Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Great time at Iberostar Bella Vista

We spent a week at Bella Vista at the end of March. Had a great time. The resort was very clean, good food and very friendly staff. Although we had to wait until Sunday morning to make our la carte reservations for the next week, we managed to go to 3 and thoroughly enjoyed the food! The beach was beautiful and the pools were great. The beach party was great fun. Beds were very comfortable. The entertainment was very professional - better than I have seen in Punta Cana or Mexico. Interne [... read more]t service was available in the lobby and our room at 1 pesos for 1hour. Sometimes it was hard to connect but it didn’t matter, we were on vacation. I would recommend this hotel.

Melia Marina Varadero: Melia Marina Varadero - Good all-inclusive hotel in Cuba

It was our first visit to Cuba. Compared to Mexico or some European resorts this hotel is below average. But as far as we understood, for Cuba Melia Marina Varadero is way above. The hotel is old. The quality of the food varied from day to day. Snack bars and a la cart restaurants (you may visit them only 3-4 times during 10 days stay) had a very poor menu. They do not have kids club (as it was claimed in description). But at the same time the hotel beach was good. Animation team tried to do  [... read more]their best. Variety of drinks and cocktails was not bad too.

Club Kawama: Good intro

I thought the hotel was fine. My son and I wanted a quick 4 day trip and had never been to Cuba. The staff were friendly and very helpful. The hotel was over all clean and lived up to my expectations. We did not buy a 5 star so I did not expect one. The beach was very nice, white sands and lots of chairs. The food was what I expected however I would recommend you bri g your own spices and such as my son found the food bland. I would recommend this place to anyone looking to kick around Cuba, sp [... read more]end time on the beach and doing excursions. We had a great time.

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Beautiful Resort

This was my first time at the Bella Vista as it is a new resort. I typically go to the Iberostar Laguna Azul, the Bella Vista is absolutely beautiful. Very Modern although I do not typically enjoy modern when in the Carribean I very much enjoyed this one. Our room was spectacular, we were told right away that our view would be breathtaking, and it certainly was that, we were ocean front AMAZING! the food was excellent for the most part. The only complaint i have is the set up of the buffet, not  [... read more]enough room for people to lineup, at full capacity this will be a problem causing people to complain. Luckily for us we realized soon enough for breakfast and lunch the Seafood restaurant doubles as a buffet during the day. The entertainment at night is also a Nice touch in the lobby as this resort does not have a disco. Lastly, the staff are amazing, from the servers, to the bartenders, cleaning staff reception etc great job. Also It is a first for me to see the bartenders as trained as this crew at the Bella Vista. Im impressed and keep in mind for the last 6 trips of mine were all at the Laguna Azul which is my go to place, i now have another go to location in Varadero. The very last comment ill make is, i am also a beach girl, this beach was not my favorite as it is quite small, however we made it work it was still stunning when the waves finally decided to calm down. Thank you to the staff at Bella Vista and the beautiful Iberostar accomodations.

Palma Real: Can't complain for the price

Since the Barcelo group took over in Dec-Jan. they are making an effort for improvement. The food is as good as before but repeatative. Still not enough beach chairs. Only 2 a la carte restaurants and they really need improvement on the menu, the buffet is a better choice.

Memories Jibacoa: Repeat Visit - not a disappointment!

After much anticipation and a bad experience on our November trip in another country, we were very pleased to see all of our friends (aka fabulous staff) at Memories Jibacoa! It is like our second home, as we've lost count of the number of times we've been there. The beach is superb, had some damage from the hurricane....but that means new palapas, which were almost ready by the time we left. Great snorkeling due to many reefs just off the beach. The blocks of rooms were getting a fresh coat [... read more] of paint while we were there. Still needs some updating inside as the rooms are a little tired, but progress is being made. The grounds are looking better than we remember, despite losing a couple of the bigger plants in the hurricane. The food has slipped a bit in our opinion but we never went hungry and we've never come back weighing less than when we got there ;) I'd like to give a shout out to these fabulous people who made our trip (apologies if we didn't get the name quite right): Janet - new General Manager, she was a delight to meet and eager to make everything right for our stay, and for the benefit of future visitors Yeniol - our favourite bar waiter Nelson - the world's best egg and omelette maker Hanoi, Elisa, Joel, Janet, Lester, Noeski and many many more!! - the buffet restaurant wait staff We're already watching the prices for November :)

Palma Real: In one year went extremely down hill!

