Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Pretty good resort

The food was so so except the snack bar food. Activities on resort were ok Pool was nice The room was good The services were perfect We had a great time. Beautiful beach Good drinks and staff I'll give it a 4/5

Melia Peninsula Varadero: Wonderful Vacation

Travelled March 23-30. This resort is a nice size. Easily walk to the buffets and restaurants to beach to pool. We were in building closest to beach. The beach is gorgeous! One of the best. There was always lots of beach chairs and hen we were there. It was pretty windy all week so were not able to take out the kayaks or catamarans etc. but still lovely. The pool is nice however the only complaint there would be that they do not have many chairs around the pool. There is plenty of room to h [... read more]ave more chairs but we just put our stuff on the cement stairs and stayed in the water so not a huge deal. The food was actually better than expected. There’s always something to eat. There was egg every morning at the omelette station and lots of other choices. The coffee at the bar beside the buffet is much better than the coffee they give you in the buffet! The entertainment was ok. There was a show each night in or outside of the lobby. The rooms were the worst part. Our room was ground floor. There was mold and mildew in the closet and water dripping from the air conditioner. The beds were not the most comfortable but were fine. Water leaked all over the floor after every shower. Our maid was great though. We always had toilet paper and towels and water n the room. Our safe worked and the door locked. No issues with our key cards. All in all we had a great vacation. The staff were great! So friendly. And the price was great.

Sol Caribe Beach: Great stay at this modern style resort

Everything in this resort is as advertised. We stayed at the building number one on third floor. There are two elevators for those who don't like climbing the stairs. The room was spacious, modern and clean with two double beds which were very comfortable. The view from the room was fantastic. The bathroom was spacious and modern too. We don't have any complaints regarding bathroom towels, toilet paper and water bottles. Jade, the hard working maid was in charge of our room and she did a great  [... read more]job. We spent most of our time on the beautiful beach. We watched shows in the evening from our balcony. The entertainment ended up at 11p.m. and we had great night sleep. No complaints about food since the change suited us well. The only set back in the buffet restaurant, The Kitchen, is hygiene of dishes. Sometimes there was coffee or lipstik residue in/or on the edges of cups or glasses. Plates did not look clean to me, but that might be a due to the hardness of water. There is also a lack of beach towels which wasn't the issue for us. We used our own beach towels for two days, and we got their beach towels the third day in the morning. We were checking up couple of times per day until they finely got clean towels. Overall we were very satisfied with our stay at this beautiful resort.

Royalton Hicacos Resort and Spa: Amazing beach and nice resort BUT

As the title says the beach is amazing and the resort is very nice but at dusk the mosquitos are awful!! The room and its service was very good. But I go south to enjoy seafood not chicken, beef and pork. The seafood selection was minimal. Breakfasts were good! They have no real "coke" so unless you want the coke they make at the resort ?? which tastes flat and awful - a rum and coke is out of the question. Even the rum and fruit drinks weren't good. The beer was fine! I don't understand wi [... read more]th a huge % of Canadians there at the resort they couldn't have at least one Canadian channel on the TV. (ie for news)

Barcelo Solymar: Horrible Resort!

Food was absolutely disgusting and should not be consumed! No bread, milk, eggs, potato’s, juice, water, soda, vodka etc. Dirty dishes. Horrible wait staff who stand around and do not take your drink order even when tipped. Mouse poop in our bungalow all over and in the fridge. Fridge, safe, and door to the room broken (we had to exchange our door key cards three times in the five days we were there). Some staff were nice, others not friendly at all. Floor of the pool is all coming apart with fr [... read more]agments coming off the floor of the pool. Potholes in all paths on the resort making it a bad trip hazard for all. The only two things we enjoyed on the resort was the Italian a la carte (wonderful, friendly staff, and an okay meal!), and the beach. If you’ve been to Cuba before (myself 11 times now) you always come for the beach and the people! The people are not friendly like they were prior to COVID and I feel horrible for the conditions they have to deal with.

Hotel Bella Costa: We had a good time! but...

