Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Autopista del Sur y Final, Varadero 42200 Cuba
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About
3.5
#1 of 4 apartments in VaraderoLocation
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Melia Marina Varadero Apartments, for those who are passionate about the sea. Spacious, welcoming and functional apartments, equipped with all the necessary comforts for long stays on an Accommodation Only basis, situated in the Marina Gaviota Varadero. Access to a vibrant marina, to the natural beauty of the Hicacos Peninsula and to one of the most famous beaches in the world. Combined with the services of the Hotel Melia Marina Varadero and the Plaza Las Morlas tourist village, offering authentic luxury accommodation alongside the seafront. Their proximity to the beach allows guests to enjoy countless water activities. Apartments with one to three bedrooms and studio apartments located in two condo areas: Vistamares and La Marina. They boast a separate reception and entrance, pool with views of the marina, bar, gym, tennis court, pharmacy, grocery shop, laundry and parking. Recommended for yachting, diving and fishing, meetings and events, families, weddings and honeymoons, spa and
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Property amenities
Free parking
Wifi
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Bar / lounge
Airport transportation
Spa
Concierge
Parking
Paid wifi
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Poolside bar
Non-smoking hotel
Laundry service
Self-serve laundry
Room features
Air conditioning
Private balcony
Kitchenette
Microwave
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Smoking rooms available
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Business
Romantic
Location
Autopista del Sur y Final, Varadero 42200 Cuba
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 53 out of 100
53
Juan Gualberto Gomez Airport
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Detailed Reviews
An hotel for couple or family. Very good animation with Nigeria. Perfect Beach but a bit too far. The hotel and the pool are beautiful. Beautiful and clean room.Thank you to animation team and my friend Nigeria.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I understand why some reviewers have been disappointed with their stay at the Melia Marina Apartments. I booked our trip here through a travel agent who booked through Air Canada. Even before this I'd been searching for deals to the Melia Marina Varadero as it looked so great. This is what I thought I was booking, but after reading numerous reviews of both locations I realized that (as many others have mentioned) when you book the "European Plan" you actually do not stay or have access to the Melia Marina - you are staying at the Apartments - which is an entirely different experience. At first this had me disappointed and frankly worried (and I'll definitely be speaking to our travel agent about this issue). However, everyone's reviews were helpful in framing our expectations for the trip and we ended up having a good time.
The apartment building itself is about a 5-10 minute walk from the all-inclusive resort. In July it's really hot and humid. If I had a younger child (my son is 14) the walk around the marina would be trying. I'd consider the all-inclusive to avoid strollers and meltdowns. However, I liked that you could walk around the marina. There are a few shops and restaurants (we recommend the beef stew - more like curry - at the Steakhouse).
We had a beautiful room on the fifth floor overlooking the marina and the resort. We could have purchased day passes for the all-inclusive for 42 CUC/person but decided against it as the pool here was lovely and clean and there were always lots of chairs free. It's great if you want a quiet escape. If you're looking for more action, make sure to book all-inclusive or be willing to spend money on the day passes (which get you buffet meals but no a la carte).
The food around the resort is ok. It's Cuban resort food, and everyone knows what that's about. We made sure to bring a lot of food with us. I definitely wouldn't want to prepare full meals in the studio apartment we were in, but I got to peek at a one bedroom and it was so spacious. You could bring a suitcase of food and make the best of it. Also make sure to bring things like: dish towels, toilet paper (yes, you have to pay for extra - they give you two rolls - and it's no good anyway), dish soap, extra beach towels, and even wet wipes or disinfectant wipes to wash things down with (but that's just me). I also brought some Starbucks instant coffee which was handy as they don't provide you with coffee or coffee filters for the coffee machine. You do have cutlery here for two people and a few other kitchen utensils. One other thing: consider bringing your own pillows and even a blanket. You have plenty here but they aren't very comfortable.
The pool has a bar which is handy. We had one meal each day there and sometimes breakfast (which is huge for 6 CUC). All of the staff were very friendly there. The service could be slow, but there's only two people working so you have to cut them some slack. Everyone I met at the apartments worked really hard to accommodate us. Yes, a couple staff were sort of rude once or twice, but they're also working 12 hour days so I imagine they're tired too. I definitely never felt like a second class citizen as others have said. In fact, when my son was feeling ill people went out of their way to make sure he was ok.
The internet has been fine during our stay although it is 2 CUC/hour. You purchase cards at the front desk. Remember to ask for the logout instructions. We didn't use it very much, which was actually awesome (no work!).
The beach is at least a 10 minute walk (maybe 15). You can ask for a shuttle at the front desk to take you to the front gate of the complex and you cross the street and walk the rest of the way. The beach was great. Going around 6 - 8 pm when everyone is eating at the all-inclusive was perfect timing. We had chairs and virtually the ocean to ourselves. It was lovely and warm with lots of fun waves.
Overall our stay here was fantastic and I would recommend it, but make sure you understand what you're getting into. The cheapest option when booking at the Melia Marina is the European Plan, but you have to realize that it's separate and you have other "costs" to think about: food, your own time, etc.
A couple notes: We booked two day trips through Cuban Trip Compass and loved both! You can find their reviews on Trip Advisor. The best spots to eat are at private restaurants. Make sure to go to Varadero at least once to eat real Cuban food which is truly delicious!
The apartment building itself is about a 5-10 minute walk from the all-inclusive resort. In July it's really hot and humid. If I had a younger child (my son is 14) the walk around the marina would be trying. I'd consider the all-inclusive to avoid strollers and meltdowns. However, I liked that you could walk around the marina. There are a few shops and restaurants (we recommend the beef stew - more like curry - at the Steakhouse).