Hello, my partner and I recently stayed at the Barcelo Allegeo Palma Real in Varadero, Cuba and I have to say that we were very disappointed. When I had first received the email that Barcelo Allegro had bought the Palma Real I was quite excited, as I have stayed at a Barcelo in Punta Cana and various times at the one in Puerto Plata and was expecting great things but I was sadly disappointed. I have stayed at the Palma Real various times since 2009 and always enjoyed it. I love the location and  [... read more]the staff are very helpful and friendly. The rooms had been dated but always clean and well maintained. Not this year. Although the regular cleaning crew did the best they could with what they had to work with it appears that more staff should be added to keep up with long term maintenance, not only in the rooms and buildings but the pools as well. There is mold in bathroom and on the furniture, holes in walls and ceilings, Stained towels, sheets, pillows, broken furniture and glass on decks, there is no theme night for meals just the same boring meals night after night (we ate supper off the resort after the 3rd night for the rest of the week), the staff are still happy and fun, the guest elevators in either building don't work, the pools have a green scum around the bottom edge of each pool, the quiet pool is falling apart and I was there in 2009 when it was closed and redone, the entertainment in the evenings is dull and boring and needs to be changed because no one goes, there is no longer beer in bldg lobbies, now guest pay $ 20 for towel rental that gets returned at the end instead of a towel card, while we were there staff did a room inventory in our room and did not close the room door, the pool cleaner only pours chlorine but doesn't clean pool, there are holes and broken tiles in all the lobbies that people could get injured on. We do not consider ourselves picky people, as we expect water shortages or cold water at certain times and don't need robes in our rooms but this trip was bad and unsanitary. I used to recommend this resort but won't anymore and will not be going back ourselves. I have pictures to prove I am not exaggerating.

Paradisus Varadero: The Paradisus Varadero regular junior room is NOT 5 ***** hotel

The Paradisus Varadero regular junior room is NOT 5 ***** hotel / accommodation,( maybe was 25 years ego) totally misleading advertising is only 3+***, the ROYAL section from same hotel might be okay, but the normal section was terrible. There was very poor service or a lack of staff, some older waiter / man in main lobby with big attitude, not friendly…., dinner reservations booking was a nightmare, unless you complained to the manager you were unable to get any decent reservations, no water  [... read more]in the ponds around buildings, garbage all over the place not picked up. Some restaurants were closed while guests wanted reservations. Over roll the food was ok, but somes I get it dirty serving plate and have to change. Entertainment area was a disaster. Couldn't get fresh towels as they were either closed with no staff or they didn't have any towels,( show me 5 star hotel which have no beach towels for exchange). I could go on and on. Do yourself a favor and read all the reviews from those that didn't stay at the ROYAL area, if you can afford but this upgrade cost over $60/70 a day per person. It was terrible, accept location of the beach, good weather and air condition in working condition. I DID NOT GET IT WAS I PAY FOR IT 5*****. They won’t you purchase vacation in this place, but if you not happy, they will sell you upgrade to 5 STAR accommodation, totally scam. Stay in this place in March 2018 for four days.

Starfish Varadero: Renovated rooms are immaculate.

Expansive resort, so upgrading to a bungalow (some are currently getting new mattresses, but they are not yet renovated) would be better for those who are challenged with walking distances or with using stairs to access rooms in the newly renovated area. Starfish has an amazing beach area with many palapas and lounge chairs. Good water sport activities are available, plus beach volleyball. There are some pool vendors, plus on site craft vendors, too. As well, there are 2 pool areas...one quiet a [... read more]nd one with activities usually starting around 3 pm. Buffet food (great variety of cheeses, salads, baked goods, hot meals- although not always hot) and all breakfast/pasta/fish cooks prepare steaming individual dishes. We found Sizzlers to be a very good on-site restaurant, but found that our group of 8 was too large to book at the Spoons restaurant. Sunwing guests are treated to an absolutely fabulous 3-course chicken and lobster dining experience... attentively served by very personable staff. Be aware that not all public washroom areas are up to par (some stall doors don’t close/lock properly, no toilet paper, dysfunctional/missing hand dryers); very impersonable reception area staff.

