Paradisus Rio De Oro And Spa

An amazing resort and spa; rooms are Spanish inspired, very spacious and clean. Grounds are very lush and well kept. Large pool restaurant open 24 hours; beach restaurant and bar; great ala cartes and buffet. Staff is wonderful and accommodating. Spa is unbelievable with treatment rooms overlooking ocean and private pool. Swam in crystal clear ocean every day and great snorkling. Staff on beach very accommodating and supply loungers. We travel very often and have been to this resort many times. The new manager,Jose is very approachable and friendly. We keep coming back here as it is unbelievably lush and beautiful. [Details]

Just returned from Paradisus Rio De Oro - one of my best vacations ever!
Firstly, Cuba is very safe- it's easy to relax and enjoy the tropics here.
Rio de Oro is argruably the best resort in the area. The grounds are beautiful with lush, tropical, well kept grounds, the swimming pool is fabulous-it's HUGE, with lots of sun lounges. The beach is AMAZING! Crystal clear water, sandy beaches and nice shallow entry. Lots of beachside lounges, activities, beach bar and no hawkers.
The rooms are large, well equiped, clean and comfortable.
The atmosphere is very relaxed, with unbelievably accomodating staff. Fast, friendly service and a great Public Relations staff and management. Alex and Olga are terrific! They go above and beyond to help make your stay a wonderful experience.
The new manager is very friendly, helpful and anxious to help.
I loved the omllettes and lunches in the buffet, the cappucinos are fantastic and the bar area is very well stocked, nice cold beer, lots of tropical drinks and a large selectin of wines. ( I was amazed at the high end/expensive selection of wines available ) and the servers constantly refilling your wine glasses even before you had finished.
I am an experienced, retired traveller who has travelled the world and I must say that this hotel is right on the top of my list for all inclusive, tropical vacations.
IN summary - a VERY SAFE destination, beautiful, clean beaches, tropical, well kept grounds, beautiful, clean, large pool area, friendly, accomodating staff, relaxed atmosphere, lots of drinks and management staff is over the top. I highly recommend this hotel. [Details]

The hotel and grounds are lovely. The staff exceptional. The new hotel manager is a horrid little man. 3 days into a 14 day stay they said they had no wine. They had beer or rum to drink. Yet sitting at the bars certain people were being served wine. I was sitting with my sister and ordered wine. The waitress came back and said no wine. I said what do you mean no wine my sister is sitting beside me drinking a glass of wine. She just walked away. My brother in law had made some under the table deal with one of the bartenders and they had a never ending supply of wine. Speak to the manager and he just lies and schmoozes people. Everyday there was going to be wine. The last 11 days of this painful trip were without wine. Rum or beer. The food is questionable and unrecognizable for the most part. The mini bar advertised is actually a mini fridge. An empty mini fridge which was in questionable shape. The ironing board would not stay up and the iron would not iron out a wrinkle. My showers were either freezing or so hot I could not stand under it. The entertainment is not worth staying up till 9 pm for. I called the front desk and asked to speak to the manager. I was told twice he would return my call immediately. Couple of hrs later the front desk called and told me he was in a meeting but would call me as soon as he was done. He did not. The Cuban people were amazing. The manager not so much. I'm embarrassed to have to say that the manager was from Canada. I would say definitely go to Cuba. I would say definitely don't go to this so called “all inclusive” . [Details]

My wife and I arrive on February 17th at the hotel, we were greeted by staff with drinks, which was nice. Staff at checking was very nice and helpful and accommodating.

Our room was nice, privare and spacious, surrounded by nature lush trees of all kind, beautiful flowers and plants.

The staff on the ground are very very very friendly, kind and willing to help were they can, even though certain food was limited on the Island, which was none of their fault, but they made it work and you would not even notice it at all because the staff was that good.

The food was good, from the Cuban restaurant, Mediterranean and International that we tried, they were good.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner was good also as (all you can eat) fresh food, fresh fruits, fresh juice was great to have.

The 24 hour restaurant was great, the staff- server and Chef was so accommodating makes you feel relax, even though it was 1 am in the morning.

The beach was good, there is parts you can go scuba diving and other part you go swimming or just chill on the beach.

We took a day trip into the town and saw alot, from schools, University, hospital, vintage cars etc., the culture was beautiful and so was the people.

My wife and I met the general manager for the hotel, who was gracious enough to spend some time answering questions we had and I appreciate that alot from him, it made us feel more relax.

