Paradisus Princesa Del Mar: BIG DISAPOINTMENT

We spent 11 days there. At breakfast, there were very long lines if you wanted eggs or an omelette, at least twenty or more minutes waiting. Need to have a better toast making station with butter, jams, peanut butter, etc. No syrup available for the pancakes. The buffet was not up to standard. The specialty restaurants, Japanese and French were quite good. The Italian Restaurant was not good. The wines were generally good as well as the bar service. Very friendly staff. Rooms and grounds need  [... read more]some tender loving care. Stayed in Varadero about 20 plus years ago at a 4 plus star and were very pleased.

Valentin El Patriarca Varadero: Okay but not quite what we expected

The Valentin El Patriarca Varadero is okay and they DO try hard to make your stay pleasurable. It's not their fault that they have so many shortages. I realized during our stay that I am a bit of a food snob and I also have high standards with regards to hygiene. We stayed for 2 weeks and never once had our sheets or towels washed which was disappointing. The selection of food at the buffet is amazing however, food items you expect to be hot (or at least warm) are only room temperature which [... read more] may be okay for some people but personally, I like my hot food to be hot. We had our share of challenges with the wifi and for sure we were never able to connect in our room so just be aware of this. Our shower door was poorly fitted and every time we used the shower, we had a flood on our bathroom floor. The pool area is amazing but you can never get a lounger around the pool OR on the ocean. The pool bar/restaurant is great with great food and drinks and sadly, as a result of the shortages of loungers and chairs, guests take the chair from the restaurant out around the pool so finding a table with chairs to enjoy lunch is often a challenge. Great people and they try very hard. Al A Cart Restaurants are good (except The Gourmet with chairs that are not very clean and actually smell, plus the food is not desirable) but the other's are good. Night shows are fun and evening music, entertainment in the lounge is enjoyable too.

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: 5/10

1. Looks modern 2. Because the staff barely spoke English , whenever you called reception for something they hang up the phone on you 3. We were their for 4 days and kept asking reception and calling down for someone to come and program the tv 4. This resort is more for an older crowd I’d say 55 years old and up 5. Dirty dishes, and dirty blankets

Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero: Great resort with kind staff

This resort was great, we stayed at the sanctuary side which was 18+ and more quiet. We had access to the entire resort so it was nice to be able to come and go from the sanctuary to the busier family side. One aspect that could’ve used improvement was that there was a lack of communication about daily events, transportation and excursions. I read online there was yoga in the mornings but had no idea how to find the dates or times. We also had room service but had no menu or ways of knowing the  [... read more]services available. The housekeeping was good, but they didn’t come one day that we needed fresh towels, but the rooms are very clean. It was also noted in the sanctuary offers that the mini bar in the room would be restocked but it never was. We left a note asking but it did not happen. We were also told that we could exchange beach towels for fresh ones near the pool, but the hours were not listed anywhere so we never got a chance to catch it while it was opened. Another thing that took us by surprise was the lack of condiments and snacks. I was told before to bring ketchup but didn’t think too much of it… do it. The snack bar had hotdogs and hamburgers but had no sauces so they were just burger and bun. There was also no snacks to buy or offered on the resort, so you could only eat breakfast, lunch and dinner, or go to the snack bar which were more like full meals and had limited items. Also, the resort had extremely limited alcohol options… like only rum. Rum is great, but a glass of wine or a drink with vodka or gin would have been nice. They had rum and sambuca only at most bars, they also had beer but ran out a few times. We also had our safe break with all of our valuable items including money and passports 2 days before we were supposed to leave. Luckily they were able to call a mechanic who fixed/pried it open. And now for the good stuff: The resort was so beautiful and well laid out, with lots of greenery and flowers. The rooms were also very quiet and you got your own balcony. They were also very clean and the housekeepers did a great job when they came. They have a lot of bars on the resort which is a plus and are allowed smoking in the lobby. The pools were fantastic, there are 3, one being on the sanctuary side and 2 others on the family side, the bartenders at the swim-up bars were the best and very friendly. The beach itself was magical with tons of room on the beach to set up chairs provided under umbrellas. The water was crystal clear and very warm. Another pro could be that the drinks are extremely strong, this can be a pro depending on how much you like rum, lol. The people were also the kindest people, very welcoming and webfelt really safe there. We took a bus into Varadero one of the days and it was so beautiful. A double decker bus took us to the vibrant city, full of shops and art. We also went on an excursion which was a catamaran boat ride to a coral reef and then to an island for a few hours. This was definitely the highlight of the trip. The beach was beyond incredible and the buffet when we got off the boat was amazing. Overall, this trip was great! It was my first time in Cuba and I still went there expecting certain shortages, but the ones I pointed out were just what we noticed. In the end, I would definitely return, but I’d bring certain things with me like my own wine and snacks and potentially even condiments just to be safe.

