Melia Las Dunas: Tasteless food but paradise

The lobby and grounds are beautiful. The rooms are average but your never in them and beds are hard. The pools are nice but beach is out of this world. Shallow ocean with crystal clear water that the kids loved. The sand is like flour and brown sugar mixed super soft. We brought condiments and sauces that helped with the tasteless food. If you can get a good deal on this resort I would recommend. Try booking within the last week for best prices.

Melia Las Dunas: 3 star at best

The bus ride from the airport was a bit long but we arrived in daylight and had a lovely tour guide and beer to make the 90 minutes go by quickly, check-in was easy and we were escorted to our room just as easily. Although the grounds were maintained well, (groundskeepers would cut open a coconut and provide a straw if asked, offered your flowers for your hair...) the resort is in need of some attention. We were on the adult side which was.. very quiet. Our room was clean, but the toilet seat wa [... read more]s broke, we had no hot water (or water pressure after one shower) for 4 of the 5 days there. That said, the manager provided us each with a 30 minute complimentary massage at the spa and a free late check out. Almost every public bathroom had a few broken (closed) toilets and never had toilet paper or paper towels so we travelled everywhere with a roll in our bag. Your towels do not get changed each day so be sure to hang them up to dry on your balcony as the rooms are somewhat damp. We received a bottle of water in our fridge everyday as you are not to consume the tap water but when we asked for 3 as there were 3 of us, we were turned down. Save the empty bottles and take them with you every morning-- our bartender "jorge" would fill them up for us to take with us throughout the day. Bring a travel mug for your bevies as well.The food was not wonderful as we had anticipated --but the "beer-garitas" were great and the pool service consistent! There were a few go-tos for food though: the sports bar, the panini place on the beach and the one grill at 1-3pm near the sports bar. The morning omlettes were excellent at the buffet. We only did the oriental a la carte- it was okay.There a fantastic main bar in the lobby where we generally started our evening and that main building is really a perfect gathering place. On overcast days, we played cards in the main lobby and people watched as there is nothing to go see as the resort is in a desolate area, (remember the bus ride and the long causeway!) no residences etc although there is an aquarium nearby but we did not go on any of the excursions. There is a convenience store and a market, but there was not really anything that really felt enticed to buy-remember you will not find any north american products in Cuba..yet. There were some lovely artisan artworks that you could purchase.We did enjoy the aqua gym and the salsa lessons pool side and the other provided entertainment and would have liked to take advantage of the catamarans on the beach but it was too windy while we were there. Be forewarned of the jellyfish on the beach-they are everywhere! Few servers spoke English but they did their best to smile and gesture!! There were many weddings down there (fun to observe) as well as French Canadians so it was fun to practice our French! Despite the conditions of the resort, we met many kind people, had many laughs and did not regret taking our short vacation here. We were grateful to get away from the -26 temperatures and made the best of the experience--but would most likely not return.

Melia Marina Varadero: Very nice resort

We had a very nice time at this resort. There were 4 of us in 2 rooms (not adjoining). The pool area had lots of chairs available whenever we were looking as well as on the beach. The rooms were always clean and while the minibar fridge did not have a lot in it, except for one day, it was always refilled. The one day it was not refilled, we called and someone came right away. There was an issue with our pillows and pillow cases one day also and once again, we just called and someone came right a [... read more]way and replaced everything. The food was good at the buffet and the three a la carte restaurants we attended. We were also there to celebrate two birthdays. Once we were checked in and settled, we both received a bottle of champagne in our rooms. We also received a birthday cake at one of the a la carte restaurants. The service was always great and the people were all very friendly. The shows that we attended in the evenings were fabulous, great performances and very entertaining. We did one excursion, the Jeep/Safari tour. It was a very long day with a lot of events packed into the day. We got to see a lot of the countryside of Cuba, a farm, swam in a cave and while we couldn't snorkel (the weather didn't permit it that day-too windy and the water was too rough), the entire day was a lot of fun and very informative. Our Guide was fabulous also!

Tryp Cayo Coco: Need a lot of TLC

Rooms are rundown, most of the resort didn't have hot water, no porters to take you to your room when you arrive a night, phones didn't work in the rooms, they ran out of towels and sheets, some of the towels either had rust stains or holes in them, internet is in Spanish and no tech to help you with problems, only one beer on tap and if you wanted their other brand you had to pay for it, food was the same day in and day out, most of the evening entertainment wasn't enough to keep you interested [... read more] in staying to watch. The good was the grounds were kept nice and the maid kept out room clean.

