Hotel Varadero Internacional, Varadero

No way a four star hotel or even a 3. For the money I paid, I expected better. The toilets in the four rooms we had to try try would not flush, the showers simply dribbled and no hot water, only warm. Rooms all smelled musty, sheets didn't fit the bed. If you plan to have a romping romantic time, everyone is going to hear you. Buffet food was always the same and never very appetizing. Restaurant was better than expected, good food, good service, nice music. Beach and the lovely terrace were just great, the beach was groomed but they need to get rid of the dangerous and rotting jellyfish on a daily basis, not once a week. Pool was great, furniture on pool deck and terrace seemed to be fairly new. Hotel would not change money back into Canadian upon leaving, even though they had a drawer full of it, another hotel said they had never heard of such a policy before anywhere. Poorest exchange rate around at the hotel, but were told we might find a bank somewhere in town; turned out there was a Banco right around the corner offering a much higher exchange rate. I lost at least $100. in exchange rate alone, never to be seen again...not satisfied with that! A significant waterfall all the way down the back stairwell was unexpected and lasted a long time before they managed to stop it. Excursions to Havana and on the Catamaran were well worthwhile. After a week of asking, no hair drier could be provided. The hotel needs serious attention and maintenance. We would gladly travel back to this same area, but stay at a different hotel. Our expectations were quite realistic so our trip wasn't ruined, but I feel they could do things alot better at this hotel.

I've just returned from Varadero, Cuba and let me tell you: I won't be going back there soon. It was probably a poor choice of the hotel. It was quite dirty for a four star hotel. The food was disgusting, tasteless and the "restaurant" has a omnipresent odour that turned your stomach. The service was quite poor, everybody was expecting a tip in order to do something for you (things that you've already paid for). The only thing that was great about this trip was the beach. I have to admit this hotel has maybe the best beach in town.

The hotel was clean and people friendly. Food was average and drinks were plentiful with the all inclusive. But the location of this hotel is just amazing. You step out of the hotel onto the beach. Just great!