Don Lino

Cuba is undergoing an economic downturn and it's having a trickling effect everywhere...from chatting with the manager it's been about 3 months that hotel don lino has experiencing all kinds of problems too...first the cons:..bad roads towards the resort,rocky beach,poor selection of bar drinks,ants and cockroaches in some rooms,power blackouts( they've installed a generator),no internet, basic choice of meals,.no bank nor ATM ...safe lacked batteries to set code ..hardly any night entertainment except some partying at the 24 hour bar,my room had lizards..pros: staff working hard to maintain services ,calesh riders outside take clients to playa Blanca who're happy to be paid in Canadian cash..(it's accepted everywhere).. [Details]

Fantastic, friendly staff. Small intimate resort. Decent accommodations, great 1 level cabins for mobility issues with 2 story 4 unit buildings for more agile travellers. 24 hr bar and snack available. [Details]

Nous voyageons back pack habituellement mais avec une petite cocotte de 2 ans j'étais contente de ne pas avoir la bouffe à gérer. Il n'y a pas gros d'Activités mais pour nous c'était parfait nous avons surtout faire du snorkeling parce qu'il y a quand même des jolies petites spots de poissons et c'était un bon début pour une petite de 10 ans qui ne s'est pas du tout ennuyé.
Les bons plans :
- La petite plage moins de corail juste à gauche en sortant de l'hôtel à 2 minutes à pied.
- Playa Bianca accessible à vélo en 10 minutes (avec les vélos de l'hôtel en état moyen, ça se fait très bien) pas de vent, pas de corail, très calme.
- Le lobster pour 5cuc à côté de Playa Bianca en arrivant à la plage, tu tourne à gauche et il y a un petit container bleu avec un petit set up de tables et chaises
- Prendre le taxi avec Ruben (serveur au bar de la plage) pour 30cuc AR, se rendre à playa paquet, pas du tout de corail, pleins de poissons, sable fin, mer très calme, ça vaut la peine de sortir, catamaran... le petit resto à la plaza est bon et pas trop chère.
- Le massage sur le chemin qui mène à l'hôtel, pour 20cuc, 1 heure, massage très doux.

Pas de moustique quand nous y étions.
La 2 ans a dormi sur le petit matelas terme rest que nous avions apporté mais elle s'est faites pas mal piquer.

Il y a du cheval aussi, la balade dure moins de une heure et c'est sympathique, surement encore plus sympathique si tu parle espagnole plus que moi :)

Il n'y a pas une immense piscine mais nous ne recherchions pas nécessairement ça, nous voulions profiter de la plage et de la mer, ce n'était pas un critère pour nous.

Je recommande donc, pour ceux qui ne veulent pas être envahie par les Québécois, il y en a mais ce sont essentiellement des habitués de la place, il y aussi les famille cubaine qui viennent pour une nuit, en famille. [Details]

This has been our 7th visit in the last year. There have been changes, new mattresses, new porch chairs, new palapasses on beach, new chairs on beach, (be careful of people asking for money for the chairs) new sofas at reception. The food is still the same, shortages on variety of fruits & vegetables but still very good. The amazing personnel are still there to fulfill your special needs, The beach restaurant with Maikel is perfect for a change at lunch and the food is excellent. Unfortunately for us, our 2 weeks were windy, rainy, cloudy and cold, not the fault of Cuba! [Details]

I traveled on my own for the expressed purpose of a quiet time away. The resort did not disappoint. The food was good old fashioned home cooking (Cuban style), nothing fancy but hot and plentiful well rounded fruit, veggies and protein choices.
The beach was clean but you should bring water shoes to get into the ocean because of the rocky shore. I did manage without but would have been more secure with them on.
Many vacationers were repeat customers. I might be one of them! [Details]

It was a good vacation. Food was O.K. Staff was friendly. Resort had bikes that you can rent for free from 9AM till 4PM.
And the countryside has side roads with a scenic views. Beach is O.K. but you need a rubber slippers because of corrals. [Details]