We had a beautiful room on the fifth floor overlooking the marina and the resort. We could have purchased day passes for the all-inclusive for 42 CUC/person but decided against it as the pool here was lovely and clean and there were always lots of chairs free. It's great if you want a quiet escape. If you're looking for more action, make sure to book all-inclusive or be willing to spend money on the day passes (which get you buffet meals but no a la carte).
The food around the resort is ok. It's Cuban resort food, and everyone knows what that's about. We made sure to bring a lot of food with us. I definitely wouldn't want to prepare full meals in the studio apartment we were in, but I got to peek at a one bedroom and it was so spacious. You could bring a suitcase of food and make the best of it. Also make sure to bring things like: dish towels, toilet paper (yes, you have to pay for extra - they give you two rolls - and it's no good anyway), dish soap, extra beach towels, and even wet wipes or disinfectant wipes to wash things down with (but that's just me). I also brought some Starbucks instant coffee which was handy as they don't provide you with coffee or coffee filters for the coffee machine. You do have cutlery here for two people and a few other kitchen utensils. One other thing: consider bringing your own pillows and even a blanket. You have plenty here but they aren't very comfortable.
The pool has a bar which is handy. We had one meal each day there and sometimes breakfast (which is huge for 6 CUC). All of the staff were very friendly there. The service could be slow, but there's only two people working so you have to cut them some slack. Everyone I met at the apartments worked really hard to accommodate us. Yes, a couple staff were sort of rude once or twice, but they're also working 12 hour days so I imagine they're tired too. I definitely never felt like a second class citizen as others have said. In fact, when my son was feeling ill people went out of their way to make sure he was ok.
The internet has been fine during our stay although it is 2 CUC/hour. You purchase cards at the front desk. Remember to ask for the logout instructions. We didn't use it very much, which was actually awesome (no work!).
The beach is at least a 10 minute walk (maybe 15). You can ask for a shuttle at the front desk to take you to the front gate of the complex and you cross the street and walk the rest of the way. The beach was great. Going around 6 - 8 pm when everyone is eating at the all-inclusive was perfect timing. We had chairs and virtually the ocean to ourselves. It was lovely and warm with lots of fun waves.
Overall our stay here was fantastic and I would recommend it, but make sure you understand what you're getting into. The cheapest option when booking at the Melia Marina is the European Plan, but you have to realize that it's separate and you have other "costs" to think about: food, your own time, etc.
A couple notes: We booked two day trips through Cuban Trip Compass and loved both! You can find their reviews on Trip Advisor. The best spots to eat are at private restaurants. Make sure to go to Varadero at least once to eat real Cuban food which is truly delicious!
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Date of stay: July 2016Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: Ask for a room overlooking the marina. The sunsets and water views are amazing.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The nitty gritty
When booking the trip (make sure you request an upper floor marina side)
-we booked a marina view and were placed ground floor with a view of the parking lot (no bueno) After 2 days we were moved to the marina side which really ended up saving the trip - doesn't sound like a big deal...but it really does change things up
Bring snacks - a can of Pringles is like 5-6 CUC (8-9 Canadian) lol
Banks - there is one next to the Boleria (bowling alley) in the plaza of shops It's open decent hours. Closes around noon to 130pm everyday..heads up. There are atms in Varadero the town. We just pulled out money on our credit cards. It will give you CUCs at a decent rate. No ATM at apartments or main resort
There is also a bank in the main all inclusive hotel (the guards will stop you at first but just let them know you need to use the bank...politely)
Money - 100 Canadian dollars will basically get you 69 - 70 CUC depending on the day.
Drinks cost between 1 - 4 CUC depending on where you go. Coca Cola is 2 CUCS usually
Water - we had no issues with stomach problems. U can buy a big bottle of water at the pool snack bar which is open 24hrs a day for 2 CUC
Internet - works okay. 1 wifi card is 1.5 CUC. It lasts 60 minutes
All Inclusive Resort - you don't have access to it...really..ever lol...You can buy a wrist band for the day for around 40 CUC..which is close to 60 CDN dollars...meh...I'd stay away lol
The double decker bus - the bus picks up and drops off at main plaza. It runs from 8am ish to 8pm. It is 5 CUC round. You can ride it right into Varadero (the town). You can hop on and off all day in Varadero if need be. If you miss the last one at night to return to your resort...the cab is 20 CUC and takes 10 minutes max. We never had issues with the bus being at capacity. Ever. The beach in Varadero (the town) is beautiful and well worth a day trip.
The rooms - our room was very nice. Modern. It has a microwave, stove top, fridge, safe and lots of closet space.
Nonna Tina's - this is one of the best spots to eat in Varadero. It is located on Caille 38. toward the beach side. Arrive before 7pm. Closed Mondays. It's an italian spot with some of the best pizza I've had. A personal pizza will feed 2 people for between 5 and 6 CUC. The macaroni with cheese and bacon is la bomba. :)
Pool - nice pool located off 3 floor of hotel w snack bar
Gym - opens at 9am-5pm
Havana - 170km from Varadero - beautiful. We took a guided tour but you can basically rent a cab for the same price as a tour and do your own thing
Catamaran Excursion - Very fun. Not one for tours and things but this was super fun. Takes you to Cayo Blanco for the day where it's open bar, open buffet, and about 3 hours of free time on a beautiful little island. There is some time for snorkelling but we were told it wasn't great. We opted to stay on the boat and drink lol
Theres another boating option. Private charter. If you can find a few friends..you can rent one of the private charter boats for around 400. Not sure if thats CUC or CDN. However its much more private than the catarmaran.
