Love this resort!!!

This resort was by far one of the most convenient and great hotel with great staff. Madeleine, Peno, Andy, and Randy were by far the best workers we met. Madeleine and Peno worked the lobby bar, Andy worked in the buffet and Randy was the MC for the entertainment. They all looked after us and made sure we had a great stay. The rest of the staff were also great but these four went above and beyond with their services. The beach was 10 steps away and there were always chairs available and we foun [... read more]d the perfect set which was against the fence in front of the villa suite with big trees for shade. The big market was two blocks away, along with a Chinese restaurant Lai Lai and a steak house El Toro. Both restaurants had great food if you missed the buffet. There is also a small cafe right across the street that sold delicious subs and pizza. We didn't have to walk more than four blocks for different markets or to buy phone cards. We didn't care for WiFi but we heard you can get it from Sun Beach that was two blocks away. If I could have stayed longer, I would. And I can't forget about our room cleaning service, I forget the ladies name but she was so awesome, we always went back to a clean room and full of clean towels.

My Return-to Choice

This was our second stay at Club Tropical (Feb 2016 and Feb 2017) We love the small size (no lineups) and being "right on the beach". We were in 3302 (the main building) The beds were comfortable, the bathroom was restocked every day (toilet tissue and towels) Every toilet I used had a toilet seat. On our 3rd day we moved to one of the apartments as the other couple with us had mobility/health issues and the 3rd floor was too much for them. We were in 3109 and 3110. We had stayed in an apar [... read more]tment last year and knew they were in greater need of a renovation. The beds were not as comfortable and the AC was too loud to use. Our fridge was not working well either. None of these things were big issues as we were right on the beach (5 feet away) and we spent most of our time outdoors. The food was fine- I usually went for the same menu items- boiled egg, toast and fruit, chicken, salad and rice, and fish, salad and rice. I don't find any flavor in the pasteries - they look good, but always a disappointment when bitten into. I have found this to be the same all over Cuba. There was always ice cream. There are always choices. The cleaning maid (Mercedes) was always appreciative of the various gifts left on the bed. She had not seen a potato masher before. Staff and other guests remembered us as we did they. Some folks have been coming there for 2 decades. We had only one issue. At times when the bar staff were asked to change a 3CUC or a 5CUC we would receive only 2 or 3 CUC in return. I won't name names....just watch what you get. It is your choics as to when and how much you tip. The location is great - the bus stops right across from Tropical. We walked down in the direction of Kawarma and saw that the bus makes few trips down that way. I was there for the beach, water and sunshine. There was an abundance of all 3. I got more than my money's worth!

Loved it!!!!

Perfect place for a quiet retreat. Safe, clean, friendly. Beach is superb. We are world travellers and although my hubby could not come with me for the week, he knew Cuba is a great place for safety, so we booked a low key spot for me to unwind after a busy year with 6 grandchildren and a summer having two sets of children and grandchildren living with us after the evacuation of ft. Mc Murray, family and friends visiting from New Zealand and Austria, etc., it was time for grandma to rest, an [... read more]d it was PERFECT.

Located on ...Beautiful Beach!!!!!

