In the best beach stretch of Varadero, the International Hotel was opened on December 24 that same year.

In addition to be regarded by many as the major hotel of the peninsula, the most emblematic hotel of Varadero is also an exponent of a rich history that is now revived, thanks to the renewal process undertaken in 1999. Its doors have been reopened after the completion of the renewal process to welcome the tourists. Old plans, drawings and pictures of the hotel were the information source of architects, builders, designers and artists in general. Though a beach hotel, there are elements typical of an urban construction, especially seen in its architecture and in the Continental Night Club, unique for its aesthetic design and comfort, well enrooted in the Cuban tradition. Wherever the guest is—in the lobby, the reception desk, the bar, the cafeteria, stores, service rooms—can admire that clean and blue sea of one of the most beautiful beaches of the entire world. Francisco Hurtado Toledo, General Director of the hotel, underlines that now in Varadero more modern hotels are found; but the International cannot be deprived of its history, that involves the imprint left by famous political personalities. The hotel belongs to the Cuban hotel chain Gran Caribe S.A. and its commercialization is based upon traditional plans. The facility has 163 wide rooms—unique for their beauty and size—the furniture is that of the 50's as the rest of the hotel. The wide spaces make easier to offer a more specialized service, and thus contributing to keep also the tradition in the field of services. For the new millenium, the International Hotel will be again the symbol of Varadero.