Brisas Guardalavaca: Good as always

Hotel and staff are great .Entertainment not as good as it used to be . I'm sure it's because of covid. Hope it comes back.Lots of cubans at the resort enjoy themselves which I'm sure is the only way they could stay open.Canadians just starting to travel.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Great vacation

We stayed in the villa and just loved it. Beautiful beach, pool and room. The food was way better than expected. French fries and ketchup was our go-to snack! Cons: No wine even at the a la carts. There were a lot of Cubans on vacation or day pass which was fine but they left garbage everywhere...we found ourselves picking up cups and straws daily

Brisas Guardalavaca: Brisas for the breezes of a Caribbean beach

I liked the hot showers in the morning that I wasn't used to in similar Cuban hotels. I wasn't fond of COVID adaptations at the buffets, lineups for usual Cuban food that really isn't worth standing in line to have scooped on your plate. I liked the reservation system for specialty restaurants that actually worked. I didn't like the tv and the magnetic keycard that didn't work. I really liked the beach and the palm trees, and the tennis courts were newly surfaced. I didn't like tourists compla [... read more]ining of Cuban families having fun at the resort. I really liked the capuccinos but they were not very milky, they had lots of Cristall, but no Bucanero, no mint, no mojitos. Staff were friendly, the front desk was not overworked and effective ( except they couldn't get the TV to work, nor their magnetic keycards). Add it all up and it equals a good Cuban beach resort in March.

Brisas Santa Lucia: as good as always

the grounds and room was will kept food was not fantastic but filling and tasty the staff was all friendly and accommodating the bars where will stocked and open at all times. the medical staff attended to the 72 hour covid test in record time

Brisas Guardalavaca: Cuba is Amazing

My husband and I booked the Villa VIP at Brisas Guardalavaca through TripCentral (SunWing). We arrived extremely late due to a traveler checking in 3 bags and then not showing up for his/her flight. This required us to wait a long time while they tried to locate this person at the airport - then, after no response, Sunwing spent a bunch of time locating the 3 bags to remove them from the plane. Needless to say, we arrived very late and very tired. Although we purchased VIP, most of these "ex [... read more]tras" were not there on our arrival. We made complaints to our Sunwing Rep the following day at around 2:30 pm, then, when we arrived back to our room to get ready for dinner, we found some of the things we paid extra for but not all of them - very disappointing. We did not receive everything advertised by Sunwing that we paid extra for. Never-the-less... we met some great people, staff and tourists, and had a great week in Cuba. The beach and pools were great, staff were great, but, if you are a wine drinker don't go to Cuba because they only had a little red wine at the Italian restaurant and ran out of white wine every day at multiple bars. I found out some people pre-book many bottles of red wine with the hotel directly and I assume this is why they run out of red wine for the rest of us. Food is ok at best but we knew this before booking our trip. With VIP we could book 5 ala carts where the cooks took the exact same food and made it better. Vegetables were mixed peas-potatoes-carrots and were very mushy (from a can we suspect) and potatoes from flakes... by mid-week I ordered my meals with rice and asked "please do not give me potatoes, and, please add hot-red-peppers" (from jars or cans) to the canned vegetables to make them more palatable. Salads were the same everywhere and at every meal... sliced cucumbers, pickled sliced beets, shredded cabbage, and the dreaded canned mixed vegetables. The beef and chicken breasts were mostly great. We ordered omelettes (with the works) and ham at the open air restaurant beside the pool/snack bar every day which was delicious. Breakfast fruit was all pretty under-ripe and tough so we ordered grapefruit only. Staff were always really nice. We tipped $1 to $2 US dollars usually at most meals. With the VIP we had lobster, but you could order lobster at 2 other restaurants without VIP, what the heck. What was extra special was that we ordered it at the Cuban ala carte restaurant and were served a bottle of champagne, we had a candle, and white tablecloth. Unfortunately, our friends were seated at a different table even though they loudly requested to share with us. Then, their table was pooped on by multiple birds (it was an outdoor restaurant) and so they were moved to a "clean" table. I scooped some bird poop onto the floor from our table... most people realise if you sit outdoors you're going to have birds, flies, geckos, crabs, lizards, butterflies, bees, dogs, and cats, etc., hanging about... we were totally ok with that...really enjoyed it actually. I know this all sounds bad but for the little money we paid (compared to DR and Mexico) we received a fabulous deal. The market had some great deals even though I didn't haggle... I bought 2 gorgeous oil paintings ($60 cdn.) by H. Hayain (I think that's how it's spelled). Amazing artist... I bought 2 bird paintings - one was a humming bird and one was a local colourful bird (Cuban Tody). I'm just looking into getting them framed. I also bought a beautiful pink/coral crocheted top - it is crocheted from a cotton type of yarn and stretches to whatever size you are... absolutely gorgeous and only $15 cdn (I didn't try to get a lesser price as I crochet and I know the time that goes into creating it). Regarding Covid... all staff wore masks all the time, most tourists did too but of course you always get the odd 1 or 2 who don't always follow the rules... seeing this I would ask our guides to remind them... I always felt pretty safe, especially when I looked at my phone app, Worldometer, that indicates Cuba has only had one wave of high Covid numbers and are now down way below Canada's numbers. I was told Cuba has over 82% of their population 3-dose vaccinated... way better than Canada and most countries. Getting tested was pretty easy (and we went to the market afterwards which was right beside the clinic). Internet is not always reliable in Cuba so we went to the International Clinic, a 3-minute walk from our resort, on Tuesday to pay for the test ($30 US). Confirm they write down your correct passport number as they wrote down mine wrong, then we had our test on Wednesday (again, check that they write down your correct passport number on your test tube). The doctor came to our resort's lobby at approx 4:00 pm on Thursday and wrote out our negative test result forms. Then we completed our ArriveCan app (that we had downloaded before we left Canada). Brisas gave us each 10 hours of free internet access at the main pool area, lobby area, and villa pool area. After 3 days we found out that we could get internet access at our villa on our balcony and in our bedroom... nice. All-in-all, we loved our trip. Would we go back to Brisas? Maybe... but even though we talked to many people who consider Brisas their "cottage" as they go there about 3 times per year, my husband and I like to travel all over the world so, although we will definitely go back to Cuba, we will likely try another resort (only because we love variety). P.S. since it's been so long since we've been to Cuba, although we spent a lot of tip money (Cdn & US), we didn't bring stuff that they really really need/want... children's/adults' pain medication, school supplies, foot ware, clothes, chocolate/candy, etc., etc., etc. Next time we'll do better.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Amaizing resort:place next to ocean

