Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Wonderful new resort - Coral Level Iberostar

We stayed here for one week at beginning of April 2023. We flew out of Hamilton which was a real charm as this small airport is great and easy to get to from our home in Hamilton. Flights were good. We had a delay coming home but everything worked out fine. It's a long bus ride out to Cayo Cruz but it was at night, so we didn't mind. The airport at Cayo Coco, although a small airport, was a bit chaotic when we got through the gates at customs and 'lined up' at security to check our personal ba [... read more]gs. There didn't seem to be any way to figure out where to wait as we were all bunched up! Some people got upset that we weren't in the lineup! What lineup? The staff at the airport (at both customs and security) were more friendly and pleasant than in the past. It was a lovely new resort. The staff are all very attentive and friendly. Our room was huge! Our chambermaids (as they call them) were excellent. Betzy was the best maid! Every day we had fresh water, a fun decoration on our bed (butterflies, bows, hearts) and they were always there to help with anything we needed. We loved sitting in the Cigar Bar at night with the best bartender - Bryan! He was so friendly and great to chat with. Even though we don't smoke, we stayed there, because Bryan made us many different drinks to try! His 'Beautiful Girl' cocktails were delicious! The food was good in the buffet and in the A La Carte restaurants. Breakfast omelets and grilled cheese sandwiches on the grill were great breakfast treats! Our favourite was the banana appetizer in the Cuban Restaurant - delicious! The staff in the Lobby Bar were excellent as well, especially Diana and Michael. We loved having our cappucinos every morning there, relaxing and reading. We swapped out books in the small bookshelf in the lobby behind the Sunwing reps desk, so we didn't have to bring too many books with us. We had good pizzas one day at the Snack Bar and it was full for lunch! The staff at Customer Service were very helpful anytime we had a question or issue. Alex, our Sunwing rep was fantastic. He was always there to answer our questions and help us. We only went to the beach one day as it was pretty windy most of the time, but we saw the sun rise and it was lovely. The beach is narrow at high tide. The pools were nice. It was very hot when we were there and sunny every day! We visited the sister resort next door which is larger but we were glad to stay at the Coral Level where it was smaller and quieter. We brought many gifts for the Cuban staff and they were appreciative of everything. I brought nail polishes, lipsticks, macaroni, sandals, hair ties and ribbons, hats, candies, clothing, Tylenol and vitamins (which we gave to the doctor at the medical clinic), etc. We tipped with loonies, toonies and $1 American bills. Everything was accepted and we changed bills for change at the bar (for more tips) with them as they asked us. We met many other Canadians from across the country and that was fun! Overall we enjoyed our vacation and want to thank Kevin Dupuis at Sunwing/Trip Central for helping us plan our excellent trip!

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: Cuba 2023

The beach, pools were amazing! The entertainment staff was absolutely incredible. The food terrible… ran out of the basics, bread, eggs. Food not cooked. The service staff were ok but ignored people. Drinks were ok but not consistent at all. At all bars except the swim up. Bar tenders at pool swim up bar were excellent. Overall rating is a 3 but only because of the food

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: Will never go there anymore ,very disappointed

There was a lot of flies all over the buffet over the food seen some cockroaches around the food, had flies in my coffee, in my pasta, the food was not good at all, lots of mosquitoes,I have mosquitoes bite all over , the same with my family , we were 7 adults and 4 children ,the only good thing was the beach and entertainment.I don’t advise anyone to go to this resort. We were very disappointed.

JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar: Great Resort and relaxing!

This resort had a lot of option to do! the pools were very clean, the beaches were clean and the service was great. The food was plenty and you can never be hungry here, especially with all of the restaurant choices. The entertainment was top notch and there was always something to do. If you're looking for a place to relax and take it easy, this is the place for you!

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Pleasant

It would have been a better stay if the rooms weren’t so out dated. We did not have drinking water in the room after the 3rd day to the last. Pillows did not smell right, we stopped receiving fresh towels on day 3 also. The water to the building shut off a few times including the morning were getting ready to leave. That was an inconvenience.

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: Beaches and hotel and staff great

The buildings are brand new. Everything works. The food in April week though is hit and miss. Snack bar does not have much food. Buffet has good and weird food. Excellent fish but scarce on some food. Seems food delivery is not constant. Friendly staff. Beaches are amazing with lots of sun shelters. 1.5 hours from airport. So consider that if doing excursions. Staying at resort to chill great. Doesn’t seem to be good for snorkeling. Best hotel. Food as usual for Cuba

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Never Going Back

The negative: They ran out of toilet paper frequently. The rooms are old/tired and not cleaned very well. We had to ask the maid to clean the sink, taps and mirror in the bathroom. Floors not swept or washed. Buffet was not air conditioned. They opened the doors. Food was repetitive. No margarine/butter, syrup, bacon, sausages etc. Lots of complaints from guests. Also there is no place to get food snacks in between meals. The snack bar is supposed to open at 11 am but they don’t open till aro [... read more]und 12 noon. My husband is diabetic and was very tough for him in between meals. The positive: beach is beautiful. Resort well laid out. Chairs comfortable, and the shows were great. We have been to Cuba a few times so we know what to expect. This resort was disappointing to say the least.

