Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach: Would not go back if you paid me

I will start with the positive: I was out of Canada and in the beautiful Mexican sun with friends. Cons and my experience with this hotel: Staff: I found many of them to be moody and not so helpful however of course not all. Rooms: nothing special but was just ok Pool: it was often dirty Room service: there isn’t any which was an issue and will explain below Beach: out of 10 days we had just one where there wasn’t an extreme amount of seaweed. I was gross! Food: buffet  [... read more]was decent but repetitive and felt I was eating same food everyday Hotel service: horrible- my 2 yr old broke a glass in room and it accidentally shattered so I quickly called front desk to ask to have someone clean it up. They said 10 mins max. And so we waited and called again and got same response and after 6 x calling and me getting very upset someone finally came which was an hour and a bit later. Kids indoor playground: I was initially pleased but if there is a rainy day and you need the kids to go there to play your out slot luck cause it’s only available to kids in the scheduled camp. Here we s my horrible experience: My 2yr old on my 7th day at resort developed a high fever. He was really hot so we called dr on-site and she was very worried as his vitals were not good and his fever was worrisome high. We had to bring him to hospital to possibly get intervenous if fever didn’t go down. It was horrible. Turned out he contracted a bacterial infection from the resort (her words) and he had sores down his throat and he was in a lot of pain. It was so scary to helplessly watch him and see my 8 yr old be scared for her baby brother. Now with that all said I went to general manager the next day and complained about this and explained that because he was in so much pain and still had fever and out of respect for other guests we couldn’t bring him in restaurant crying.. we were not allowed room service, or take food from buffet to our rooms, nothing so he basically could not eat cause we couldn’t get him food or us unless we took turns leaving. I complained that he either got infected from indoor playground or pool area and he did not care at all! He offered me a 25$ cabana! I was insulted that as my son was crying in my arms from the pain he did not care at all. And he said and I quote “It’s not my problem lady!” I was in shock and unbelievably upset for the lack of compassion for my son’s condition and what we were going through. He began to say I told front desk we left resort for day excursion which was a complete lie! That week we were all trapped in lobby due to the strong rain pours all day and night. We never left the resort except going to hospital. In addition to him making up that we left resort, he blamed my son getting the infection off site! I just could not believe my ears! Such a heartless person that was not even able to look into my eyes as I was on verge of tears for my son, my families experience and the lack of care from this resort manager and the resort. I tried talking to conceirge but she kept saying they had rules. I’m sorry but what rule cannot be adjusted to help a sick child that was in such need. The last three days were horrible as I was fighting with them to help me. No one should go to this resort because in times of emergency they will not care at all. And if you are will small children and in a foreign country with no one willing to help you it’s a horrible experience.

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Amazing resort!

Grounds, public areas, dining areas, restaurants, pool areas, entertaining theatre ,bar areas, hotel rooms, cleaning services, front desk service - are excellent. I will recommend this resort to all my friends.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: 5 stars for sure

You always hear how you just go to Cuba for the beaches and Mexico for the food but honestly this resort is well worth it and is the exception. The beach was the most incredible of any Cuban resort we’ve been to, miles of white sand. And the food was better than any other 5 star Cuban resort we’ve been to pre pandemic which is really saying a lot right now because there’s a massive shortages in Cuba and all over the world. Loved the beach front bbq with good meats, rice with lots of spices [... read more] and the desserts and pastries were to die for and I usually don’t like them at other places. Oh and the fire roasted oven pizzas and the fact that the snack bar was open 24/7 but is actually good. Also they spared no expense on decor- I noticed because I’m into design and the mid century vibes were extremely modern and luxury/expensive. You can tell they really paid attention to all aspects of the resort and what people want. The Cuban staff are so so so sweet, as always. Wonderful amazing people.

Hotel Bella Costa: For me, Iberostar Bella Costa was a 2 week haven of relaxation – friendly staff – great atmosphere and a beautiful beach!

