DLR13,
I've stayed in the Solymar, in the bunglalow suites. It's a pretty good hotel and at the best side of the resort as it's within walking distance of some of the markets and nightlife (and dive centre!). I'd have no problem going back to this hotel, I quite enjoyed the place. The swimming pools are a bit on the shallow side, only waist deep at the deep end so no diving! The exception being the 'sports' pool that is a regular depth. Food is pretty good and the evening entertanment lively if that's your thing. There's some reviews on the
hotel review section. You'll find reviews about the other hotel there too. I wouldn't say it's a 5 star like he Cuban rating gives it, but it's a good 4 star. This is based on staying in the bungalow suites though. I've not seen the rooms in the main building that are said to be on the small side and you get the echo from the 24 hour bar if you're at that side of the main building (it's quite open plan). A few photos for you:
Front of the hotel
Main pool area
Main reception / lobby area
Bugalow suite by pool (don't ask why it's called a bungalow, it's over 2 floors, lots of room!)
Overlooking the beach (taken from the top floor of the main building)
Looking down the beach (at hotel)
Sunset over Varadero beach
Entertainment team
You've probably read a little about Varadero; it's a purpose built resort set on a 20km long peninsula so some of the hotels can be a way from the downtown area. There's a regular bus service between everything though. My only problem with Varadero is you don't see enough of the real Cuba (I've stayed in other parts too) as it's all very commercialised. Having said that, it's the place to stay if you want to visit Havana as it's the closest tourist destination without staying in Havana itself, about 90 minutes by coach. The beaches are fantastic, some of the best in Cuba. There's some old Russian wrecks if you like scuba diving, but they aren't for novices as they are deep dives.
Darren