Melia Las Dunas: Amazing Grounds

ARRIVAL: 1 hr.& 40 minute bus ride from airport to resort. Beer sold on bus but less expensive if you purchase it from vendor in parking lot prior to boarding the bus. Check-in could be smoother by supplying guests with an envelope which includes everything including room key. Instead we entered a room off the lobby, received an information package & wrist bands and then had to line-up at the front desk to receive room keys. Guests are anxious to get to their rooms and commence their vacation.  [... read more]FAVOURITE SERVER: Vlatamir who initially worked as a host/server in the buffet restaurant and promoted, during our stay, to a server for the lobby bar. He was an amazing employee whos was friendly, happy and extremely competent. GUESTS: Large majority of guests French Canadian. ROOM: Resort divided into 2 sections - adult and family. If you are a couple and wish a quieter vacation, request a room in adult section. Stayed in Building 49 and hand rail going to 2nd floor was loose and required tightening. Bathtubs have high sides. May prove difficult to climb into if you suffer mobility problems. Cold water 2 days - even at 4:00 a.m.(early morning check-out for flight). Water extremely hot on remaining days. Room was large and comfortable. Mini-fridge; safe & umbrella Complimentary plastic make-up bag in bathroom which contained shampoo, body wash, shower cap and bar soap. Unable to plug curling iron into the 110 outlet located on face of hair dryer. Had to use converter we brought from home. to plug into outlet to use curling iron. Firm bed. Large bottle of water, 2 cans of pop and 2 beer delivered to the room each day. POOL / BEACH: Clean and towels always available. Many lounges and lots of coverage from the sun at pool and beach. White sand beach. Take a travel mug to use at bars. This will eliminate use of small plastic glasses. RESTAURANTS: Mexican, Cuban, Seafood, Italian & Romantico Enjoyed good food in both the Italian & Romantico restaurants Piano player in Romantico - Played too loud instead of background music. VIP/RETURN GUESTS: Treated to a bottle of rum in room upon arrival and an extra dinner invitation in the Romantico - lobster & steak

Melia Peninsula Varadero: 1st time to Cuba, great 1st impression!

Other then a little bit of construction going on when i was there jan 12 to the 26th 2015 service from the beginning to the time I left was exceptional! A friend from Canada that was to join me could not make it so I was on my own. All of the staff from the lobby to the beach were very helpful in making my stay a great trip to remember for a very long time! All of the food was plentyful and flavorful, the ala carts were fantastic! I am going to go back because i made a lot of new friends, both  [... read more]locals and from other countries. Alot of us got tear eyed as I was saying my good byes, "until we meet again", I said! When I got back to Canada and looked at my emails a few of my new friends wanted to know how my flight was and to make sure that I got home safe. Obviously we all made a good impression on each. I LOVE YOU ALL, HUGS AND KISSES!!! Thanks again tripcentral.ca and Air transat for all of the memories! :)

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Amazing resort

the hotel was at my expectations, Food is fairly good, staff really friendly, visit to Havana was a little too much walk for old peoples. The show were great. Learn a lot about Cuba as it was my first experience with it. ready to go back at anytime. Next time will bring mosquitos repellent because they are bad at night.

Hotel Camino del Mar: amazing does not do justice!!

Amazing hotel with amazing people. Well worth the money. Will definitely be returning. Food was great had so much to choose from. Room was just like out of magazine. Definitely recommend! Staff is worth visit alone.

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Wonderful Resort

We loved the grounds of this resort. Also the pool and cliff side area as there were lovely views from everywhere and enough lounges for everyone any time. The staff was exceptionally friendly in all areas. A room request on our part was cheerfully accommodated. We found the Japanese restaurant to be outstanding - We would suggest a few more garbage cans throughout the grounds and another lady's toilet on the beach. We hope to return soon. Thanks to all the staff.

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: Great resort, fantastic service, dull crowd

Stayed at the Luna Jan 16-23rd and I can say without a doubt: this is the best resort I've visited in Cuba. Pros: Great hotel, well maintained; great beach; professional staff; food above average; very good nightly entertainment Cons: Young people will find themselves bored very quickly; always long lineups at buffet; some food may be under- or over-cooked Beach is pristine, very long and wide. Plenty of room without having to fight for a spot in the shade. Very calm and relaxing beach experi [... read more]ence. Great windsurf instructor, and all equipment was always available for use. Also, the east end of the beach by Paradisus offers great snorkling. Unlike many resorts in Varadero, etc, the staff is very professional. They don't treat you any differently regardless if you tip or not. There are 2 24hr bars, one of which has great snack at night. Also, the bars are well stocked, including some aged spirits. Although the resort seemed 90% full, it was mostly older retired folk and boring crowd with no interest in staying up late to drink/dance/party. This can also be contributed to the sparse layout of the resort: it is indeed hard to find people you've met the day before in another part of the resort. However, Holguin offers music and parties every night of the week and is a 35-45 min drive away (do not pay over 30 cucs each way!). For a change of scenery, take a taxi or scooter into Guardalavaca and visit the market and the beach there. We may go back to this resort next season, as the comfort and amenities outweigh the lack of friendly/fun patrons. Enjoy!