I chose to stay in the main hotel – however would likely pick a bungalow next visit as they are closer to the beach. My 6th floor room was clean, well maintained and had a very comfortable king size bed. The housekeeping staff are very friendly and helpful. I chose not to have my room made up every day however Janice checked every day to see if I needed more water, toilet paper or fresh towels. Bella Costa provides water in your room in reusable glass bottles to save the ocean from all the [... read more] plastic water bottles that never get disposed of properly….I really appreciated that touch. The entertainment staff was wonderful and, if you choose, will keep you busy from morning until bedtime! Each morning starts with gentle stretching and then aerobic exercise either in the pool or on the beach. Throughout the day there are games and contests for the adults – with your chance to win a bottle of Cuban rum – and also activities for the kids. Every evening there is a show and then the disco after. I enjoyed the shows – ranging from water ballet to dance productions! One evening featured a couples game - guessing how their partner would answer questions – that was fun! The disco opens at 11 pm in the main hotel just off the lobby. Although it’s not really my ‘thing’ – I checked it out and people seemed to be having fun dancing and drinking. The lobby is stunning with a huge stone bar – grand piano – several different seating groupings and a separate coffee lounge. Entertainment was offered there every evening. Cuba still faces many food shortages – however I was completely satisfied with all my meals. I tend not to be a breakfast eater….and like to sleep in in the morning – so my first meal of the day was usually at the poolside restaurant for pizza after a while in the sun! Loved the pizza! Lunch is also available at the buffet restaurant overlooking the beautiful beach – and the daily selections were varied and tasty. I went to all 3 offered a la cart restaurants and had excellent meals – the seafood dinner in the Cuban restaurant was recommended by my server and was amazing – and at the Italian Restaurant I had the best mushroom soup I think I have EVER had! The dinner buffet has plenty of variety – although not as much as I have seen in Cuba in the past – and I enjoyed my dinners there quite a bit. A word of caution – I often hear people complain about the food in Cuba – I think you have to remember the situation the country is in – they frequently face food shortages and import many of their food products which can be problematic at different times. Cuba is not a tourist destination for the gourmand – however – if, like me, you enjoy good basic cuisine with a local flair you will be happy. I was nervous travelling in our pandemic riddled world as I am ‘older’ and have co-morbidities. The flight and bus getting to the resort was a little scary for me – however once I reached the resort I felt totally safe and secure. All employees wear masks at all times – I observed staff constantly cleaning high traffic areas and ‘touch zones’. Buffets had servers - guests were not permitted to serve themselves, and masks were required in the restaurant. The biggest ‘flaw’ I found was that the pool is showing significant wear and tear and is in need of upgrading/TLC. I observed chemicals being added to the pool daily and the water was clean, however there are many spots where the paint has worn away from the sides and bottom of the pool - and there is a general ‘run down’ feel. Having said that – the magnificent ocean and pristine beach is only steps away. I have mobility issues and especially loved how close the beach is to the hotel – how safely and easily it can be accessed – and the beautiful sandy bottom of the ocean. I usually vacation in Cayo Coco….however loved Iberostar Bella Costa and will be returning as soon as I am able! Thank you to all the amazing staff that made my vacation memorable and truly made me feel welcome and well taken care of and valued! Thank you to all my new Bella Costa friends.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Great Resort!

Beautiful location, clean, peaceful, I really enjoy it. The people who was there representing the Resort make everything amazing with their customer service, the food wasn't good enough but this people with their dedication profesionalism make up my vacations there...BIG YES! TO THEM!This are the persons who making this a great time in Cuba specifically at this resort: Dayana loby bar Yuliesker cigar bar Miguel spa Luis Miguel snach Jannette bar Dayana Beatriz torned Alejandro [... read more] respcion Yasniel Daniel very professionals willing to assist all the time Ismael migrado Jessica Keylin Orlando perez Daya. To all of them THANKS Iever had a great time like this! See you son!

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Super

El lugar completo es increíble , limpio, muy organizado El l personal que trabaja en el lugar es súper amable y muy dedicados Dayana loby bar Yuliesker cigar bar Miguel spa Luis Miguel snach Jannette bar Dayana Beatriz torned Alejandro reception Yasniel Daniel Ismael migrado Jessica Keylin Orlando perez Daya

Iberostar Waves Paraiso Beach: Beautiful tropical gardens

The grounds were beautiful with tropical green vegetation and exotic birds. The buffet food was decent and a great variety. The main disappointment was the beach. Too much seaweed and unfortunately we went at the end of May and had rain and clouds for the most part of our stay. Thankfully we were with a bunch of great friends and made the best of it at the lobby bar.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Beautiful resort!

The resort itself was beautiful, not too many activities so keep that in mind. I would say the service was decent, most employees were nice and welcoming. Though as a queer identifying person there were times I was by the beach bar and I would spot the workers snickering and laughing at me so it wasn’t the most comfortable and welcoming.

