Fodor's Expert Review Meliá Varadero

Varadero's first luxury hotel remains in the top tier of area resorts with six wings that fan out like flower petals from a lush circular atrium; the quality of the rooms and five à la carte restaurants don't disappoint. Paella is the lunch specialty at the casual, beachfront Ranchón restaurant. There are two pools and the requisite white beach. Although there is no kids' club, there are lots of child-focused, programmed activities. Rooms are sleek and modern and each has a balcony, with garden, pool, or ocean views (extra). Level Two rooms are close to the beach and have concierge service; premium ocean-view rooms have corner terraces with double the view. For golfers, there is a free shuttle service to the nearby Varadero Golf Club plus discounted rates.