This All Inclusive hotel makes sure that all of your needs are taken care of with its marvellous variety of facilities, as well as being located on the beach. With a great range of different watersports on offer and offering the selection between four restaurants, including a Japanese restaurant, and six bars, you will be completely spoilt for choice. The hotel also offers a great evening entertainment program and daytime activity schedule, creating a vibrant and amicable atmosphere.
Review by graham crone from stockport on August 24, 2008 for stay during July, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: thomas cook
Holiday Review
we arrived on 23july 2008 my wife , 2 children and myself. the kids are 14 & 19 . we had never been to cuba before but after our visit to playa costa verde we will definately go again ,and to be honest to this complex. we found everything brilliant and they are such friendly people. there was nothing that was too much trouble. the rooms were good, clean and well stocked. the pool never seemed to be overcrowded despite it being very busy. the beach and sea were fantastic however it was a little rocky going into the sea. all the restaurants were good with a wide choice of food. we tried all the a la cartes as well and they were excellent. we have been to mexico and the dominion before but they cannot compare to this. there was not a lot to spend money on as it is all inclusive but we did tip to bar staff restaurant staff and also the maids. a few pesos here and there are well appreciated . we also left clothind and cosmetics with them. we have been going away for almost 30 years together and the last 19 with children and this is the very first time none of us wanted to go home. that must say something. we booked with thomas cook and they took care of everything. ( thanks to donna / charlotte )
Quality
everything was first class. there was nothing we could honestly complain about
Service
excellent
Location
40 minutes from the airport and 1 hour from holguim
all you needed was in the complex and no real reason to go out unless visiting local towns and holguim as we did. the swim with dolphin excursion was terrific and better value than dominican and mexico
Food
all food was more than acceptable. you could get it cooked in front of you . the choice was great. better than we expected and we never heard anyone complain all holiday. the 24 hour snack bar was a little limited but at 2 or 3 in the morning you could not ask for more.
Entertainment
something on everyday by the pool , although the choice of music got a little monotanous.
in the evening the entertainment staff did a great job.
we are a little too old @50 &52 for the nightclub. but we did try it out and found it ok . great for young people though.
Lovely place to visit
Review by Anonymous from Montreal, Canada on July 1, 2008 for stay during May, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Air Canada Vacations
Holiday Review
My husband & I along with our 2 kids (15 & 6 yrs.old) travelled to Cuba via Toronto on Air Canada in June 2008. The resort was quite nice and the people were friendly and accomodatiing. Our room was very, very, very nice (Suite overlooking the baby pool on the 2nd floor). It consisted of 1 lg. bedroom, 2 T.V's, 1 lg. lvg.rm, dining table, bar, fridge and 1 1/2 bathrooms. We also had 2 balconies with lovely furniture outside. ( nice area for a cup of coffee ). This was especially nice for my teenage daughter. A single bed was placed in the lvg.room for her, and shewas equipped with her own balcony, T.V., 1/2 bathroom. A door between the rooms provided us with privacy. In the lg. bedroom, there was a king-sized bed and 1 twin. The room was very spacious.
The FOOD was good, a bit repetitious at the buffet but you would not starve. The a la carte restaurants were quite nice ( dress code in effect - dress shoes and shirts & polos with collars of course were recommended for the men.) but make sure to make your reservations as soon as you get there since it takes a while for the computers to kick in. My children were always able to find something edible at each of these restaurants. but the Japanese was the best. (According to my teen). At the buffet ( my teenager ate pasta 3 X a day and my youngest, grilled burgers along with vegetables for lunch and roasted pork, chicken and pasta for dinner). We ate at the SNACK Bar once, but only the fries were good. So bkfst. & lunch were eaten at the buffet restaurant.(by choice of course).
The POOL was very enjoyable and so was the BEACH but watch out for the rocks. There were a lot of parts along the beach that had some rocky areas. It was only difficult for my 6 yr.old to get into the water but apart from that it was fine. The only facility at the beach was a BAR so bringing a lg. cooler mug for drinks would save you that trip of going back & forth. The acivities at the beach were enjoyable.
The NIGHT life was good too. From 8:30 - 9 was kids participation time where they played games and won prizes, 9 to 9:30 - listening to the band and from 9:30 to 10ish - the show of the evening. I never did stay out much later than 11 but after the show the kids played pool and foose-ball while the parents had a few more drinks. My husband didn't really care too much for these but he did join us for 3 evenings.l The mosquitos were around so using bug spray before heading out - a must.
The kids went on a 1/2 day swim with the DOLPHINS & they really had a good time. It was quite expensive though. Adults- 99 convertible pesos, under 12 - 48 cp. and for just watching - 40 cp . ( 4 people - $227 ).
I heard if you wanted to go SHOPPING & to a much nicer beach area, try Guardalavaca. It would cost you 4 cp return by tram with pick-up at 9:15 am or so and return by 1:15 ish in time for lunch.