Iberostar Waves Quetzal: Great experience

The hotel is well kept and expertly staffed. The rooms are immaculate and everything works. The beach is fantastic though the resort could do a much better job of clearing the sargasum like the other resorts seem to beat them at but not a deal breaker. The pool activities are well orchestrated and fun to participate in or watch. The jungle-walk as I called it is a path through the middle ground between the Quetzal and Tucan sides and id a fun experience, especially for kids. The howler monkies a [... read more]re a riot and the peacocks seem to own the place. It's all great! we would certainly return again.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: No more Cuba

you would be lucky to get food very minimal really bad, hard to even get salt, ketchup, fruits, salads, ect. no orange juice, only pop and water same foods all week long rice and more rice, breads, help yourself. foods that were served by staff was cold cuts, vegetables, deserts, so that everyone could get a piece of something, eggs were always a go! no spoons any where eat ice cream with your fork. entertainment horrible horrible, bar drinks minimal rum and more rum no crystal beer any where in [... read more] cuba, 1 glass bottle of water in room with a seal on it. They claim its drinkable water now. If you want bottled water you pay for it. currency is a joke now DO NOT EXCHANGE YOUR MONEY!!!!!!!! leaving the airport they have you believe you will get a better exchange for the paseo resort ratio 118 they will give you 140 get this goes to black market 190 they want you to exchange badly, you cant spend a peso if you tried only for tips and at market for souvenirs downtown Varadero and only private Cuban eatery's not even the beetle bar credit card only, no American cards so once again charge your Canadian card still converted to US dollar to you. you CANNOT convert paseos back to Canadian dollars lots of changes all the people that been going to Cuba for years will never go back again I guess its only for the sun now and water nothing else trust me resort occupancy scarce I don't think its all because of the covid it's the countries changes Good by Cuba

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: A great get-away!

Our time at Iberostar Daiquri was exactly what we needed! The resort had everything we needed, a clean room with a comfortable bed, good food, and wonderful staff who welcome you as though you were a member of their own family! Some people may say that Cuba does not have good food, but if you eat a clean, healthy diet, you will be very happy with the food in Cuba. The beach was fantastic! The water was warm, the beach furniture plentiful and it was clean. Everyone had a smile on their fa [... read more]ce pretty much the entire time we were there. We can't wait to return to Iberostar Daiquri. Gracias!!

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Amazing resort!!!

The resort is really amazing!!! It's just a right size for us - everything is max 5-7 min walking distance. The beach and ocean - the most beautiful part. The rooms are big and very clean, AC is very good. Wi-Fi is everywhere is pretty good. My husband likes to watch news so he was very happy with Wi-Fi. The food is good - I liked the grilled calamаries (squid) and fish. We were there in May which is Mango season. We've enjoyed mangos during breakfast, lunch and dinner :) Please note, we h [... read more]ad to wear masks in the buffet when you take a food to the plate and lobby if you need any assistance. Otherwise, no masks are required. I would like to mention a snack bar by the pool - very tasty sanwiches, hotdogs and amazing service. Actually, the service is great everywhere - what a friendly, beautiful people work there!!!! 2 garden guys gave me a little handmade flower every day :). We would like to thank everyone in the resort. Great service everywhere!!! Thank you my favorite Cuba for the great vacation. We are planning to come over again sometime in November (we will have 45 wedding anniversary on Nov 25th).

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Nice brand New Modern Resort with free wifi, also pool and beach drink service

We stayed for a week in May/ 22 , had a Oceanview room , Best room we ever had in Cuba with with King bed, plus couch , table & 2 chairs, whirlpool tub & Separte standup shower. However If I would go again though, I would go for a ground level swim up room. Beach is pure white soft sand with no other resorts open on this separate Island, great for long beach walks. Resort workers are all freindly but there is some with very limited English language. Neagtives: Really small resort. The res [... read more]ort was only about 25% full. Food is ok, but we ate at the same restaurant almost everyday for our 3 meals a day. Food got to be reptitive but it was good and fresh.The beach bbq did not happen, Two of of the Ala Carte’s did not open. Remote location. It is a 1 hour drive from CayoCoco. No off resort Excursions available the whole week. This resort is so remote and new they don’t offer excursions at all except for once per week Catamaran snorkeling, except ours was canceled due to not enough people.So expect to stay the whole week on the resort. It is a really quiet resort , you could sleep or read at the pool or beach with no loud Cuban party music playing at all except on the Thursday Cuban Day. So It is great if you just want to rest and relax but can get to be boring if you need more excitement.

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Loved the resort!!

The resort was beautiful, the rooms large and clean. The staff was friendly and helpful and happy to be of your service. The beach is beautiful and the sea water is clean, clear and warm. There are lovely palapas with loungers to keep you on the shade and the pool is enormous and clean with lots of loungers. The food is good with many options to chose from. The specialty restaurants were lovely and the food was very good. I would definitely return to this resort.

Iberostar Origin Playa Alameda: Terribly Disappointing!

Not a newcomer to travelling in Cuba but bewildered by this last trip and the poor service received at this resort. The room we checked into was one I would have never have stayed at back home (too much to write about with limited characters). Disgusting! The food at each and every meal was extremely disappointing and what was the most troublesome was the lack of caring & pride of service from the workers here. Not at all what I have seen in the past 25 years while travelling in Cuba. I would no [... read more]t recommend this property to anyone and feel that carriers need to heed warning from guests who have experienced the problems firsthand.

