We initially chose this hotel/resort due to its proximity to Havana where we stayed for 3 nights (see separate review) and because of the good ratings on Trip advisor.This Breezes resort was for over 14's only too. We were given a warm welcome from the receptionist who booked us in and first impressions were very good. Our ground floor room was clean and spacious with a king size bed (see photo) and had a small patio which faced and led out on to the lovely gardens. All accommodation was 2 storey – you could pay extra for a sea view. There was a fridge in the room which was useful & a fair sized safe. The gardens were lovely and we didn't get any objections when we brought 2 sunbeds from the beach and placed them on the grass in a more sheltered spot on one of the windy days. The food was varied and very good quality in the self service restaurant – especially breakfast – the "egg" chef (Nelson) was brilliant – after one day he remembered that I liked scrambled eggs with cheese (and that was before we tipped him!!). He was always cheerful and laughed when I asked if he counted eggs to get to sleep rather than sheep! Nothing was too much trouble for him. There were two al a carte restaurants that you were allowed to use once per week and had to pre book. We were not that impressed with La Taberna (it was ok foodwise but service was poor) but the Italian "Martino's" was much better. Our waitress, Maria was very attentive and the atmosphere was nicer. The beach snack bar fish was lovely and the pizzas were quite nice too. You could ask to "take away "to eat in another area and they would cover the food for you. (On the point of tipping – it did state tipping was prohibited but we noticed quite a few people who had chosen to ignore it. When we asked reception we were told that it was up to us but it should be for extra good service.I suggested a "gratuities box" which we have seen in other hotels then everyone including the back stage team, gardeners etc can enjoy a share as everyone in the team contributes to a good holiday!). We had a problem with our TV & then a lightbulb went – on both occasions maintenance attended within a couple of hours which was impressive. There was a nice clean beach(see photo) and you can see lots of colourful fish without having to wade out that far. Sadly we had 3 or 4 days of poor weather (after a storm) with a red flag and on the better days the sea was quite cold (Atlantic). There was plenty of sunbeds on the beach & pool (that was freezing too!) and the rule that you couldn't reserve them seem to be adhered to which was good. Although it was ok to leave them whilst you had lunch etc. Water sports were included but due to the poor weather we did not take advantage of them. The evening entertainment was varied – we particularly enjoyed the film/music quiz which was really funny at times! Internet (dial up) was available for approx £5 per hour but you could book 30min slots. Daytime activities were on offer too but we just wanted to relax after 3 days sightseeing in Havana! I did use the gym – which looked out on to the beach-and although it was far from David Lloyd standard it was ok.
There were lots of areas to sit – as well as the 2 or 3 bars – and the choice of drinks (esp the cocktails & special coffees) was really good! Lots of people had their own Thermos mugs which the staff were happy to fill as otherwise drinks were served in a small plastic cup around the pool & beach areas. There was a games room which had a far few books, table tennis, pool tables & a few board games. Sadly one of my cameras (my small point & shoot) was taken from here whilst we were playing table tennis despite it being on top of my bag on a chair nearby! Another guest had her handbag taken whilst watching the evening entertainment .Personally I feel it was down to other guests but people we met thought it more likely that it was staff but we never saw staff come into the Games room when we were in there! Most of the staff were friendly and helpful – the receptionist who dealt with my missing camera report was very kind and sympathetic. The only criticism I have was of the daytime entertainment staff – they completely stood by and did nothing (despite complaints) when a group of men in their 30's (?) swore (the f word mainly) openly and loudly (shouting across the pool at times) & played loud music which contravened the "rules" that guests should not use language/behaviour that can offend or play music in public areas! Luckily they went off the next day!! Even though "losing "my camera was a very upsetting incident I would still choose this hotel again as long as I could guarantee the weather!!!
