If you’re planning a trip to Cuba, you may have heard of Casa Particulares. But what are they, exactly? Directly translating to ‘private house’, casa particulares are private accommodations (comparable to bed and breakfasts) whereby locals open their homes to travellers.
Staying in a casa particular during your visit is one of the most unique and authentic ways to experience Cuban culture in all its glory, providing you with a glimpse into everyday life. It’s an experience no hotel can match.
What makes casa particulares different from hotels?
While there are plenty of little luxuries to choose from when it comes to hotel stays (hello, rooftop pool and in-room mini bar), the premium price doesn’t always reflect the quality delivered. In contrast, staying at a family home offers a certain charm and warmth that a five-star hotel simply can’t replicate, however swanky, central, or star-studded. Private hosts take immense pride in opening their personal space to guests, thus creating a level of authenticity and hospitality that’s truly unmatched.
Additionally, a casa is privately-owned – compared to state-owned hotels – and while the hosts pay the government for the privilege of renting out their spare rooms, they get to keep the profits earned from your stay. In simple terms – the money you would be paying large, corporate companies is going directly to a Cuban family. Now that’s a good deed.
What are the benefits of staying in a casa particular?
One of the best parts about staying in a casa particular is the chance to connect with your hosts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get to know the families behind the booking, plus you’ll probably find that they’re just as eager to get to know you and show you around the local area or recommend popular (and perhaps off-the-beaten-track) places to visit, too.
A key highlight, in our humble opinion: many of the hosts also serve home-cooked meals to their guests, often featuring traditional Cuban dishes sure to rival any restaurant.
Not only will this experience leave travellers with unique memories to cherish, but sometimes even new friends.
What are the facilities like at casa particulares?
Casa particulares are incredibly budget-friendly without compromising comfort. Most homes are clean, cosy, and well-maintained, often featuring air conditioning, comfortable furnishings, en-suite bathrooms, and private entrances. While style and comfort levels may vary from place to place, you’ll generally find all of the basic (and even a few luxury) facilities you’d expect for a comfortable stay in your casa particular.
Plus, they’re located throughout Cuba, from the bustling streets of Havana to the tranquil valleys of Viñales, so you can find one to suit your travel style.
Is staying in casa particulares safe?
It’s understandable that some guests may feel sceptical about the safety of such accommodation types, but there’s nothing to be worried about. Love Cuba personally vet the owners of casa that we use. Upon arrival, casa hosts will provide guests with a number to call in order to officially register them. In addition, all hosts pay a monthly government tax to register their rooms – so the entire process is legitimate.
Most registered casas have a symbol near the entrance such as a double sided arrow or an upside down blue anchor, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for confirmation!
So, if you’re seeking an authentic Cuban adventure that combines cultural immersion, affordability, and comfort, staying in a casa particular will be a fantastic opportunity to rub shoulders with the locals (literally) and experience their daily lives firsthand.
Love Cuba is the UK’s specialist for tailor-made holidays to Cuba. Our dedicated team of Cuba experts in London, supported by trusted partners on the ground in Cuba, craft exceptional holidays and tours at great prices. Proud winners of both the World Travel Awards and the British Travel Awards, all Love Cuba holidays are also fully ATOL protected for complete peace of mind. Contact us today on 0207 071 3636 or e-mail us enquries@lovecuba.com
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