Great vacation

I just came home from a vaction at Marea del Portillo Hotel, spending 2 weeks there with my Canadian and Cuban friends. We try to do this annually at this time of year. This time it was Carnival time in Pilon and in Marea. However it did rain a lot during the Fiesta, but that did not deter us from going and having a good time. I found that the food this time was very tasty, hot and lots of it, a great variety. The entertainment was changing and more variety there as well. Congratulations to the  [... lire plus]staff for making our vacation such a great one. I know that the rush will soon be coming and they will be busier, but it's us that gives the people jobs for all who have been working at the hotels for many years. I have lost count how many times I have been visiting this hotel, since 1993, many more than 50 times. This is my second home and I will always consider this my vacation spot. I have visited many other resorts in Cuba and other islands, but always come home to Marea. Thanks for the memories, love it there and love you all for making it my second home. I feel so safe and comfortable there.

Manznillo

The staff are amazing. Always have a welcoming smile. The hotel is beautiful and close to the beach. The food was the same every day. I am hoping it was because of the off season. There is only one shop to buy from but not much in the way of gifts. I will go back again because of the staff and the people we meet.

My favourite place in the Caribbean

Always sunny and warm, ocean included. Perfect combination of mountains and sea. Friendly locals, scenic hikes into rural Cuba. Excellent night entertainment by top artists. Plenty of kayaks. Back to nature but lively. Visited 8 times.

Lovely spot on the ocean

we read a lot of reviews but found the resort to be clean, staff helpful, graeat view, food usual Cuban fare, nothing wrong with it but not north american but quite edible, had some nice tours, very educational, the massages were amazing, met some nice people and loved the lsland tour, was a blast.

My Extended Family

The Island I went to the island, I had some doubt, I really didn't know, what it was all about. Juleo took me, to Byamo Town square, for home made ice cream, from the vender there. Then to the market, for a real Cuban lunch, A stop for espresso, peanuts by the bunch. In his horse and buggy, I went with Jose, in the village Marea, I spent the day. Then to the island Cayo Blanco, Dan took me out, taught me to snorkel, from a fishing boat. Swimming and dancing, volleyball in the sun, My holiday wa [... lire plus]s, all good times and fun. I really had, a fun filled notion, so under the stars, I swam in the ocean. Santiago in your office, wait for me, I'd rather take a scooter, than ride the bus. I won't forget Pepito, Martha and Noe, Dunia and Jonathan, her sweet little boy. I met Roberto and Geogalina, and Felix their son, met my friend Pastor, in the Village Pilon, In the Sierra Maestros, I've nothing to fear, I was taken care of, by my family there. I leave my friends, with love and a smile, I now know my trip, was really worthwhile. Que Pasa Chito, "What's happening my friend, to your island of Cuba, I'll be back again. The people, the country, is ever so rare, the honesty, beauty, none can compare. Mucho Gracias, Husta Luego El Amigo Peggy Shand My first visit to Cuba was at the Marea Del Portillo. I have been going for about twenty years, and I can't think of any other resort in Cuba I want to go to. It is so friendly, clean and you never go hungry. Everyone is like family. The staff, Alex, Alena, Mia, Rena the DJ. I can't name them al, But they are all caring and honest. I always ask for the same room or right next to it. The Housekeeper, Juana, is so sweet. She knows exactly what I like. And I make my own bed and keep my belongings neat so to make it easier for her New tourists think they are just the hired help, But it doesn't take them long to find out they are an.extension of their family. It's so good and wonderful, you just can't express how you feel. I did stay at the Farralon twice when The Marea was not available. Same staff. same good times, but the Marea is the place to be . Never worry about filling your time. There is always something to.do. They will keep you entertained or time just to relax, your choice. At the Marea everything is close and you really feel connected. And no worries about safety. Nothing to worry about there. I walk alone at night and feel comfortable. If you want special shells, no problem, The lifeguard will help you. Don't know his name, but for years I have have been calling him Justa and that is what he answers to. ( Justa means justa another friend ) I can"t say enough about the Marea..I would be continually typing,and so many stories to tell. What I suggest..is go there, the price is always right. You can't go wrong - and won't be long and your on your way again. I rated everything 5 stars but to be honest the food I gave 4 stars as there was not enough potatoes for me on each meal. Never seen any hot mashed potatoes and I missed them. But hay, when in Rome do as the Romans do. If that's my only complaint , something's not right. Believe me. I am definitely happy there. Peggy Shand

Peaceful and relaxing

To start we had a VIP cabana which had dead cockroaches and infested with aunts !!! No hot water or toilet paper!!! Staff was fun except for THE Car rental guy named SANTIAGO he tried to rip me off 150$ with a local man and if it wasn't for this amazing Portuguese gentleman who seen what happened and threatened them and resolved the issue !! Thanks again wish I got your name or email but ya watch out for the car rental man named Santiago