Overall, we had a great time and would come back. [Details]

The grounds of this resort were amazing. The biggest plus that this resort has is the staff. Everyone from the gardeners, housekeeping, bar staff, food services were incredible. Each staff member has guests satisfaction at the top of their minds and go out of their way to ensure you are enjoying your stay with them. There is a lot of potential for this resort, but they need to look at modernizing the guest rooms. As noted in the weak points, our dead bolt did not function as there was no hole cut into the frame. This was reported but unfortunately did not get resolved during our stay. The food was above standard in a lot of ways. The desserts were top-shelf, especially the banana crepes with rum - OMG I miss those already. The made-to-order omelets made a great start to any day. A big shout-out to the pool bar staff as they were among the best of the best - gracias! [Details]

It's starting to show its age [Details]

Not a true 5 star resort in our opinion. Dated rooms, but clean. Not lots of drunks available. There was no vodka during most of our trip. [Details]

Wow we fell in love with this place. Ive never ben more relaxed, our room was amazing, we had the junior suite and it was more than good enough for us thats for sure! Staff was great and so helpful. Weather was PERFECT. Amazing coral reefs right off the beach! Spa was amazing also! Food was great for what they could get, i know certain things are very limited but we ate good! [Details]

The royal service area is worth the upgrade. It allowed us to enjoy a quieter lobby and quieter pool. It also provided access to beach number three which was for royal guests only. The main lobby and the main pool is busier with more going on and noise if you want to visit that area, you are able to. Therefore, the best of both worlds. There was some confusion when we arrived in being able to get to the Royal service concierge and reception. We waited in the main line up in main lobby before asking staff members how and where the Royal service area was. So better process for guests, in relation to that, would be recommended. Unfortunately although we arrived at noon, our understanding was that check-in was 3 PM. We ended up having to wait until 430 to get our room and even then when we arrived the cleaners were still in our room. Made for a bit of an awkward welcome. Because of the scramble we also did not have our butler take us around, show us to our room, or take our order for stocking the fridge. We ended up with a couple of different staff members fulfilling those duties. Overall, though, the Royal service upgrade is worth it . Our butler, Junior was amazing as were those that were filling in for him on his days off. All staff were friendly and accommodating. We enjoyed breakfast on our balcony each morning without having to leave our room as it was delivered. With regards to food, I understand cuba is a bit limited, as to what they have access to however, with what they already have, they could use some assistance with how to cook meats in a way that don't dry out and perhaps have more flavor. They could probably use the services of a good chef to assist them in creating better versions of their menus and making them more flavourful with what resources they have. They also did not change our sheets during our seven nights stay, which I thought was odd. No one had instructed us that we need to request sheet change throughout our stay. The hotel is about one hour away from Holguin airport. Our rep in destination was very difficult to nail down as they were only there for two hours, and we had to make our way to the main lobby as they do not visit royal service lobby at all which I would suggest might be a good idea or allow those in the other section to book an appointment time to meet up. The time they were available was prime beach/pool time between 1 and 3 PM and when we did visit, there was a line of people waiting to see them. Not a great process. [Details]

My son and I have a great time at this fantastic resort. People said to be weary about the food in Cuba. Well not at this resort, it was fabulous. The staff were the best and the facilities were exceptionally clean. [Details]

This was my first visit to the hotel. My friends had visited pre-COVID and recommended the location. It is an adults-only, well established resort. Predominantly comprised of middle aged/older guests - this is not a party resort, but a more sedate vibe.

The room was spacious and clean. Good variety of spaces, with ample seating and lounging areas. Some interesting outdoor spaces to explore.

The biggest challenge was due to food/drink shortages and this is where a guest needs to manage expectations. Buffet fare was the same each day, some items (like papaya and lettuce) made inconsistent appearances. For example, the salad buffet consisted of onions, white cabbage, carrots, beets and sometimes cucumbers. Don't expect broccoli, cauliflower, kale, mixed greens, or peppers. The fruit on offer was apple, star fruit, white grapefruit and pineapple. You won't find mixed berries, watermelon, mango or grapes. I don't believe this is unique to this resort in Cuba.

Vodka and rum were in large supply but there was no tequila, gin, club soda, diet pop or ginger ale.

If you have food/drink intolerances, dislikes or allergies, your options may be minimal.

The best places to eat were the beach restaurant and pool bar restaurant (food was made to order). The Cuban and International a la carte restaurants served the best quality wine.

You can tip in Canadian, USD or Cuban pesos. Note that only paper money is accepted (ie, no coins). Many staff have worked at the resort for years and get to know repeat guests. Overall, they are polite, and friendly. I never experienced any mediocre or rude behaviour - only smiles, and a willingness to serve within the limits that exist.

