Site Visit Review: Melia Las Antillas - Varadero, Cuba

[Amarillis]

Hey Ladies,

In early February 2008 we went on a research trip in hopes of finding the perfect wedding location. While we were there we checked out 3 resorts - I couldn't decide whether or not to post this in the reviews section - it technically is research.

Melia Las Antillas, this resort is really nice, and thanks to Megan Crouse at Megan's Brides by Oceans Travel we gave it a chance, On most sites it is classified as a 4.5*. It was previously a ‘Beaches’ resort and under this banner they hosted many weddings, under the ‘Melia’ banner, the number of weddings has decreased due to the lack of name recognition.

Upon arrival at the resort we did not have an appointment to meet with the wedding coordinator; it was our wonderful luck that upon arrival the wedding coordinator was able to meet with us right away. Her name is Kandy and she speaks perfect English. She was elated to show us the property.

Beach: This resort is at the near middle of the peninsula, and the beach is exactly what you would expect for Varadero – they have the pristine white sand beaches that one would expect.

Rooms: This is an all-suites hotel and the rooms were gorgeous, all have sitting areas, balconies, and very nice decorations.

Food: We toured the buffet, and my FI decided that there was enough selection to accommodate even the pickiest of our friends.

Pools: The pool area huge, very nice, very clean and there is a Jacuzzi near the pool.

Grounds: The grounds were well kept and there are two wedding gazebos on site. They were well decorated and had nice rod iron white furniture in the surrounding area. There was also a gorgeous area that was very shaded and had many hammocks hanging from the trees.

Near by the beach there is also a historic landmark where sugarcane farmers had a kitchen area. This area was incredible and would be great to have champagne and cake at this location. .

This was our original choice for our DW - however, at the eleventh hour - they decided that they will not be accepting children at this resort. We have promised 7 neices and nephews that they are coming and thus, we have changed our choice to the Barcelo Marina Palace.

[Amarillis]

Here are some photos my FI and I took of the Melia Las Antillas!

outside front lobby


outside the El Romantico Restaurant - where we would have had our dinner/reception


inside the El Romantico Restaurant


in the cuban farmers kitchen - historic site on the property - where we wanted to have our cake and champagne toasts - this is adjacent to the beach




wedding set up photo as sent by the wedding coordinator Kandy




I have also attached some of the wedding documentation as sent by Kandy to us when we were planning the wedding that ended up being cancelled.

I am still a little sad that we aren't having our big day there....

It really is a great resort! Perfect for a wedding! The suites were fantastic!