Cayo Coco - Cayo Guillermo

Back home after our 5th visit to Rainbow and each visit is better than the last. The Cuban people face many challenges and hardships in their lives and tourism is one of the best ways to get money and goods into the country to help them. Despite the current challenges in Cuba we didn't experience any major shortages or power issues, please know you can visit with confidence of having a safe and enjoyable stay. Like many others, Rainbow has become our haven, safe space, oasis, and home away from home. The guests are amazing! Considerate, friendly, polite and fun, it's a huge difference from any other resort we've been to. Many of the staff have become friends and some, like family. It's impossible to go anywhere without being greeted with a smile and wave. The new manager, Mario, is doing a great job and is always visible, friendly and available to help. We had positive interactions with everyone but there are some people that deserve some extra recognition and I'd like to thank them for having us as their guests. Noidys: if you know, you know. One of the sweetest, kindest and considerate people I've ever met, Noidys wants nothing more than for others to be happy. She is the best and should be cherished like the rarest resource she is. We love you very much Noidys! (not great at dominos though) Osmary, Osmel, Twin, Danys, Roseangela, Magdiel, Yudith, Brandys, Alejandra, Yamile, Pedro: these people have become like family to us over our visits and always go out of their way to chat and make sure we're taken care of. Amazing group and a big reason we keep coming back. I'd also like to recognize the following staff who made our stay so amazing: Ary, Yunay, Jordyn, Yaillette, Jorge, Angel DJ, Roxanna, Arlettis, Dalmaris, Leo C, Leo at beach bar, Ronald, Yoandry, Martha, Duagned, Annie, Ernesto, Lizmel (cook), Yendy, Mabel O, Dianely Avila, Adriel Silveira, Yisel M, Carlito López, Mayito, Yeisy, Yorjanni (Pepe), Yoah, Yoelle, newer pool tech, and many, many, more! Thank you so much for having us, your hospitality and warmth is truly appreciated. See you again soon!

While the staff were friendly and the beach wonderful, I have very serious health and safety concerns for the cleanliness of the main buffet. The buffet hall was filled with hundreds of flies covering food, the tables, cutlery, drinking glasses. It was disgusting and needs to be fixed ASAP.

We were happy with this resort for the price we paid. The resort was very good value for the price we got it for most def. Food was good for Cuba and we didn't have any issues finding things to eat. We were a group of 2 kids aged 5, 13 and 2 people in 40's and 2 in 60's. All the staff was very friendly and helpful, and they made our stay more enjoyable for sure. We were happy to be able to pay for Lobster for $16 USD which was a steal for the size of the meal. I have been to Cuba 8 times and stayed at a variety of resorts, this was probably the most dated resort but that did not ruin our week at all, because the food, staff and beach made up for that. We were not in our rooms much at all so we did not focus on that part. We could not of had better weather and ocean was nice and calm especially for the kids. We visited the kids club with my 5 year old and the lady working was very friendly and welcoming and every time she saw us after that walked over to us and chatted. The night time entertainment was good but we found it a little boring for the evenings. There was a disco but we weren't looking for that. For drinks there was things they would run out of but that is not uncommon for Cuba which we knew. My father and my nephew (13) came and this was both of their first time in Cuba and they are sold on the people and the ocean like the rest of us. If looking at this resort I would recommend if getting for a decent price and if going in with an open mind Make the best of any vacation and don't sweat the small things.

We have been to Cuba over 20 times, 10 of them to Melia Jardines Del Rey. We were there in November and December 2024 and are heading back again this month (January 2025) It's the staff that keeps drawing us back, they are a second family to us. Staff: friendly, courteous, generous and genuinely happy people. All of whom do their best to make your stay memorable. Yohander and the staff at the front desk, Daineris and Claudia in customer service, Joel and Omelio at the beach bar, Rodrigo at the BBQ restaruant and Roleiris taking care of the beach chairs, just to name a few. Gardeners and resort maids always with big smiles and friendly hellos. Please realize that the Cuban people are going through a very tough time, severe power outages in their own homes and shortages of basic necessities like deodorant, medicine, shampoo and soap, shoes, children's clothes etc. along with food. Many products that we take for granted at home are just not available on the island so the fact that they go so far out of their way to ensure we have the best experience is very humbling. Beach: Absolutely amazing...soft sand, looong beach for long walks, crystal clear teal water, all you can ask for. Over the years we have noticed that storms have exposed some coral so it can be a bit tough on bare feet when first entering the water. I recommend taking water shoes or walk just a wee bit past the main entrance to the beach and it is back to sand. Food: Due to shortages there can be limited selections and it changes daily. If they have it, they serve it. What was available one day may not be available the next. There is still plenty of choices, the soups are insanely delicious and the breads are fresh. Always have pork, beef and chicken to choose from and of course, fresh fish. If you are a foodie, Cuba is not for you. Most islands I have visited have Westernized buffets which is what most travelers expect or demand. Cuba is different, there are more authentic rice/bean/pork selections than international selections. The Cuban pork dishes are always fantastic. They also do not waste food, they put out trays of food and replace when consumed. If the tray has run out, just be patient and wait a few minutes, it will be replaced. Restaurants: The A-la-carte dinners are fantastic, my personal favourite is the BBQ but have enjoyed meals at every single one. Rooms: Rooms are a bit tired but are clean and spacious. We didn't have hot water the first day but that was rectified within hours. No toilet paper shortage when we were there but I do recommend bringing a roll or 2 and carrying a bit around with you for the public restrooms. The restroom maids are constantly overseeing the restrooms and ensuring there is toilet paper but occasionally they do run out. Lobby: Big, beautiful and fantastic lobby bar. The entertainment in the early evening is really impressive and changes nightly, singers, trumpet players, piano players, etc. Being returning guests we have the privilege of being invited to the "Hemmingway Plaza Party" that occurs weekly. It is a party exclusive to special returning Canadian guests all over Cayo Coco. We are bussed to Cayo Guillermo and experience the most amazing party. Each participating resort takes turns hosting the party they do a stunning job. The meal is fantastic, roast pork on a spit, chicken, hors d'oeuvres, premium desserts, top shelf alcohol and live entertainment. Had the pleasure of going twice and absolutely loved it. The work that goes into this party is huge. The hosting hotel must bring everything they need with them and then clean it all up after is so much work for 1 night to please us Canadians. Again, I am humbled. The repeat hotel dinner is also exceptional. The last 2 we have been to have been hosted right on the resort beach with an open grill BBQ and all the fixings. Top notch service and overall exceptional night. We are in our early 50's and have traveled to other islands but we keep navigating back to Cuba and back to Melia Jardines Del Rey, our home away from home. Cuba desperately needs tourism dollars so if you can set aside your culinary requirements for a week you have to give Cuba a chance. I'm sure you will fall in love with the people like we did.

