Hotel Nacional de Cuba

Hotel Nacional de Cuba
It's not hard to envision Hemingway casually puffing on a Cohiba while penning his newest read in the seaside courtyard of one of Cuba's most recognized establishments. Decorating the Malecón, Havana's main waterfront boulevard, Nacional's reputation precedes it: Not only was it favored by the literary legend, but cinematic greats like Marlon Brando have laid their heads to rest here, some of the world's most well-known Italian-American gangsters were at one time regulars, ambassadors and diplomats from all corners of the globe have taken up lodging in its 457 rooms. Though the stately building suffered serious neglect following the Revolution, its eight-story palatial façade – which underwent renovation in 1992 – nevertheless remains truly remarkable. In recent years, Havana’s signature hotel has been overshadowed by more modern five stars that have begun cropping up around the city. Still, Nacional’s a steal and, despite being on the higher end price-wise for Cuba, it undoubtedly costs less than any four- or five-star joint on its neighboring Caribbean isles. The rooms are nothing fancy, albeit clean and far better than most you’ll find elsewhere in the city. Request a space with an ocean view—if you’re really lucky, you’ll land one of the select few with balconies. Nacional’s only notable downside is its location—situated in the Havana outskirts of Vedado, it’s a bit of a walk from the center, but a cheap taxi ride will get you there in five minutes or less.

Calle 21 y O, 10400 Havana. [tel] 537-838-0294. [fax] 537-836-5171. www.hotelnacionaldecuba.com. 457 units. Daily rates include breakfast. 120 CUC ($130) single; 170 CUC ($184) double; 238 CUC ($257) triple; 215-600 CUC () suites ($232-$648); 1000 CUC presidential suite ($1080). Free valet parking. MC, V. Amenities: 4 restaurants; 3 bars; 2 lounges; 2 swimming pools; 3 stores; salon; laundry service/dry cleaning; business center; 24-hr. room service; Internet; concierge, nonsmoking rooms. In Room: A/C, TV, hair dryer, iron, minibar safe.