Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: Love Sol Rio de Luna y Mares in Holguin Cuba !

I love the scenery, the beautiful beach with lush green trees all along the white sand beach . The valleys and hills behind the resort are breathtaking. Very country setting with goats, pigs, horses and cattle roaming. Nature all around. The staff are so nice and work extremely hard. There was 3 others in our group that never have been on a all inclusive and were very happy with the entire resort. They told me that they have recommended this resort to friends that were reluctant to travel to Cub [... read more]a. This was my 2 nd visit to this resort and can't wait to go again.

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Awesome!

Absolutely loved it. Beautiful beach, shallow and gradually getting deeper water. When you finally get back on sand there is Victor waiting with your drinks. Get invited to Royal section for a dinner. Wow. A la carte dinner every night. Japanese for an entertainment. French, lobster wine ..and waiter Fernando. Excellent service all around. Can't wait to go back and do it all over again

Melia Cayo Santa Maria: Delightful return stay

This was our second time at the Melio Cayo Santa Maria, imagine how delighted we were when we were remembered from our first stay. simply put we were so happy with the place that we came back. The beach is where we end up most of the time and they have one of the better ones in this area. The ocean is incredibly warm and clear. If you tire of the beach the large pool with a swim up bar and games with entertainment should amuse. The resort is well kept and clean, the staff are all pleasant and wi [... read more]lling to help you with any problem or need. We may very well go back a third time in the near future as we liked it so much.

Melia Las Americas: Great resort and good service!

We were returned customers and were very happy to be back and see lots of improvements in this nice hotel. There were lots of sun bads with extra matresses, new patio and bar chairs, newer beach towels and good quality of food and drinks. The golf tournament was something new we experienced, it was well organized and we would definitely consider to come back again next year. The general manager, Mr. Meyer, is definitely an asset for this hotel and always interacted with guests in friendly and pr [... read more]ofessional manner

Paradisus Rio De Oro: They Got It Right

This hotel is known for its excellent service. We were surprised to meet so many guests who have come back to this same hotel more than three times. We've been in the Caribbean many times and may have repeated the city more than once, but never the same resort. I can see why this place has such a loyal following. We got a junior suite and upgraded to a junior deluxe before arriving. This was the first time I was able to have a conversation with a hotel about my upgrade options before arriving.  [... read more]This was also the first time i was able to reserve a specialty restaurant before arrival. (We heard that the Japanese was quite popular and difficult to get a reservation). I'm a big fan of Air bnb when I travel because you can ask questions of your host. This was the first hotel that I was able to ask a few questions online and get prompt responses. The grounds were impeccably kept up, the food was great and the nearby activities were awesome. We just might break our rule and come back to the same hotel a second time.

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Very nice resort

Traveled in mid October 2014 for one week. Other travelers positive reviews are correct and I would definitely consider it for my next vacation. I would have liked to have tried the Royal Service section, however the upgrade prices at the hotel were outrageous even with the $400.00 credit that Melia offered. .

Melia Las Americas: Melia Las Americas

Visited this Melia Hotel for 2 weeks in 2012 .Everithing was fine so after 2 years we decided to play their Melia Golf Tournament and stay for another 10 days. Pleasantly surprised by the improvements to the hotel. Service, food and superior entertainment. The new General Manager Mr. Meyer takes care of everyone and everything. Highly recommended for a Cuban adults only hotel..a specially if you are a golfer. The beach is the best in Varadero and only 50 yards from the hotel lobby.

Melia Las Dunas: Okay resort

Grounds, beach layout of resort and rooms were 5*, but food and drinks were 3*.compaints were, adult pool closed,seafood restaurant closed,didn't appreciate insecticide spray early as 5:00am and having to run and shut our windows and it was noisy for people on holidays.They also sprayed while we were going to dinner and smoked us out.Don't feel it is healthy to breathe that in,being a very strong odour.They should in future notify people of insecticide spray times.

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Our Third time and We'd Go Again

