What you need to know about Cuba!
I do not know the scene at Varadero, but I can give you the general scene in Cuba.
1) I suggest that you stay in Havana and not go out to the outlying areas that are mostly tourist traps
2) Bring back your maximum allotment of cigars ans cigarelos that you can afford. I believe that you are allowed 2 boxes plus one 24 loose cigars (open box) plus 200 cigarellos. (check the allotment at this time, it may have changed. Never buy cigars on the street as they might be made of garden weeds or factory floor sweepings with stlolen cigar bands from the factory. Buy the cigars at a government authorized cigar store, it will have government stickers and you will need the store reciept to get the cigars out of the country.
If you are a non smoker buy mild cigars (Monte Cristo NUMBER 4, OR NUMBER 2s. You will still enjoy them even if you do not smoke, and you will be quite polpular with your friends.
3) To be treated like a king, give the waitor/waitress $2 American at the start of the diner. This is the only tip they will be able to keep. The tip that you give(15%) at the end of the meal with your check is the property of Fidel Castro! (do the same for hotel staff and chamber maids ($2 per day) They will appreciate the money and will help make your stay much more enjoyable.
4) Go to Walmart before your start your trip and buy low priced clothing, shirts, shoes, pants ect. Give these items away to the locals when you leave Cuba. They will use or sell these items to help them out.
5) Do not be an ugly American Gringo and act like you are better than they are, if you do they might spit into your food or drink. (I would do the same if someone treated me bad) Wear a Canadian maple leaf and be an ambassador for Canada. (they like Canadians)
6) If you are looking for "Senior Eaters" a local will be invaluable in your quest. You might have young ladies smile at you, invite them over for a drink and diner, some of these girls will get friendly because they expect you to take them out for shopping.
Always give the young ladies something at the end of the evening (suggestion $50 American, U.S. money is king no .69 cent Canadian stuff please.