Club Tropical: 1 week in march

The hotel is a Charming 200-person Hotel. With the beach on one side and the downtown Varadero on the other. You have many markets and other activities within walking distance. Most cab rides around 5 CUc. The food was okay. The bread is always fresh. But you should always bring your favorite condiments. The staff are generally very friendly. The hotel cleaning staff never steal anything. I've been there many times and never heard of an incident. The bath towels suck. I had a wonderful exp [... read more]erience for a two and a half star hotel.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Great Resort

The resort was large, lots of pool areas to choose from whether you wanted to relax or enjoy the various activities. The buffets took some getting used to, finding something that you felt comfortable eating however as the stay went longer the comfort with the food was good and was quite acceptable. There were some issues with the 1st room but we were given a new room and all was fine...4 out of 5...we enjoyed our time!

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Beautiful

We had a great time. Staff was amazing and the resort was so comfortable. I would definitely recommend it and definitely go back. The food was surprisingly good. Lots of entertainment. The beach was gorgeous.

Melia Peninsula Varadero: Cold shower and not so good food

The hotel was ok . The rooms are ok but dated , changed rooms after 3 days of cold showers . Food was not very god but always found something to eat though and the breads are always good. Renovating the theater so shows were in the lobby ( worst shows I ever been to at a resort ). Beach is beautiful , nothing fancy about the pool. I would only rate this resort as a 3 star . I have been to many resorts in Cuba that I would go back to but definitely not this one .

Playa Vista Azul: Great Time

This was my 4th or 5th time to Cuba but my 1st time at Ocean Vista Azul. The resort was clean, the rooms were clean, the staff very friendly, the grounds are well maintained everyday. The restaurants had great food and the buffet was good. I have always said "if you are a picky eater you may not like Cuba". The swim up bar staff were amazing and the entertainment staff were great! We had met people that had been to this resort a couple of times, to me that is a good sign. I would go back t [... read more]o Ocean Vista Azul!

noliDUO Havana Varadero: Melia Havana and Melia Peninsula in Varadero

This was our second visit to the Melia Havana and our first to the Melia Peninsula. We found the staff of both to be very gracious and hospitable. They assisted us in finding restaurants and shows and provided excellent service in all aspects of our vacation. Sue Snider has always given us the best travel advice and we have been very happy with all the hotels and resorts and travel arrangements she has made for us. Thank you Sue. J. Ed Crewson

Melia Peninsula Varadero: all good

food is OK hotel was OK beach is beautiful I don’t have no complaints family section is great people there even better all good except prepare yourself for expensive convertible pezoss which is tied to American dollars so for us Canadiana little bit expensive if you want to go Havana or something else

Playa Vista Azul: Ocean Vista Azul

We stayed here from Feb 28, 2018 – Mar 7, 2018. Although Ocean Vista Azul is rated a 5 star and is a beautiful resort is does not come without some cons and I would have to say it is shy of 5 stars. With that being said, the Pros certainly outweigh to Cons. We booked with the Privilege upgrade and sometimes questioned if it was worth it but decided if we hadn’t booked the Privilege we may not have enjoyed this stay as much as we did. The staff at the Privilege Lounge (Maikel and Milai [... read more]nie (Lala)) and (Jovan and Andenada ??) and the staff at the Privilege restaurant- Neptune (Maite and Katia) you made the Privilege upgrade so very worth it and should be recognized for your excellence in service. However, that is where the cost of the Privilege ends. Our appointed Privilege Service guy/butler, Yadil left a lot to be desired. Upon arrival, one of our keycards did not work and he was going to get us another one but never did. We eventually got it ourselves later in the week. One day I called down to speak to Yadil and he wasn’t at his desk but I left a message to call us. When I finally went down to speak to him he said I just called you 3 seconds ago…not realizing that my wife was still in the room….he lied and had never called. Guest services and especially Privilege guest services need to take lessons from the staff in their Privilege Lounge and Privilege Restaurant. I can not say enough about how great of service we received from Maikel, Milainie, Jovan, Andenada, Maite & Kaitia....Thank you again! The rooms are very modern, clean and spacious but as for paying Privilege and getting a room that looked out over a construction zone AND continued construction well past sundown (10:30 PM one night) not to mention the constant traffic in and out of the resort beginning early and continued into the night, this is not what I consider a Privilege room but thank goodness for earplugs. Our room was also very well attended by Yanerris! She was not only a great towel sculpture maker but her cleaning was superb and she is very friendly too. Thank you Yanerris for you outstanding service!!! Her bright smile and greetings made you feel special. The infinity pool was amazing. It is such a beautiful place to be during the day even though it was a bit cold to swim in. Generally there was scattered seating at the infinity pool until about 10. The beaches, although very beautiful were a bit of a hike to get to. The smaller beach which is closer has a restaurant near it and quieter. The larger beach was a bit far but that is where all the “Beach” activities and sports takes place. The main pool was a very nice pool set up to please both adults and young. One end had the swim up bar and also the pool restaurant that served hamburgers, hotdogs and fries etc. Good food but very busy. The side set up for the kids has an inflatable slide that we also saw a few adults taking part in the fun. There is also a gift shop near the pool....but good luck shopping there as it is the favorite place for the "Lifeguards" to hang and never mind them while you are trying to look at what the shop has to offer because they are not moving out of your way! The evening entertainment in the lobby was good but very low keyed entertainment and after dinner brought on a slumber feeling when waiting for the shows to start. Maybe introduce some upbeat entertainment like the 3 violin players….they were VERY good! Your human statues are also quite entertaining!! For those interested in taking a day trip into Varadero you will need to walk to the bus stop off of the property and down the road a bit or there is always a plentiful selection of cabs to take and some being your beautiful vintage cars. Also, for those interested in going to Havana for the day….look outside of your Tour Bus group tours and go for the Private Tours instead. We took a Private tour with I Love Cuba Photo tour with Yosel and it was the best tour ever. You can provide them with a SD card and they will photograph you whole day. Best Tour Ever....Thanks again Yosel!! Overall, a very pleasant stay at a beautiful resort. All things considered, yes, we would visit this resort again and now know the things to take into consideration when staying.