Iberostar Waves Cozumel: 3.5 star at best!

A reasonably good break after 2 vacation starved years! Chose Iberostar Cozumel based on the the reviews which seemed to rate it well and because it presented also as a Dive Resort. However, while the 2-storey quad accomodation units blend beautifully into the L/scape and the rooms though dated are clean, in almost every other department it was mediocre at best. Food was ok but never 4 star, and repetitive. Buffet probably had the best to offer, after the Steak Restaurant which was actually quit [... read more]e good. The Mexican and Oriental restaurants were sub par and a huge dissappointment - give them a miss! While general landscaping is decent and clean the beach unfortunately is extremely rocky and dicey to negotiate getting into the water - this was across the entire length of the beach line and beyond, and snorkeling was hopeless except for the shoal of fish under the jetty. Did not use the pool, so won't comment. Too few beach Palapas and you have to scramble early to find a decent shade spot. For Scuba diving Cozumel is one of the best places to go (no matter which shop you dive with) but I just could not take in the cramped 20+ divers to one boat Dressel operation which ran like a busy Bus Stop.from the pier, dawn to dusk and into the night. Hotel Staff made a good effort with their nightl and day entertainment. Would I go to Iberostar again? No.

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Amazing resort, and amazing Agent!

I have never been to Cuba but after much search I booked Iberostar Selection Ensenachos, had an issue with booking via bank but Brenda was such a sweetheart, handled the payments, ensured we are updated with all information and necessary documents that must be filled out. It was a smooth trip with her help. Now on to the resort itself, the staff are amazing they have beautiful smiles all around and go out of their way to make your experience like none other, the resort is absolutely beautiful,  [... read more]the beaches are to die for. I don't have any complaints about anything at all, had an issue with card not working but they were very happy to switch rooms, because they have availability but this is hands down of the best experiences we had. My 6 year old and I had a wonderful time and were sad to leave. Overall highly recommend visiting here, we are already planning to come back here!

Iberostar Origin Playa Pilar: Shortage of food!!!!

The resort itself is amazing , most of the staff in the restaurant with you don't give them a tips they will never give smile not even to greet you. The foods are the worst !!! I NO MANY OPTION ,NO ENTERTAINMENT ON SATURDAY AND SUNDAY NO ACTIVITIES DURING THE DAY MAYBE BECAUSE ONLY FEW PEOPLE IN THE RESORT .. the internet it's amazing the signal is excellent !!!! bit they give you only 3hrs ,but you can sign in just to go to the front desk they unlock you .. But don't expect that during YOUR che [... read more]ck out just like us our flight is 1030Pm and we need to check out at 12pm ,NO INTERNENT SERVICE !!!! I DONT NO WHY ?? IMAGINE ALL DAY WE DONT USED OUR PHONE ,BUT WHEN YOU COMPLAINED THEY DONT KNOW THE REASON !!!! THAT WE CANT LOG IN !!! THE BEACH ARE AMAZING DONT EXPECT THE SAND DONT EXPECT THAT EVERY MORNING THAT YOU CAN ABLE TO DO YOUR MORNING JOGGING BY THE BEACH .. It's rock surrounded by the beach !!! it's not worth it to for my money for this resort !!!!

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: Amazing resort

Hi Martine thanks for your help! Everything was good ; the resort; was nose and clean , food was good the people are nice and friendly , beach is outstanding . We would go back again and would recommend this place to v everyone. The flight WESTJET was good; on time and really friendly staff. The problem was aero port Toronto - we have to stay in the plane for more then 2 hours and the staff of Westjet trying to comfort everyone giving water and inform us old time what’s going on! Thank [... read more]s again

JOIA Bavaro by Iberostar: Best resort I have ever stayed at! Amazing! Very satisfied.

The grounds are extremely well kept. Public areas are also well kept and clean. The rooms are classy, clean and comfortable - high class. The dining was excellent. Ate very well and too much for the ten days we were there! Butlers are the ones responsible for reserving your restaurants in the evening. We saw butler at beginning of trip and he reserved our first three nights, but after that we didn't see him. So we would show up at a restaurant of our choice and they would accommodate us. The r [... read more]estaurant employees are so very nice, lovely people. The resort isn't too big which is also nice. Doesn't take a few days to orient yourself. Everything was perfect. I would highly recommend this resort and would go back. It is a little bit more expensive, but well worth the money. Also, chairs were always available at the beach in the morning - no rushing early in the morning to reserve a chair. However, the pool was a different story, but I prefer the beach to the pool. I love the pool in late afternoon after spending the day at the beach.