Our family had a good time at this resort however a few things were surprising. Our first impression was walking into our room and being very disappointed in the cleanliness. I found dust and grime on the lamps that couldn't have been cleaned in months . The bedsheets and towels were stained . I'm sure they were washed but dingy and stained sheets leave a poor impression. Cuba is experiencing shortages but hot water and soap are still available to the cleaning staff. Some of the staff were exc [... read more]eptional and friendly. Johnathon was awesome! Yes, some pop/juice/vodka was unavailable but it certainly gave me an opportunity to try something else. The bathrooms by the pool were dirty -I never saw anyone go in to clean them - must have been night fairies.... The food was always good at the buffet , a lot of carbs- pasta , rice, potato and bread. The Italian ala carte was excellent . The pool was great , my grandson loved the foam party on Sunday! too bad some fool ( an adult) had a blowup boat with oars in the middle of the kids having fun. Most days the music was at an acceptable level but one day it was beyond loud ! for 14 hours straight! When the entertainment staff tried to speak they yelled into the microphone in order to be heard and in fact blew a whistle into the microphone during an exercise session. Also on that same day the "DJ" played some rap crap with "f" bombs and other inappropriate words . I marched straight over and told them to stop that music -there were young families everywhere and the idiot thought those songs were acceptable?? When we had to leave , there was no trip book to refer to as far as when our bus would be picking us up from the hotel - it is something I would recommend and have seen done at other hotels. Also there is no place to shower after you've left your room but still have to wait for a later flight . It would be nice to have a designated room or bathroom to use . If going to this hotel - go prepared . bring your own pillow cases - I did and I'm glad. Bring raid for the rooms - I always do. Bring snacks .

Playa Vista Azul: Good place to stay

The staff is excellent. I recommend to stay in premium as the pool and coral restaurant are very close.the staff will call a buggy if you need to go anywhere far on the site. The lobby is within walking distance.

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Amazing beach

The grounds were so well taken care of, it is beautiful. Lobby and restaurant are very nice. The rooms are a bit dated and could be cleaner. The floors were not cleaned ever day but overall acceptable as we only were there to wash and sleep.

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Group of 6

After reading some of the reviews before flying out I was a little sceptical. I’m not sure why some of the reviews were posted. It was a spectacular resort. Lots of food to select at the buffet. The a la carts were delicious and each bar served different drinks. We never went out to save a chair. Each afternoon when we were ready to go to the beach, pool or both we were able to get chairs. The beds were comfy and someone was always running around to pick up or clean up after the guests and left  [... read more]their glasses or cigarette butts. They had a performance each evening. I enjoyed the vocalist and the violinist, amazing performances from each.

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Think twice

What I looked forward to was the thought of going to a new modern resort, hotel style, nice furnishings etc. overall looking nice may have been the only big positive for us other than most of the staff were very friendly. I am going to simplify by only speaking about my major concern. We were given our room immediately which was great but when the door opened the stench was so bad we had to cover our nose. The bellboy indicated that is was from the ventilation system which really made me cauti [... read more]ous. He called front desk & to our dismay no other rooms were available so we had to stay there one night. It was horrible. We even kept patio door open & slept with blankets over our face. They gave us another room which was okay otherwise we couldn’t have stayed at this resort. We made the best of it with our friends but it still concerns me about the whole ventilation system. What were we breathing in & does it affect the whole resort. I did try to talk to customer service & after several attempts no one showed up. Briefly the beach was fine , food & shortages were as expected , perhaps a bit worse . Workmanship of resort not great. In my personal opinion I would not rate this a 5* not even close. Hopefully problems will be corrected but I would not go back .

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Great resort

We like this resort. Rooms are big and comfortable. Location is great, very close to the airport. Only 20 minutes ride from the airport. Beach is amazing! Only problem with the toilet paper … Staff is very friendly

Roc Barlovento: Great Resort

I love the location and it not a big resort. You feel the intimacy of the resort. Resort on the beach, not far from Big Market. Not far for me to go see my Cuban friends who live behind the big market.

Barcelo Solymar: Beautiful

The hotel was fairly decent. Could use some work but it’s clear there are limited supplies. Food wasn’t bad. They could use more snacks available between buffet hours. Staff was incredible. They did their best. Towels for the beach were difficult but they came through. Bungalow suite was perfect, again could use some maintenance but overall we were happy. Beach was incredible. Non motorized water sport are not included which was disappointing. Clean beautiful lobby.

Club Kawama: Excellent service

In this nice hotel the room was good. The AC did not work well but, we opened the windows and it worked very well. The restaurant was nice. I really appreciated the hospitality and the great atmosphere that there was. Staff working there did our stay really good and lovely. Cuba does not have a lot of food and stuff due to the evil US blockade but, it was very kind and considered from Cuban people to provide us with enough food every single day. The beach is just gorgeous. The sea is beautif [... read more]ul and calm most of the time and the pools are very clean and nice. Bars were great, full of Cuban cocktails and a lot.of beer! The evening shows were spectacular. Very professional artists sharing with us their incredible talent and kindness. We will come back for sure!!!

Grand Memories Varadero: Loved it!