Hotel Tuxpan: Just the Right Size

This is our second time and we really enjoyed our stay at the Tuxpan. Yes, the hotel is a little older, but, its Cuba! The entire hotel staff is great, greeted us with a friendly smile and an "Hola" every morning. The resort is "Just the Right Size", you don't get lost in the shuffle. You get to know other guests and the staff greet you by name when you walk into the buffet or one of the bars. The food shortages were evident but they did an amazing job with what they had. The hotels have n [... read more]o control over what they are supplied, the buffet was repetitive with the staples of rice and pasta but they tried to do new things. Some of the best fish I have ever eaten. We never went hungry or thirsty. The little pizzas at the pool/snack bar were a big hit with us. Beach was beautiful as always and the pool was sparkling clean as well as the pool area. I do want to mention about the currency. It is a little confusing once you are down there and we received conflicting advice. The vendors at the markets prefer American or Canadian money and will give you change in that currency. They will take pesos but will charge you almost triple the American/Canadian price. The "stores" generally only accept credit card. The double decker buses accept credit cards or American/Canadian cash, which ever they are in the mood for that day ... LOL again, its Cuba! Bring lots of small bills in either American/Canadian and you should get by great. We had a lot of pesos left over and left them for tips all over the hotel. ** If you go out on adventures or even to the market, bring wipes or tp with you, the locals will charge you to use the facilities.

Royalton Hicacos Resort and Spa: Will not return to this resort

This is a tired, poorly maintained resort. The staff is great and the beach is excellent, although over crowded. The food for Lunch & Dinner is not good. Meat is over cooked. Lacks flavour. not enjoyable. Breakfast is OK except when the eggs were substituted for powdered eggs The water pressure on most days was poor (trickle of water). The water temperature was cold in the shower on 10 out of 14 days. drinks were limited to rum punch, beer and wine. White wine was not always available. Vo [... read more]dka was nor available. Overall, well below expectations

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Beautiful Property very Quiet!

The grounds and outdoor spaces are beautiful. I found the property lacking in entertainment. There was only 1 day that they had activities around the pool. The shows dont start until after 10pm and the disco was not always open. The rooms were cleaned everyday and i actually had to turn my hot water down it was so hot! I was in BLd 19. We went with another couple and our door hardly ever would lock, and they had to to go get keys changed several times a day. The other 3 people who wer [... read more]e with me (my spouse/another couple) ended up deathly ill for 2 days not sure the exact cause (water/food/ice etc) and we missed an excursion. I did not notice any shortages there was always drinks/mix/coffee/eggs etc.. If you like the nightlife, games and activities I would not recommend this resort.

Starfish Varadero: Starfish Varadaro Review

Beautiful looking, clean. Lost 1 day of our 7 vacation days waiting for the check in. Front desk staff not friendly. We were told to put our bags in security room, then they would not let us access them without room key….which we couldn’t do because we couldn’t get checked in. Awful first experience. Rest of week was great….as long as we avoided the blonde woman at the front desk, who gave us dirty looks, then would disappear until we left.

