This family-friendly hotel was opened in 2005 and comprises a total of 548 rooms of which 535 are junior suites, 8 are suites and 5 are wheelchair accessible rooms. The hotel's location amidst wonderful gardens provides for an air of exclusivity. The 24-hour reception area offers a hotel safe and currency exchange counter. Facilities include a hairdresser's salon, a bar, a café, the El Cobo Cuban disco, an auditorium for 550 people, a games room, a restaurant, a business centre and conference facilities. Furthermore, guests may take advantage of the public Internet access, the bicycle hire service as well as in-house laundry and room service. Younger guests may let off steam in the playground as well as participate in kids' club activities. There is a car park for those arriving by car. Location This hotel lies in one of the most important marinas of Cuba, the Gaviota in the tourist area of Varadero, in the immediate vicinity of the environmental exploration park, Punta Hicaco. The nearest beach spans approximately 2 km and is just metres from the hotel. In addition, the centre of Varadero lies some 15 km away. Varadero airport may be reached in just 35 m minutes whilst Havanna airport is a 2.5 hours drive away. Rooms Each of the rooms comes with an en suite bathroom with hairdryer, scales and bathrobes. Additional in-room facilities include a direct dial telephone, Internet access, satellite TV, an iron and ironing board, a minibar, a hire safe, a ceiling fan, air conditioning, a double or king-sized bed and a coffee machine. From the terrace or balcony guests are able to enjoy beautiful views of the sea, the garden and the beach. Sport In the garden area guests may make use of the three swimming pools, Jacuzzi, children's pool and pool bar. On the sun terrace with sun loungers and parasols, guests will find the spa area with sauna, steam bath as well as spa and massage options (Shiatsu and Reiki). The countless sporting activities on offer include aerobics, gymnastics as well as a multi-purpose sporting complex with tennis, table tennis, basketball, volleyball badminton and billiards. On the beach volleyball can be played and various water sports options such as surfing, windsurfing, sailing, catamaran sailing, canoeing, rowing and pedalo hire are available. A varied entertainment programme provides some amusement for guests both young and old. Meals Lunch and the evening meal can be chosen from a buffet whilst the latter may alternatively be taken à la carte. It is possible to book an all-inclusive stay. Payment MasterCard and VISA are accepted as methods of payment.