TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

We did a lot of research before booking our trip and so far are quite disappointed with the upkeep of the resort and food options. We understand there are restriction s and access to food however guests have been charged a premium and options are very limited. Weak watered down coffee, very similar food served for all meals - children will struggle to be satisfied. My partner and I are not at all picky however are struggling to feel satisfied eating @ the buffet - squash, rice and cabbage - poor quality fish ( I think it is Cuban gar), chicken and pork - as these are the mains. Not very many options for anyone with dietary restrictions. Fruit is watery watermelon, white pineapple and papaya. No berries, grapes or anything. We did have small bananas one day at breakfast - those were few but tasty. We are trying an a la carte tonight so hoping for better. We tried the one snack bar (two are listed on the resort info page but only one is operating). It was okay. We left today on day three to go to town of Varadero for lunch because we needed to find something more satisfying. We did Terraza Cuba - delicious but sooooo expensive! I think people like this location for the beach. The beach is quite dirty mainly due to filthy tourists but then nobody seems to pick up after them. We saw many cigarette and cigar butts, empty cups and garbage. We also tried snorkeling but no fish nearby. Unsure if I will be able to convince my partner to return. If all you want is sun and water you will be fine but be forewarned the food is inadequate. We were told it might be bland - but this is lack of variety as mentioned. I haven’t even seen beans! Those would be an improvement. Water in the room is lukewarm - so unable to enjoy a nice bath or shower. No Hot tub & Sanctuary - it is drained. No forewarning prior to our holiday so we will follow up with travel agent.

We had an amazing experience at grand memories , we felt very welcomed and all requests we had , have been full filed by our great concierge Carlos . He has been very assertive and attentive to our needs. Food and accommodation were good , beach clean and good cocktails were served at every bar from the inside the resort ! I definitely recommend going to Varadero and stay at Sanctuary Grand memories .

We booked a two week stay based on my brother’s recommendation. And he was right!!! It was amazing! The resort itself is adults only which is perfect when you just want to just relax and enjoy the pool or beach. The rooms are spacious with lots of storage and includes a mini fridge that’s restocked daily and a safe to secure your valuables. The pool was great, with of course a bar/snack bar. The chicken wings and fries were by far the best I’ve ever had. But, we preferred the white sandy beach with the most incredible crystal clear blue water. And there’s no need to rush to reserve your lounger. You choose your spot and the attendant will set you up and clean the lounger for you. No need to get up for drinks. Staff are always near by and making sure you are ‘hydrated’. Anything you like/desire. The Sanctuary restaurant is mostly à la carte so book as soon as you can. My husband and I really enjoyed the cuisine which is very similar to our Portuguese cuisine. It reminded us of Sunday dinners with family. If you prefer buffet then the grand memories is for you. By far, what made this vacation memorable was the staff especially our concierge Carlos. Everyone is warm, kind and greeted us with a smile and a hola, hello or buenos dias. They go out of their way to ensure you are enjoying yourself and always ready to help. From food to drinks, to room service and everything in between. Would I go back?! Absolutely!!!

This resort was very clean the food was amazing and the staff were beyond excellent and very easy to talk to. We have been to Cuba 5 times now and this was one of the best. The only thing that was a problem was our hot water which was pretty much nonexistent but if you wanted a shower you just had to let your building butler know and he would arrange one for you. (The hot water problem was only on the Sanctuary side) Thanks to the staff in the restaurant at Sanctuary for making our stay extra enjoyable.

Our family of 9 travelled to sanctuary for the 2nd and 3rd time. The resort is great, food is delicious and the staff is incredible! Our favourites are Rayner(golden teeth) Emilio and Anays. They went above and beyond teaching us to dance and including us in all activities Our butler Norvi went out of his way to make us comfortable! Restaurant staff was welcoming everyday! Shout out to Marleybis and elianys! We will be back again! You are family now!