Plaza Restaurants - these are located in the plaza near the apartments.. We didn't find any of them to be great. The Mexican restaurant was not good. The Steakhouse was probably the best....however not great.. You can get a decent breakfast at the snack bar as well as the coffee shop for around 6 CUC (Eggs, bacon, toast, pastry, coffee)
Chicken - it is imported from Canada
Rum - apparently the best is Ron Santiago de Cuba
Coffee - Serrano (red bag)
Cigars - Cohiba, Romeo Y Juliet, Monte Cristo ( these are rated int he top 5)
Beach near apartments - its across the road ( 6 minute walk). Head to varadero (the town) Awesome beach
Safety - we were told Varadero is very safe. We were off the resort the majority of the time. No issues
Over all pretty great trip. Every hotel has its issues. Go with the flow :)
Weather was amazing. People were very friendly.
When booking the trip (make sure you request an upper floor marina side)
-we booked a marina view and were placed ground floor with a view of the parking lot (no bueno) After 2 days we were moved to the marina side which really ended up saving the trip - doesn't sound like a big deal...but it really does change things up
Bring snacks - a can of Pringles is like 5-6 CUC (8-9 Canadian) lol
Banks - there is one next to the Boleria (bowling alley) in the plaza of shops It's open decent hours. Closes around noon to 130pm everyday..heads up. There are atms in Varadero the town. We just pulled out money on our credit cards. It will give you CUCs at a decent rate. No ATM at apartments or main resort
There is also a bank in the main all inclusive hotel (the guards will stop you at first but just let them know you need to use the bank...politely)
Money - 100 Canadian dollars will basically get you 69 - 70 CUC depending on the day.
Drinks cost between 1 - 4 CUC depending on where you go. Coca Cola is 2 CUCS usually
Water - we had no issues with stomach problems. U can buy a big bottle of water at the pool snack bar which is open 24hrs a day for 2 CUC
Internet - works okay. 1 wifi card is 1.5 CUC. It lasts 60 minutes
All Inclusive Resort - you don't have access to it...really..ever lol...You can buy a wrist band for the day for around 40 CUC..which is close to 60 CDN dollars...meh...I'd stay away lol
The double decker bus - the bus picks up and drops off at main plaza. It runs from 8am ish to 8pm. It is 5 CUC round. You can ride it right into Varadero (the town). You can hop on and off all day in Varadero if need be. If you miss the last one at night to return to your resort...the cab is 20 CUC and takes 10 minutes max. We never had issues with the bus being at capacity. Ever. The beach in Varadero (the town) is beautiful and well worth a day trip.
The rooms - our room was very nice. Modern. It has a microwave, stove top, fridge, safe and lots of closet space.
Nonna Tina's - this is one of the best spots to eat in Varadero. It is located on Caille 38. toward the beach side. Arrive before 7pm. Closed Mondays. It's an italian spot with some of the best pizza I've had. A personal pizza will feed 2 people for between 5 and 6 CUC. The macaroni with cheese and bacon is la bomba. :)
Pool - nice pool located off 3 floor of hotel w snack bar
Gym - opens at 9am-5pm
Havana - 170km from Varadero - beautiful. We took a guided tour but you can basically rent a cab for the same price as a tour and do your own thing
Catamaran Excursion - Very fun. Not one for tours and things but this was super fun. Takes you to Cayo Blanco for the day where it's open bar, open buffet, and about 3 hours of free time on a beautiful little island. There is some time for snorkelling but we were told it wasn't great. We opted to stay on the boat and drink lol
Theres another boating option. Private charter. If you can find a few friends..you can rent one of the private charter boats for around 400. Not sure if thats CUC or CDN. However its much more private than the catarmaran.
Plaza Restaurants - these are located in the plaza near the apartments.. We didn't find any of them to be great. The Mexican restaurant was not good. The Steakhouse was probably the best....however not great.. You can get a decent breakfast at the snack bar as well as the coffee shop for around 6 CUC (Eggs, bacon, toast, pastry, coffee)
Chicken - it is imported from Canada
Rum - apparently the best is Ron Santiago de Cuba
Coffee - Serrano (red bag)
Cigars - Cohiba, Romeo Y Juliet, Monte Cristo ( these are rated int he top 5)
Beach near apartments - its across the road ( 6 minute walk). Head to varadero (the town) Awesome beach
Safety - we were told Varadero is very safe. We were off the resort the majority of the time. No issues
Over all pretty great trip. Every hotel has its issues. Go with the flow :)
Weather was amazing. People were very friendly.
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Date of stay: February 2017Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: Marina view 3rd floor and up
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Yeinsy J, Apartment Concierge at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Responded Mar 28, 2017
Dear yesyesjill: Thank you a lot for taking your time to post a comment and in this way to share with other Trip advisor’s users about your experience in the apartments.We are sure that all the information that you have provided will be very useful for our future clients. We are very sorry to know that your experience with the restaurants of Plaza las Morlas was not good at all and even when this restaurants do not belong to the Apartments or the Hotel we apreciate the feed back in order to help them to improving their services for our clients. Was a pleasure to read that you had not inconvenients with the internet at the same time that you enjoyed of the bar by the pool, the beach and the apartment afater you were changed.Nevertheless is important to say that somehow all the apartments have a marina view because the building is located at the end of the peninsula and is sorround it by the marina. Make us also happy to know that you had such a wonderful time in the excursions to Havana and Cayo Blanco ,this are probably the most popular destinations for our clients. We look forward to receive your visit soon and we remain at your disposal Regards Yeinsy Jiménez Apartment Concierge
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My experience in this hotel was terrible. First, the food was horrible. I imagine they cooked for pigs. And not for people. I was born in Cuba and I always know the situation in Cuba. But this hotel left me without words. The impudence and the lack of respect . to all the people we paid to rent that hotel. They don't change the towels. The pool doesn't have towels. Also, since you arrive they check you by calling Cuban emigration. And the rooms have an extreme stench of humidity. I started with a crisis of asthma from the first day to the last day I was in that hotel. Please, I beg you, don't go to that hotel for your own good.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I booked my reservation online and received confirmation. When I arrived I found out this apartments are closed since the pandemic. They wanted to give me a hotel room for the same price which was absurd. Also, please noted that they won’t accept US credit cards at any Melia Hotels in Cuba.