Melia Marina Varadero: Great Resort Overall

I just returned from a quick four night stay at the Melia Marina Varadero and I would highly recommend this hotel for anyone looking for a Cuban getaway! Check In/Out: Very good. We had a bit of a wait at check in but a group of over 20 had arrived just before us and they seemed to move them along as quickly as possible. Check out took only a minute. Our flight left in the evening so we were able to arrange a late check out of 5pm. This is an option depending on availability on the day of your [... read more] check out (can't prearrange) and costs 8 pesos an hour past your stated check out time (ours was 12pm). We thought this was a good deal and allowed us to soak up as much beach time on our last day as possible and still be cleaned up and comfortable for the trip home. Bus trip seemed short and we had cheerful hosts on both trips. Room: We had room 1003 on the ground floor. Took us a few days to figure out the room numbering system as we assumed all rooms starting with a 1 were on our floor - turns out its the second digit that indicates floor - made us feel a bit dumb! We thought our room was the best possible location. Only two flights up the beautiful round staircase to get to the lobby for the buffet, WiFi and the Lobby bar and direct access to the poor and the Marina side from our floor. We never had to use an elevator except for coming and going with our luggage - bonus! We were on the pool side and could actually walk out of our patio door and head directly for the pool - which would have been awesome except you can't lock your door from that side! Although, you also can't lock yourself out so it makes sense. I thought the room was a good size and was very modern for Cuba including a Flat Screen TV and decent air conditioning. The bathrooms are a good size as well and include a nice big tub and a large open concept shower - never once had a problem with hot water. The bathroom has french doors above the tub that can be opened into the bedroom. Great for relaxing in the tub and watching a movie - not so great if you are sharing a room with someone where you would like more privacy. Wasn't an issue with my friend and I at all, but I didn't notice while standing in the shower that I could see her wandering around the room through the clear glass part at the top of the French Doors. Mini Bar had a large bottle of water, two cokes and two beer, which were replenished every day. My friend and I were of extremely different opinion on the beds. I like a firm mattress and found the bed to be very comfortable and slept very well. My friend, on the other hand, found the mattress unbearably hard. Food: I won't spend too much time on this as I'm not picky with food. Our biggest disappointment was that when we asked about A La Cart restaurants the first day we were told no reservations were available for our entire trip - which sucks, as we went promptly the first morning and didn't dilly dally. I understand that by nature resorts don't have capacity for all guests to have all the a la cart reservations they are 'entitled ' to (note the use quotes) too but it was still a downer for us nonetheless. So Buffet? I found lots of things to eat everytime, and more importantly so did my friend who suffers from Celiac Disease (zero gluten). I thought enough items seemed to switch up every day that I never got bored of the selection or struggled to find something to eat. Pool Bar/Beach Restaurant - Both good, pretty basic offerings but we enjoyed our meals there. Also one day the Beach restaurant was closed for seemingly no reason and without warning. In general I enjoyed what I ate, but again I am so easy going with Food I'd look elsewhere for more detailed feedback. Beach/Pool: Both Lovely. I've been to Cuba before but only to Santa Maria and thought the beach wasn't as nice in Varadero - but 'not as nice' needs to be bell curved as Cuban beaches are beautiful. The pools were great but a bit cool. We did't have the greatest weather which also kept us out of the pools. We never struggled to find chairs at the pool or beach, but shade is minimally available at both so keep that in mind. Also, the walk from the resort to the Beach? Seriously, its less than five minutes. We never bothered with the shuttle but it seemed readily available for anyone that wasn't up to the walk. Bars: All good. I'm a beer drinker and my friend doesn't drink, so no comments on the cocktails. I found the service to be relatively good, although very busy and therefore slow in the lobby bar at night. It would be nice if there was more table service available, or if there were ANY beach or poolside service, but that is a premium service in my opinion and wasn't expected. To note, there is no disco on the resort itself. There is one next door (in the Marina, you can see its flashing lights from the lobby), but it was always empty and you have to pay for drinks. We went into Varadero one night to Havana Club and had an absolute blast - although why the DJ felt the need to sing along to all the tracks and add in his own rap here and there is beyond me (but a hilarious memory nonetheless). WiFi: Available! In Cuba?! We bought a few cards and it was nice to be able to check in with home and post the odd mean 'I'm not in the snow' photo on social media. When it was working it was great, when it wasn't.. go to the pool and forget about it. One small helpful note: Of the three cards (1 hour) we bought, only one person mentioned the log out procedures and she only mentioned PART of the steps. You need to enter the website 1.1.1.1 AND THEN click the button on the right that looks like it says cancel or something. We missed that second part and the log out screen shows a big check mark so we thought we were done - the check mark means you're still online. So really, we only need one card oh well. Overall: Its a great resort with friendly staff, comfortable rooms, plentiful food and drink and lots to do. I'd go back in a heartbeat.

