Fodor's Expert Review Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa

Varadero's reigning luxury resort for adults creates an aura of castaway-island seclusion, amid swaying Royal palms, tropical gardens and an unequaled beachfront that's dotted with thatch-roofed shelters. Sparkling-blue waterways wind throughout the property and guests travel shaded, flower-edged paths to spacious, sophisticated, two-level rooms that have sitting areas overlooking bedrooms. Brand-new, contemporary bathrooms have separate tub, vanity, and toilet areas, and each room has a private, white-railed veranda with either a sunrise or sunset view. The modern, all-white, main lobby, with a 24-hour bar, is where guests meet their private concierge, who will look after all their needs throughout their stay. Along with excellent à la carte restaurants, the hotel features a mini-village of cafés, featuring French crepes, homemade ice cream and Italian coffee, which is all included. There's also an impressive, air-conditioned cigar emporium. Two night clubs—one a disco, the other, live jazz—complement the nightly entertainment on an outdoor stage beside the largest of the resort's two pools. Tennis courts and a serene spa offer other diversions. Many of the mostly Canadian, British, and German guests are repeat visitors, seduced by the service and attention to detail here, orchestrated by a Canadian-based management team.