Alas Habana B&B

My time in Cuba felt safe and well cared for, and I’m already looking forward to going back. I left at age 8, so this visit was a remarkable journey for me. It reaffirmed my belief that nothing compares to the heart and soul of the Cuban people. My mind is American, but my heart will always be Cuban. Gracias por todo. In La Habana, I highly recommend Alas Habana if you’re fortunate enough to visit. It’s a beautifully renovated old home in the Playa area, close to La Habana Vieja en el Vedado. The marble staircase and solid wood doors are lovely, the rooms are clean and charming, and there’s a relaxing outdoor patio with all the amenities. Breakfast was fit for a queen or king, with lots of great food, especially the fruit and café con leche. All the staff were kind, helpful, and attentive. I also want to thank the owners and managers, Rene, Alberto and Elizabet. They kindly helped with my unusual requests, from getting a Cuban phone line to traveling to Varadero and Santa Clara, and visiting the Catedral in La Habana for one last prayer request. They made it all possible with a smile. Rene and his wife, Marta, also have a charming casa particular in Boca de Camarioca, less than a mile from Varadero. I think Varadero is the most beautiful beach in Cuba and anywhere else. For a visit there, I recommend staying at their tranquil, typical Cuban home. It’s more economical than staying in Varadero proper, while still letting you enjoy the beach, and there’s a small, very nice beach almost behind the house. It can easily sleep two families or more and has all the amenities, including full air conditioning. I preferred having the windows open to enjoy the ocean breeze at night. I stayed in the spacious, clean upstairs studio apartment. If you want a break from daily stress and a chance to relax, this is the place for you.