Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Never again to Cuba

I rarely write a negative review and always try to look at the half filled cup only, but in Cuba it’s 90% empty cup. The beach was the ONLY thing that was astonishing!!!! Other than that everything was very VERY disappointing!!! It’s out of their control, I understand, but not my fault either..that’s why I’ll never visit Cuba. I would pay a little bit extra and be in a place where I can get my basic needs. In Cuba, basic needs are not met! Horrible food, no clean towels or no towels at a [... read more]ll, no washroom supplies, no water bottles, no cups for coffee, insects and ants and mosquitoes where showering us all the time, no costumer service, no decent Wi-Fi, and many No over No..I was counting the days to be out of there :((((. No one ever cared about our problems or about our needs!! Anyways, never again.

Iberostar Origin Bella Vista Varadero: Bon ratio qualité prix !

Points positifs de ce resort: 1- proximité de tout 2-mer magnifique 3-chambre propre 4-vue et service au restaurant panoramique 5-gentillesse du personnel de l'hôtel 6- Wifi opérationnel 7- belles piscines pour les tous petits enfants Points négatifs de ce resort : 1-Courte plage (petite baie) très chargée 2-nourriture très ordinaire et peu variée dans les restos et le buffet 3-divertissement manquant en soirée 4- propreté déficiente dans les endroits publiques

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Amazing Fitness / Entertainment Staff

We stayed at the beach everyday for the whole week. Since there is no electricity at the beach area, the Fitness staff focused on volleyball only. One day, Osmany Gonzalez Lara, was resourceful enough and borrowed the bluetooth speaker of my friend and we had dancing lessons at the beach - both in the beach area and water. That was an enjoyable one and a lot of guests participated. I have a video to show how Osmany was leading the dance and again this was because of his resourcefulness to cr [... read more]eate activities at the beach. Appreciate if you can commend Osmany on this as truly he is an asset to Iberostar Ensenachos resort. You may email me if you would like a copy of the video - mirbales@yahoo.com

Iberostar Origin Laguna Azul: A very good resort!!

This Hotel is perfect if you don’t want the big crowds. Everyone gets to know the staff and they know you. Service is amazing and the people are great!! Tony at the buffet is excellent, always a smile and prompt to have a table for you. The animation team is also great. Highly recommended!!

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Great beach

Rooms were big and roomy. Resort was at 20% capacity so food selection was minimal but good. Beach is the best part bar none. Bugs are really bad especially in the lobby- no see ums and mosquitoes. About a 75 minute bus ride. Staff were great and helpful.

Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada: Great resort

Beautiful hotel and property. Plenty of food choices with food well prepared and presented. I would skip the special Italian restaurant that has a limited menu. The pool and beach area is large with plenty of shade. Front desk seemed to be minimally staffed and there was some difficulty with communication in English. Our room was very clean and comfortable. Well worth it to pay extra cost of an ocean view room.

Iberostar Waves Paraiso del Mar: Beautiful Tropical Setting

Just returned from our trip and we were very happy with our choice to travel to this resort!! It is such a lush and tropical location that you cannot stop taking pictures and there are many paths to stroll along and enjoy. Lots of wildlife to see and take pictures of!! The pool is humungous and there is lots of space to feel comfortable enjoying during COVID. The hotel is very strict about masking in the restaurants and won't allow entrance without one. The beach area is also very spacious with  [... read more]plenty of lounge chairs with shade cover. The food was very good with a very wide variety to choose from. Would definitely book this place again.

Iberostar Coral Esmeralda: Quiet, hidden oasis

We stayed at the Coral Level Esmeralda the week of June 5th in a swim out room. I have been to Cuba about 9 times, Mexico 4 times, Dominican 4 times, Jamaica twice, Antigua once, St Martin once. Our visit was during the start of low season (hotel at less than half occupancy). The best things about this resort: -the resort is very small and personalized (more like a boutique Style hotel) with probably the best service we have had in Cuba (never had to wait in lines, and the people were excep [... read more]tionally kind and attentive. -the butler Ariel checked if we had everything we needed and arranged things we asked about (e.g., dinner reservations, extra amenities etc). He was one of the kindest, friendliness people we have met and we really enjoyed getting to know him, he went out of his way to make people happy and is a huge asset to this resort. We met Luis and he was super kind and friendly too! -they give you robes in your room and beach towels (never had this in Cuba before). -the room was one of the nicest I have stayed in with the most comfortable bed. -for Cuba, the food was about the best we have had in Cuba- fresh, well decorated, some variety. -room service was offered, including drinks (never had this in Cuba before). -the beach was long, white sand, clear and exceptionally quiet. -the pools were nice and warm and quiet. -this was an ideal resort if you are looking for relaxation or personalized service. -They had entertainment every night that felt personalized because of the small environment. Things you will either like or not like: -the resort is an hour drive from the airport (didn't feel too long but not a lot to look at). -the resort is very quiet- some evening entertainment but more geared towards people looking for a relaxing or low key environment. -the beach is extremely long and quiet- nice for long walks but we like exploring Lagoons or inlets. No other resorts open on the very long stretch of beach. -there are little fish that nibble at your feet (tickles). Things that could be improved: -Our least favourite thing was the design of the lobby- it was small and no ceiling fans and it could get hot and have quite a few mosquitos which made it harder to enjoy. -The first day there was a lot of flies in the buffet restaurant. This improved significantly over the week we were there but was initially an issue for us. Please bring them fly swaters (and maybe sticky fly traps) as things can be very hard to get in Cuba and this might help out a lot. -we wanted to walk next door and see the larger resort that is mostly built and scheduled to open in September, but management would not allow us to cross over (they had employees guarding it) which was disappointing as the resort was small and there wasn’t much area to walk (other than the beach of course). As you can see, mostly positive comments about this special place! Enjoy and please bring gifts to give out (e.g., good quality used shoes, clothes, toiletries, towels, clothes, sunglasses, hats, gardening gloves, tools such as a screwdriver set, pens etc) as it is very difficult to get things in Cuba and extremely expensive for people and you will feel so good making people happy! Don’t forget about the maintenance people, especially the ‘singing gardener’!

Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: Iberostar ensennachos

The complex is very large well maintained by happy helpful Cuban employees. The rooms are spacious and very clean. The food is the usual Cuban fare nothing to boast about. Cuba has to do better in this area.

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: Iberostar during Covid times

As with all resorts this one is having a difficult time during the pandemic. The staff and management are trying very hard to keep the place safe. I noticed a big difference in the availability and variety of things to eat but I expected that. What disappointed me was the last of local fruits and foods as I had planned to make the best of the local stuff. There is still a lot of confusion with currencies. No one wants the peso so do not change any. Take $1 us for tipping but make sure you have [... read more] enough as there is no way to get any from the hotel or bank.

Iberostar Origin Daiquiri: Cozy resort

We have been to this resort at least 4 times. Whole resort was very well maintained. Staff were very pleasant and helpful, maids were always cheerful and gardeners always greeted us. We like to stay at this hotel because there is a pier where we can relax and fish. WiFi system not very good, but everything else was excellent.

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.