This is a smaller hotel and is located in the downtown area of Varadero facing the main street, with excellent access to the beach, the grounds , pool area and the two lobby's are very nice and staff work hard to keep those areas clean. To compare I read some negative reviews from travellers who stayed at nicer 4 and 5 star rated hotels and was happy we chose to stay here I would be really upset if we spent twice what we paid and experience problems with food etc. You are in Cuba after all [... read more]!, I read the negative and positive reviews online before booking and we decided to give this place a chance, as one of our relatives recomended this hotel, we were looking to relax on the beach not to relax at a fancy resort, having said that, we kept our expectations low, when we arrived our bus dropped us off across the street so we had to cross the street with luggage and bags to hotel, no big deal, when we walked into lobby it was late past 11 pm, but we were told the main bar is opened 24 hrs and we could get drinks and a snack if we wanted, check-in was efficient some staff friendly, our room was clean and had a safe but no mini fridge, iron, or blow dryer it was very dated! The decor was awful but clean, the curtains did not fully close because some of the hooks were missing and they didn't hang properly but it was ok we still had privacy. Door to balcony worked once you figured out how to lock and unlock.There is a nice big closet lots of storage, flat screen satellite tv, noisy air conditioner 😂( But that was ok as it was cooler when we were there, but if it was hotter weather I would have turned on the AC during the day while we were out and then turn it low for comfy sleep,) the toilet and shower worked , but we had no hot water until the next day and we had no problems after that. We later discovered that the room had been renovated!! Hehehe! There is only one restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet style, check times it's closed after each meal, food was ok , there was always something to eat, there is another bar near pool area with pool tables ad tv, there you can get sandwiches until 6 pm so that was the other option for food.The entertainment At night was really good too, more than I expected. There are many shops, bars and restaurants nearby and for 5 CUC you can ride the hop on hop off bus until 8pm, just show ticket it is valid all day , the only negatives we couldn't control was the weather, the first few days it was windy and cool, we couldn't go to the beach, but that was ok we took bus and explored Varadero, we were only there 7 days and decided we would stay longer and take Havana tour next time. It can be a little noisy at night at pool/bar area many regulars have a good time it's always "happy hour" LOL!, in summary we had a great week, kept our expectations realistic and would come back to Cuba. Most of the people were polite, BUT tip at your discretion in our experience we didn't get better service when we left tips(in some cases even worse hehehe) so we stopped tipping and service was same! LOL!!.This is an older hotel and dated but a few cosmetic updates and it would be better I really can't say anything else about this hotel , if you are looking to relax , you will find comfortable lounge chairs that were always available , on a beach which is absolutely gorgeous even on cloudy days !,If you want good value and a cleanplace this fits the bill!! Travelled as a couple. Enjoy😀

First and Last Time

This Hotel is a smokers paradise,smoke anywhere you want,Everywhere you go ,you have the smell of ciggarettes,the rooms,in the bedding, on the towels,in the bar the dinning area etc.Came home with a horrific synus infection First three days there,no hot water.The shower drain was plugged with hair and overflowed.Just not acceptable Met a number of people from other parts of the country who travelled further than I and paid alot less than I,even though our method and time of booking were the sa [... read more]me. I know you get what you pay for but,No way this was a thousand dollar booking, On the plus side ,direct beach access,no snow

Hidden Gem!

The main building is great, I'd say 4star! The beach front building is in disrepair (though an incredible view!). Request the Main building! Food good! (Yep I said it!). Entertainment staff, programs and shows were incredible! Friendly, approachable, helpful, fun, entertaining and Yoandy speaks many languages fluently. Gorgeous beach with free catamaran rides.

Really good resort

Well his is a small hotel, right in the centre of Varadero. If you have mobility problems this is good hotel for you . Very close to the beach, pool, bar, restaurant. Very little walking, only a few stairs to climb for a room. Only problem is the cleaning, have crease or smoke on bathroom ceiling, asked for it to be cleaned. Maid did nothing, front desk did nothing, manager did nothing. If you stay there and are in room 1102 I wrote the date and my name I stayed here. The restaurant is full of f [... read more]lys, seen out houses with less. Over all for the price would stay again, all the staff were friendly even when you do not tip.

Really amazing hotel with great staff, facilities, beach, and close to everything

