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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

  • Basita was an incredibly kind lady, who offered us her home and service from the start to end of our stay. The first night's dinner was included at a nearby…

    CW, Bishop's stortford Dec 2016
  • “The Vinales homestay - so welcoming and made us feel like we were seeing the real Cuba and Cubans.”

    SM, Teddington Feb 2014
  • "The rooms were comfortable and the bathrooms small but clean. The air conditioning didn't work well, but there were fans. Basita was a kind and attentive hostess and the breakfast…

    SKF, Edinburgh Jul 2015
  • "Delightful accommodation, which was kept extremely clean. Very friendly hosts, excellent location and great experience."

    MS, Glasgow Mar 2014
  • We had essentially our own house, with living room and kitchen area. Friendly extended family living all around.

    RGJ, London Jan 2016
  • "Staying in a homestay is a must when vising Cuba supposed to stay at Bastita, she could not accommodate for one of the nights so we stayed at her Sons…

    CW, Kingston Upon Thames 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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    Juliet Ellwood - Travel Expert

    After graduating with a degree in Anthropology and History and having been fascinated by Latin America since childhood by the book featuring photos of Nazca, Juliet first visited the region in 2003. Since then, Juliet has visited the majority of countries in Latin America but has particularly extensive experience with Peru, a country she loves for many reasons but not least, its incredible archaeological richness and delicious food!

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    Heloise started her Latin American journey as an exchange student in Santiago, Chile. With extended summer holidays this was the perfect opportunity to backpack through Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Brazil.

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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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