Hotel Blau Las Morlas Varadero Beach: Lovely.....againnnnnn!

This was my 8th or 9th stay at Las Morlas. Those who like it, go back. I hadn't been back in 3.5 years, but upon my return, I was greeted like I had been there last week. The hotel has expanded to 2 properties, side-by-side, so we were given platinum bracelets to access both. (Meals at the primary property only). The rooms have been recently painted, and all new furniture. Clean & fresh. We were in Room 202 which is right above the disco (and nightly entertainment stage), so unless you are [... read more] going to participate until 11pm, ask for a room further away. If you go to bed at 11 or after, it's a fabulous location, with a great view. There is major construction next door (MAJOR).. but we heard NOTHING! It's a busy construction site, but not a peep seeps through to Las Morlas. I think the noisy stuff has already happened. The staff, as always, were welcoming and a great deal of fun. A few of the regulars have moved over to the other property, but were easily found to say hello and catch up. On-site shops leave you wanting for nothing, at reasonable prices. Easy walk into town for a variety of shops. A lot of Italian influence now; downtown and at Plaza Americas (?)

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Very nice front beach!

Service: Beach towel service was not so great however it's there procedure to pickup a new one at 9:30 am each morning for an exchange Washrooms: by the end of the day, they don't refill the toilet paper in the common area. Food: general selection of food to eat, tasty good :) Breakfast: eggs, omelette, waffle, pancake, etc Lunch: pasta, chicken, pork, steak, rice, beans, etc Supper: pasta, chicken, pork, steak, rice, beans, etc They had special sushi event and barbecue! Snack bar is con [... read more]venient if you like: Hot dog, fries etc A la carte: long line-up, booked-up so fast, not even worth it to go because same meal is included in the general buffet restaurant.(italien, japanese, cuban, steak house) Busy resort and lots of chairs however I still recommend saving a spot and chair in morning with and old towel of yours. Weather nice in morning and is abit chilly at night time. exchange money at the resort: 100us =87 cuc / 100 cdn= 70 cuc Tourism money Good entertainment during the day and night Wifi: 1 peso - 1 hour

Barcelo Solymar: Had a great time!

The hotel was clean and as two women travelling alone, we felt very safe both on and off the resort. The common bathrooms were always very clean and well stocked. The a la carte restaurants that we went to (Spanish and seafood) were both excellent. We were pleasantly surprised to receive an extra a la carte dinner as repeat guests of the hotel (this was our second year). We met lots of the other guests and all of the staff were lovely. Our only disappointment was that the beach bar has not [... read more] yet been rebuilt after it was destroyed in last year’s hurricane. I would definitely stay at this resort again.