Paradisus Varadero: A Good Escape with inviting scenery

Resort is located on a beautiful stretch of land, with multiple pools geared for all ages and a gorgeous beach. Most of the staff are very compassionate and understanding; and will do their utmost to aid in making one's stay worthwhile. The caring staff is an asset to the resort. For example: Niuris - My room attendant at #45 did her best to find someone to patch my damaged luggage so it can be used to return home. She's so attentive. Dennys - concierge disregard his time off to allow me [... read more] to contact his phone so that he can relay my concerns to front desk when needed. (phone in my room was not in service) Carla - CSR gave a listening ear to my problems re: No working phone in room; Inability to call front desk for a ride to get around at nights with a 5 year old twins in the darkness. Room key malfunction and being locked out. CSR willingly provided her number as well and aided with relaying my situation to front desk and help was provided. She is very considerate. Maya and the entire kids club team are amazing. They are genuinely caring, protective, talented and truly professional. My 5 year old grand twins enjoyed to the fullest.

Melia Marina Varadero: We haven’t missed anything

Before we booked, we were not recommend to go to Cuba and also not to this hotel. Our expectations were little. But we were surprised to not experienced what we heard. We had food, coffee, nice pastry selection and good bread in the morning. And the beach is awesome. This hotel isn’t a new one. It is big but not many clients for the size. I felt sorry we always missed the best music that played during supper time ( acoustic ) at 9:30 pm or at the pool or the beach , the music was too loud f [... read more]or me. After a week of hearing it is too much.but I guess it is the same elsewhere. Cuban are having a difficult economic time and we can feel it on the employees even if they don’t talk about it. So when we show kindness to them their face changes . All included doesn’t mean no sense to me. When we see people striving to live we just cannot be passive. They live on tips.all included doesn’t include tips in my opinion.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Enjoyed our stay

We stayed at laguna azul from feb 15th to 23 First on arrival was at 1230am , no help for luggage and 4th floor room and elevators broken . We survived that and got our exercise. First morning I was pleasantly surprized by the garden view and open air hallway staircase . Clean and very well kept. Walk to the beach was only a few minutes sunrise was one of my favorite things always greeted by "holas " good mornings from workers starting their Day either cleaning the pool beach or general kit [... read more]chen staff . Grounds were very well maintained and pools 1 was down for resurfacing but the swim up one was enough for everyone plus 2 other quieter pools for relaxing we enjoyed them all . Beach was being dug up and wasn't quiet all week due to tractors trucks and dozers. But understandable needed to be done as sea wall erosion was evident . Our room was always cleaned and new towels made into animals daily . Water was never an issue. . We did upgrade to relax but really wasn't needed as any rime we were hungry did snack bar or buffet . Did enjoy the Japanese a la carte . Entertainment was nightly but same dancing got a little blah . Sadly was not impressed by animation , no real personal touch ,no kids shows no schedule followed or couldn't find where to go to look . All in all it was a great resort . Sun and fun you make yourself . Could be a bit more personal .. at end of our week new staff were on and things perked up and we felt the love .. thanks to oneysis and dania they went over and above

Iberostar Origin Tainos: Good Resort With Helpful Staff

Good resort I spent a week at. Endless white sand beaches, palm trees at the pool and helpful staff. The food left much to be desired. Not recommended for vegetarians or vegans. I was given ‘vegetable soup’ at the Criollo restaurant that had chicken in it. Though they did go out of their way to accommodate me at the Japanese restaurant. A fellow guest had a watch stolen at the pool. During my departure, a front desk clerk went over and above when the transfer bus to the airport skipped our hotel [... read more], very helpful!

Grand Aston Varadero Beach Resort: Beautiful resort but

I think it was a beautiful resort but I think it is geared towards more older crowd, 60+. Service was not the greatest but food was amazing fresh cooked every day. Cleaning ladies barely came but had no towels for 3 days. Entertainment was minimal. Not a lot of loungers for the pool or beach. But over all it was more just to relax and chill. We had couples massage it was soo nice relaxing.

