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Breezes Jibacoa 11/05/02
Reviewers Rating:  Great
To start with, it is probably best to say that this was only my third trip to Cuba, my first two experiences were at Breezes Costa Verde which has a higher rating. I wanted to try something different and trusted the Breezes brand. Check-In: Disorganized. A table was set up in the lobby with envelopes with keys. Each guest was required to fill out a form and then would receive their envelope. This caused chaos. There were 3 employees trying to start a queue. Those of us that formed a queue were left until last as all other tourists were scrambling. A line up at reception would have made things run smoother. The drink on arrival was a nice touch. Having been one of the people attempting to form a queue, I ended up waiting 40 minutes for someone to show me to my room. Had it been daylight I would have gone myself (it was 10pm when we checked in). Rooms: Great. No complaints. Room was spacious and I was lucky enough to have a great view of the pool and be close to all amenities. (Block 13). Housekeeping staff were fabulous. Restaurants: Buffet - Great for Cuba, food was comparable to resorts in both Cuba and other islands. Martino's - Great, but not comparable to the "Martino's" brand in other Breezes resorts where the food seemed to be more "authentic italian". Here it was more like Pizza Hut doing Lasagne etc. Still, a nice break from the Buffet during the week. Beach Grill: Excellent. Great snack food throughout the afternoon and evening. Bars: I knew in advance this was a quiet resort. I usually pick them for this reason...this is a resort where you make your own party!!! If you are willing to do so, you will enjoy the evenings. Disco - Music was a great mix...make sure you make requests though, otherwise its the same stuff every night. The DJs are great and will accomodate any request as long as they have it. If they don't, and you do, pass the CD along for the night, or give it to them. I usually burn some CDs before arrival and leave them behind. Variety of drinks in the disco was limited, despite the tent cards offering all cocktails, but you can always find something! Service was great. Lobby Bar - Really depends on the crowd. Generally pretty quiet. The staff at this bar are fabulous. Our favourite was Omar! Piano Bar - Service wasn't spectacular...tip or no tip...The two guys tend to be easily preoccupied by other hotel staff and guests. There can be no one at the bar and you will wait. Service be as it may, the guys are a great laugh once you get "in" with them. Pianist wasn't there every night which was disappointing. Pool Bar - Service was always speedy, but if you are looking for friendly staff....head to the lobby bar! Beach Bar - dido on the above. Service without a smile. Entertainment: Sorry, I'm not one for the shows so have no comment! Excursions: Here are the trips we did: 1. Havana Day Trip - $51US incl. lunch and 2 drinks. Fantastic sightseeing. Well worth the money. A little more free time would have made the trip even better. (Trip leaves at 830am, returns at 5pm, with 1 hour freetime.....arrival back at 6 or 7 would have been better). 2. Scooter Tours - Santa Cruz: US$12/scooter Great. You really do see more of the "real Cuba" on this trip. Bacanygua US$12/scooter - more touristy, but great sightseeing. 3. Havana at Night - this is not an organized tour. Talk to the staff and they will "arrange" it. Cost us $50US for transport there and back from 7pm to whenever (we came back at 4am). Make sure you get the "guide" to take you where the locals go if you want to take in the culture. It is much more enjoyable and cheaper! Despite a couple of mishaps the trip was great. Again, not comparable to the newer Breezes Costa Verde, but if you want to see Havana without a long journey; get the place on a last minute deal; can make your own party; and don't expect the full 4 star rating you will enjoy the place! Unfortunately, there was some issues with service as a result of a staff member marrying a hotel guest and having their honeymoon in the resort. No issues with that, the problems stemmed from the employee and his wife's entourage of wedding guests preoccupying the staff. My guess, based on other reviews and repeat guests to the hotel, is we were there the wrong week for service.
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