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Date of stay: March 2023
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Do not book there.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our Vacation cost as much as Hawaii or Mexico would have cost and there is absolutely no comparison. The amenities, cleanliness, standards and customer service are not even close to that in Mexico, USA or Canada. We assumed that since this resort is new that it would be nice.
What you need to know if you are absolutely dead set on travelling to this resort. DO NOT go here unless you are ALL INCLUSIVE (and make sure you purchase it ahead of time when you book your trip.) They offer the European Plan and it is appealing to people like us that like to explore and not just stay at the resort for the entire trip, however, just get the All Inclusive and still explore. Varadero is a wrist band world and if you do not have one you will be alienated, treated like a criminal, not able to purchase a drink, food or walk through your lobby. If you are dead set on going here and do not do all inclusive you have to make sure that your condo is in the east apartments. The pool in the east apartments is the only pool that will accept cash. They assigned our condo in the west apartments (major mistake made by the hotel and they would not move us or allow us to purchase all inclusive) and the pool in the west apartments would not take cash (even though it was the west apartments designated pool!). The East Apartments is on the complete opposite side of the marina from the West Apartments - approximately 15 minute brisk walk).
We could not buy drinks or food at the pool or the beach. Groceries, fruit, vegetables and bread are not readily available. There is a fruit stand along the marina, but it is not well stocked and sells out quickly. You can get fresh bread at the coffee shop in the Marina, but they sell out quickly.
The apartment was not well stocked. No dishwasher - I'm sure the maid washed the dishes without soap, so I rewashed every dish, every day. There were very few dishes, cutlery, glasses, cups and pans (no bowls, ect.) There is a washing machine in the condo but no dryer. Trying to get a clean towel was next to impossible, but to be honest I rewashed the towels we had and didn't want them to replace them because I felt that they were not sanitary or clean. The maids hang towels out on the outside rails - not sure why - are they recycling dirty towels and just trying to freshen them up - they sure did not appear to be clean. Water is not sanitary. You need to brush your teeth with bottled water. We ordered all drinks without ice, but still got sick.
The restaurants along the marina that are not owned by the hotel could not accomodate many people. They would lock the door when only a couple of tables were occupied. They did not have the staff, enough menu's or food to accommodate the area.
If you do not have an all inclusive wrist band they will not even let you walk to the lobby through the marina entrance (and our front desk was in this lobby). They make you go all the way around the outside through the very front gate and front entrance. Everywhere you go you will wait in line (front desk, money exchange, coffee shop, all restaurants, ect.). You will never hear the word "No" so many times in your entire life. There is absolutely zero customer service and the a lot of the locals are very rude. We were of the impression that we could buy all-inclusive day passes for days that we would be at the resort, but they would not allow us to buy a pass until our last day. We did purchase it the last day and the food and service was mediocre but at least we didn't feel like a criminal!
EUROPEAN PLAN should NOT be an OPTION. ALL INCLUSIVE should be MANDATORY. Melia please teach your staff some customer service and perhaps how to smile.
What you need to know if you are absolutely dead set on travelling to this resort. DO NOT go here unless you are ALL INCLUSIVE (and make sure you purchase it ahead of time when you book your trip.) They offer the European Plan and it is appealing to people like us that like to explore and not just stay at the resort for the entire trip, however, just get the All Inclusive and still explore. Varadero is a wrist band world and if you do not have one you will be alienated, treated like a criminal, not able to purchase a drink, food or walk through your lobby. If you are dead set on going here and do not do all inclusive you have to make sure that your condo is in the east apartments. The pool in the east apartments is the only pool that will accept cash. They assigned our condo in the west apartments (major mistake made by the hotel and they would not move us or allow us to purchase all inclusive) and the pool in the west apartments would not take cash (even though it was the west apartments designated pool!). The East Apartments is on the complete opposite side of the marina from the West Apartments - approximately 15 minute brisk walk).
We could not buy drinks or food at the pool or the beach. Groceries, fruit, vegetables and bread are not readily available. There is a fruit stand along the marina, but it is not well stocked and sells out quickly. You can get fresh bread at the coffee shop in the Marina, but they sell out quickly.
The apartment was not well stocked. No dishwasher - I'm sure the maid washed the dishes without soap, so I rewashed every dish, every day. There were very few dishes, cutlery, glasses, cups and pans (no bowls, ect.) There is a washing machine in the condo but no dryer. Trying to get a clean towel was next to impossible, but to be honest I rewashed the towels we had and didn't want them to replace them because I felt that they were not sanitary or clean. The maids hang towels out on the outside rails - not sure why - are they recycling dirty towels and just trying to freshen them up - they sure did not appear to be clean. Water is not sanitary. You need to brush your teeth with bottled water. We ordered all drinks without ice, but still got sick.
The restaurants along the marina that are not owned by the hotel could not accomodate many people. They would lock the door when only a couple of tables were occupied. They did not have the staff, enough menu's or food to accommodate the area.
If you do not have an all inclusive wrist band they will not even let you walk to the lobby through the marina entrance (and our front desk was in this lobby). They make you go all the way around the outside through the very front gate and front entrance. Everywhere you go you will wait in line (front desk, money exchange, coffee shop, all restaurants, ect.). You will never hear the word "No" so many times in your entire life. There is absolutely zero customer service and the a lot of the locals are very rude. We were of the impression that we could buy all-inclusive day passes for days that we would be at the resort, but they would not allow us to buy a pass until our last day. We did purchase it the last day and the food and service was mediocre but at least we didn't feel like a criminal!