Overall, if you don't have high expectations in relation to the food and drink, if you enjoy beautiful beaches and a quiet space, you will happy at this resort. [Details]

This was our 39th visit to PRDO . We were able to deliver 3 suitcases of Humanitarian Medical Aid to a Paediatric Hospital and 2 nearby Consultorios from the group we volunteer with. We stayed in the Royal Service and certainly enjoyed the food, the service and the evening entertainment in the Royal Service. Our disappointment was with the Lobby Bar at the Main Resort where it was not possible to find a No Smoking Table in the evening due to the very few No Smoking tables being occupied by Smokers . This was brought to the attention of the Customer Service Department on Nov. 2 , the evening we arrived and again on Nov.3 when I complained to the Night Duty Manager. We were unable to enjoy the evening entertainment in the Main Lobby to celebrate our 49th Wedding Anniversary.
I am a Nurse who suffered from a Smoke Inhalation Injury while evacuating patients during a fire . There is currently no Safe area in the PRDO Main Lobby for Non Smokers or those with Respiratory Issues to enjoy the evening entertainment. [Details]

The hotel was nice we found pool very dirty all restaurants were great but we did lose power in r room 2 and no water one day for about 6 hours that was not good [Details]

The management of this resort took part in a Covid scam on my boyfriend. It cost us $2500.00 extra and he was never confirmed to be positive. This caused tremendous stress to me and I was crying for days. They never once checked up on my boyfriend. They even threatened me on several occasions. We were in the same room and I was negative. They blamed everything on the medical unit and would not even offer an apology. This was the worst vacation experience of my life. [Details]

The staff are truly incredible and go out of their way to deliver excellent service every time, so very friendly.Entertainment was missing the usual high spots but I guess with covid and some resorts closed for renovations it's difficult to arrange acts from Havana etc so that will change.Some food was not available or in short supply eg potatoes, breakfast sausages, Also coffee tea and snacks where not available in the rooms.
The resort is showing some signs of age but upgrades are taking place walk in showers for example.
Taking all that into consideration we had a wonderful time the staff make any holiday special.
Our only gripe was the smokers walking through the lobby, around the pool and taking seats at the front of the stage, and the cigarette buts just thrown down anywhere.This has not happened when we have been there before and is not acceptable the resort must go back to dedicated smoking areas for the comfort of everyone.
But that said we will return again. [Details]

a lovely all inclusive with good beach, average snorkelling, lovely pool area and good food options [Details]

This was our first trip during COVID. We noticed some obvious changes aimed at managing COVID restrictions. Despite that we were surprised by the excellent customer service [Details]

Our experience at PRDO was the best! The facility, beach and surrounding country side was very beautiful. The service at the resort was exceptional. The food was plentiful and good quality. I love Cuban coffee! It is obvious the the Owners and staff taske pride in the facility and service. Thank you for a most enjoyable vacation! [Details]

We stayed in the junior deluxe villa with the garden view, it was lovely and you felt quite secluded there, which we like. You will not be disappointed with this hotel. Staff go out of their way to be helping and are very friendly. Food is great, better than any I've experienced in Cuba before. The Cuban music band which played on the beach and at the evening entertainment were fantastic!!
I would definately return. [Details]

The hotel was beautiful but it was unprepared for guests. The whole trip from the time we arrived at the airport seemed like it they were not ready to receive visitors.
I booked Royal service which was supposed to include Royal service transfers from the Airport, I was told at the airport that "this does not exist anymore".
There was supposed to be Wi-Fi in our room, another inclusion in Royal service, but there was not, I tried to ask for it to be fixed, but they could not fix it.
The WI-FI in the lobby was working sometimes, not always, I had to use my data plan to connect and even then the connection did not always work.
The beach for the Royal service is very small and poorly kept, there was seaweed all over the beach that was not cleaned, big mounds.
The Pool is also very small, it is beautiful but small. If the Royal service was full, the pool would have been over crowded. There is no swim up bar at the pool in the Royal service.
The food was not good, the choices were very limited. The A la Carte restaurants offered the same choices no matter which one we ate at.
The buffet was small and extremely limited.
Our hot water did not work in our room for 3 days! We had to take cold showers!
I have been to Cuba many times, stayed at Paradisus in Varadero, Melia and Iberostar, and this was by far my worst experience.
We hired a taxi for the morning to go shopping, only to find out the market in town was closed, something the butler who arranged the taxi for us should have known.
There were no activities, no shows, no WI-FI, poor food, poorly kept grounds, it was a very bad experience and something I did not expect when booking with Paradisus.
One side note, if you do go to Cuba, bring small Canadian currency for tips, there is no way to change large bills, if you want to tip in Canadian dollars you need to bring small bills with you.
I will go back to Cuba because I love it, but not to Paradisus Rio De Oro, I feel like I wasted my money, and I never feel that way after a holiday, I am very sorry to have to say this. [Details]

Another great stay at the Paradisus resort. Great food and awesome service. [Details]

Great location, clear ocean water, nice beach to walk on, not too crowded. If you like walking, this is a good choice, as there are walks around the facility and on the beach. Snorkelling right off the beach along the coral reef was very enjoyable. We enjoyed the food and service, staff was great. We were able to enjoy the spa and had a massage or two, including a therapeutic one. [Details]