Melia Jardines del Rey: Melia does not have it quite right yet

Location is great, close to airport, beach is nice, love the long walks. Food is good, al a cartes are good, the rooms are just ok, beds and pillows are terrible. The shower was either scalding hot or freezing cold. The pathways were not well planned out and you have to share them with golf carts constantly speeding by. You have to walk through the unlit pool area at night to get to the 24 hr restaurant and bar. My building backed onto the pool yet not a direct pathway to get there. But the pool [... read more] is one of the nicest ones I have ever seen anywhere. The staff is amazing and very hard working especially the bar tenders and wait staff in the lobby bars. I am sure it will become better as the hotel is completed. Not quite a 5 star yet. The money exchange to Pesos is a rip off. The hotel keeps a 3 % commission and does not give you a receipt, so one wonders if this is going into the staffs pocket.

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: An entertaining experience..wonderful staff!

Everything from food to staff to entertainment to the beach... Was excellent! The mattresses were old and sunken... I would recommend the mattresses to be replaced... And also to have double or queen beds for couples.

Melia Las Dunas: Nice people, terrible service

The service was absolutely horrid. Plus there is no wifi unless you want to spend lots of money to use the 2/5 computers that barely work. Phone calls to contact home are also too much money. Fix it!!

Memories Cayo Largo: Relaxing atmosphere at hotel

Clean resort, both in grounds and rooms. The white sand beaches are beautiful. Lots of walking to be done if you want The grills to have your meal cooked fresh were the best. Nice pools but you need to bring your own air mattresses as there are not any there to use The disco could play more Canadian / American music instead of so much Cuban music Their was no Rye in the bar but lots of other liquors to choose from

Hotel Vigia: Just ok

Overall the hotel is a bit tired, a specially rooms Friendly staff. Surprisingly good food. Fantastic beach, however requires a little bit of TLC. Water in the pool very cold, hardly anybody swimming.

Melia Marina Varadero: 1st time to cuba

Being our first time to Cuba we were a bit hesitant with all of the negatives that you hear about this destination. However we were pleasantly surprised!! The resort was exceptionally clean and well cared for - not one critter or bug seen at the hotel. There was never a lack of food - yes a bit on the bland side but good variety and lots of fresh grilled items. From the buffet to the a la cartes and the beach restaurant we were never disappointed - i did bring my own ketchup and peanut butter wh [... read more]ich im glad i did because the cuban versions are not the same. The rooms were nice, spacious and clean - the maids were excellent!! Our room was pool view which was nice as it was quiet once the pool shutdown for the day at 6. Overall the only "complaints" we had would be the slushy drinks were not very good/slushy (beer was delish and so was the coffe from lobby bar) and some people had little bites from the beach sand. Otherwise no one got sick, hotel staff was great and we got a great tan.

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: A most beautiful resort, Wonderful Holiday.

Very accommodating hotel with clean, spacious rooms and excellent service. Magnificent grounds with lots and lots of beautiful palm trees right next to most beautiful beach with more than enough space for everyone. Lots and lots of chairs and sun huts, music and bar. And the food !!! Excellent with more choice than one can imagine. All you can eat and drink, anytime anywhere including a Grand Buffet with live dinner music and smaller specialized restaurants giving guests a wide array of dining c [... read more]hoices. All commodities are available such as money exchange, souvenir shops, computer room, telephones and friendly staff with 24-hour room service. .

Melia Peninsula Varadero: fantastic resort all the round

we totally enjoyed everything they had to offer, the grounds were gorgeous except for where they're doing new work but it was discreetly done keeping the rest of the grounds perfect, the beach was wonderful, and most of all the staff were amazing, friendly and professional

Sol Cayo Santa Maria: its cuba

hotel is the oldest resort on the keys,workers are fantastic they go out of their way to make you happy. Rooms are clean, resturants are nice, sometimes to many flies food was good every time I take someone new they just love it Ive been 18 times in 3 years