good, and the service was terrific. I was so happy I made the decision. Then on Good Friday, busloads of locals came into the resort, with it being Easter weekend and kids not being in school. This changed the whole outcome of my two-week vacation. The first thing you notice when going to the buffet is that the locals would push and bump ahead of you in line. They never smiled and were quite rude and piled on the food. When you're waiting in line at the meat grill, there are normally 6-8 people in front of you and was a 10-15 minute wait. Now the locals would pile on their plates with the grilled meat with 10-20 pieces and two plates each. Suddenly, the wait was 5-10 times longer because management allowed this hoarding. There was a fresh platter of smoked ham at the buffet, and two people (locals) in front of me took the whole plater. It was crazy what we were all seeing, and I was starting to hear the frustration of all Canadian tourists. I also had my chair taken on me at dinner before I finished, and I had people at lunch take my table when I had my knapsack on my chair. With the influx of people, there was always something missing, whether its food, paper towels, desert bowls, cutlery, etc. You could never enjoy your meal in this madhouse situation. On the first day of the local's arrival, the pool was packed, and it was a big party, which was excellent. The following day I noticed the pool was green and that there were algae. I have pictures of algae floating around in the pool. It was insane how much algae there was. There was staff trying to remove it. I'm in the water treatment profession and know you need to shock it, and some algae are resistant to chlorine, meaning you might need to dump the whole pool. I only went into the pool one day before I noticed the algae and did not enter the pool for the rest of the two weeks. It always had a green colour tinge to it. This was so concerning me and my group of friends that we decided to change Hotels. We spoke to the Sunwing rep, and they talked to the management of Selectum. The manager asked us to stay and said this was only for Easter weekend. A Dominican Republic lady working for Selectum and helping them start up the Hotel also stated this was temporary. So we decided to stay. Unfortunately, after Easter Monday, it was calm for a few days, and busloads started returning. The Hotel management lied to us about this overcrowding being temporary. The service at the Main Lobby bar also changed, it did not matter how much you tipped in the past, and I tipped every time I ordered; there were now too many people and too few staff to keep up with demand. The elevators in my building were down 7 or 8 times in the two weeks, and the hot water was not always working. The refrigerator's complementary water bottles and soft drinks were repeatedly not replenished. Cuban food was always substandard; things were lacking from day to day. I always accepted it as part of a third-world country. I never complained about this and focused on the good, including helping the Cubans. Over the years, I have encouraged hundreds of my friends, co-workers and family to visit Cuba. I did not know the Cuban tourist dollar was discontinued before I left. I had 80 dollars (about 100 CDN)with me; now, it was a worthless piece of paper. When I landed, I always went to exchange my money at the Airport because they always offered the best exchange rate. For $350 CDN, I received around $30000 pesos. It was so much paper money in $500 Cuban bills I had to hide it in my luggage. When I got to the airport bus to the Hotel, they told me not to exchange the money and use Canadian or American dollars. They can't exchange coins, so don't bring Looney or Tooneys. The best solution for tips to hotel staff is now US $1 and CDN $5 bills. Unfortunately, I could not return my Cuban Pesos to CDN dollars, which is another sign of how quickly they can take our money and are not there to help us. Its policies like this are only devised to rip us off. Everyone at the Hotel, including in the Lobby, was uncooperative in providing me with change for the Peso. I'm stuck with about $150 CDN value of Cuban pesos. If I never return to Cuba, it's also a worthless piece of paper. Finally, so many locals had been sick at the Hotel, and I noticed they were congested and coughing, and I then caught a cold or maybe even covid. I'm taking care of my aging parents in their late 80s, and the last thing I wanted to do was risk getting them covid. In the reviews on TripAdvisor, it was a Hotel that had just opened with few people staying at the Hotel and only had 3 reviews. This is the worst I've been in terms of being sick since covid started in 2019. I hope my parents don't catch whatever this is. Where were Tripcentral, SellOff Vacations, Sunwing and Tripadvisor in all of this? We are the customer, and they allow us to go blindly into Cuba. When someone complains on Tripadvisor about anything, Trip Advisor quickly states they are not responsible for these negative customer comments. What about taking a stand and protecting us, the consumer? Especially when it comes to safety, like when algae are floating in a pool. What about working with the Cuban government and Hotel management in teaching and instituting rules and etiquette for the locals? There used to be many Europeans travelling to Cuba, and now it's all or mostly Canadians. Many Canadians at this Hotel have told me they are not returning to Cuba. What about protecting the Cuban tourist workers that have allowed them to have a better life in Cuba? I'm not against Cuban people; I have always helped and proudly given them lots of money and goods. It was my pleasure helping them. I also hope Tripcentral, SellOff Vacations, Sunwing and Tripadvisor and the rest of the tourist industry work together and help get the Cuban schools modern Spanish educational books. Modern education would help lift the Cubans in the long run, and most Canadians would gladly support that. I feel that Cubans and Canadians get along so well because we are alike in being kind and generous. It's all the management at every level that is ruining this now. I hope they take action and do better. Sadly until I see positive changes, I'm not returning to Cuba. I'm also rescinding my recommendations to all my friends, co-workers and family to visit Cuba.

