TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Well, it's taken a few days for me to be able to write this because this time, the trip meant a lot to me but here's my review from my visit with my mother and daughter from May 7-14 2025 at Occidental Are...nas Blancas. I haven't been to Cuba since 2019 and things have changed there however the important things haven't. The people and the beach. Food was not as repetitive as others had reviewed and even my lucky eater 10yo ate well each day. Nobody got sick and we ate all different things. The room we had (5416) was at the same level as when I was last there however the water pressure was much better than I remembered. A/C worked and the beds/pillows were more comfortable than I remembered. No ants or anything found and my daughter was not cleaning up her candy very fast so we would have seen some. The PEOPLE! Right when we walked in, despite not being there for 7 years, we were recognized right away by the bell boy. I forget his name but he is about 6' tall and fit. Great guy and I was happy to hear he finally had his little girl! The front door hosts were all very personable, especially with my daughter. There is one gentleman that I have seen there all 3 times I've been there and I was happy to see him again, also (I forget names) but there was a bigger man, darker skin who was really good with my kid and removed a local who was making stories to beg. I appreciate you if you see this???? the entertainment staff were amazing with my kiddo aswell, chino and regla by the pool took great care during the day. The pool bar staff were all ama,ING as always, some of them remembered us and one man was in the buffet before but now is a bartender, also spotted us right away. It's crazy how a little generosity can go a long way in a life, even almost a decade later! Now the night entertainment... First I want to thank the dancers that we had. They were so talented and so friendly when we approached them prior to shift, especially with the kids, and after the performance aswell. They don't get appreciated enough. And lastly for entertainment, JOHN AND DELMIS. Delmis I have known since my first trip to this resort and she has been amazing everytime, truly has a passion for the children and I'm so happy she is still there. John I met near the middle of my trip. Younger guy and was just starting but this guy went well out of his way for us. Even walked me to barcelo to show me where to go for the entertainment when the dancing crew would be there instead of Arenas. Also he has good English so if you're missing your translator or you have trouble with broken English (I do not) he's a good person to approach. Thin younger guy with glasses and a big smile! Thank you arenas staff, you made the trip difficult to leave. The beach is varadero beach, enough said. Brilliant waters and white sand. I will be trying to return in November, if possible. If not, in May again. But I've been here twice pre-covid and now once after and I have zero issues. It's Cuba. If you go for vibes and a beautiful beach, I recommend this affordable location which is right at the end of downtown which makes exploration off resort, very easy!

My wife and I and a friend went to this resort for two weeks and had a great time. The buffet was awesome, lots of food with lots of variety. The bread and desserts were always fresh. The restaurants were... also great, Cuban, Mexican and Spanish were our favorite . The staff were great and always had a smile. The rooms were good as well and clean. The resort grounds were always clean and groomed. Lots of drinks available all the time. The beach was the best, we walked the long beach every day and no seaweed. We are planning on our next trip. Thanks Occendental Arenas Staff for making our trip memorable.

We fully prepared ourselves for food/beverage shortages, possible blackouts, elevators not running, etc, so we only had expectations of a fabulous beach and pool and warm weather. We were VERY happy with o...ur stay here. Yes, the building is old and could use updating. Only 1 elevator was in operation for the week we were there, but we were fine with that. The location is fabulous for going for walks in downtown Varadero. Food was plentiful and the staff was great. There was a shortage of alcohol choices at the bar, but again, we knew that and were quite happy with what was offered. Evening entertainment was very enjoyable and the beach, of course, was fabulous. Would definitely consider coming back to this resort if we visit Cuba again.

Well it's that time again to go to our Home away from Home. This will be about our 22nd time to this and only this Hotel where from day one the Management and Staff have made us feel like Family so why go ...anywhere else. We have seen very many changes over the years but have adapted to all the changes from Food , Drinks , Staff Change , Renovations, and it makes us realize how lucky we are to live in Canada and have everything we need. There has always been shortages in Cuba not only in Hotels but especially for the Locals. So don't think because it cost you so much to book a ALL ENCLUSIVE does not mean you should expect to be served at the snap of a finger. Or expect that they will have your Favorite Drink or Food you can do without all the needs for a week or two. It takes them time to get supply's . Just go and have Fun and respect where you are. Do your homework about what country you are traveling to weather its Cuba , Mexico , Dominican. Cuba has gone through Hell with the Embargo and Economy so don't expect a lot. But remember to respect who you are dealing with and they will respect you back. Any way Can't wait to be back HOME at Occidental Arenas Blancas with all our adopted Family and Friends. See you all in June

I've been to this resort a few times, and I just love how close it is to everything. The beach is beautiful, the staff is great, and the rooms are clean. Ok, the food, well it's Cuba. You don't go there ...for the food. But with two picky eaters, everyone found something to eat to their liking every meal. I'm going back, that's for sure.