Gran Caribe Hotel Inglaterra

I spent 10 hours running around Havana over $20 because nobody would tell me the nearest currency exchange was at the next hotel. It cost me a whole day, with staff harassing me throughout. The payment machines weren’t working, and employees followed and pressured me as if I were trying to cheat them, despite already having my passport and card details. They even pushed me to arrange a transfer through some random person. I refused. Service was painfully slow, with waits of 20 minutes to over an hour at a table. They charged for things like the minibar even when unused. I heard multiple tourists complain about the same problems. The staff glare at you and make you feel unwelcome and unsafe, while overcharging and treating guests disrespectfully. One of my worst travel experiences. I strongly advise tourists against staying here or even walking in.

The tacos and drinks were both good, and the waiter was awesome, though I can’t remember his name. The rooftop was really nice too. If I remember right, it’s cash only, so come prepared.

I’d read some mediocre reviews just before the trip and was a little worried, but the hotel turned out well. It’s in the town centre, in a typical 1950s building, with clean rooms, good air conditioning, and a more than decent breakfast buffet. I avoided any minibar confusion by asking reception to make sure it was empty when I arrived. I always do that, just to be clear.

The location on parque central is excellent, and I always enjoy a mojito here. Prices recently shot way up, then got cut in half. It’s state owned, so the service can be hit or miss 🙄