Havana, the tourist destination par excellence in Cuba thanks to more than five centuries of history, has leisure options which support the cultural heritage existing in its historical heart.
This urban area, known as Old Havana and declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, preserves numerous museums, churches, cultural institutions and buildings dating back to colonial times, including 33,000 buildings which were constructed during the 18th and the 19th centuries.
In addition, Habaguanex S.A. manages small hotels of Spanish style, which perfectly complement the tourist industry in the island by providing a reduced number of rooms but adding a touch of intimacy and modesty which is highly appreciated by visitors.
The emergence of these small hotels, next to hotel giants with hundreds of rooms, aims at rescuing an ancient tradition when these places were in charge of meeting the lodging needs in the big cities.
Among these options, the Armadores de Santander hotel stands out; the history of the hotel dates back to the 19th century when Don Ramón Herrera y Sancibrián, who was born in a town near the Spanish city of Santander, settled in Havana.
The facility offers 39 comfortable rooms, including a special suite and two junior suites, with all the necessary leisure conditions in an urban environment.
Cigar lovers can enjoy unique places like the Conde de Villanueva hotel or Los Frailes, a monastery-style facility; these options are complemented by Palacio de San Miguel, an attractive offer for those who wish to enjoy culture and intimacy
The abovementioned Palacio de San Miguel has an enviable position near the sea, with an urban landscape which integrates the colonial fortresses of the city’s old defensive system with the colorful display of craftwork sellers.
The facility is located in a building purchased in 1916 by Antonio San Miguel y Segalá, a distinguished citizen who was involved in journalism and writing, and turned the building into an important center for cultural meetings.
The cast iron stairs, the balconies with shining marble rails, and ten rooms distributed in the three floors of the facility are ready to welcome guests, while offering an excellent view of the bay and modern comforts ranging from air conditioning to satellite television.
These facilities have their common features but, on the other hand, each of them has its own characteristics aimed at certain tourist segments.
As an example, the Tejadillo hotel, with 32 rooms, comprises three mansions from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries and it offers the option of a private kitchen in 17 rooms, for those who wish to cook their own meals.