First time visit to Don Lino, week of April 12th-19th (~13th trip to Cuba)
Impressions: 1. Beach is very picturesque, soft white sand, and lounge chairs always available. BUT water should be used only with extreme care due to pervasive coral and presence of sea urchins - not recommended for children. 2. Pool is small, but satisfactory - cleaned very morning.
3. Staff: No more or less friendly than anywhere else we've visited in Cuba. No problems, Flora in the dining room always had a smiling face and a glass of wine for us. 4. Rooms: We had booked a bungalow and had requested top floor - initial room assigned was on lower floor, a/c not working, was very musty smelling, ashtray in room, missing hair blower, 2 small towels - we were switched after complaint made. Replacement room on the top floor was up to the usual Cuban standard. Bring shampoo ( not provided but we were aware in advance) The in-room safe (included in price) was found to be completely inoperable but we did not want to risk moving to a less satisfactory room, so we lugged the valuables (passports, phone, cash) around all week which wasn't ideal. We feel that the hotel should want their guest's valuables to be secure but a working safe was not high on priority. 5. Friday night disco: (New) - caution - available to locals as well as hotel guests. music blasts until the wee hours - definitely an issue for nearby rooms 1-10. Bigger issue - theft - one hotel guest was expertly relieved of her iphone by party-goers the same night she arrived - hotel staff told her this was not the first time they had heard that complaint. 6. Buffet: Well presented, and fresh. Repetitive offerings, but cleverly presented in different ways - range of food items was more limited than we've found at the larger hotels, but this could be partly attributable to the current food shortages; no fresh bananas, tomatoes, or fresh pineapple, limited chicken. However we didn't starve, we could always find something to eat. 7. Property maintenance: Generally neat and tidy appearance. It was spring break for the Cubans (so a lot of kids) and windy, so any cups left poolside were found blowing around resort, sad to see. Safety concerns noted about the lighting outages on pathways, and lack of handrails on the wooden pathway to the beach.
Despite some of these negative issues, we had a wonderful time, as usual in Cuba. Would we return? Probably not, but only because we love to go into the ocean for a dip. (We knew this prior to booking but we wanted to enjoy this area of Cuba and didn't regret our decision.) [Details]

very quite
some work needed on the beach
very clean
road going into resort needs repair. [Details]

Don lino was more then what i was expecting. It has left me breathless . Staff was amazing not enought words to express how i feel. Its my new home away from home [Details]

This is a 2* hotel. I had what I paid for, maybe a bit more. I found this hotel better that other 2* hotel. The stuff is keen to feel you good. Ask for a Spanish coffee. You get a good one. The restaurant is clean the the personal very helpful. Food is not bad. [Details]

Date traveled: Feb 18-Feb 26
This was my second visit to Don Lino and I enjoyed the resort once again. I was in a different standard room (close to the pool) and found it adequately appointed. What food I did eat (ate off resort more than on) I found to be good quality and temperature perfect. I loved the new Pina Colada stand, so tasty. The Staff are the best, so kind and friendly. I also enjoyed a few of the resort activities. The Beach day had awesome food and drinks, as well as some archery practice. I also enjoyed the “mock” rooster fight. Those little boxing gloves they put on the rooster's spurs are too funny.
As far as off the resort, I can highly recommend Yudi's manicures and pedicures. You will find two manicurists on the road to Playa Blanca (10 min up road). Her place is on the right and her sign says Yudi's. You will spend less than 1/4the price for services you would receive up in Canada. She is an artist for sure. She also cuts men's hair. I love that her place is road side (the other is not) because you can also look out the window and watch the coming and going of life in the Playa Blanca community. If you're looking for a reliable, kind and friendly horse buggy driver. I would recommend Yunior (Junior). Just walk to gateway and ask for him. I can say that I will be returning to this resort over and over [Details]

I had reserved a bungalow, but we were lodged in a 3 room cottage... If you want the bungalow reserve a standard room. Some renovations made a noisy environment. Bring rubber water shoes and snorkling gear. Staff was outstanding. All around we loved our stay! [Details]

Bonjour,

J'arrive du Don Lino, en plus de la plus ou moins belle température, froid et venteux, la mort du ''Lider Maximo'' (le deuil nacional, interminable 9 jours), et d'innommables jours de pluie...tout n'allait pas très bien, madame la Marquise.