EUROPEAN PLAN should NOT be an OPTION. ALL INCLUSIVE should be MANDATORY. Melia please teach your staff some customer service and perhaps how to smile.
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Date of stay: December 2015Trip type: Travelled with family
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Melia Marina Resort is a lovely property with lovely views of the Marina area. The problem is the food. We booked two separate apartments for the four of us but got the all inclusive plan. My daughter was the first to get sick and in fact we had to take her by ambulance to the clinic in Varadero where she stayed over night. Her boyfriend was also sick that night. Two days later my husband and I both got very sick where we vomited and had non-stop diarrhea for 7-8 hours. We never ate any other place other than the resort. I reported our issues to the management who dismissed our illness even when I provided a copy of my daughter's medical certificate. We have travelled the world and never been as sick as we were from staying at this resort. That is why I can't recommend it and I would caution anyone travelling because all four of us were violently ill. In fact, even after returning from the vacation we all had stomach issues for a couple of weeks. My advice is don't go there.
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Date of stay: December 2015Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melia Marina Apartments 3rd visit
This is an addendum to my previous post in January. We went back April 7th to 14th, our 3rd stay. Many of my observations below pertain to the marina complex, not the apartments. The Melia apartments as always were beautiful a great deal and remain our preferred vacation choice. The "European plan" makes you get out of your comfort zone and try the local restaurants. Contrary to popular belief you can go to Cuba for the food, if you know where to go.
What did it cost
We were able to book a 1 bedroom apartment for 1450.00. ($315 + 410 tax each x2) This is a few hundred dollars cheaper than we paid in January. We could have booked a studio for $200 less but the 1 bedroom units are worth the extra money.
We spent approx approx $500 CDN on restaurants, groceries, wine, beer, bus fare tips etc. True, you could get a cheap all inclusive when you add it all up but you would be hard pressed to find nicer accommodations on the island.
Tourist tip: The first digit in your room number is the building number, i.e. 6501 is building number 6 room 501, so your room is on the 5th floor.
Restaurants top 4:
Nona Tina's 38th street: Seafood pasta is amazing
Salsa Suarez 31st street: Delicious fish, seafood platters fresh salads
Don Alex 31st street: Pasta, kabobs, pizza
La Grutta Josones park: Lobster and steak are worth the trip
Pizza at the pool :-)
There is now a pizza oven at the pool! Ok pizza, good in a pinch. They also serve sandwiches, hamburgers etc. Tourist tip: Call 6900 and ask for the pool bar. You can order your meal and go down when it's ready.
What to bring
Here's our list if it helps: It looks like a lot but it really doesn't take much space, and you'll have lots of room for souvenirs and rum on the way home.
Salt and pepper
Jam
Peanut butter
Butter
Granola bars
Microwave bacon
Coffee
Crackers
Snacks
Peanut sauce
Rice wraps
Rice noodles
Crumpets
English muffins
Chips
hand soap
Bug spray
Paper towels
Dish rag (J cloth)
Plastic wrap
Laundry soap (liquid)
Kleenex
Toilet paper
Scrub pads for pots
Small spoons (the spoons were huge)
Plastic bowl (they have a couple of bowls but they are really small)
Green garbage bag
Kitchen garbage bags
Zip lock bags
Dish rag (J cloth)
Teflon spatula ( again the one they supply is huge)
Included in the apartment
One bottle of water
Umbrellas
Beach towels
Bath towels
Pots and pans
Cutlery
Dishes
Glasses
Wine glasses
Cork screw
Coffee maker
Bedding
Safe
Grocery stores
Aside from the few items mentioned below we were able to get everything else we needed at the two onsite grocery stores. Eggs, bread, cheese, chicken, salad dressing, canned goods, snacks dish soap etc were all available.
Produce
Getting fresh vegetables is a bit of a challenge in April, maybe because it's so hot? The girls that run the stand will try their hardest to get you what you need. We were able to buy lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, string beans, limes, papaya and pineapple. Thanks ladies!
A few observations...
The Bus stop
I'll start with a pet peeve. On previous trips there was an opening in the fence that you could use to get to the bus stop in front of the Blau hotel. This is now blocked and a security guard is posted there. If you're staying in the apartments you have to walk all the way to the main gate to catch the bus. It wasn't clear if they were trying to keep people in or out? It makes no sense as anyone can walk in the main entrance. The only people it inconveniences are the ones staying in the apartments. The bus sometimes comes into the marina but not always so you really can't count on it. Melia, please open the fence again.... or put a card swipe gate in... or use your clout to make sure the bus is reliable.
Tourist Tip: If you see the bus hop over the little 2 foot cement fence. The security guard will yell something in Spanish but you'll be at the bus stop before he gets there. If enough people do this they will hopefully put in a gate, or maybe the bus will actually come into the marina like they are supposed to.
Bread and milk
We always looked forward to the fresh baguettes. On this trip there was no bread at the coffee shop, instead you could only buy huge loaves at the grocery store. Not as fresh but we were glad to at least have some available. Most of it went to waste as we only needed a quarter of a loaf for the week.
No whole milk at the marina grocery stores this trip. Only evaporated milk. We found some at Plaza Las Americas though, no big deal, just a small inconvenience. We will probably freeze some next time and bring it in our luggage to get us through the first day.
Beer
Well, it was too good to be true... Beer was 1 CUC per can at the Albacora in January, they raised the price last month to 2 CUC if you buy a single can.
