Where to stay in Cuba

Casas particulares

• Private rooms in family homes are the way to stay in Cuba. They are cheaper than hotels, better run, and the money goes to the household rather than a state chain.
• They also solve problems. A casa owner will arrange a taxi, find you a meal during a shortage, and tell you when the power is going off.
• Book directly or through a specialist agency. Most Western platforms do not handle Cuban properties properly.
• Have the address written down - casa addresses are hard to find and street numbering is inconsistent.

Hotels

• State-run hotels vary enormously and the photographs are often years old.
• The Varadero resorts are a separate holiday from Cuba and are booked as packages.
• Havana's grand hotels are worth a drink rather than a stay, in most cases.

Blackouts

• Power cuts are a normal part of Cuban life and can run for hours.
• Ask whether the casa or hotel has a generator, particularly if you need air conditioning to sleep or a fridge for medicine.
• Carry a torch and a power bank, charged whenever the power is on.

The east

• Infrastructure, electricity and water remain severely affected in eastern Cuba after hurricane damage. Santiago, Baracoa and Holguin need checking against current conditions before booking.

Practical

• Pay in cash. See the money section - this is now the only option.
• Water may not run continuously. Casas keep tanks; fill a bottle when it is on.