Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Fun week

The room was nice, the pool and beach were nice. But like all of Cuba the humidity is hard on everything and a deep clean would do wonders. I understand that they do not have access to everything we take for granted in Canada. The price could not be beat. There was fresh eggs for breakfast, a pasta station and grill at lunch and dinner. As always the Cuban people are wonderful.

The One Gallery Hotel: Dream beach

Good service, pools and bars. Food better than other hotels. Only minor maintenance issues, none to keep you from coming back. Would recommend to friends and family. Jose was very attentive for anything needed regarding the resort. Danny at the lobby bar. Noel and Francisco at the sports bar.

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort: GREAT RESORT

Grounds were clean Beach was amazing and my room was top of the line. Great view and close to all ammenities. Am already planning my trip back for in December with the rest of the family as well

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Not a 5 Cuban Stars resort!! Way to outdated...not enjoyable.

Very outdated resort that's for sure. Lots of things to update (so old and used that it starts to bother). They might blame it on the latest Melissa storm, but nothing to do with that. We arrived 8 days after the storm, and the few trees that were damaged by the storm were long cleaned by the crew. Here are the things that require immediate attention: 1. Room furniture requires attention. All doors of the cabinets won't close from our room. Extreme old and used furniture. 2. Lots of abandoned  [... read more]gardens and water fountains - (ex. main one by the lounge & buffet stage, all middle fountains, all side walks, plants and vegetation need massive attention). 3. The front lobby area looks depressing. The A la Carte restaurant, located in the lobby, is abandoned, and the left side end pond is abandoned with no water. 4. The main beach area was full of sea vegetation, and only one guy was working to clean it using a small pull-behind basket!! We complained to the lobby, and after 2 days (lost from our vacation), 3 more guys were assigned to help (same technique) 5. The main buffet area needs immediate attention. Since it is not an enclosed area, lots of black birds are present, landing and stealing food from the buffet. Very, very unsanitary.. since we noticed lots of birds' droppings. The crew doesn't seem to be bothered about it. Also, since is an open space and not enclosed, it is very hot and humid. 6. Many of the light fixtures are damaged (especially the concrete enclosure "lamps" by the side of the pathways or poll area) and need immediate attention. 7. The pathway along the ridge by the sea is mostly abandoned. Also, lots of digging (electrical or pipes) and left daily, with lots of garbage from the workers. Empty paper caps, leftover damage removed parts...not a good view, for sure... The list can go on, but I can say that I don't recommend it. It was our first time here for us, and we will never return here.

Occidental Arenas Blancas: Very nice Resort

We had a very nice time. The hotel was very clean. The beach and pool were beautiful.Staff was very friendly. Lots of food to eat. The only shortage at times was ice. I would recommend this hotel. Felt very safe at all times as well.

Hotel Blau Las Morlas Varadero Beach: Disappointed

I chose this resort because was renovated and only 128 rooms, thinking would be quiet. Far from that. Music was blasting all day and night, untill 11pm. On the beach, pool and snack bar. All rooms are facing inside courtyard, which is beautiful, so we couldn't switch rooms to escape LOUD music. So, we switch resorts, to Blau Varadero.Big thanks to Julie, Sunwing rep, who was very efficient.Beach chairs are 80%brocken, umbrellas in rough shape, (there is not palapas). Definitely not enough of th [... read more]ose, even in low occupancy. Also , lobby couches need to be replaced and coffee machines. Food didn't look appetizing .Poor selection and bad quality. We didn't expect much, being in Cuba over 25 times, but it was disappointing.Stuff in hotel very good and friendly

Starfish Varadero: so, so

There is no any security staff or lifeguard on pools, but 3-4 securities and lifeguards are sleeping on the beach Despite "no smoking" signs - people are smoking everywhere and react very hostile on our request not to smoke. Hotel staff absolutely ignorant to enforce a non smoking policy People are smoking inside the pool and dropping cigarettes and ashes into the pool Restaurant staff absolutely do not speak or understand English and thus cannot be an efficient in providing a proper service [... read more] Room - balcony door has broken lock, sink was clogged, bathroom door could not open and close properly - stuck onto the floor Elevators has no proper signage and very confusing, because you cannot figure out a correct button

Sol Caribe Beach: Beautiful resort

We had great stay at Sol Caribe Beach. The resort is located on the most beautiful part of Varadero beach and we thoroughly enjoyed it. There were always beach hats available and the loungers are comfortable. Rooms were clean and the entire place is well maintained. The food was okay, mostly repetitive, but we.were always able to find something to satisfy our hunger. Thank you Sol Caribe Beach staff for your hospitality, friendly and generous reception and entertainment. Thank you Air Cana [... read more]da Vacation for very well organized trip to Varadero.

Valentin Perla Blanca: Wonderful resort, beach, pools and people!

