Stay at Paradisus Princess del Mar, Varadero

Paradisus Princess del Mar, Varadero, Cuba

Our rating: First Class

The Princess del Mar is located towards the tip of the Peninsula de Hicacos, set well away from the more run down parts of Varadero.

The all-inclusive resort is a good one by Cuban standards and benefits from foreign investment and management by the Melia chain which means the service, food and standard of accommodation is better than most other resorts in Varadero. However it is important to understand that this is only a good resort by Cuban standards, it is still not up to international standards and the service is still slow and laid back and the food is average compared to resorts in many other parts of the world!

Low rise Caribbean style buildings are decorated in neutral colours and are thoughtfully laid out through the grounds set around a large free form pool. All the rooms are either smart studios or spacious one bedroom suites with a balcony or terrace, sea views and good bathrooms. It operates on an all inclusive basis and therefore the majority of guests are package holiday tourists but for what it lacks in character it makes up for in facilities a good location and a lovely beach.

The Resort also has a separate concierge area with 24 'royal suites' which are in effect just big rooms, but they all have sea views and are quite smart. Benefits include dedicated check in, its own pool and restaurant and other extras such as free internet access, jacuzzi and mini bar included.