As mentioned, this was our third time back to the Paradisus and as before we found the staff exceptional and the grounds immaculate and beautiful. We arrived late which is no fault of the resort itself but when told that there was no room in Royal Service which is where we'd stayed the time before it was a big disappointment. Couple that with not feeling well I hope I didn't come off as rude to reception as that wasn't my intention at all so I'll take this opportunity to apologize if I did. We w [... read more]ere taken to our room which by morning we realized wasn't suitable for my mother who is 85 and has mobility issues. The tub was deep and the grab bar was on the wall across the tub so she'd have to bend over and reach across the tub to hold on to the bar and pull herself over which was going to be a dangerous situation for her. I understood that there were other upgrades at the resort that weren't Royal Service but perhaps might be better for her and went to the front desk to ask. They did a great job at finding us one of the renovated rooms that was just across from the building we were in and right next to the lobby. It was really very nice and had a walk in shower which was perfect for Mom. Housekeeping was great, the room was spotless and the little fridge was kept well stocked. The only drawback was the coffee maker. The pot had broken or something and in its place was a large mug. Try pouring coffee from a large mug into two smaller cups. A bit messy. After that we didn't bother. I didn't bring that to anyone's attention though and realized after the fact that if I had, the issue probably would have been resolved quickly. The coffee at the buffet was better anyway so we just left it at that. Speaking of the buffet, lots to choose from but sometimes cold and that was the same for all meals. I think the later we went in the higher the chances of things cooling down. But for breakfast you could have an egg made specifically the way you want and of course that would be hot as were the omelets. The french toast and pancakes were hit and miss. Just depended on how fast you got to them when they were put out. But as I said, always lots to choose from and again the staff was great. The guys at the lobby bar were terrific and the drinks have improved! At least the pina colada has. I had one in Royal Service a few years back and it was pretty bad so nice to see that improvement. If you like cocktails on the sweeter side there always seemed to be something different although I can't tell you how good it was as that's not so much my taste but all in all I'd say the bar has improved with what they're offering. We only went to one a la carte this time and had the lobster which I thought was very good. Talking to others there was no complaints about any of the a la cartes which is what I'd expect having been to all of them before. One bad experience was the restaurant by the pool. We went for lunch one day and it was great. I had a hamburger and Mom had a grilled meat plate which she said was very good. The next day she wanted the same but bit into one of the meats and couldn't eat it. I tried it and it was bad. Tasted to me like it literally was going bad and that simply should not happen. Mom thought they'd put the meat in vinegar or something but it was not good at all. The vegetables on the plate too were ice cold as were mine. So one day good, the next day beyond bad. I can't speak to the entertainment but saw they offered some nice activities. One night was a beach party but the beach is a number of steps down and a bit tricky for Mom so we didn't go but it was nice to see that they were doing it. The resort offers Spanish lessons, dance lessons as well as other things that I just can't remember right now. The beach itself isn't the white sand kind that goes on for miles. It's rocky as well but apparently good for snorkelling. Wading..not so much. All in all, a great resort and wonderful people. We'll go again without hesitation. I can tell you that Royal Service is really exceptional, especially for Cuba where quality can be hit and miss. Royal Service is all about quality and a lovely place to relax and enjoy. This stay, not being in Royal Service was still very nice. We love the area, the people and this resort. For us, it's a special place.

Melia Las Dunas: Fabulous experience!

This was my first time in Cuba and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The rooms, food, beach, pool, entertainment and friendliness of the staff far exceeded my expectations. True, the beautiful weather helped as well! I loved the opportunities to play tennis, kayak, sail boating and the long walks on an amazing beach with the colors in the waters too beautiful to describe.

Melia Peninsula Varadero: Great friendly family resort

My first visit to Cuba. Didn't know what to expect. Arrived at Melia at noon. The lobby was really nice. Huge. Floors were gleaming. Reception excellent. Were shown to the room within 20 minutes! Room consisted of 2 beds, 4 pc. bathroom. Bedding/towels were white. Bar fridge adequately stocked. Canadian standards are much higher but I was there for the warmth & sun & not to spend time in the room. Buffets & a la carte restaurants were really quite good. There was all kinds of food for every pala [... read more]te. Drinks were plenty. The people working there were just AWESOME. They couldn't do enough for you even with my broken Spanish & their broken English! The resort consisted of 2-3 story bungalows of about 6 units, which suited me just fine as it was much quieter than a tower. Grounds were well maintained & again workers would always greet you with OLA each time. It will not be my only visit to this resort. I am going to go back as soon as I can.

Melia Buenavista: Parents visited and loved it

I booked thia vacation for my parents. They got a great rate, had sun 85% of the time. Loved the beaches. Their room was pristine. Spa tub a bonus. Maids cleaned twice a day. Welcoming staff. Food dispels the Cuba food myth. Lots of seafood. Small service issue with a waitress was solved immediately. They said it was many times more enjoyable than Antigua. Thanks Melia! Stayed October 2014, travelled as a couple

Melia Marina Varadero: New Resort average service/food superb apartments

Food selection was limited only 1 buffet and same foods typically most days. nothing too spectaular, did not make great coffee or latte's like the princess del mar, apartments were 2 bedrooms, washer, granite and stainless steel very nice, service was not great we had 1 or 2 amazing servers most of bartenders were not engaged and rude, alot of cubians (locals) stayed at this resort not many canadians, did not cater to us that was for sure....we were 6 people i expected better service, everything [... read more] belonged to the marina no pool table or things for teens to do was geared to locals and babies, entertainment was NOT engaging no one particiapted. i will be going to iberostar varadero when i return to cuba, the only amazing thing about this report was the apartment suits...was disapointed.....was not on beach had to walk or get a drive...

