Based on the Malekon, overlooking the sea and the bay, this is the best hotel in Havana - full of history and atmosphere. A tour of the hotel is a must, as you can see the trenches and bunkers built in the early 60s in preparation for a possible US invasion.
Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza, Ciudad de la Habana, Cuba, 10400;
tel: (53-7) 836 3564 al 67;
www.hotelnacionaldecuba.com
On the Malekon - cannot miss it
A walking tour of old Havana, consisting of majestic churches, forts, mansions, an original 18th century perfumerie and a pharmacy is a must, especially the visit to the rum factory. Visit Castel Morro, next to the statue of Christ and Che Guevera's house.
Go see the Buena Vista Social Club, with the Compay Segundo band, at the Nacional Hotel every Saturday night. Great live music - living history. It's a musical must.
Also Folklorico (Cuban Folk Society) present Rumba Saturday every Saturday afternoon - a fest of rumba, samba and salsa music. Full of locals who dance readily at the drop of a hat or a beat of a bongo - Old and young alike.
Hotel Nacional: Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza, Ciudad de la Habana, Cuba 10400;
tel: (53-7) 836 3564 al 67;
www.hotelnacionaldecuba.com
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last submitted a tip on 15 August 2006
first submitted a tip on 15 August 2006
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