Royalton Hicacos Resort and Spa: Amazing Return Visit

This was a thirteen day visit. We were at the same resort one year ago. We have absolutely no complaints. We will come back in 2025. From our maid room service to the buffet staff, everyone was so helpful and pleasant. Sonavid, our server during the day is an amazing person. She goes above and beyond to meet the needs of the patrons…absolutely fantastic. Annia, in the lobby bar is also outstanding. No complaints about the food…we certainly did not go hungry. The beach Resturant  [... read more]was also great. Amazing staff. We enjoyed the beach and the pool… The lobby staff was always courteous and helpful.

Grand Memories Varadero: The Sanctuary was the best!!!

Grand Memories Sanctuary! It was wonderful. We were very fortunate to receive an upgrade to the Sanctuary! A few people who made our time wonderful!!! Hilda, the manager of the Sanctuary, she Checkin on us and always made sure we were happy and well looked after. Juan, manager of the restaurant/food, excellent service & good food! Ronald our butler, very attentive! Yeny, our room maid, super kind and does a great job! The Italian restaurant’s manager Yurialis, she was over the top! Hospitality,  [... read more]food, service and just a very special lady

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: If you want to be treated like s@#t this is the hotel for you.

The only good thing about this hotel was my cleaning lady. Five stars for that women, she was kind, considerate and did and amazing job. Now for the hotel…..rudest front desk people I’ve ever dealt with in my life. Right from the second we got there the women behind the desk treated us like we were an irritant. Not a single hi there how are you? Welcome to our resort, nothing. I have spent 20 years working in customer service and let me tell yah this hotel has non of it. I paid extra to have th [... read more]e prestige package only to find out that gets you NOTHING. The concierge I was supposed to have didn’t come in due to illness. (I completely understand being sick not mad about her health) when I inquired about her because the number they gave me to get a hold of her wasn’t being answered I was told she was out and nobody would be filling in for her???? The hotel itself was clean, run down and elevators not working but over all the hotel wasn’t bad. If they could fired everyone and start over maybe it would be a decent resort but DEFINITELY not worth the money

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Overall a good holiday with some issues.

We stayed at the Iberostar Laguna Azul from Feb 10th to 17th. Overall we had a good experience, having come in with realistic expectations. The resort is very beautiful and must have been really something at one time. A number of areas are under construction; pool, beach, some of the buildings and rooms. A short walk on the beach and you can see the splendor of Varadero beaches. We stayed in the "relax zone" which gave us access to a very nice private pool and sit down breakfast and lunch, which [... read more] we really liked. There were shortages, some days no coffee or eggs. We took a day trip to Havana that was spectacular. On our tour, we talked to vacationers from other hotel and most said their hotel had no shortages. At our hotel there were a majority of Russian guests. While most were very polite, we did have a few "bad encounters" with drunk people at the bars. For that reason, we won't be returning to Cuba any time soon.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Could be better.

Grounds are well kept, good selection of food. Service was terrible at the buffet, sometimes no service at all. Pools were under renovation, bulldozers at the beach, and elevators were not working. Not worth upgrading to relaxed as you really don’t get much extra. Not many activities going on, bartenders weren’t happy when you order non alcoholic drinks. No slushy drinks.

Sol Palmeras: Sol Palmaris Resort in Cuba

This is a great resort. The people are very friendly. The food is excellent and the resort very clean. The pool area is very spacious for large and small swimmers. The beach is fabulous. It is clean and very long and great for walking and enjoying the ocean. The water activities are great for adults as well as the children. The entertainment is excellent both inside the resort as well at the pool area and on the beach. The resort staff is very interactive with the guests. This is my second [... read more] time taking my children and grandkids, and I know I will be returning again next year. Great job Sol Palmaris

Club Tropical: Nice hotel

The staff are so great!! The hotel and resort are great.I love to be downtown Veradrro . The city is amazing...lots of restaurants and markets. The people of Veradrro are very friendly. What a great experience!