Iberostar Waves Paraiso del Mar: Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar

This was our 3rd trip to this resort and we weren't disappointed. Checking in was a breeze, no problems. This is a large resort with transportation (golf carts) available, if needed. However, it is a comfortable walk from one end to the other. We enjoyed walking over to the plaza and checking out the stores and restaurants there. The whole area is similar to a small village. There are numerous beautiful pools, i.e. pool for activities, "quiet area", families, lazy river. The grounds are lush w [... read more]ith vegetation. Peacocks, Flamingos and other tropical birds add to the beauty of this location, also the funny little Coties. Although the rooms are a bit dated, they are very comfortable and clean. The whole resort, including the various buildings, are very clean. The staff are constantly attending to the walkways and grounds. The food and service was very good with a great selection at the buffet. We did dine at 2 of the available restaurants, and again the food was delicious. The beach is a beautiful wide and long beach with soft white sand. Unfortunately, while we were there the Sargassum seawood created a bit of a problem but we were still able to walk the beach and get into the clear, warm water. We enjoyed participating in some of the pool activities but mostly watching people having fun. The "animation" team was great. Leonel, Nare, Daniel, Alexander are some of the team that I can remember. They really got the pool hopping. In the afternoon we participated in the Zumba class with excellent instructors, Armando and Laura. The only thing I would suggest is that the "main" evening entertainment should start earlier. We found the 9:45, 10 pm start a little late. All the staff were very helpful and made us feel welcome. In summary, we had a wonderful time and are looking forward to going back next year

Iberostar Selection Holguin: Amazing Resort

This resort grounds, pool area and beach were kept clean. Staff were always working to make sure of this. Our room was beautiful, spacious and kept very clean. The staff were very friendly and very nice and very willing to help. There was always food to eat. We never went hungry. The buffet and specialty dining were very good. The drinks were good but the mix was limited. Some were only available for a couple of days. The water had a taste to it but was safe to drink. Bottle water wou [... read more]ld have been better.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Absolutely Beautiful Resort

The Coral Level Iberostar Selection Esmerelda far exceeded our expectations. Cayo Cruz is incredibly beautiful and has the most amazing beach with the softest white powdery sand, that you can walk for miles. Never an issue to find chairs and a palapa if you are at the Beach before 9am. A bit of a drive from the airport, 1.5 hours on bumpy roads, but you won't regret choosing this resort. Staff here are fantastic and go above and beyond. The food was exceptional, occasional minor shorta [... read more]ges but always an alternative. Food was not repetitive as we'd read, always lots to choose from, and fresh grilled beef, pork, chicken or fish cooked to your preference. Not many options for a salad, however always sliced tomato and cucumber, different fruits over the week and endless homemade sweets, rice pudding, ice cream, etc. Al a carts Mediterranean and Cuban were both delicious. Lunchtime has several meal options, there are dishes offered at the beach (kept warm on a barbeque), the snack bar close to the beach always has meal options, burgers/hotdogs with occasional days offering pizza and fries. No people brought their own butter and condiments but we were fine without. The Spanish red wine was lovely and a nice treat. The lobby offers an early evening entertainment option with Cuban show or local talent, ie different nights someone playing a guitar, piano, violin and the best was a young lady on a chelo...all were fantastic. We would definately consider this a 5 star for Cuba! Loved it and would return.

Iberostar Selection Holguin: Iberostar Holguin

Had an awesome trip to the Iberostar in Holguin from March 29th to April 4th, 2023. The resort was very clean and our Oceanview room was excellent (you could hear the waves crashing on the rocks when you left the balcony doors open). We were in building 24 on the 3rd floor. The beach and pool area were amazing and the bartenders at the pool were so friendly. In fact, all the staff we experienced were very kind and courteous and always were helpful with any questions we had. We really enjoyed the [... read more] food at the resort and while there were shortages (no butter for the week, ketchup on some days...etc), we always had lots of options and we found the food excellent. Overall, we had an amazing time and would definitely recommend this resort. We will definitely be back again for another visit.

Iberostar Selection Esmeralda: Wouldn’t rate this a 4 or 4.5 star resort

My expectations are not high when travelling to Cuba. I love Cuba the people and their beaches and have travelled there every year (sometimes twice a year) for ten years prior to Covid. First time back. I expected shortages and it is what it is. However I was disappointed in the 1 restaurant we had. Never opened at 7. Always a line up to go in, made it hectic when the doors were open. The food was a little below standard. Not enough tongues for food. They were used for every dish. Cross conta [... read more]mination..no milk, powdered milk which is fine they just need to stir lumps out. End of vacation no milk what so ever. I found lots of veggies to eat, meat was hit and miss and fruit was limited. I love apples so ate them everyday. No bananas. The flies were disgusting. On tables, in food, in glasses on table. Maybe try fly traps. We sat outside for most meals and no flies? Go figure…. As for the rooms, cleanliness for Covid, unfortunately our towels were never changed, I’m ok with 1 change while we are there but they just folded the wet towels and put in rack. One day half way through our holiday we walked in room and commented the cleaning supplies must have arrived because it smelled clean. The rest of days not much done. No soap to wash hands, which they have containers for hand soap, shampoo, body wash etc. all empty. Used our own soap which I expected. Was disappointed there was no hand soap in any washrooms on the resort. There was to be 3 specialty restaurants but only 2. No big deal they were good. Pasta was in short supply. The drive from airport to resort varies from 45 - 11/2 hours depending who is being dropped off at other resorts or picked up on way home. This resort will not be an option for my next trip. I will be looking to Cayo Santa Maria or Cayo coco my favourite spots. Tried something new but will stick with places I’m sure will be a 4.5 resort.

JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar: Consistency Abounds

My wife Julie and I stayed at the resort pre-pandemic in 2019. I am pleased to report that it certainly survived through COVID and kept their very high standards. Staff were very attentive and constantly went the extra mile - my birthday celebration was most memorable. The golf course is one of the nicest resort courses I have ever played. Two thumbs up!

JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar: Great resort

Overall a fantastic resort with a few extras that are nice touches, such as butler service, 24 hour room service, turn-down service, plus top shelf liquor. Grounds are beautiful and very well maintained as are the pools. Lots of seating both at pool and beach. Beach is nice and swimmable and you have a nice stretch of beach for your walks. The food is incredible and a great variety to choose from at the buffet. Completely surprised with the options that also included shrimp, lobster, fi [... read more]sh, steak as well as local cuisine - Jerk chicken. Variety of options on entertainment from morning yoga on the beach to crafts to live band on the beach. The rooms are spacious and in great condition yet dated in decor (not a big deal) because the bed and pillows are superior and provided the most comfortable restful sleep. The only flaw which is out of the control of the hotel is the merchants that walk the beach, it gets tiring to have to say no thank you to the same person multiple times a day. I had no issues with the merchants selling souvenirs yet the drug solicitation from a handful of merchants was undesirable. Again, out of control of the hotel, but something to be aware of in advance. Fundamental question is would I go back - ABSOLUTELY!

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Beautiful Resort

We sure enjoyed our stay at the Iberostar Ensenachos with our little family. Everybody had a great time. This is a very big resort therefore lots of walking to go everywhere but you can also take a cart to drive you around if needed. The gardeners are working very hard to keep the grounds meticulously clean. They are very friendly. We can't say enough about the staff working everywhere, they all tried their best to make sure everything was perfect for us. The beaches are beautiful with their whi [... read more]te sand and the pools (kids and adults) were kept very clean. The food at the buffet was good and they had a good variety to please everyone. The only complain we have is that the lighting along the path to return to your room at night is not very well lit so bring a flashlight if you think about it. All in all, this is a beautiful resort, we had an awesome vacation and we would definitely return.

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: Loved coming back!

Thank you Tripcentral for all the info updates re: travel\Covid/reviews. All were so helpful in our choice to return to the Iberstar Daiquiri. We (three 60something women) had a great flight to and from the island. Customs on both sides were no problem. My sister and I had been to this resort quite a few times and were not disappointed. Yes, we understood that the Cuban land and its peoples are in a difficult situation but they greeted us with such warmth and cheer. Rooms were a little ru [... read more]n down but spotless. The food was simple but ample....and the fish!!! OMG!!. Loved the pig roast; loved the beaches; loved the entertainment. This was the first time to Cuba for my friend who has travelled quite a bit and I had hoped she wasn't disappointed. Nope, she also fell in love with the people and place and will come back again. Yes, there were some issues: flies in the "Big House"; ran out of wine, both red and white; no door on the closet. But really? no complaints here. Thank you to all the staff ...LOL...especially the Bellman and Front desk. Thank you to the cleaning staff of the Trinadad building. Hope to see you next year!

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Amazing Staff and Great Resort

In our experience, the staff was extremely helpful, attentive, and friendly! The resort was clean, the room was comfortable, and there was always a place to eat and grab a drink. It was beyond our expectations! We plan to return.

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Great hotel and service

We came back 2 days ago from Cuba We, me and my husband had a great time in this hotel Iberostar Bella Vista Varadero. The room was clean and with enough space to move around with all the necessary things. The entertainment at the beach and the swimming pool was fun The Lobby bar tenders guys was service minded and very Cham, the amazing coctel ready at anytime all around the hotel .I will recommended the hotel to others The food is an issue

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: For very picky people

Almost everything was very good and we got first class service from hotel's staff. It will be easier to list minuses, as there is only three. Buffet - Food was very good, fresh, choice of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, excellent bread and a lot of annoying flies Room - renovated, clean, bed comfortable, fantastic view, but could not open the window for fresh air as there was no screen. Beach - cleaned daily, nice sand, water shallow, but a lot of vegetation in the water, For crystal clea [... read more]r water you have to walk around 300 yards towards next hotel. Everything else I would say 10/10. I am really happy with our trip.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Great time!

I have been to Cuba several times and this was a great resort. All the staff are so friendly and accommodating and the beach is beautiful. The food is made very well despite all the restrictions. Would go again! The only thing - I wish the pools had more shade but the beach had plenty!