Club Tropical was an exceptional hotel with super accommodating and warm staff. It’ll always be a 5 star in my heart! As soon as I arrived at the hotel, I was greeted by the front receptionist which asked me if I wanted dinner. The hotel restaurant had already closed, but they still let me in so I could eat! I'm in my early 20's, and I’ve never traveled alone before. But at no point during my stay did I feel unsafe or alone. The staff were amazing and made me feel like I’ve known t [... read more]hem for years. Everywhere I went, I was greeted with a smile and “hola”. The staff even learned my name, and would talk to me whenever they see me. Some even taught me Spanish, and gave me hugs and kisses when I left! The Hotel buildings has vibrant colours and was very cozy. There are no elevators, but I love stairs so that wasn’t an issue. I got a pool side room on the 3rd floor, which had amazing views of the ocean, pool, and entertainment. The room had everything I needed: clean colourful bedding, A/C, a flat screen TV, lots of mirrors and closet space. The bathroom was very clean, with ample toilet paper, soap, and a nice warm shower. The maid was amazing! She restocked the toilet paper everyday, mopped the floors, made the beds and left cute towel arrangements on the beds. The food was fabulous! There is one restaurant at the resort, with plenty of variety for breakfast, lunch and dinner and desserts. It is buffet styled, and there was even a grill guy at the end if you wanted omelets, or special lunches/dinner (like pasta or grilled shrimp). The café late in the mornings are so good! It’s a must try! There was also a snack bar near the entertainment area, but I never ate there because I was always full from the buffet. The entertainers at the hotel are amazing! I went in low season (September), so they only had shows on Friday and Sunday nights. But there were lots of other activities during the day. The music was always lively, and always ended at 11pm so people can sleep. From my room, you can barely notice the music unless I was out in the balcony. Friday night they had a Cabaret show, and on Sunday night, there was a live band with incredible singers. Both performances were well worth my time. You can tell that the entertainers put a lot of effort into organizing the shows. The bar is 24 hours, and the bartenders were quick and generous with the drinks. One time, I wanted mojitos, and the bartender made me a special mix. The Cuba Libre (coke, rum and lime juice), pina colada, and Rum Punch were my personal favourites. The beach is right at the hotel, it is beautiful and clean, and just like what you imagine from the pictures. There are tons of beach chairs and sun shelters, and it was never too busy. The life guard was very friend, and security at the beach would bring me a beach chair as soon as he saw me. The water is so blue and clear, and with goggles, you can see fishes and little jellyfishes (the little ones don’t sting). There are paddle boats, kayaks, catamaran, and even snorkeling available right at the beach. The hotel is right in the heart of Varadero, and is close to lots of souvenir stands, grocery stores, bars and restaurants. The clubs are not too far either, but that's because I enjoy walking. It is about 5 CUC if you want to cab there. There is no wifi at the hotel, but the staff were super helpful in letting me know how to get access to wifi elsewhere. The people staying at the hotel was the only slight down side for me. Most people were older (50s-60s), or families with children. From my whole trip, I only saw about 3-4 people my age (20s). But it’s because I went in the off-season, so this was expected. The people were friendly regardless, so it wasn’t an issue for me. I’ve stayed at a so-called “4 star” hotel before, but the service itself knocks it down to 3 star or lower. This hotel is rated 3 star, but it was nothing less than 5 star for me. I came in with an open mind, as I saw mixed reviews. But once I experience it for myself, I was shocked at how people can say such negative things. A guy at the bar was trying to tell me how he disliked the staff and food and facilities. You have to remember that what you expect is what you’re going to get. I expected greatness, and I got nothing less than that. I would choose Club Tropical for my next vacation in a heart beat. Thanks again to everyone there! Gracias amigos!

Perfect location!

Just returned yesterday from a week at Club Tropical. We travelled as a group of 10, which included 6 adults and 4 children, ages 12 - 19. I picked this resort for its awesome central location and because it was a small resort (only 143 rooms, I think). We stayed in the apartments, which are definitely dated, but very roomy - 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, sitting room and balcony. There was plenty of hot water and toilet paper, contrary to what I have read in other reviews. BUT the fridge was not sto [... read more]cked with anything, no bottled water or pop, beer. We just bought a bottle of water and had it refilled at the bar, if needed. The food was acceptable. I am a pretty picky eater, but never went away hungry. The bread is always amazing! Yes, some of the stuff is repetitive, but just don't eat the same stuff every day, unless you love it. I ate pasta twice every day because I liked it. Each to their own. Wine with lunch and supper every day was nice. Of course, the beach is the reason everyone goes to Cuba, and it was no exception here. Gorgeous white sand and 'walk right in' ocean water. We never had a problem getting beach chairs or palpalpas, even with some locals taking up some space. Here is my one major complaint with this resort. On Thursday night, I'm guessing it was a whole bus load of Cubans descended on the resort. I asked the beach bartender where they were from and she said Havana. They took over the pool, the buffet and the bar for the whole weekend. And left a huge mess behind, plastic cups and food everywhere. And to make it worse, the staff ALWAYS served the Cubans first, no matter if you were standing there beforehand or not. When Sunday afternoon rolled around, they were gone and it was peaceful once again. For this reason alone, I will not go to this resort again, which is a shame really because it is right on the main strip, within walking distance to pretty much everything. The one bright spot in our whole resort experience was Madeline, the beach bartender. She was adorable and had a smile and a 'honey' for us every time.