Tourist Tip: If you buy a case of 24 it's still 24 CUC.... for now.
The Center commercial in Veradero has the best price for beer. Crystal is .60 CUC for bottles. I prefer Presidente Pilsner myself. It can be found everywhere for a few pesos more.
Wine
Decent wine is expensive at the marina liquor store. If you're not too fussy you can get by but I'll probably bring a bottle next time.
The pool
Melia: there is very little shade at the apartment pool..... I seem to recall umbrellas the last time, they are all gone now? Perhaps some canvas in the arbors would help.... Just a suggestion.
Mosquito fogging :-(
At about 8pm while standing at a bus stop in Varadero we saw what looked like a tourist trolley billowing clouds of smoke. It was actually DDT pesticide fogging. Everyone with any sense ran from the fumes. I noticed the same thing at the Marina a few nights later. Again people were running for cover. Articles I've read indicate the govt is employing military and students to try to control the mosquito population on the island. They may also be affecting the tourist population.....
This is an addendum to my previous post in January. We went back April 7th to 14th, our 3rd stay. Many of my observations below pertain to the marina complex, not the apartments. The Melia apartments as always were beautiful a great deal and remain our preferred vacation choice. The "European plan" makes you get out of your comfort zone and try the local restaurants. Contrary to popular belief you can go to Cuba for the food, if you know where to go.
What did it cost
We were able to book a 1 bedroom apartment for 1450.00. ($315 + 410 tax each x2) This is a few hundred dollars cheaper than we paid in January. We could have booked a studio for $200 less but the 1 bedroom units are worth the extra money.
We spent approx approx $500 CDN on restaurants, groceries, wine, beer, bus fare tips etc. True, you could get a cheap all inclusive when you add it all up but you would be hard pressed to find nicer accommodations on the island.
Tourist tip: The first digit in your room number is the building number, i.e. 6501 is building number 6 room 501, so your room is on the 5th floor.
Restaurants top 4:
Nona Tina's 38th street: Seafood pasta is amazing
Salsa Suarez 31st street: Delicious fish, seafood platters fresh salads
Don Alex 31st street: Pasta, kabobs, pizza
La Grutta Josones park: Lobster and steak are worth the trip
Pizza at the pool :-)
There is now a pizza oven at the pool! Ok pizza, good in a pinch. They also serve sandwiches, hamburgers etc. Tourist tip: Call 6900 and ask for the pool bar. You can order your meal and go down when it's ready.
What to bring
Here's our list if it helps: It looks like a lot but it really doesn't take much space, and you'll have lots of room for souvenirs and rum on the way home.
Salt and pepper
Jam
Peanut butter
Butter
Granola bars
Microwave bacon
Coffee
Crackers
Snacks
Peanut sauce
Rice wraps
Rice noodles
Crumpets
English muffins
Chips
hand soap
Bug spray
Paper towels
Dish rag (J cloth)
Plastic wrap
Laundry soap (liquid)
Kleenex
Toilet paper
Scrub pads for pots
Small spoons (the spoons were huge)
Plastic bowl (they have a couple of bowls but they are really small)
Green garbage bag
Kitchen garbage bags
Zip lock bags
Dish rag (J cloth)
Teflon spatula ( again the one they supply is huge)
Included in the apartment
One bottle of water
Umbrellas
Beach towels
Bath towels
Pots and pans
Cutlery
Dishes
Glasses
Wine glasses
Cork screw
Coffee maker
Bedding
Safe
Grocery stores
Aside from the few items mentioned below we were able to get everything else we needed at the two onsite grocery stores. Eggs, bread, cheese, chicken, salad dressing, canned goods, snacks dish soap etc were all available.
Produce
Getting fresh vegetables is a bit of a challenge in April, maybe because it's so hot? The girls that run the stand will try their hardest to get you what you need. We were able to buy lettuce, peppers, tomatoes, string beans, limes, papaya and pineapple. Thanks ladies!
A few observations...
The Bus stop
I'll start with a pet peeve. On previous trips there was an opening in the fence that you could use to get to the bus stop in front of the Blau hotel. This is now blocked and a security guard is posted there. If you're staying in the apartments you have to walk all the way to the main gate to catch the bus. It wasn't clear if they were trying to keep people in or out? It makes no sense as anyone can walk in the main entrance. The only people it inconveniences are the ones staying in the apartments. The bus sometimes comes into the marina but not always so you really can't count on it. Melia, please open the fence again.... or put a card swipe gate in... or use your clout to make sure the bus is reliable.
Tourist Tip: If you see the bus hop over the little 2 foot cement fence. The security guard will yell something in Spanish but you'll be at the bus stop before he gets there. If enough people do this they will hopefully put in a gate, or maybe the bus will actually come into the marina like they are supposed to.
Bread and milk
We always looked forward to the fresh baguettes. On this trip there was no bread at the coffee shop, instead you could only buy huge loaves at the grocery store. Not as fresh but we were glad to at least have some available. Most of it went to waste as we only needed a quarter of a loaf for the week.
No whole milk at the marina grocery stores this trip. Only evaporated milk. We found some at Plaza Las Americas though, no big deal, just a small inconvenience. We will probably freeze some next time and bring it in our luggage to get us through the first day.
Beer
Well, it was too good to be true... Beer was 1 CUC per can at the Albacora in January, they raised the price last month to 2 CUC if you buy a single can.
Tourist Tip: If you buy a case of 24 it's still 24 CUC.... for now.
The Center commercial in Veradero has the best price for beer. Crystal is .60 CUC for bottles. I prefer Presidente Pilsner myself. It can be found everywhere for a few pesos more.
Wine
Decent wine is expensive at the marina liquor store. If you're not too fussy you can get by but I'll probably bring a bottle next time.