Had a blast with family and friends. The resort itself: clean, rooms are clean too. Not in a pristine condition but nothing to be ashamed of. A/C in the room was good but at it's very limit. 5 minutes away from the famous Playa Pilar in a classic taxi drive is a huge pro. The view; breathtaking! The location is so unique you get amazing views from so many places on site. The beach itself often gets algae on the vert first part but the resort staff are always working hard to get ride of them, still, amazing beach with white sand and beautiful water. The food: we came with little to no expectations. Never missed a thing, the buffet has plenty to offer. Yes it kinda gets redundant but it's Cuba so you already know that you don't travel there for a culinary experience. A good pro: every.single.music.artist that come and entertain us at the buffet are AMAZING. Very talented! The best part: it's people. Let me explain. The staff made us feel comfortable and like if we were family. The people working there were all so warm and welcoming and they are the very reason that our vacations are so unforgettable. Here are some of the people that you WANT to meet if you ever have the chance to visit the Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo: Wendy, David and Alejandro: I'm pretty sure that they were my brothers or something like that in another life. Wanna have a good time? Hit them up! Great great great animators and dancers they made a huge difference. Their only cons is that I feel like I'll never move like them ever. Mia: She's taking care of the animation for the kids like no one else. Such a sweet and smart person she even got our VERY shy daughter to dance. Yobani and Jasniel: Yep! Even the staff working at the maintenance by the pool made a difference in our vacation. We had such great conversations, always willing to learn about our culture and teach about theirs. They were always nice to us, making sure that everything was fine for us and the people around. Real hard working gentlemen. Andrés: the dj! He might look kinda shy at first glance but he's a smart young man who's always ready get the party started. He has great songs and will always be ready for a request. These are some of the names but really, waitresses, bartenders, receptionist etc. They were all so nice! To conclude, I recommend this resort. Their prices are really good and you will have a very good time. And yes they had problems with the main water pipes on our last day but it could happen in any resort of any country so it did not bother us.

This was our second time at Memories Caribe. We love everything about the resort. Can't wait to go back again next year.

We have been coming to Cuba for 35 years. We love your beaches . We know not everything is always perfect, but it is OK. This year we noticed , everybody try their best to make our trip enjoyable. We also get extra bonus - no noise on the beach made by this "activity team" . We do not need disco rap on the beach. Let us listen to the sea, that why we are coming . We can not do it in the winter in Canada.

Overall I was very happy with my trip back to this amazing Cuban destination. Many of my Cuban friends still work here and all greeted me with honest love and appreciation. Lunch off the grill daily at the beach bar was amazing! Ala cartes were amazing. Breakfast at the buffet was more than adequate. All around service was amazing. My AC in room 1237 was not great, I always bring a 220 fan so no overall issue. I was supposed to be transferred to 1240, which had been reserved for me, but do to issues with AC in that room it never happened. This hotel holds memories and charm and friendships that will aways bring me back. Perhaps a 3.5* hotel now with possibilities of 4*. But a 5* beach and a 10* experience!!

This Hotel although aged is kept spotlessly clean. Rooms are large and basic but are kept spotlessly clean. No frills here. There is a safe in the cupboard to use and a small tv. Seniors who are reasonably fit and able do the stairs cus there is a fair amount of them, should consider a stay on first or second floor. Families seemed to choose rooms that faced the pool which made it easier for them. Quieter rooms are say building 8 or 9 still closer to amenities. Overall at night very quiet. Beach was beautiful and with a fair amount of chairs and huts for shade. Food and wine was reasonable. Great coffee in the lobby area.

Wonderful place to spend a leisurely vacation.Staff are very friendly and helpful. Beaches are absolutelyamazing. No one bothers you on the beach, no local people trying to sell things, very private. Food was great.