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Casas particulares – homestays

Casas Particulares

A unique way to get to know the real Cuba: stay in one of these atmospheric and often historic family homes, offering a similar type of accommodation to a Bed & Breakfast.

The homestay concept in Cuba is not dissimilar to that of the bed and breakfast in the UK, except that generally all meals can be taken in the house. The hearty home-made food on offer can often represent the most attractive dining option in town.

But what really differentiates Cuban homestays is, of course, their unique character and the insight they offer into ordinary life in Cuba. Run by a family or couple, casas particulares are restricted to a small number of guest rooms, making the experience very much one of being a guest in a private home. The level of interaction can depend on the owners and of course the guests, but it is sure to offer a more intimate portrait of Cuba than a stay in an ordinary hotel.

The houses themselves can often be extremely charming, occupying historic buildings or bedecked with antique furniture (this being Cuba, it is kept for practical use rather than ornamentation!). Rooms are rudimentary but homely and comfortable with en suite facilities.

Bartolome, Galápagos

What our clients say

  • Vinales Homestay - Casa Basita: Basita was a super host, making sure we were looked after.

    EM, Bristol Jan 2017
  • “The Vinales homestay - so welcoming and made us feel like we were seeing the real Cuba and Cubans.”

    SM, Teddington Feb 2014
  • "Great location a minute's walk from Plaza Mayor and nice rooftop area to relax in the shade or sun. Excellent food served in main house across the road."

    PW, Norwich Jun 2015
  • Vinales Homestay Basita: A comfortable room with air conditioning and 2 small double beds.  Walking distance of town centre.  Dinner was simple but absolutely delicious and breakfast good and very…

    IC, Guernsey Jan 2016
  • "Thoroughly recommend Casa Martha - food was excellent, rooms good and the family made us feel welcome. A high point experience of our trip."

    NC, Reading Jun 2015
  • "Delightful accommodation, which was kept extremely clean. Very friendly hosts, excellent location and great experience."

    MS, Glasgow Mar 2014
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Our Expert's Opinion

Jamie
Jamie Swan - Product & Marketing

Jamie backpacked across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil before joining us; he has a degree in politics and is also a keen sportsman..

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Bartolome, Galápagos

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    Sally Dodge - Travel Expert

    A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.

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    Born in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, Mary’s insider knowledge and dry sense of humour make her a highly valued member of the Tailor-made Holidays and Group Tour sales team.

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    During a career break, Rosie embarked on an unforgettable year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. Now back in the UK, she is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others, helping them discover her favourite place in the world.

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    Lina's passion for the continent where she was born really took off when she moved to Córdoba (Argentina) to study, spending the holidays travelling between Argentina and her native Colombia.

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    Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

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    Hannah had an early introduction to Latin America when her family moved to Ecuador and she returned to study in Buenos Aires for a year before backpacking across the continent.

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