Grand Memories exceeded my expectations. The food was decent. We always had fresh eggs in the morning and grilled chicken at night. The staff were so kind and even permitted me a late checkout due to my evening flight. The quiet pool is gorgeous. It’s decorated with faux rock, very beautiful. The activity pool wasn’t for me although many people seemed to enjoy it. The beach was great. I always managed to get a spot in the shade. Varadero beaches do not disappoint. The drinks were a little small. [... read more] You definitely need to bring your own cup which I did. Otherwise you’d be back at the bar 4-5 times to get the equivalent of 2 beer in the tiny cups they provide. Room was as expected, very basic and the tv was broken which I also saw on one video review so I think that’s common. The room phone didn’t work but the air conditioning was great and we had a fridge, overall after the short adjustment and lowering my expectations on the room I was very pleased. The magic show in the theatre was great and so were the Michael Jackson dancers. Norge (Nor-Hay) the bartender was extremely kind to both myself and my son. Alfredo at the front desk too. There was a young server in the dining hall who told me she had a 5 year old son, she was so sweet and I regret not getting her name. I would absolutely return to this resort for the gorgeous beach, serene quiet pool and wonderful staff. Many other tourists on the resort had been to it multiple times so that says a lot! See you again soon Grand Memories!

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Grand Aston Varadero

Overall, the sun and warm temps were amazing. The hotel itself was pretty but dirty. Tables barely wiped at night and never between guests in the buffet. ( I blame not enough staff) More often than not, used utensils left on table. The shortages in food were evident, but the rice is delicious and there is something for everyone -even picky eaters. Fish on a few days was good. I only had fresh eggs once upon leaving -but I didn’t pass that up! Some odd combos for breakfast-chicken nuggets and cab [... read more]bage- lol but surprisingly good!!! Snack bar had good food, great staff. A la Carte-Italian, Japanese and Cuban all good food! So many people smoking inside. I asked manager and he did make a few put them out. Ladies sitting at pool ashing their cigs in the grates of the pool water and putting their butts out in them. What????? What country is that customary to???? Smh. They definitely need a section for smokers outdoors, with an etiquette list. (It’s 2024 folks!!!) So many entitled guests who are just rude! Honestly we never saw that in Holguin -I guess more of them travel to Varadero. Just gross! Like couples taking a cabana AND 2 umbrellas when there isn’t enough umbrellas for 1/4 of the people ? Tisk Tisk. I hope you enjoyed being able to stay at the pool for 9 hours coming and going as you please. Room 2405 - Now, the rooms. Arrived before noon, and knew it would be a wait for a room given check in is 4, though possibly sooner if it was cleaned. Checked at 2, 3,4 and 4:30, 4:45…. Still not ready then girl at desk made some calls and all of a sudden given a room which was not the room originally on our card. I think there is likely a block of 8 rooms that are the worst there in terms of location. We booked this trip the first week they opened, so very disappointed. Our room was dirty, hair and stains of spills on floor. Hair on bed, grime finger prints up and down patio doors. I had lysol wipes with me, and cleaned all switches, tables, doorknobs and remote-very very dirty. The white door-I’m certain-has not been wiped in the 4 months the place has been open. Nonetheless-a room. The kicker was the balcony overlooking the garbage bins and staff entrance. Our first evening we had the patio open and our room filled with cat pee/spray and we were confused and grossed out-but staff was rinsing the walls and ground and bins and the smell filled our room until the next day. Our view would be staff coming in by bus/car having their bags looked through and then the same at end of shift every day. And garbage bins. Our days would begin with motors of trucks and all the Exhaust fumes coming even through the closed patio. It was clear they liked to keep the bins clean as they would rinse them each day, but the diesel ( or whatever the exhaust was, was nauseating) We wrote a note to our cleaning staff, and she took great care of us and it was not her who left our room in that state. We got whatever we requested, and left her great tips and gifts daily. She cleaned everything perfectly ! We did a bus tour- swimming in the cave, valley lunch and speed boat was fun. Well worth it. Beach- very very rough. Most days red flags ? which was disappointing-but you can’t control that. It was beautiful-but dirty with litter. The drop off in the water was significant. Not the best beach in Varadero or Cuba by far. Staff-mostly amazing. People-amazing Guests- be more courteous (not all) *****Please build a cover for the rooms over the garbage bins and staff entrance. Still had fun, it’s Cuba- but I definitely won’t be back to this resort. First Time booking through Tripcentral though and they are great!!!

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Beautiful resort!

We thought the rooms were spacious and clean. The bed was king size and new. No problem getting chairs at the pool or the beach. Front desk staff were helpful and spoke English better than many. Food shortages continue to be an issue. Book your al-a-carts and keep an open mind. Our sixth time to Cuba and we would go back to Paradisus Del Mar.