Having just returned from Valentin Perla Blanca, we could definitely recommend this resort. This time of year is low season and the resort is currently hosting very few guests. We really didn’t feel that we were missing out on anything. Half of the resort was closed entirely, and some of the à la carts were not in operation. The food was plentiful and there didn’t appear to be any shortages whatsoever. The main entertainment stage was not open during our visit, but there were many entertainers p [... read more]rovided in the main lobby by the massive centre bar and sometimes even in the buffet restaurant. The beach here as many have talked about a simply amazing. They claim the beach here is ranked as one of the top 10 in the world. I wouldn't doubt that for a second and can't imagine it being any better. To the right of the resort you can walk for probably three or 4 km and most of it will be by yourself. The beach in front of the hotel is amazing as well. This is the best beach we’ve ever been on and we have been to plenty. Only one of the beach bars and grills was open while we were there, but the staff were great and did a great job serving the few current patrons that were there at the slow time of year. The famous lobby bar didn’t disappoint either. The drinks, cappuccinos, and mostly the staff that worked there were amazing. The rooms are a little bit smaller than some of the resorts, but well laid out and and clean. I guess it’s a good thing that the only negative comment I might have is that the pillows were on the firm side and obviously I quibble! Some may also find the bus ride being about one hour and 45 minutes from the airport a bit long but we had a great bus driver and informative and funny guide. It went by quickly. For us it was worth it the litlle extra bus time. For some maybe not. The pool bar with the pizza bar was great. The mutil-level pools were clean and well-maintained. There was lots of shade, nice palapas, I also have to commend the grounds staff...WOW - so many beautiful trees, flowering shrubs and all kinds of interesting flora. All of it maintained beautifully. Spa, gym..even with low occupancy right now, nothing was lacking. Overall, it was a great experience and the week was over far too soon. We will gladly return.

Iberostar Selection Varadero: Amazing Resort

This our third stay in resort. Everything was exceptional: great, well maintained grounds, clean rooms made every day, great selection of the food and drinks. Every day enogh drinkable water supplied in the rooms. Smooth and seamless check in and check out. Something that makes this resort really exceptional is the staff, great people in the restaurants, bars, grounds, maids. We stayed in many resorts in Cuba but never experienced such great service. Beach is amazing, plenty of beach palapas, w [... read more]ell packed send allowed to run along few km of the beach. It is hard to believe you can find better stretch of the beach for morning run, barefoot or in running shoes.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: I recommended it to a friend

The hotel beach was beautiful, and the staff were very friendly. One of the waitresses at the restaurant seemed to have limited English and wasn't very patient. Every activity was wonderful. Thank you to everyone! It would have been even more perfect if the menu had been changed for the 8-day stay.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Great Adult Vacation Spot

Room options offers include huge rooftop suites, ground floor swimout suites, pool views on 2nd floor or rooms facing mangroves. We opted for swim out (first time) and loved it. There a 7 x 3 story buildings and the grounds and walkways were well maintained. From the Adult Coral resort you have full access to the adjacent family resort with its various pool and restaurant features. This way you can opt for the excitement of The Esmeralda or the relative tranquility of The Coral. The overa [... read more]ll experience with food and beverage was good. Not much in the way of salad or fresh fruit the week we were there but whatever they have is yours. The staff were all amazing; the genuine friendliness of the Cuban people is second to none and the professional demeanor of most every staff member was a treat.. Ariel, our butler was truly awesome. He made a la carte reservations look easy and was the go-to guy for any and every detail. Can't say enough good things. Caesar was the food and beverage team lead and again, can't say enough about the fabulous effort to engage every guest. The entire team made our stay wonderful. Dairon, Armando, Lady, Axanay, Leonel, Yari, Yas Nier, Jimmy and Joseph the piano man. OMG, there are more... sadly too many to mention everyone who made our stay outstanding.

Valentin Perla Blanca: Wonderful resort, beach, pools and people!

Having just returned from Valentin Perla Blanca, we could definitely recommend this resort. Even though at this time of year being low season and the resort hosting very few guests, we really didn’t feel that we were missing out on anything. Half of the resort was closed entirely, and some of the à la carts were not in operation. But, the food was plentiful and there didn’t appear to be any shortages. The main entertainment stage was not open during our visit, but there were many entertainers in [... read more] the main lobby by the bar and sometimes even in the buffet restaurant. The beach here as many Have talked about a simply amazing. The claim is one of the top 10 in the world and I can see that as being very truthful. To the right of the resort you can walk for probably three or 4 km and most of it will be by yourself. The beach in front of the hotel is amazing as well. This is the best beach we’ve ever been on and we have been to plenty. Only one of the beach bars and grills was open while we were there, but the staff were great and did a great job serving The few patrons that were there at the slow time of year. The famous huge lobby bar didn’t disappoint either. The drinks, cappuccinos, and mostly the staff that worked there were amazing. The rooms are a little bit smaller than some of the resorts, but well laid out And and clean. I guess it’s a good thing that the only negative comment I might have is that the pillows were on the firm side and obviously I quibble! Some may also find the bus ride being about one hour and 45 minutes from the airport a bit long but we had a great bus driver guide, and it went by quickly. For us it was worth it. For some maybe not,The pool bar with the pizza bar was great. The level pools were clean and well-maintained. Overall, it was a great experience and the weekend is far too soon. We would return.

