I have traveled to Cuba 15 times and I will be honest with my review. The hotel is clean but outdated and definitely needs some renovations. For example, the tiles in the pool needed to be fixed, rails on the balcony etc air conditioner was quite loud! We did have a power outage for 5 minutes one night out of the 7. The hotel does use generators for electricity. As Cuba does experience an intense amount of power outages . Please do not tip the staff with Canadian coins! They cannot use the coin[... read more]s and exchange them. Everyone at the resort was asking to exchange coins for dollar bills!
The staff was friendly, there was no shortage of anything. Snack bar was open 24 hours! The buffet food was cold and every night same thing to eat. At times, there was no sugar! Bring your own just incase! A la Carte restaurants were quite good. Entertainment was awful at night and no fun organized activities during the day. The beach is beautiful, chairs always available! The beach has a bar but no music and very little activities organized for tourists.
Overall it was okay for the price that you pay! Didn't expect much. I would give this resort three stars!
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Casie -
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Paradisus Varadero: Great Resort
Firstly, Big thanks to Steve fromTrip Central.
Paradisus Varadero was great, We upgraded to the reserve junior suite.
Room was large, clean and exactly as pictured. Air conditioning was COLD!
Resort was spotless and very well maintained, excellent staff from the beach to the maid service and concierge. The staff WANT you to have an excellent experience and it shows.
A variety of dining options, fresh fish, seafood, fries, omelets, bacon etc.
Plenty of condiments and beverages.
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We had no issues during our stay and were pleasantly surprised at the food quality and service. The beach is outstanding. and the entertainment is lively.
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Private -
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Paradisus Los Cayos: Disappointing Stay
If you pay for the Royal Reserve you will not be disappointed, however we didn't, we had issues with....
The room: The safe, the door lock, the air conditioning, the water (freezing, or scalding, or missing altogether), a privacy door missing to the bathroom.
Common areas: Look wonderful, however, if you're not a smoker you cannot escape it, and if you want a quiet break, unless you pay for the Royal Reserve, you will have trouble finding it. Loud music played either by the hotel, or the[... read more] guests, either way, it was unavoidable.
Beach: The beach is one of the best I have visited, and I have travelled around the world. However, the chances of getting a bed on the beach was only guaranteed if you were out around 6am to claim them with a towel. Loud music was also intrusive on the beach.
Food: The buffet food was plentiful, and lots of variety. However, the restaurants you had to book for, were disappointing, with portions that had you finishing and going to the buffet for more food.
The staff for the most part were friendly and very attentive, however customer service were not on top of things, and let us down on a few occasions.
Summary: If you like smoke, noise, and unsafe conditions in your room, this is the place for you. However, if none of those things are to your liking, avoid, or pay for the Royal Reserve.
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Victoria -
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Starfish Varadero: Fantastic time!
We just returned from a wonderful stay at Starfish Varadero. We were very mindful of the shortages and challenges currently facing Cuba, so went with a sense of adventure. What we discovered was a huge bungalow, with amenities to suit all of our family. Plentiful and varied food, with something for everyone, both traditional Cuban fare and more North American options than we expected. We certainly ate well! Check out Milans for a finer dining option.
The staff were welcoming, and we really conn[... read more]ected with a man on the entertainment team, Neslon. There was always something to do or see, and we were happily alternating between activities and relaxing.
The beach is stellar, clean and well maintained, with water sports available. The drinks flowed and we were always able to access water.
The resort as a whole was quite well maintained, and it was evident that a lot of work goes in to maintaining the grounds.
We had an amazing time at this budget friendly resort, and would be delighted to return.
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Kimquinna -
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Melia Cayo Coco: Beautiful resort, excellent service all around!
Our 5 th visit to MCC did not disappoint! This resort is a gem. The grounds and buildings are meticulously maintained. Food was good, drinks plentiful! The Cuban people who work here make it the best place to vacation. The beach and ocean is gorgeous! As always we loved our stay and will be back!