Our vacation here was excellent. We had the trip booked for several months but sept 11 our 10 week old grandson passed away. We were hesitant on going on the vacation but figured it might help with our heads. Checking in was quick, taken straight to our rooms. There was a restaurant/grill still open for us when we arrived. Rooms were clean, everything worked. Pools were beautiful. Beach was beautiful. The resort was slow as Thomas Cooke had declared bankruptcy the week before. To say the least we had lots of staff for few guests. I met a lady in the lobby who is a professional artist. Her name is Yohonis Crus Betancourt. I gave her a picture of my grandson. On the Friday she returned with a portrait for me. I took it out of the envelope and cried. It was more lifelike than the picture. If you want a painting done go see her. When I go back to Cuba it will be to this resort just to get another painting done. Everything about the resort was beautiful. The staff were amazing and one of the managers,Alexis Riveron,he went above and beyond what I think he needed too. I would highly recommend this resort. I know I'll be going back.
Steve beacock [Details]

This was my 5th time at this resort in the past I have really enjoyed myself and have had great weather I have always stayed at The Royal Service

However this time around not so much. We had rain for most of the week while I was there.
I had asked the resort by sending them a email a few weeks before my trip if I could have the room That I stayed in last night and they said they would do their best to have it for me. When I got there the receptionist said no that room was not available
It seemed liked every time I went to the bar to get a drink they were always out of the liquor that they needed to make the drink so they were always substituting. The restaurant at the beach was closed I was so disappointed with that. The food at the Royal Service wasn't as good as I had it in the past and same with the service. Trying to exchange money at the front desk was another disappointment they never seem to be able to do it and if they did it was in large bills which wasn't good for tipping they suggested that I go to the other resort.
The reason I have stayed at the Royal Service is because they are suppose to cater to you and pamper you I sure didn't feel this time I was here. I paid double the amount that I would have paid for staying at the main resort and I'm sorry to say the value was not there this time around. I was very disappointed.

In the past I have recommended this resort to many of my friends In not sure after my experience this time that I would do that sorry to say [Details]

Very good service, very good food, quite and clean
If you are over 50 this is the hotel to go to. [Details]

Great hotel excellent service. Great staff. [Details]

Royal Services at Paradisus Rio de Oro is really a "paradises". I was there with my sister a couple of weeks ago. Everything was "perfect". The hotel is located in a really nice spa. The nature surround it is beautiful. The beach is small but very nice and relaxing. The hotel facilities are really good, the rooms are nice, clean and spacious but the best of all is the services! All the employees are great since the manager to the restaurant, lobby bar, beach bar, reception, butler, transport between buildings. All of them are very professionals and hard workers and make you feel that you are in a family. I really recommend Royal Services at Paradisus Rio de Oro. I'll be back soon, for sure! [Details]

Our third time here (on the Royal Service side) and not the last one.
Rooms are large and well appointed, a separate beach exclusive for RS guests and the gourmet restaurant where they will be happy to customize their menu per your request.
The only downside is that rooms show their age and I hope management will start refurbishing soon.
We had great time there! [Details]

It is home away from home for us . Our 10th visit at Rio de Oro and looking to go back again next month to visit " family". The resort is the finest and the staff makes it even more endearing. Martica does the yoga every morning, followed by water exercises, then spanish lessons in the afternoon. Next dinner at one of the a la Carte's followed by great entertainment, yet another one of Martica strong points. I would recommend this resort to anyone who wants to go to Cuba. Shout outs to Alex, Aya and the entertainment crew. They do an excellent job. Now, that is on the regular side where we have been 4 times.
Since then, we've gone to royal service in the same resort 6 times where it is more laid back and get pampered rotten. Everyone has become like family, especially David, who keeps our mini bar topped up with our favourite drinks.
This resort is the best there is and we can't get wait to get back. It is reasonably priced and absolutely gorgeous with amazing beaches. [Details]

I have been to Cuba about 16 times (in various cities), and this was the best hotel experience I've ever had. I highly recommend it. I love to snorkel, and the beach here was also the best I've seen in Cuba. I went with a group of friends, and the lifeguard Angel Victor was even gracious enough to give us a snorkel tour! He dove in, picked up sea urchins in his hands (I had no idea you could handle these safely, but this kind was ok he said), then he would break them with a rock and feed the fish with the interior of the urchin! We were so grateful for his generosity and hospitality. The rooms in the hotel are great, the food was good and nobody in our group got sick, the staff was all around friendly and helpful. We are highly likely to return, mainly because of the incredibly beautiful snorkeling we were able to discover thanks to Angel Victor the lifeguard! [Details]