The pool
Melia: there is very little shade at the apartment pool..... I seem to recall umbrellas the last time, they are all gone now? Perhaps some canvas in the arbors would help.... Just a suggestion.
Mosquito fogging :-(
At about 8pm while standing at a bus stop in Varadero we saw what looked like a tourist trolley billowing clouds of smoke. It was actually DDT pesticide fogging. Everyone with any sense ran from the fumes. I noticed the same thing at the Marina a few nights later. Again people were running for cover. Articles I've read indicate the govt is employing military and students to try to control the mosquito population on the island. They may also be affecting the tourist population.....
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Date of stay: April 2016Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: One bedroom units are worth the extra money. Nicer balconies and twice the space.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I just came back from my 7 day vacation at the Melia Marina Varadero Apartments with the European Plan (Not all inclusive). We chose this plan so we were free to prepare our own meals or eat outside if we wanted, but we had problems since day 1.
1) We called to change our reservation to arrive a day later, and on our arrival date we were marked as NO SHOW. It took 1.5 hours to solve the issue and get our apartment. We had to go to the main hotel so we could check in.
2) Our door's card reader stopped working twice, and it took 3 hours for someone to come and repair it; plus the keys got de-magnetized or didn't work so often that we had to have them replaced 4 times in 1 week.
3) The hotel asked us to BUY OUR OWN TOILET PAPER because we were NOT all inclusive.
4) On day 5, I returned to the apartment early to find the door completely open. The maid left it open and went to another apartment to clean it, leaving all our belongings available for anyone to walk into our place.
5) Only 1 out of 2 stoves worked, and no one in the staff would know how to repair it.
6) We asked for a can opener and we were told that in the entire hotel there were no can openers, that we had to buy our own too.
7) When we went to complain at the main hotel's customer experience department, the security guard treated us like criminals and told us that people from the apartments were not allowed in the hotel, and escorted us out, because again we were NOT all inclusive. The guard was extremely rude, and verbally aggressive. When we managed to get a hold of the customer service office, they said that the Manager would contact us to solve the situation but NEVER showed up or contacted us as promised.
8) we arrived with another couple and their apartment was extremely dirty, so they had to file a complaint upon arrival.
This and more made us decide not to ever go back to that hotel. The facilities are beautiful, but both the hotel and the apartment's management are terrible. They are severely understaffed and staff is under trained. The upper management is NEVER available to deal with complaints and if you need to complain, be ready to stand in line for at least 1 hour (in the best of cases) with at least 2 more angry customers.
I have previously stayed in Melia in other countries, but this experience was a total deal breaker. When you plan your next vacation to Varadero, do yourself a favour and STAY AWAY from this place!
1) We called to change our reservation to arrive a day later, and on our arrival date we were marked as NO SHOW. It took 1.5 hours to solve the issue and get our apartment. We had to go to the main hotel so we could check in.
2) Our door's card reader stopped working twice, and it took 3 hours for someone to come and repair it; plus the keys got de-magnetized or didn't work so often that we had to have them replaced 4 times in 1 week.
3) The hotel asked us to BUY OUR OWN TOILET PAPER because we were NOT all inclusive.
4) On day 5, I returned to the apartment early to find the door completely open. The maid left it open and went to another apartment to clean it, leaving all our belongings available for anyone to walk into our place.
5) Only 1 out of 2 stoves worked, and no one in the staff would know how to repair it.
6) We asked for a can opener and we were told that in the entire hotel there were no can openers, that we had to buy our own too.
7) When we went to complain at the main hotel's customer experience department, the security guard treated us like criminals and told us that people from the apartments were not allowed in the hotel, and escorted us out, because again we were NOT all inclusive. The guard was extremely rude, and verbally aggressive. When we managed to get a hold of the customer service office, they said that the Manager would contact us to solve the situation but NEVER showed up or contacted us as promised.
8) we arrived with another couple and their apartment was extremely dirty, so they had to file a complaint upon arrival.
This and more made us decide not to ever go back to that hotel. The facilities are beautiful, but both the hotel and the apartment's management are terrible. They are severely understaffed and staff is under trained. The upper management is NEVER available to deal with complaints and if you need to complain, be ready to stand in line for at least 1 hour (in the best of cases) with at least 2 more angry customers.
I have previously stayed in Melia in other countries, but this experience was a total deal breaker. When you plan your next vacation to Varadero, do yourself a favour and STAY AWAY from this place!
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Date of stay: December 2015Trip type: Travelled with friends
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Spent the week Jan 19-26-2017 From Montreal staying at the apartment. First, we landed and the shuttle bus dropped us directly to the main hotel lobby. When we checked in, they saw we are on the apartment side, non inclusive and the service stop there!
Front staffs is really bad manners, lazy and unhelpful, they just tell us to sit down and wait for the shuttle. We wait about half an hour before the shuttle arrived and drove us to the apartment side. When we arrived, the front desk there is more helpful, they checked us in and provided us with a silver wrist band, slapped it on our wrist like a criminal with warning don't lose it or it cost money to replaced it.
They put us on the 5th floor and the hall way of this 5 stars apartment hotel look pretty bad. However, the room is nice inside and clean. This Hotel is quite discriminate to the fact once you are staying at the apartment, you can not walk or strolls on part of the sidewalks or road that leads to the main hotel lobby, you can not even be at the hotel lobby physically and that is how terrible it was. You can not use the main hotel swimming pool facilities and If you need to talk to your Sun Wings reps, you need to wait until 4 pm so that is the time he can come over to the apartment side.