We stayed at Brisas Guardalavaca from October 8 to October 15. The weather was great. The hotel staff worked very well: all issues were resolved instantly. 3 days before departure, they took a test for a covid, but the result was given only on the day of departure, washing the nerves of the vacationers. The food was bad: there were no fruits and vegetables, it surprised. You only had to pay with a visa. The money that they brought with them was taken back, they could not stay in Cuba and work fo [... read more]r its strange economic position of the Cuban government. It is unprofitable for vacationers to pay with a visa, because prices are in American dollars, but dollars do not go in Cuba, the Canadian bank changes to Canadian dollars, we lose money. My husband and I have been to Cuba 22 times, but I think this is our last trip

Brisas Guardalavaca: Nice resort. I've been there before. My last vacation was almost perfect. Thanks to tripcentral!!!!

I will go back to this resort again for sure! Nice people, good service. Nice people good service 👍,.,...,..................,.....,....,....,..................why I have to write more than I want?????to continue???

Brisas Sierra Mar: wrong hotel

We were originally booked for the Brisas Sierra Mar, but due to circumstances we were transferred to the Brisas Guardalavaca While the resort is beginning to show some of its age, it is well kept. Grounds are beautiful and the groundskeepers are very pleasant. Would not recommend this hotel solely because we prefer smaller resorts. This one was too big for our liking, and very busy.