Première nuit, au réveil: full palmettos (coquerelles énormes) dans la chambre.
(bon, changement de chambre en vue)

Deuxième nuit à la chambre 1004, habitué à ces chambres, je ne vais même pas voir...je rentre ma valise, et part chez des amis à Freyre...
retour en PM...
Constatations: pas de siège de bol de toilette, lavabo de salle de bain se draine sur le plancher... séchoir ne fonctionne pas, je branche le mien = le breaker saute (tabarn...!), je remet le breaker à ''on'' derrière la chambre. Bon, je suis douché et prêt pour le repas du soir...ouvre la porte...force, essaie d'ouvrir la porte, rien à faire, suis enfermé à jamais ! (lol)
Je téléphone à la réception...pas de son, aucun bruit dans l'appareil...(misère...)
Je monte sur la chaise près de la fenêtre, essaie de débarrer la fenêtre...rien à faire...suis condamné à y passer le reste de mes jours...la pôle à rideaux décroche et les rideaux me tombent dessus...(simonac, m'a devenir momifié?)...cogne dans la vitre : évidemment personne ne m'entend la musique forte de la piscine toute proche enterre mes poings dans la fenêtre...cogne dans la porte...finalement au bout de 15 minutes, une demoiselle passe et me voit dans la fenêtre, elle court à la réception...
J'explique le tout au travers la porte à Ana (relation publique, qui elle, est désolée de la situation) qui va chercher le gérant, il vient, au final il défonce la porte...un air bête de ma part...réparez donc ça avant que quelqu'un ne meure dans une chambre sans que personne ne le sache.
Le ''ketch'' de la poignée était tellement rouillé que c'est lui qui a cédé lors de l'enfoncement de la porte, pas le cadrage...
ça vous donne une idée de l'entretien fait...ils sont trop occupés à bâtir de nouvelles structures qu'ils en oublient l'entretien des plus vieilles...

En résumé, un voyage de ''m....'' !
Plus jamais le DL.
Point final.
Fini.
Ciao Rosetta. ;-D

(ma revue pour Novembre et début décembre 2016, copiée/collée de trip Advisor) [Details]

Love this place. Clean, extra friendly. Only resort around. Small resort so everything close. Staff gets to know you.Horse & buggy is the way to see the sights. Ask for MECHI by name. He is young, out-going,fun, speaks English & points out the places of interest along the way to Playa Blanca (to restaurants & pristine beach) or Sainta Lucia the town about an hour away. He will wait for you while you shop and help you in anyway he can. He is a gem! Ruben is awesome @ the resort. His talents are endless. If you need anything ask for him! We will be back in December Don Lino!! Can't wait! [Details]

as expected in an low budget vacation.Room cleaniness is really lacking at this resort. [Details]

Depending what you are looking for. Time alone off the grid. RR time this may be the place . VERY BASIC. Things may or may not work .Would have liked more fish.
Ya you do not know till you try. [Details]

Had a good time at Don Lino. We read all the reviews so we new what to expect, so don't expect a 5 star experience from a 3 start resort. We were booked into a "ocean view" room at first, but when we went into the room it was very dark and musty. There was almost no light from the windows and was very depressing. My wife could not be in that room for the two weeks we would be there. I went back to the front desk and requested a change. They were very willing to accommodate and gave us the newer bungalows, which although being very dark inside was much better.

Beach: The beach is not that long for long walks and is really a coral reef so it is very rocky so you definitely need water shoes. If you like snorkeling, then this is will be great for you...lots of colorful fish just a walk away. Make sure you walk (30 mins) or take a horse/carriage ride to Playa Blanca beach...it is beautiful and all white sand.

Food: While not as much variety the food was good. There was always as least three or four meat dishes including grilled items and lots of veggies to choose from.

Entertainment: There are local bands playing daily at dinner - nice touch. As well for nightly entertainment there are local bands that perform at 9PM - 10PM. These bands are not paid by the hotel so depend on tips from the audience and are really good, so please chip in, they so appreciate the help.

Again, this is a rather small resort isolated from other resorts in the area. There is not a lot of walking to do other than to Playa Blanca (keep your eyes on the road as many horses traverse it..) If you want a quiet time relaxing by the beach, then this will do as it is budget priced and worth the stay. [Details]

Quiet laid back older single adult resort the food is good but not large selection snack bar was great burgers and fries, band in buffet could be better [Details]

I had a fantastic time at the Don Lino. The staff are who made it so. Although I was a little surprised at the lack of a bank and no Internet access being offered, I still very much enjoyed my trip...it would have been nice to have vendors come to the hotel at least a couple of days while there, but it wasn't far to the market and reasonably priced to get to and from. I would have liked a little more to be offered at the store at the hotel seeing as there were no vendors. When staying here make sure to have a 220 travel adapter as that is what is offered in the rooms. We were lucky that we had brought some pre charged adapters and a solar charged one to keep most of our electronics running. All in all though we had a fantastic time :) thanks to the fantastic staff who went the extra mile to make us feel welcome and answered our many questions. You are all awesome :) [Details]