Well worn, okay food, hard to get a drink

Our room was okay, nothing fancy. Toilet seat wasn't attached and shower curtain fell down constantly but it was clean and had plenty hot water (except weekend). Sheets were clean but covers well stained and banished to the closet on arrival! Our friends room was disgusting and had mildew throughout (very soft you could almost put your hand through the wall). Beach and pool were great. Food a bit bland with little variety but edible nonetheless. Very hard to get a drink at the bar on Friday and  [... read more]Saturday night - Cubans will be served first, Canadians last, if at all. Don't expect a courtesy room if you have a late flight - we were told we'd get one but didn't. Had to pay an extra 20 pesos just for a few extra hours! Great location but wouldn't go back.

Cuban experience

The beach experience was stunning .. this small resort has a comfy homey feel with walking access to Markets, restaurants and night life. There is room for improvement however... even the best of our rooms (3 in our group) had maintenance issues... broken toilet seat, shower curtains that won't stay up, and air conditioner that banged and kept you up at night. The worst room had black mold theoughout most of the bathrooms and halfway up the walls and when brought to the staffs attention, they di [... read more]d nothing. There was only one pool at the hotel and the maximum depth was 4 feet so I was a bit dissappointed by this. Fortunately the beach made up for this. 5 We flew out at 10pm so needed to leave at 7pm from the hotel. We were told by our booking agents that even though we were to check out by 12 noon that we would be given a courtesy room so we could have a shower before leaving for the airport. The staff at the hotel unfortunately, so that was not the case and there would be no place for us to have a shower but if we wanted to have a late check-out they would charge us an additional charge. More than anything else this last item has left me feeling very frustrated and I feel that the booking agents were deceitful in how they portrayed what we were buying. One last item his it would be helpful if staff at some point could better Direct how to avoid sand flea bites as I came home with very painful swollen bites all over both legs from the knee down. I did use insect repellent with DEET but this did not seem to deter this sneaky, unseen but very insistent insect.

More than Pleased

We were there Feb 27 to March 5, 2016. Had an ocean view suite (we shared a common space with another tourist in his room)Disappointed that the windows were not cleaned - hard to see through them to the ocean. We were literally less than 20 feet from the beach. The resort was clean (no garbage in or around the resort, not like closer to Havana) and the staff were friendly. We had a toilet seat, hot water, food was tasty and plentiful and were central to everything in Varadero. The beach was clea [... read more]n, sandy and the water was warm. Entertainment was O.K. We even played BINGO! (have never done that at home!) I'm not a pool person, but it was beautiful plus a lovely child's wading pool. I will emphasize this with my son and his family. We plan to return next year.

Quiet hotel

The hotel is quite small but that was what we were looking for this time. It is rated 2 1/2* so we knew what to expect. The rooms were small but clean with nice bathrooms and large closets. The food was excellent and being a small place no long lines at the buffet or the bar. The beach is only a few feet beyond the pool and the staff was friendly and helpful when needed. Although this hotel is located right in the middle of the town of Varadero it is perfect for a nice quiet vacation!