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Good stay but wouldn't return

Room: we had standard room and no ocean view. Our room had NO wifi connection which was really inconvenient. Had to use wifi in lobby. The oceanview rooms has sustainable wifi. Room had no wash rag but had shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. The elevators on our side that were close to 1117 were  out of service for our entire stay. We used the stairs since it was only 1 floor. The stairwell was never cleaned either. Our room had minimal storage for clothes. Only had ONE hanger. Some days h [... read more]otel could not provide clean towels. One day we left our dirty towels on the floor so that they could replace them. We came back to the same dirty towels folded neatly on our bed. The rooms are very damp at times. When I climbed into my bed at night, the sheets felt moist and was quite an uncomfortable feeling. Beach: beautiful but rocky. Bring water shoes or walk carefully. There is a much nicer beach 10 minutes away. Playa Blanca. No rocks. White sand. Water is calm and stunning. There's a bus $10 there and back that you can take it to get there. It goes into downtown Varadero where you can explore and shop. Could even get decent tasting food there too. Entertainment: mediocre. Some day activities and night shows. We would have appreciated a disco club. Tip for the hotel-The desk that is under the TV has empty space. Most resorts that I've been to use that space to include 6 to 8 drawers. That would have been helpful. Another tip for the hotel- educate your staff on the food menu. I asked 2 staff if the breakfast meat that was labeled 'hot dog' contained pork. They assured me it was not pork and told me it was chicken. They also kept repeating that it was hot dog, which indicated to me they didn't  have a clear understanding of hot dogs. Hot dogs can be pork, beef, chicken or all 3. I do not eat pork so it was important for me to know what was inside them. Sure enough when my friend tried it, she confirmed it was pork. Luckily I don't have a food allergy to pork, but this is concerning especially to someone whom has a food allergy or avoids eating pork for religious reasons. At the very least each food item should be clearly labeled. If it's a meat, it should indicate what type of meat. For late checkouts: resort offers late checkout for an extra $17US/ hour. We thought that was excellent. OR you can book a room for an hour for changing and showering before you leave. Rooms is based on availability. You will need to request early in the am. Overall the staff at the Grand Aston is friendly and helpful. The resort grounds is gorgeous. Rooms are clean but lacks basic necessities. The beach is not the best in Varadero. Drinks are just ok. The Pina colada by the beach bar is the best Pina colada on the resort. It's made differently at other bars and taste sweeter. Although I would not return to this resort, my party and I had a lot of fun.

Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: Cuba

The resort was okay…where does one start with the issues…we had a kettle but no condiments, twin beds in an adult resort, no hand towels or wash cloths, had to use the same bath towel all week…now for the food…best meal all week was going into Varadero for pizza…worst buffet I have ever tried, a lot of sauces to go on?… Entertainment…well, after a night or two how much dancing can one watch. Now for the trip home…what a nightmare, waiting 9 hours to be picked up, finally getting to the air [... read more]port and told Sunwing was offering a complimentary snack for the inconvenience…we got a stale hotdog bun with a piece of cheese and a bottle of water…now let me ask you…would you entertain eating a hotdog bun slapped with a piece of cheese…people where choking it down with the warm bottle of water…

Hotel Los Cactus: Great Resort and Staff

My wife and I just returned from an 11 day stay at Los Cactus. It was our first time at this resort, and had been recommended by several friends that have been vacationing there for many years. We have been to Cuba and Varadero many times in the past and were pleasantly surprised with this resort, the layout, staff, beach, etc. The staff at this resort are truly amazing and they really go out of their way to make your stay a great experience. We always say that you don't go to Cuba for the foo [... read more]d, but we ate lobster 5 times during our stay there! My wife loved the pasta bar and the A la Carte's were great! Cuba is having some food supply issues (eggs, beef, condiments) and we did enquire with other vacationers that stayed at many other resorts and it became clear that most resorts seem to be having some supply issues. We also determined that the price to stay at this resort was much cheaper than many other resorts in the area, and for you golfers, golf is included in your stay at Los Cactus, so we golfed several times at the Varadero Golf Course, overlooking the ocean. We went into Veradero several times, many markets and restaurants to include the Varadero 60 (make a reservation), great venue and menu, highly recommended, 3 piece classic rock band, amazing food and service. We also went into Cardenas by taxi (25 minute ride) and ate at a fantastic restaurant there too. A great night at the Beatles bar in Varadero, this is a don't miss for anyone wanting a "fun night on the town", and meeting many other Canadians having a great time. As mentioned in other reviews, there are Russians vacationing at this resort (separate buildings), and all the other resorts in Cuba. It came to our attention that they are getting reduced pricing from the Cuban government. We met some very nice Russian people, and others we chose to not to meet, no different than how we choose to socialize with people from other countries. A big thanks to all the staff at Los Cactus for all your hard work, your endless smiles and friendship. We would definitely return to Los Cactus, and look forward to coming back. The Los Cactus is a 4 star resort, and the staff are 6 star, so we feel totally comfortable giving this resort a 5 star rating.