I have been here before, it is an isolated location, good for people who do not like the crowd. [Details]

If you are looking for rest, relaxation and sun at a good price then this is the place. Clean, neat and good service. People super friendly. Very Safe!! Take water shoes. No complaints from me. For the price it was great value. Recommend a flashlight. Take a bubba mug and leave with the staff. Take some extra toothpaste, razors as giveaways, ladies knee highs or feminine products. Work gloves too. They love Canadians. Happy people. Venture out into the surrounding villages and eat in some of the restaurants. Experience local Cubans/Cuba. Wonderful culture. Oh and ladies don't expect hair dryers and take your own shower products. Great little piece of paradise. [Details]

Very nice renovated room in the new two story cottage, however bathroom is not great. [Details]

Cozy little place. Stuff is polite, rooms are clean, they offer some activities like bikes and horse riding. It's not a big motel/hotel, so at the end of the stay everyone knows each other. No line ups in the buffet, supper accompanied with local musician playing local music. There were some activities between 9-10, after 10 they roll the carpet..Beach is very rocky..you will need water shoes.And it is excellent for snorkeling..Very nice beach 25 min walk away, it's called playa blanca. You can take ride there by taxi, or horse..or walk.. Locals are friendly.. [Details]

We were a little apprehensive about booking Don Lino, but were pleasantly surprised when we stayed there. Check in was fast - only 5 people in front of us.
Room was clean and comfortable. The balcony faced the ocean. the ocean is rocky but you just need water shoes. There are sandy beaches nearby. food and service good. Staff - wonderful. efficient, friendly and helpful. pool - clean and refreshing. We are looking forward to returning next year. [Details]

There have been improvements to Don Lino since March 2013. There is more variety in the food, and there is entertainment in the evenings. Every year a little better. Keep it up! [Details]

service was super staff very nice and helpful [Details]

This was mt 4 th stay at Don Lino.
I liked the small hotel more before the new bungalows,but it is still quieter than other hotels.Most of the guests go out and explore the area.
I personally go to Holguin and visit my many friends,walk to Playa Blanca and swim or visit friends there or go for a bike ride.Next time I hopefully get time to go fishing with local fishermen.
I love the area,the people are so friendly and the staff in hotel is great.What I do not like is some tourists,who complain about weather or other things,that are not conrtolable.
I do not like to upset the staff,who is working hard to make our stay as comfy as possible. [Details]

My experience was well beyond expectation. Hotel very clean, staff very friendly, food good, beach beautiful. They can improve in entertainment department, although water ballet "Ballet Acua'tico Spirall",directed by Jamila Ramirez was amazing. [Details]

I arrived at the airport and decided not to take the taxi. Instead I took a gwagwa ( a cuban bus) I went to bayamo, played music with people in the city, then I slept on someone's roof for the night. The day after I went to don Lino in Gwagwa. It was not easy, but everybody in the streets were really taking care, and time to indicate me the directions. I finally arrived with a "coche" (it's horse trailer) at don lino after 5 hours of road.

When you have been in someone 's house in Cuba then Don Lino is more than a 5 star hotel.
Everything is clean, there's a good clim, it's calm, people are nice, the sea is beautifull.

But, then you have the choice: stay at the Hotel and speak with retired canadians, or take a bike and go to the village and see and talk with the local people. They will invite you to play domino, they will pass you a glass of ron and say "toma mas amigo" Then you will understand what's the real cuban life.
The neighbourhood was really affected by the storms the 2 last years, some people have no roof anymore and are unable to buy a one for their family. For 100 $ you can buy a roof to somebody. Then you will have friends for life.
Anything you can give will be really appreciated. Tools, lamps, usbkey, tshirts shorts shoes, caps, soap cream, perfume, candy bars, your old computer... ANYTHING

Cuban's want to see something's new. [Details]

Had a great time , met lots of nice people that go there regular, friendly staff they are like a big family, they will help you with your day trips some drive taxi on days off , great resturants in town only 7 k away , buggy rides are great. not great swimming , beach is nice , small pool but well maintained. rooms by pool the best which you can still see the beach , not a lot for kids to do [Details]