Melia Costa Rey: Melia Costa Rey Cayo Coco

I just returned from the most incredible couple of weeks in Cuba, and I had to share my gratitude! A massive thank you to the entire staff at the Meliá Costa Rey in Cayo Coco. From the moment I arrived, I was met with genuine smiles and exceptional service that made my stay truly unforgettable. The level of hospitality was outstanding, and I really appreciate all the hard work that goes into making guests feel so welcome. I want to give a special shout-out to: Levy, Claudia, Jenny, Bibi [... read more], Elaine, Eliania Rosemary, Nelson, Elvis, Yosiel, and Roberto the new GM of the resort, just to name a few for their cheerful service in the [Dining room/Lobby Bar/etc.] every day Most of all, Ronney Fernandez, my hermana for always going the extra mile from the moment I first met him when it was called the Pullman. Over the last 6/7 years Ronney and I have always kept it touch on a regular basis. I've gotten to know his family with open arms. This visit which is now called the Melia Costa Rey was special. It was considered a surprise visit to see Ronney and meet his family in person. Ronney as usual did not disappoint. From the moment he realized that I had arrived at the resort, even though off for a few days, he immediately jumped into his jeep and drove an hour and some to the resort from Moron where he and his family live. Got to spend some time in Moron with Ronney and his family and was welcomed into their home as family. Memories that will last forever ... Beyond the resort, the hospitality from the people of Cuba in general was heartwarming. The warmth, kindness, and spirit I encountered everywhere I went truly made the trip special. Thank you,  Meliá Costa Rey, Cayo Coco

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Very poor experience

Arrived Monday November 3 and it took us awhile to figure out this huge resort, it is layed out nicely and the beach is absolutely stunning... That's where the good ends .. When we got into our room we sat on the mattress and could feel the springs which made for terrible and uncomfortable sleep every night...the toilet did not flush properly even after maintenance came to the room and apparently fixed it...that was horrible. The food selection was terrible as only 1 buffet was open and they s [... read more]erved the same food everyday and the food selection was very limited....we payed for 3 a'la carte meals in our package and because everything was closed we did not get that option that we payed for and nothing was ever offered to us to make that right, so kind of feel like we got ripped off that way. Overall it wasn't a great experience but hard to deny that the beach was simply amazing. Not sure if we will return to this resort....A LOT has to change for that to happen. I would say book at your own risk and hope for the best... It's Cuba and nothing is a guarantee

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Amazing relaxing resort

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda was a quiet, well appointed resort with wonderful attentive staff, managed daily by a “Professional Butler” named Ariel. The food was typically Cuban with enough variety to feed a normal appetite. Our swim up unit was close to all amenities and minutes away from the larger family orientated Esmeralda next door. Highly recommended. Ask for building number 3, swim up room. Note, that it is 75+ km east from Cayo Coco airport on a somewhat rock & roll road across the caus [... read more]eway’s, but well worth the trip.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Absolutely Terrible

The star rating for this hotel needs to be updated to a 1 or less. We had to put a $15 deposit on our credit card for each pool towel, and when we went to get them, there wasn’t a single towel available. No hot water to shower, no 24 hr snack bar available, water is filtered and refilled into dirty glass bottles. There were cockroaches on the pizza/bread station table. The only good part of this trip was Heidi the Sunwing rep. She helped us to switch hotels the day after we arrived. Otherwise w [... read more]e would have been on a flight home.

Starfish Varadero: Nice resort

It was ok for the price I paid. The food was not good at all . My room was ok,although the washroom ,had difficulties. I was considered lucky. The entertainment was pretty poor. And the sports room,was so I'll equipped. I even had a fall,with a wet floor. The bars had a very poor selection and no coke for a national drink " Havana Libre.".

Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero: Friendly Staff Made the Trip — Just Needs a Little Refresh

We recently stayed at the Sanctuary and had a really nice short getaway. The staff were great — some went out of their way to be extra helpful and friendly, which made a big difference. We happened to visit during a quiet time, which we enjoyed. The food was good, and overall the team was attentive and pleasant throughout our stay. It was a short trip for us, but just the right amount of time to relax and recharge. The resort itself could use some updating and minor repairs, and the drink  [... read more]quality was a bit inconsistent, which was a little disappointing. Overall, a good experience with warm service and a nice atmosphere — a few improvements could easily make it great.

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: Quick birthday trip to Cayo Cruz

This resort had just what we needed for a short trip to celebrate a birthday- a good selection of food and beverage spots, and we enjoyed both pool areas. Weather was fantastic. We upgraded to an ocean view and are very happy with that decision- room was spacious and clean. Sadly, lots of seaweed during our visit cut or beach time a little short! Would recommend for a quick beach getaway out of Toronto.