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Memories Jibacoa: Great Stay at Memories Jibacoa
This was our third stay at this resort and it met our expectations. Some of the key features that we enjoyed are the small resort size, it is adults only and the snorkelling. Being a small resort, it is easy to get to know some of the staff and other patrons during a one week stay. With an older clientele, the resort is fairly quiet. By comparison to other resorts, the buffet had a good selection and no notable shortages. Rooms are dated but clean and fridge was stocked daily. The grounds a[... read more]re very well kept. A la carte restaurants and resort facilities, except one bar under renovation were all open. There is also a dive shop at the beach. Pedal boats and sit on kayaks can be taken out or you can book a ride on the catamaran. There are only two resorts at this location and not much for shopping or eating off-resort. There is a hiking trail up the hill behind the resort which has a nice look off. The main attraction here is the main reef and small coral formations that start just off the beach and provide one of the better easy access snorkelling opportunities in Cuba.
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Iberostar Selection Holguin: Honest Review
Check in was very quick and the reception desk staff very nice. We stayed in a beautiful room on the third floor overlooking the beach. The room was kept very clean and the beds very comfortable.
The grounds are large but walkable. They have carts that will drive you around. The resort didn’t appear to be full, however the pool was packed every day and didn’t seem big enough for the amount of people that were there.
We always managed to get chairs at both beaches. We were disappointed that [... read more]we couldn’t take out kayaks or go on catamaran rides. We were told that their rescue boat was broken so it wasn’t safe to go out.
The drinks were pretty bad, so best to stick to wine or beer.
The food was as expected. Omelettes or eggs for breakfast which were very good and Canadian bacon was good and very popular. There was only white loaf bread for toast. No selection of breads and rolls like at Iberostar Selection Varadero. Cinnamon loaf and homemade donuts were very good. Fruit was mostly Papaya, Gauva and Bananas. Lunch and dinner buffet was limited and repetitive, but it was well cooked and the buffet staff were all fantastic. Best dessert was the ice cream. Public bathrooms didn’t seem to be cleaned too often and a child was sick in the lobby one evening and it was over 20 minutes before it was cleaned up.
I wasn’t very impressed on our first night sitting in the lobby and having a roving band come by our table. They played a song and immediately asked for “tips for beautiful music”. I think a better approach would be to have them playing in a specific area in the lobby, with a tip jar nearby.
They were doing work at the resort while we were there. Re-tiling fountains and work on the waterpark. This resort is really lovely with a lot of potential but I don’t see returning to it in the near future.
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Grand Memories Holguin: Beautiful Resort
This is our third time in Cuba.
This resort is beautiful, fairly new, well kept and clean. Everything in our room worked as it should. The servers, housekeeping staff and management always had a smile and ready to help. The beach very nice. We did not stay at the Sanctuary but did upgrade to premium. Our butler, Julio was always available and arranged all of our al la carte dinners.
Some issues - Premium upgrade (other than butler service) was questionable. We did not see any premium[... read more] only beach area or in the restaurants. The over 19 area was not well controlled with a number of youngsters and teens present. No maps available and not too sure which restaurants were open/closed. When we arrived we did not have a separate registration - again premium was to include this.
On our last day, leaving the resort at 6:30, we went to the 24 hour snack restaurant to have a quick meal there they only had hot dogs and hamburgers but no buns, no pizza, nothing else. We were aware of some food shortages but the rest of the resort had availabilities, so this is a management issue.
During our stay, after the weekend, the resort had no cola, Sprite, pop, no wine - very limited drinks menu. By Tuesday, they were restocked but not all liquors, so beware.
Variety of food was limited. Pasta, chicken, cheeses, breads but were mostly the same every day. Would have loved to see more fish/seafood and variety!