Melia Las Americas: best resort in Varadero

This was our 5th time to Varadero and best ever. Varadero is always great because the beach is great, the golf is great and the people are great but what made this the best for us was the food. Best food we have ever had in Cuba. This will be our resort of choice whenever we go to Cuba. If I had to pick one issue it would be the bed. Very hard. Not uncomfortable but hard to sleep on for a week. Next time I'll be sure to get a massage or two

Sol Rio de Luna y Mares: A Great Place to Return To

I''ve been to the Luna y Mares 5 times now and don't have any plans to look elsewhere. The beach is beautiful as is the water and staying in for 2 to 3 hours a day snorkeling and walking through the water is a big part of my winter fitness program. The flexibility and muscle tone these activities produce simply can't be duplicated, by me at least, in our norther climate. I've never been in the L y M pool but it looks nice. kids love it. There is also some weight loss involved over the two weeks [... read more] but this is not guaranteed given the lethal ice cream served at the L y M. I don't know what flavour the type I tried on my last night was but it may as well have been frozen butter. Love it! The L y M is simply beautiful looking out the front over the grounds, beach and ocean or looking out the back at the hills and the dolphin lagoon. There are lots of things to do and short hikes to make. Go up to the 4th floor in the Mares section and walk along its entire length. The view over the hinterland is fabulous. Note the hill about 1 km directly south with the flat top and the well worn path up the side. This is the water building hill and you can walk to the top and give the guard a peso or two and then go up on top of the flat roof. Incredible 360 degree view. You actually don't have to pay the guard but why wouldn't you give him something? Running shoes are mandatory. Stroll over the 200m bridge over the swamp between L y M and the Rio d'Oro resort and you will see a good many egrets and cranes. It doesn't smell that good sometimes but suck it up. It's a swamp. You can also take the natural history trail just a few metres west of the Mares section which shows the original people and how they lived and the types of native flaura and fauna. This actually does cost 3 or 4 pesos and will take you about 45 minutes. It includes several nice overviews of Playa Esmerelda, the 700m beach the L y M sits on. The area of Guardalavaca and Holguin is lovely countryside and there are various trips you can arrange. Cubans are beautiful but tourists are definitely seen as a source of income. The area has been hit directly by hurricanes Ike and Sandy over the past 5 years and the coral has suffered but it is still pretty interesting down at the Rio d'Oro end and along the cliff face out for 400m. The good stuff starts at the white chapel but getting in the water near the Rio d'Oro end will have you surrounded by fish looking for pieces of banana. This end of the beach is pretty rocky but you can get in easily by picking the path near the new small peer they are putting in. Ugly but maybe necessary for the Rio d'Oro guests. You can go walking in the surrounding area anytime night or day (I'm speaking as a man here) and be perfectly safe. This is true of most of Cuba but I've never been to Havana so can't say how their big city is. Freedom of movement is one of the things which make Cuba stand head and shoulders above any other southern destination. I simply do not like being in a compound with wire and armed guards nor having to have an escort to venture outside the grounds. The Luna facing the beach is the quietest spot and the Mares rooms are probably the noisiest overlooking the pool as they have a lot of activities there. I stay in the Mares is possible for the views, tropical breezes and ignore any noise. The L y M is not a state-of-the-luxury hotel and always needs some finishing but the staff and the location and the beach and the Cuban people draw me back every year. I am not alone. You will find people who have been going back for 10 and 15 years for 2 and 4 weeks at a time. There are reasons for this. The L y M is not party or glitter central but it is a solidly beautiful experience on many levels. Hope you enjoy it!

Paradisus Rio De Oro: Above expextations

It's a well managed resort, with extras, that You don't know until experience it. There was no charge SCUBA available as an example. The À la carte restaurants excelled. The people who work there make all the difference.

Hotel Camino del Mar: Go for the Beach

Family and I have been to this resort many times since it has opened. Just got back on Saturday, have not been to this resort in six years. The resort is getting tired but still has the charm and staff that kept us coming back. Beach is beautiful, I prefer it over Pilar which is so crowded. Rooms are spacious, but again a little tired. Food...it is Cuba, not there for the food, but did not have anything to complain about, always something to take the growl away. If you want a nice, quiet, relaxe [... read more]d beach vacation at a great price, this is the place.

Sol Varadero Beach: Comfortable resort for relaxation

Went in late Oct seeking a spot to relax in the sun. We were not disappointed. The beach was clean and lots of palapas and chairs. Enjoyed the pool for refreshing swims too. Food is simple Cuban fare but always lots to eat. Had an older main floor room facing the driveway which certainly could stand an upgrade especially to the air-con but our maid was great and the location close to everything so decided not to complain.....this was a minor issue for us. Overall found staff to be friendly. Fron [... read more]t desk were always courteous and helped with a smile, and the buffet dining staff were very pleasant, especially once they began to recognize you likes etc. Bar staff were friendly but generally too busy to chat at times we were there....getting the job done! All in all we were happy at Sol Sirenas Coral

Melia Las Dunas: Exquisite Gardens! Friendly staff...

Beautiful resort - IRL looks same as photos. The grounds are very beautiful and lush. Staff was very friendly. Beach was soft sand. There was a great variety of food but it was somewhat bland on flavour.

Sol Palmeras: Nice resort!

I would recomend this hotel, as it has really nice beach, entertainment is great, food was average but good, hotel is clean and staff is very nice. The resort is very good for kids, a lots of variety of games.