Melia Marina Varadero: Avoid. Horribly managed

Terribly run, which exacerbates the problems innate to Cuba. They supposedly run out of food all the time but in reality are too lazy to resupply from the kitchen/storage. Staff dont care about guests, entertainment staff were rude. Room broke repeatedly. Drinks were good. Beach is excellent. But definitely not worth the experience. It was so stressful that we were thinking of leaving early the first few days

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: Iberstar Daquari

This hotel was an older, smaller resort, easy to get around, with an amazing beach and great entertainment. The rooms were dated, you could see where there had been leaks in the ceiling and walls. Cuba is still recovering from Covid, they would often run out of certain things like toilet paper in the main lobby bathrooms, drinks and food. The buffet was the same food all week at every meal and the a la Carte ( we could only get into one) was the same food as the buffet.

Hotel Bella Costa: Fantastic Resort

Friendly and fun staff. Rooms were clean, everything functioned. Food was good! Beach is amazing. Live music in the evenings was fun. Lunch buffet by the beach was really good. Been to Varadero several times. This resort is now my favorite.

Valentin El Patriarca Varadero: Great Vacation!!!!!!

After reading some reviews we were kinda scared to go but we went with an open mind! The hotel is clean, neat and tidy. The rooms were big...bathroom huge! We did upgrade and were glad we did as we got to book our a la cartes all at once ...our restaurant was the best in my opinion for breakfast and dinners. We did get a bottle of rum....20 minute massgae and laundry service with our upgraade. Also had access to higher quality liquor in the piano bar! The pools were both great...one quieter  [... read more]but both fun. The entertainment was fun at the swim up bar. They got people moving! The beach was beautiful as Cuba has the best!! There was alo activities on the beach...never a dull moment! The food was for the most part very good for Cuba....We ate very well and always found something tasty. We did take snacks but brought most home as we never touched them! The lobby bar was fantastic! The entertainment top notch!!! The Sax player, electric violin and the singers all were amazing! Staff for the most were very freindly and did whatever they could for us. They are amazing people. Mike's coffe bar...yummy! We took a cab to town for a look around and found interesting sites and people to talk to. We did not run out of anything..toilet paper, coffee, etc We did NOT see any cockroaches! The only negative view I have are of the sports bar...food and service was terrible!! But I just went somewhere else...no big deal! Towels were tough to get some days but again no big deal, as I reuse mine at home so was able to do so there. Our Vacation was GREAT!

