Melia Marina Varadero

We traveled 11,000 km hoping to experience Cuban culture and celebrate a personal occasion, but the conditions got in the way and we couldn't enjoy it. For a “5 star hotel,” the place was shocking and looked like it had been abandoned years ago. There were only 20 of us across the whole hotel. The description lists seven restaurants, but just one was open, and the food there was expensive and tasteless. Hygiene and upkeep were far below acceptable. The corridors looked like those of an old hospital. If you're going to this destination, research carefully where you plan to stay. I'm uploading photos.

I went in January 2024 and don't understand how anyone could give this hotel five stars. Half the lights were out, and we had to change rooms four times before finding one that was “working.” In that room the toilet wouldn't flush, the shower had no water, and the bed had a huge dent. Worst of all, the door didn't lock, and we didn't notice until the second day. The buffet was awful, with the same items every day. I didn't file a merchant dispute because I didn't want to spend any more time dealing with this hotel. I'm writing this to warn other travelers: don't book, or cancel if you've already booked. The list of problems goes on. Avoid it at all costs.

The beach was spotless, the grounds immaculate, and our room was beautiful. We also had live music every night and easy access to boat excursions, most of which depart right from the resort. My family and I recently stayed at Meliá Marina Varadero, and the experience exceeded our expectations, especially given the country's economic challenges. The staff and management went above and beyond. Carlo's deserves particular thanks: he took care of everything we needed and arranged an incredible wedding ceremony for us on the beach, a memory we'll always cherish. We chose “the level,” and the personalized service, exclusive amenities, and attention to detail made us feel like VIPs throughout. The resort has a wide range of amenities, too. Thank you to everyone for making our stay feel magical. I can't recommend Meliá Marina Varadero enough for a relaxing trip, a wedding, or easy boat excursions.

I strongly advise against staying at the Melia Marina Hotel. Earlier in the day, sales staff brought me to the hotel and pitched an investment in their club. They said there was no pressure. When I returned later to speak with the salesperson, a staff member was extremely rude and told me I didn't belong there. I explained I'd visited earlier and wanted to talk to sales, but he wouldn't listen or explain why we were there. In the main corridor, he grabbed my niece by the shoulder, spun her around, and yelled that we couldn't be at the hotel. He refused to let me speak to a supervisor or give us his name. Another staff member looked terrified and disapproving, and tried to translate for him, but he just kept saying no and shouting that we couldn't be in the lobby. Other staff tried to talk to him too, but he was unapproachable. We left and went around to the marina-side entrance, but the sales office had closed for the day, so we couldn't speak to anyone. Needless to say, I won't be investing in their club membership. The staff member was abusive, didn't engage with us in English, and wouldn't listen even when colleagues tried to explain our reason for being there. I was told the property was under 20% capacity, and I can see why. Earlier, sales had shown us the neighboring sister marina property, which was vacant; we were told guests there use the Melia Marina amenities, but the treatment is horrific. I wish I had the staff member's name, but he refused to tell us. Go anywhere else.