At the end of the trip we were bussed to the airport. When we got out of the bus we had to get our luggage out of the baggage area. My husband in his 70's should not have been the one to get the bags out of the bus for us and many others.
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Paradisus Varadero: Disappointed
Write up of Resort --over promised and under delivered.
Arrived at 11.30am. Did not get room until 5:30pm. Paid for The Reserve Junior Suite Ground Floor King Bed. Requested same building as rest of family.
Got 2nd floor, different building, no phone to be able to contact family or call for a tram. On the 3rd day of arrival we were finally able to move into the building with the family and able to unpack properly. Originally was told we would get a ground floor then told would have to pay[... read more] $220 US then told it was not possible. Lots if inconvenience as I had mobility issues.
Food at the main buffet was ok. Pasta line was always a long wait as there was one person serving one person at a time which took 5-8 minutes.
No activities for kids over 6. Was told that this resort caters for folks wanting a quieter vacation. Should have been mentioned on the website.
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Iberostar Selection Holguin: Trip to Holguín
I’ve been to Cuba several times. This visit was a sad one.
The hotel facilities and grounds are clean and the staff, especially the buffet staff, are very nice.
The little beach is good for young children. But a walk or ride to the other side of the bay is needed to enjoy the real beach. No water sports available because they lack a rescue boat. So you cannot use their kayaks, pedalos etc. the water park was closed as it was broken.
Of course we never go to Cuba for the food but thi[... read more]s time there was very little and what was available was repeated daily. The bar drinks were extremely limited and what they made was hardly drinkable.
There is no entertainment to speak of. In the past we found Cuban resorts put on very nice shows. No games room. Two pool tables with one pool cue, for example.
As much as I wish to support the people of Cuba I will find another way to do so through charitable organizations instead. We paid over $1700 per person which is no longer reasonable. I know the cost will be much higher to go anywhere else, but it’s about the value for your dollar.
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Paradisus Rio De Oro: Still my Favorite
Gracious, well laid out resort. Beach natural and unspoiled with white-gold sand and good safe access to sea bathing. We liked the beach restaurant for lunch, with spectacular view out to sea.
Pools and surrounding area excellent. Room decor a little tired, but clean, spacious and comfortable Grounds beautiful: lots of green lawns, flowery bushes, statues, pools and fine tropical trees. The service was excellent, and friendly, everywhere we went. Food was good and plentiful, if a bit limited [... read more]in some respects.
Our favorite memory of this place is perhaps sitting in the airy lobby, sipping cool drinks and listening to the wonderful piano player. So relaxing. We hope to go back before too long.
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Iberostar Selection Ensenachos: amazing beaches
Hotel was very good
Nice clean room. Just ask for more towels or pillows they are very accommodating.
Room close to everything
Beaches were so amazing and free water catamaran,paddle boats, canoe.
Food could be a little better as varieties were limited but had fresh fish everyday for fish lovers.
Would go back for the price
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Sol Palmeras: A Great Resort
The food selection was vast and delicious. All the staff were friendly and helpful. Everything was kept clean. We had a wonderful week here. I would definitely recommend this as a high value vacation choice to anyone wishing to enjoy some time in Cuba.
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Douglas -
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Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero: Beautiful beach…. Food shortages
We arrived at 10pm and the restaurants were closed. The 24 hour snack bar had burgers with no buns, chicken salad sandwiches with no bread and the only other option was pasta with tomato sauce. This was not a great first impression considering we upgraded to premium. The room was not very clean and was old and needed updates. They only changed our bath towels twice while we were there ( shortages) . We could not change our beach towel all week so had to use them the entire week.
There was brea[... read more]d only three of the 7 days in the sanctuary restaurant only. None of the ala carts or buffet ever had bread. There was mashed potatoes three of the days and they were watery. The other days there were no potatoes . Pina coladas were not available at most bars. Premium drinks were not available at all bars. There was very little chicken , no beef, …. The food was not good. Deserts were limited to one flavour of ice cream usually and some flan. The was only one flavour of soda available each day at the buffet . They would rotate between Fanta and cola. Do not leave your beach towels unattended while walking in the beach or swimming…. Many people complained about their towels being taken.