Palma Real: Meets All My Needs

Allegro Palma Real, April 12, 2023 to April 20, 2023 Since this is a Trip Advisor my best advice for anyone planning on visiting any country for the first time is, do a little research. Look into traditions, conditions, laws and be respectful. After all you are a visitor in their country. After a 3 year break due to Covid, I was able to enjoy my 25th stay (my best guess) at The Palma Real. I was more than happy with what I had found. One thing that you will notice is the large number of mu [... read more]ltiyear return guest at this resort. There must be a good reason for this. “We” had several discussions on why so many returns and everyone came up with the same two answers. 1. The staff, I can’t say enough about them but I’ll try. 2. The returning guests are of the same mind in that they tend to be open to meeting new friends, have a good time, are helpful, and just add something to your time together. Upon arrival Oscar and the security staff are on duty at the front door keeping things safe. Great smile, strong handshake. At the front desk, check in is smooth and pleasant . Marley and her staff make a good first impression. My thoughts and prayers go out to a long time friend Marisol and her family. In the lobby bar you will served by Yara, Alina, and others. Efficient and pleasant service, professional but like to make things fun for everyone. You can get a great cup of coffee served the way I like it, “with a smile” from Learys. You can always find a good omelette for breakfast or eggs the way you like them. Pancakes, sausage, toast, juice will get your day off to a good start. No problem getting a hot meal at noon or supper. The a la carte is worth reserving. The snack bar is always open if you feel like a burger or sandwich. Many improvements have been made to the resort, most notably the two new pools with new pool decks, new showers, wheelchair accessibility to the pool bar. The additional waste cans help keep the grounds clean. New canopy covered walks provide shade and cover from the rain. Mike “The Pool Guy” and staff have the pools clean and clear. Speaking of the pool bar, it’s a happening place all afternoon. I noticed that there are many guests from The Arenas Blancas and Solymar that find the Palma Real pool, the place to be. The music is great and the bar tenders are super. Roberto and Yosleidys -”Tatica” keep things flowing and are so much fun to be around. I would remiss if I didn’t mention a relatively new employee. Anita was a great find. She has personality plus, whether working the pool bar or the buffet, you can’t miss her. The rooms were freshly painted and spotless. The beds are comfortable. I especially like the new thick pillows. Lots of hot water and good air conditioning. The WiFi works fine, but you’re on vacation , give that a rest also. The evening shows and water ballet display some real talent. The location is prime. No need to rent a car or call a taxi. The new Varadero Boulevard is literally right out the front door. Check it out on YouTube. Three of the best night spots in Varadero are within a 5 minute stroll. The Beatles Bar is on the edge on Josone Park and has really good rock cover bands that alternate nightly. Walking back to the resort there’s Cub 62, basicly a street dance with live Cuban music. Just down Calle 62 heading to the resort there’s The Havana Club. It’s actually built in the resort. It’s a disco with the latest dance mixes, light and video shows. A stroll to the beach is a must. I prefer the mornings to about 10am, before it gets too hot. Take your time and it should take you all of five or six minutes to get to one of the best beaches in the world. The Palma Real is the best value with the best staff in the best location near the world’s best beach. I couldn’t ask for more.

Palma Real: Great location and loved the resort

Many upgrades done and having access to the other sister resorts water sports and snack bar was the bonus that made staying a block away from beach worth while, Lots of variety in food and plenty of it when we were there, pool was newly done and very refreshing. This is a spot we will book again for and price was amazing :)

Hotel Inglaterra: less than an amazing hotel

Fantastic location, that's it. Bed, room, balcony are all too small for 1 person, let alone 2. Most staff are indifferent at best, with a few that are excellent. I stopped going to the rooftop bar because of difficulties with the staff. I stopped going to the outdoor cafe after they continuosly ignored me or just flat out didn't bring my order. I used to go to the Inglaterra, as a visitor, on my every trip to Cuba. But as an actual guest, I've lost any desire to ever return. To be fair, i [... read more]t was not horrible, but for the price I paid, it was far from enjoyable. The Telegrafo Hotel next door is newly renovated and appears to be a far superior choice in every comparable aspect.

Playa Pesquero: Playa Pesquero has it ALL

The room we had was a standard sized vacation room, nicely decorated and furnished. The pools and beaches were well kept. Staff were friendly and helpful. Lots to do at the beach, sailing, kayaking, paddle boats, snorkelling on the reef just off shore. If the beautiful beach is not your thing, there is lots of space around the pools. Activities are offered all day, both at the pools and beach. In the evening guests can make reservations at the luxurious restaurants for 3 nights during a 7  [... read more]day stay. Evening entertainment is also provided. Some bars provide 24 hour food and beverage service. Currently the restaurant menus are offered on a monitor that guests can photograph and choose from. I assume this is a covid19 protocol, or just to conserve paper. We had an amazing time at this resort. This was our 4th visit and I would go again in a minute! They score a 5 out of 5 in my opinion.