TIPPING was appreciated but not necessary. I think articles of clothing, some medicines, toiletries anything actually would be appreciated. After the 3 evening we did leave a little something for our housekeeper and the next day we received an extra bottle of water and colas. (not bad bcuz we needed the xtra bottle of water. However we did find out that brushing your teeth using the tap water was okay but definitely not, for drinking.
Convertible pesos were purchased at the hotel bank as needed. There was also a bank at the airport. Both Cdn & US currencies were accepted but the Cdn. rate was much better. ($1.13 Cdn. for 1 peso) and with the US, you had to pay and additional 20% surcharge. We did do a lot of tipping, but next time, I think I would bring other items.
Overall we had a wonderful time.
Quality
Good quality
Service
Great service
Location
1 hr. from airport
Food
Good
Entertainment
Good
Our Cuban Vacation
Review by Anonymous from Halifax on April 17, 2008 for stay during April, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Maritime Travel
We travelled on Sunwing. It was great. Provided hot meals and wine and pillows and blankets were free. Very friendly. Playa Costa Verde was excellent. The place was very clean. The grounds were gorgeous and well tended. The people were very friendly and accommodating. The food was very good especially the Japaneese a la carte (cooked fresh in front of you). The Cuban night was great (we had lobster). They also have a night where you can eat all you can eat grilled lobster and other seafood. The entertainment was absolutely terrific every night. Overall the place was very good and I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
I Really Enjoyed Myself!
Review by Anonymous from Canada on April 7, 2008 for stay during March, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Nordi Tours/ Sunwing
I found that the people in and around the hotel were extreamly helpful and friendly. The weather was very nice on days that it did not rain. There was lots of things to do at this resort and I found it was extreamly safe whenever I left the resort grounds. The excursions were well organized and friendly. Tips are always welcomed by many of those who worked on the hotel grounds. The food I loved but always be prepared for slight illnesses with the change of food when travelling to Cuba ect.. I would recomend this hotel resort to anyone and I really look forword to returning next year. I had so much fun :-)
Viva Cuba!
Review by Anonymous from Canada on April 7, 2008 for stay during April, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Nolitours
We just returned from Cuba and truly enjoyed every minute of it. We were very impressed with the hotel and everything it had to offer. We arrived at the airport in the morning and were greeted by Nolitours staff who were very friendly and informative. We arrived at Playa Costa Verde about an hour later and were in awe at the appearance of the hotel and the surroundings. The lobby is bright and open and the grounds very lush and colourful. Upon arrival of our room, we were pleased with the spaciousness and cleanliness. Our room was equipped with a TV, CD player, hair blower, coffee maker, and safe. There was supposed to be an iron, but unfortunately it was missing. The food was plentiful and fantastic, whoever said Cuban food isnt any good, obviously did not visit this hotel. We were very impressed. One tip would be to book your 3 ala carte restaurants shortly after your arrival at the hotel in order to take advantage of the evenings and time you wish to dine. There was plenty of entertainment throughout the day and evening, so one is never bored. Overall Playa Costa Verde is denfinitely worth staying at and I do hope to visit again.
I'm going back asap
Review by Lloydena from Canada on March 17, 2008 for stay during March, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: sunwing
I am definatley going back. I had such an awesome time. I was even able to get a free tour into Santiago de Cuba. The catamaran and swim with the dolphins tour included a lobster lunch was fabulous. In my whole life I hadn't eaten as much lobster than I did the 2 weeks there, this goes for the champange as well. Whoever told me that the food was bland, they didn't go here. There was lots of food choices good for you or not. You wouldn't starve or lose weight for that matter. The Spanish coffee they make is to die for be advised not to use your travel cup when you get one of these! The Ala carte restaurants were super. The grounds of the Hotel were so well tened, the gardeners took great pleasure in presenting ladies with a beautiful flower. Watch out for the toads though! The surf on the beach was gentle and the water so beautiful and clear you could see the bottom. The country side was was was beautiful and the villages and the big city were so clean unlike Mexico. The Cubans seem to be very pround of their country. The historical sights were incredible, we travelled in an airconditioned van and the driver and the tour guide we very friendly, professional , and very informative. Now I just have to find a parttime job to save money fast so I can go back asap!!! Fabulous you have to go!!!
Another Great Vacation...
Review by Anonymous from Kings Co. N.S. on March 14, 2008 for stay during April, 2006.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Tripcentral.ca
All year, I plan and dream about next vacation in Cuba. Each year I go with my sister to this beautiful sunny destination. Here the people are wam and friendly, and never stop doing things for you. They are humble, polite and always smiling. From the time we arrived at Holguin airport, on our bus ride to the resort and check-in we were blessed with people who wanted to help us. As to tipping, we did it because we chose to show our gratitude and appreciation for all they do. The resort is clean and easy to become familiar with. The pools, hot tubs and walkways are clean and we always felt safe at all times while we are there. The lobby has beautiful stained glass windows that extend about three stories high and to sit there and enjoy a beverage of your choice, served to you as often as you like is part of our favorite routine each day. The beach is clean white sand and the water is warm and a beautiful blue. This resort has a family friendly environment. Great kids club, with fun activities for them. We also watched a wedding on the beach, and the staff went to great lengths to set up a beautiful arch covered with flowers and a carpet for the bride to walk down. Lovely decorated buffet and punch tables. They also have activities each day on the beach, and in the water. Paddle boats, snorkeling, etc. if you choose to. For us we enjoy the relaxing walks along the beach and swimming and relaxing under the trees.
