The all-inclusive, five-star Barceló Marina Palace, recently opened in Cuba's Varadero as part of a joint marketing strategy between Barceló Hotels and the Gaviota Group S.A., is an excellent lodging designed to enrich the world of those who come to stay here.

By and large, the Marina Palace is one of the most luring choices this superb Caribbean travel destination has to offer. Its peculiar building style –commonplace in all Barceló resorts- and decoration make guests feel as if they were in some kind of nautical club. Seashells, oars, marine life, starfishes, an array of vessels splayed on canvass and anchors are some of the motifs that dominate this original decorative concept in which the tropical blue-and-green hues of the Caribbean are everywhere.

The entire hotel evokes the deep blue sea, especially because it's located on the northernmost tip of the Hicacos Peninsula and right across from the Gaviota Marina, the island nation's premier nautical installation. On the other hand, the Marina Palace covers an exclusive 1.2-mile-long beach strip. In addition to that, its proximity to the Varadero Ecological Park gives this establishment an additional allure for friends of the environment and nature lovers.

The first building stage comprises a block of 300 junior suites, all of them well equipped and furnished, and exquisitely decorated in the purest maritime style, resembling old-timed ships packed with gears and tackles. Once the facility is completed, the hotel will count on 636 rooms, featuring 88 deluxe suites covering the exclusive area of Cayo Libertad, a tiny islet not far from there.

Specially laid out for family travelers, the Barceló Marina Palace has what it takes to please both kids and adults during this exciting vacation trip. Its many restaurants, ranging from smorgasbords to a-la-carte eateries, the children's playground, the roomy and splendid theater, and lots of other conveniences are some of the attractions that will be waiting for guests from elsewhere. A smart entertainment program, top-notch and customized services everywhere, intimacy and paradise looks all around surrounded by lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery are made to pack a punch among even the most demanding tourists. Once you come to this place, you'll surely be coming back for forever more.

Useful Tips: The hotel is outfitted with: - 300 rooms (first stage of the project), plus 120 additional accommodations that will be ready in May. In all, the hotel will have 636 rooms by the end of 2005 (88 suites located in the exclusive area of Cayo Libertad, equipped with a private pier and featuring access to the services of the Marina Gaviota.

- A smorgasbord and other a-la-carte restaurants specialized in different types of food. Besides, there's a grill & barbecue area serving Cuban food for lunch and light snacks.

- A superb swimming pool and poolside bar.

- A variety of bars around the compound, including the lobby bar (open 24 hours a day), the poolside bar and another one installed at the magnificent theater.

- Children's playground with customized assistance at the Baby Club and Mini Club.

- An excellent 750-seat theater.

- Convention Center for 300 people that can be partitioned into a couple of 150-seat halls.

When the second stage of the hotel is phased in, the Barceló Marina Palace will feature a gorgeous oceanfront spa with Jacuzzis and a gym for both men and women.

Other Service: Boutique, Hair Salon, Business Center, Car & Bike Rental and other conveniences that mark Barceló Hotels all around the world.

Mailing Address: Autopista Sur (Final), Punta Hicacos, Varadero Phone: 66-9966 Fax: 66-7200 E-mail: reservasbarcelo@marinapalace.co.cu