Brisas Sierra Mar: Un très beau séjour

C'était notre 2ème fois Au Brisas Sierra Mar, un hôtel certes désuet et qui mériterait des rénovations, mais qui offre en contrepartie tant de qualités ! Un bémol pour commencer : vous ne trouverez pas de beau site de plongée immédiatement au Sierra Mar, il vous faudra aller plus loin en mer, prendre une excursion. La nourriture y est franchement bonne sinon variée. Beaucoup de légumes, de choix de viande ou poisson. C'est très correct. On ne trouvera pas poisson plus frais. Les [... read more] chambres sont correctes. Les employés sont incroyablement gentils ! Tous ou presque ! Les musiciens qui s'y produisent sont talentueux et sympathiques. Le paysage est absolument somptueux à toute heure, la longue plage - lorsqu'on sort des limites - est splendide, les hameaux environnants méritent qu'on s'y promène à la découverte de vrais lieux de vie des Cubains. C'est une zone rurale pauvre, les habitants proposent des échanges de biens et soyez préparés à participer à ces échanges (café, fruits, promenades guidées, contre vêtements, produits d'hygiène, etc.) Sortez du complexe et de vos complexes ! ;) Les excursions sont super. Celle à cheval vers la grotte aux chauves-souris et celle à Santiago. Voici une liste non-exhaustives de produits à apporter trouvables au magasin 1 dollar et + : linge, sacs durables et surtout sacs à dos à donner aux enfants, stylos, papier, savon, produits d'hygiène féminine, ciseaux. Vieux électroniques à réparer. Fil à pêche Cordes pour instruments de musique Boyau pneu de vélo

Brisas Guardalavaca: True Posted Reports

Friendliest, accommodating staff ever. A la cartes were enjoyed thoroughly. Buffet and snack areas probably one of the best, too, we have experienced in Cuba. Chairs were set out, not waiting for a staff member, for the ocean experience and first time for us that the ocean was more popular than the pool! Hot water can be an issue in room, but used to this in Cuba and it will come sooner, or later. Not an issue in villas so we heard. Walked the whole area outside and completely safe. Majori [... read more]ty of guests were Canadians who really appreciated the service. No wonder so many returning guests we talked to.....2-20 times!!

Brisas Sierra Mar: Friendly resort

Our first impression of this hill side resort as we climbed the 100 steps to our room was, "Great view, we gotta change rooms to a lower floor!" The following morning, thanks to Mercedes at the front desk, we were moved to an ocean view room a short, downhill, walk to the beach. The view was stellar! The beach isn't soft powder white sand, it's a bit gritty with some fair sized rocks so I'd recommend swim shoes (something I didn't have). There's a shortage of beach loungers and some are in n [... read more]eed of desperate repair, but we're not fussy and always found a shady spot under a palm tree to spend the day. We ate lunch on the beach each day so I have no idea what the lunch buffet was like The food, overall, was good but repetitive and for some reason there wasn't any cheese. We were told by a long stay guest there was cheese two weeks ago but none now. Reason unknown. The bars occasionally did not have certain drinks, so if you're a fan of Cuba Libres or pina coladas you were out of luck some days. However: you could drink the tap water at this resort!! Yes it's true. We did and NO ill affect and I can say that my partner usually gets some gastro trouble in Cuba but not this time. Our room was very clean and well kept but dated. So to sum up: dated resort, amazing location, wonderful staff, centrally located to Santiago and Chivirico (shopping, sightseeing). A lower end 3 star resort BUT we met so many retirees that book long stays (10+ weeks) that definitely says something about the resort staff and location. I would recommend this hotel for budget-minded travellers and those who enjoy venturing off the resort to truly get a feel for Cuba. If you are looking for a luxurious all-inclusive stay in a bubble Brisas Sierra Mar isn't for you. If you want to EXPERIENCE Cuba, not just visit,this resort is for you. My partner and I enjoyed our vacation and will go back again. But I know my friends, and they'd expect more than Brisas Sierra Mar had to offer which is the ONLY reason I answer "No, I would not recommend this hotel to a friend." I would recommend this hotel to travellers who want to know the real Cuba and its people.

Brisas Sierra Mar: Amazing resort

We love this place. A small resort,quiet and relaxing.The staff was anazing.This was our third time at the resort. We met fantastic people and will definitely return next year.?We were a little disappointed that the bogeguita restaurant was closed

Brisas Guardalavaca: Beautiful spot

Just back from a lovely vacation at Brisas! If you’re looking for an entertaining staff, beautiful gardens and true Cuban culture this will be the place for you. We had a great week here!! The resort however is 25 years old!