The grounds were well maintained for the most part. The only unsightly thing we saw was what appeared to be 6” of septic backup in the area behind the pool bar at the loud pool. This bar was closed for two days until they pumped the septic tank and cleaned up the mess.
We had French fries most days at sanctuary area but there was none to be seen anywhere else on the resort.
I have been to Cuba 14 or 15 times, three times since Covid. My expectations are always low but the shortages appear to be getting worse . We will likely not return any time soon.
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Memories Paraiso: Better than expected
After reading plenty of negative reviews, I was prepared for various shortages and some less than cleanly facilities. While staying in March 2025, there was lots of food and coffee. The electricity never went out and the room was spotless. The grounds were well kept and the Paraiso side of the resort (pool and beach) were delightfully quiet. There were inconveniences with logistics and communications from the front desk, the public toilets were sometimes in poor condition and the restaurant expe[... read more]rience was disappointing. These were minor concerns compared to a spectacular beach and a full belly.
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Melia Internacional: Exceeded my expectations
I had always been reluctant to travel to Cuba based on what I had heard about power, food, beverages, etc. and shortages. I experienced none of those things. I am a big eater and found that I always had enough food to eat. The rooms were clean. The beds we’re made up every day. Staff were friendly.
!Just returned from the most incredible trip to Cuba, and I have to rave about the Melia Peninsula Trinidad! From the moment we arrived, we were treated like royalty.
Luxury and Comfort: The resort itself is absolutely luxurious. Everything was spotless and well-maintained.
Staff: The staff were the heart of this resort. Always smiling, helpful, and genuinely friendly. They went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic stay.
Food & Drink: Prepare to be spoiled! The buffet was extensive, [... read more]with something for everyone. Breakfast was a highlight - I swear they had eggs cooked in at least eight different ways! And the coffee...oh, the coffee! Don't miss the Chocolate Frappuccino with rum – it's a must-try!
* Vegetarian Delight: The Mosaic vegetarian restaurant was a revelation! Absolutely delicious. The other restaurants were also fantastic, offering a great variety.
* 24-Hour Snacks: Perfect for those late-night cravings! The 24-hour snack bar was a lifesaver at 4 am.
* Daiquiri Bar: Words can't describe the amazing drinks at the Daiquiri Bar. The Espresso Martini, with that rich Cuban coffee kick, was simply divine!
Beach & Activities: The beach is truly unique and breathtaking. The natural swimming holes and incredible snorkeling opportunities made it an unforgettable experience.
Overall: I have absolutely no complaints. This resort exceeded all my expectations. If you're looking for a luxurious, relaxing, and fun-filled vacation in Cuba, the Melia Peninsula Trinidad is the place to be! Highly recommended!
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Melia Trinidad Peninsula: Great Resort.
The hotel itself was great, the rooms, dining areas, the pools, bars, beach and the staff were all amazing. The only thing they need to improve is the entertainment as there wasn’t much going on around the pool for fun and at night it was just a band or singer, dancer and then a video screen for the rest of the night with videos of songs to dance too.
I would go back again.
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Villa Marina: Very kind and hard employees
It’s a small resort but that’s what makes it more special. Tranquility and personalized services. Hard workers, and I can see that they made extra effort for me… to compensate for the low income of maintenance of this Villa. And du to low tourist here, some animals made it their habitat, which made my stay less comfortable for me. Overall, it was quite a special experience.
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Meag -
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Melia Cayo Santa Maria: Beautiful resort!
Our family absolutely loved our stay at the Melia Cayo Santa Maria. Naybi was so great with our kids for activities all week. Plus, the beach is the most beautiful with the best service for drinks. The food by the pool bar is awesome for all meals of the day.