We had a coffee maker in our room and enjoyed coffee each morning on our balcony, soaking up the peace and quite of the day. Then we enjoyed breakfast at the buffet resturant. The food was good, the fresh fruit juice was the best, and the lines for juice were always busy. The a la cartes' were good, and there was always plenty to eat. The evening entertainment is well done and they like to involve the guests in there shows. So don't sit too close to the front if you don't want to be taken up on stage. We took a cab into Guardalavaca, to the open market. our driver asked when he should come back and he was there waiting for us right on time. The cost was about $10. cvp. The people there are friendly and appreciate your buying their goods. Over all we had a great expeience at Playa Costa Verde and we are going back the end of march. My suggestion to anyone who has had a bad experience in Cuba, is to get a good travel agent. We would never dream of going without booking with a travel agent, preferably one whos' been there.
Playa Costa Verde - Cuba
Review by Anonymous from Kingston. Ontario on March 10, 2008 for stay during March, 2008.
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Tour Operator/Travel Provider: Sunwing Tours
We just returned from our holiday in Cuba at Playa Costa Verde and were very pleased. The buffet was open for breakfast, lunch and supper. If offered a great variety of foods to please every palate. Fresh fruit, desserts, main courses were good. The servers brought drinks to your table and they were very friendly and courteous. Our room was kept clean and well supplied every day. We took two tours and were very pleased with them and we went into a local village which featured a flea market and cigar store. It was hot and sunny every day. We had rain but only at night while we were sleeping. Snorkelling was good. My husband tried scuba diving and went out to the reefs with a local. Had a great time. He is now hooked on scuba diving. The only thing is to be prepared to tip. The tour representive and the guides tell you about their wages and living conditions and how much they rely on tips and other things to survive. Many people brought t-shirts, candies, toiletries, sports bags, etc. to hand out to the locals. All in all a great trip. Highly recommend !!!!!
We Loved It !!
Review by Anonymous from Halifax ,NS. on March 6, 2008 for stay during April, 2006.
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My sister and I went in April of 2006 and had a great time. It is clean and the sevice was great, everyone was very friendly and helpful. Our maid was a sweet heart. I t is so pretty there, I could have stayed forever. The beach was clean with white sand , perfect for long walks. The water is warm and the most beautiful blue. the pools were clean and there were lots of lounge chairs. The food is good with a large selection of items, it is different though ( it's not Canada). If you are fussy it won't be for you. We enjoy the difference in the cultures and love trying new things. There are plenty of daily activities to do if your into that, (I prefer lying around at the beach). They have nightly entertainment which was great, they pull people from their seats and make it fun, if your not into that don't sit in the front row. You can take a cab into Guadalavca where you find an open air market, (about 10 pesos each way ) and our driver came back for us in 2 hours. I think that he actualy waited for us out side the market, which was nice. When we got to the curb he was right there. Whenever we sat in the lobby area the staff would serve us or drinks at the table, we didn't have to get up if we didn't want to. It was so relaxing and beautiful there. The grounds are well taken care of with beautiful flowers and trees . I love that your room has a safe and a coffee machine, A/C, TV, hairdryer, CD player and internet access. We found this resort to be a wonderful place to go for a vacation and as a matter of fact we are going again the end of March. We are looking forward to it very much. And we hope you go and enjoy your stay there as much as we have. Also I tend to go to the resorts that have kids clubs and I think that they attract a different group of people and adds to the enjoyment. I have noticed that some resorts have groups of unruly people and I think that would ruin it for almost everyone at that resort. So pick the time that you go anywhere very carefully and have a good travel agent. They are there after all to be an advocate for you and help you find a place that's just right. You can go it alone but you better read your reviews on the place you pick so you can insure that you are getting the most for your money. And in my opinion Playa Costa Verde is a great resort .
Anonymous said, "The rooms are quite beautiful and very clean. The service is eccellent and the pool is elegant and perfect for a lazy day. We went to the Tropicana the first night, but the entertainment in the hotel is exceptional. The food is quite pedestrian, but there is a lot of it and the bu..." (further information on Playa Costa Verde)
Alan & Tracy said, "The Melia Cohiba is situated on the outer fringes of old Havana. You could walk, but in the heat and humidity we chose to take cabs. Ask the Concierge at the hotel nicely, and he'll organise an old American cab for you (or call 'GranCar' yourself) which could very well be someth..." (further information on Playa Costa Verde)