DO NOT GO THERE

WE BOOKED A 2 WEEK TRIP AND WE HAD BEEN TO THIS HOTEL SEVERAL TIMES. WELL IT IS A DUMP. SO BAD THAT WE SPENT ANOTHER 900 TO GO TO A DIFFERENT HOTEL. WE HAD A 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT FACING THE OCEAN BUT THERE WAS MOULD EVERYWHERE. ON THE WALLS AND ON THE BACK OF THE CURTAINS IN THE BEDR0OM ABOVE YOUR HEAD. PEOPLE WERE HAVING THINGS STOLEN CONTINUOUSLY. IT WAS JUST RIDICULOUS. THE TIMING WAS ALSO BAD AS IT WAS SCHOOL BREAK FOR CUBANS SO THE WHOLE ATMOSPHERE WAS CHAOTIC. PUSHING AND SHOVING AND IGNORA [... read more]NCE FOR FOOD, FOR DRINK, ETC. WE NEVER DARED GO TO THE POOL AS IT WAS PACKED. IF YOU WANT TO BE WITH CUBANS GO TO THIS HOTEL AS IT IS NO LONGER A TOURIST PLACE TO GO. THE BEACH IS BEAUTIFUL AND LUCKILY ONLY THE TOURISTS GOT TO THE BEACH SO IF YOU CAN STAND BEING AT THE REST OF THE DUMP THAN GO AHEAD IF NOTHING ELSE THAN JUST THE OCEAN. TOTAL RIP OFF. FOOD TERRIBLE AND EMPLOYEE ATTITUDES SUCKED EVEN IF YOU TIPPED THEM. THERE IS A PHENOMINA HAPPENING IN CUBA AND IT IS NOT GOOD FOR THE TOURISTS THAT IS FOR SURE. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS RESORT TO ANYONE AS A TOURIST. EVEN DOWNTOWN VARADERO WAS UNFRIENDLY. NOT SURE WHAT HAPPENED TO THE CUBAN PEOPLE AND I HOPE THEY SNAP OUT OF IT WHEN THE AMERICANS COME BECAUSE THEY ARE IN FOR A BIG SHOCK. SO BE IT.

Excellent Value for Money

Pleasantly surprised by this small, intimate, 2.5* resort. Chosen for price and downtown location. I went with low expectations. Great choice; clean, good food (for Cuba), friendly staff, quiet, safe.

NIce resort down town Varadero

Everything was clean, nice and well kept. Would go there again cause there is so much to see in town, everything is close. The beach is so nice the best I've ever seen in all my travel. The staff is really friendly.

Great Vaule

We went to this resort with low expectations, the reason we booked Club Tropical was the 2 bedroom apartment. The apartment worked out great, it was a bonus to be so close to the ocean, the beach at Club Tropical was one of the best I have been to in Varadero! The food was surprisingly good, we didn't go hungry. Most staff were pleasant. We would return again if the price was right!

Amazing Staff

Hotel is ok it's old and they keep it up best that they can with what there given. The staff and location is why I go back. The food was better this time, you have to remember that there serving people from many different countries.

“Great Time @ Club Tropical”

Most of the reviews I read before going to this resort was mostly NEGATIVE except a few... Knowing it was a 2 plus * I knew it wasn't going to be a great place,,Was I wrong!!I Have stayed in 4 and 5 *'s that wasn't as good.. All 5 of us had FUN and VERY FRIENDLY SERVICE there starting when we checked in until we checked out.. BEACH..Beautiful with beautiful waves.. Front Desk..Friendly, smiling, very helpful from start to finish,even when we found one of our friends in her room unresponsive, Th [... read more]ey acted very quickly calling the ambulance and some was willing to go with us.. BAR..Any drink from coffee to tea, alcohol or not,Beer or soda, always with a smile with little or no waiting.. Room..Apartment with 2 bedroom,2 baths, 3 TV's,living room and small kitchenette with full fridge,, ENTERTAINMENT>> Very Little.. Dining..Variety of food, Omelets but NO BACON, Very good selection of bread,Chicken,spaghetti,salads and ice cream, Never went hungry,, just a little tired of it after 2 weeks... .SNACK BAR.. ...Drinks , alcohol or not.... Had Hamburgers, Hot Dogs and Ham & Cheese sandwiches for lunch or snacks until 6 PM Security guards all day and all night on the beach, POOL ..Shallow but nice and clean MASSAGE.. 10 CUC for 45 min We also got one of the guys around the resort to take us to see a great ballgame,, THANKS CLUB TROPICAL for a GREAT VACATION!!! Stayed February 2015, traveled with friends

Nice resort , wonderful staff

to begin , i love cuba and its people, warm friendly country and i would not hesitat to recommend this resort, however, this particular resort is quite old (50 plus and is in dire need of repair, lack of hot water in some bldgs. the pool has only one depth, (3 ft) the beach has a wall of sand to several feet and difficult to access , i feel if some repairs were implemented, this would be an excellent resort to visit, p.s staff were excellent