Brisas Guardalavaca: Great as always

Seventh time back to Brisas. The grounds are kept clean and the selection of restaurants and bars is more than you ask for. The staff is polite and will make sure they make your stay very pleasant. The beach is clean with lots of shade if you don't want to be burned all the time. There are places to snorkel and locals to facilitate that for a small fee. Horseback riding just outside of the hotel if you wish to go for a ride along the beach. The market is just walks away if you want to buy some l [... read more]ocal souvenirs. All in all fantastic place. Will recommend and will return next year.

Brisas Sierra Mar: Wonderful resort

Love this resort It's are go to place, The friendliest there and always see familiar faces Its to be recognized by some of the staff. Been to other resorts in Cuba but this one pulls at my Heart strings, I have no desire to visit any other resort in Cuba, the scenery will take your breath away

Brisas Sierra Mar: Needs work...

The hotel needs work, there are definite maintenance issues. Service overall is good. Sadly, my largest compliant would be the large amount of Cuban nationals that enter the hotel now. They have little too no respect or regard for anyone! They act terribly to be honest . Many of us (visitors) have been mistreated, and left disappointed.The staff seem to have little to no control over this. I do not recommend booking at high holiday times eg : christmas, st valentine.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Great Place

Was our second trip to this resort. It has a lot to offer in terms of restaurants and venues. Met lots of older people our age who come regularly for three weeks or more. Resort is great value for your money. A la cartes are good and there are many bars. I think this will be our Cuba hotel

Brisas Sierra Mar: Great scenery

I’ve been many places in Cuba and I keep returning to Sierra Mar because of its location. The mountains are beautiful. I cycle early every morning and return to the resort before it gets too hot and before breakfast ends. No Cuban hotel is perfect and there are challenges. Food is fine but it’s a country dealing with a blockade from the most powerful country in the world, now in the hands of a vindictive leader so it’s limited in its selection. Fruits and vegetables must be acquired loc [... read more]ally and must be in season. Don’t expect avocado and kiwi. Having said this, they should have guava and bananas but they only have it once in a blue moon. Rooms are fine. I’ve been given an ocean view room. Service depends on individuals; some are great at it, others don’t give a damn. Great beach to walk and swim. It’s safe to wander. Take a trip to Santiago, either on your own or with an organized group. Cigars sold by locals are not banana leaves as some may tell you. They may not be the brand the label says but they are Cuban cigars. Cubans need everything from electrical outlets to bicycle tires. Bring something to give away, not only toiletries and pencils. Both Sunwing and Air Transat are fine. Got stranded by both because of mechanical issues but Air Transat put us up in hotels instead of sleeping on the terminal floor. Weekends are busy with Cuban customers but there’s space for everybody. It might be a good time to book an excursion.

Brisas Sierra Mar: Love the Cubans, but.....

I love the resort and all the staff and have been going here for the last 4 years. The last couple of years they have been allowing some of the more affluent Cuban families come to the resort on the weekends and this year I am afraid it was more than just on the weekends. As I said I love Cuba and most Cubans, but I do not like the attitude of the more affluent ones that are allowed weekend passes or day passes. There are far too many and they are loud, rude and obnoxious and filthy. They th [... read more]row garbage all over the resort and they pile their plates high with food in the Buffet area. No one could possibly eat the amount piled on their plates and we have seen them put large amount of food in their bags or purses to take home. This leaves a shortage of foods for the rest of us They also take cups silverware and other things out in their purses. We get up the next morning and there are no coffee cups to have coffee. They also sit at in the pool at the pool bar all day and evening and not once do I see them get out to use the bathroom, so you know what is happening in the pool while they are drinking all day and never getting off their bar stools The poor staff are run ragged trying to keep up with everyone and they are not happy with the amount that are let into the resort. I do not feel this way about all Cubans. I visited 3 villages while I was there this year, as I had brought children's clothing to help some of those in need. These families are wonderful and so appreciative for anything. They also want to give us gifts of fruits they grow there. So different from the ones they allow into the resort. I am afraid I will be looking at other Cuban resorts next year as I cannot handle this one anymore. At one time I would have recommended this resort but not anymore.

Brisas Guardalavaca: Nice resort needs to be upgraded. Rooms are getting pretty run down.

Grounds were beautiful Rooms need to be upgraded Broken faucet No hot water TV blurry Air conditioning not working Italian restaurant - needs to cook Italian food - or change the restaurant Seafood restaurant overcooks the lobster tails