Another option is to hassles with the security guard in order for you to get to the Sun Wings office at the main lobby. The money exchange in the main lobby hotel is way off, i was told the exchange rate for C$ lower today.. while i can exchange higher C$ at the market place located within the hotel facility on the same day within 15 mins. The kitchen in the apartment is awfully equipped. There were not even a frying pan or can opener! they provided 1 bottle of water for 7 days while we were there, limiting 2 rolls of toilet papers and if you need more, you must pay for it. The maid is good, keeping the room very clean each day and we tipped her everyday.
The restaurant in the market place is about average, you will find better foods by travelling closer to town. The beach is awful, sands are not clean after the wind storm in compared to the neighbor hotel next to it. We have to swim there instead. The beach front is like zero. Summing up, this is only a 3.5 stars hotel according to international standard. They have a lot to learned from other 5 stars hotel operators.
This is my experience with this hotel while i was there. We love Varadero, Cuba and Cubans... but to come back and stay at this hotel with the discriminated services - maybe NOT. Internet is a major issue in Cuba, you need to buy a card cost about C$2.75 for one hour of usage, usually. it cuts off at roughly 30-45 minutes of used. There are no daily plan and no where is FREE. Hope this note is helpful to other travelers and so sorry about my English
Front staffs is really bad manners, lazy and unhelpful, they just tell us to sit down and wait for the shuttle. We wait about half an hour before the shuttle arrived and drove us to the apartment side. When we arrived, the front desk there is more helpful, they checked us in and provided us with a silver wrist band, slapped it on our wrist like a criminal with warning don't lose it or it cost money to replaced it.
They put us on the 5th floor and the hall way of this 5 stars apartment hotel look pretty bad. However, the room is nice inside and clean. This Hotel is quite discriminate to the fact once you are staying at the apartment, you can not walk or strolls on part of the sidewalks or road that leads to the main hotel lobby, you can not even be at the hotel lobby physically and that is how terrible it was. You can not use the main hotel swimming pool facilities and If you need to talk to your Sun Wings reps, you need to wait until 4 pm so that is the time he can come over to the apartment side.
Another option is to hassles with the security guard in order for you to get to the Sun Wings office at the main lobby. The money exchange in the main lobby hotel is way off, i was told the exchange rate for C$ lower today.. while i can exchange higher C$ at the market place located within the hotel facility on the same day within 15 mins. The kitchen in the apartment is awfully equipped. There were not even a frying pan or can opener! they provided 1 bottle of water for 7 days while we were there, limiting 2 rolls of toilet papers and if you need more, you must pay for it. The maid is good, keeping the room very clean each day and we tipped her everyday.
The restaurant in the market place is about average, you will find better foods by travelling closer to town. The beach is awful, sands are not clean after the wind storm in compared to the neighbor hotel next to it. We have to swim there instead. The beach front is like zero. Summing up, this is only a 3.5 stars hotel according to international standard. They have a lot to learned from other 5 stars hotel operators.
This is my experience with this hotel while i was there. We love Varadero, Cuba and Cubans... but to come back and stay at this hotel with the discriminated services - maybe NOT. Internet is a major issue in Cuba, you need to buy a card cost about C$2.75 for one hour of usage, usually. it cuts off at roughly 30-45 minutes of used. There are no daily plan and no where is FREE. Hope this note is helpful to other travelers and so sorry about my English
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Date of stay: January 2017Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Yeinsy J, Apartment Concierge at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Responded Jun 6, 2017
Dear cherrie767: We are sorry to hear that you were not satisfied with all our services. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. Do not hesitate that every single comment will be carefully analyzed, following our continuous improvement plan.For instance this issue with the reception is not a problem anymore because we have taken the necesary measures about it. What really surprise us is the brazalet thing because there is not cost to replace them at all and our staff always do it with pleasure. Also the internet cads used to cost 2 cuc per hour and nowdays is onl 1.50 cuc per hour. Regarding to the use of the hotel facilities we thihn there was an information problem because when the clients book the european plan at the apartments they have not access to the hotel at least that they purchase the Full day pass or Day pass which has an speccial offer for our clients. Nevertheless there is a pool at the apartments and you can use the exchange currency at the hotel or at the comercial center as well. The electrical devices at the apartments depends of the tipe of apartment that you book.The simpler one is the studio that has a small kitchen with only minibar ,stove,microwave ,coffee maker.We are really lacking of frying pan and we have already asked them to the company. From the one bedroom till the three bedroom apartment there is more comfort with oven,refrigerator,washing machine ,dish washer and of course the microwave,the coffee maker. We sincerely hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back again in order to provide the best of our service to make your stay more comfortable. Regards Yeinsy Jiménez Apartment Concierge
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yes There is a washer/dryer-
Entertainment is twice a week in the strip between the two hotel and apartments
not sure about the rest
Hey - that's great to hear TC! The Melia Apartments will be happy to hear that as well. It is a very good accommodation for independent travellers.
…
"View is great all around hotel ! Rooms available in different sizes, but equipment is standard."Read full review
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LOCATION
CaribbeanCubaMatanzas ProvinceVaradero
NUMBER OF ROOMS
348
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Frequently Asked Questions about Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Which popular attractions are close to Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Nearby attractions include Playa Varadero (5.3 km), Cueva de Ambrosio (3.6 km), and Varahicacos Ecological Reserve (2.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and a poolside bar during their stay.
Is parking available at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Conveniently located restaurants include La Panchita, Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa - Royal Service, and Kike-Kcho.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Does Melia Marina Varadero Apartments have airport transportation?
Yes, Melia Marina Varadero Apartments offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Yes, laundry service and self serve laundry are offered to guests.
Are there any historical sites close to Melia Marina Varadero Apartments?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Cueva de Ambrosio (3.6 km).
Is Melia Marina Varadero Apartments accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.