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Casas particulares – homestays

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This is a Satisfaction Rating based on our own customer feedback

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 legally restricted to just a couple 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. Read more about them here.

Bartolome, Galápagos

What our clients say

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

    MS, Glasgow

  • "Very comfortable and clean and located right in the heart of old Trinidad. It felt more like a small hotel than a home stay as the whole building was converted into 5 guest rooms and Vivian's house was across the road."

    SKF, Edinburgh

  • 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 restaurant atop a hill with stunning views and there were plenty of private spaces in the property opened up for us alone. Also located a little outside of town, which ensured we were free of the tourist trap in the center of town. Basita's husband also arranged tours for us last-minute, which worked out very well.

    CW, Bishop's stortford

  • "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

  • "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 2 villa down we were not disappointed, food was fantastic some of the best in Cuba!!! Vinales gives you a real insight into the rural life in Cuba with a lot to see."

    CW, Kingston Upon Thames

  • "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
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Our expert's view

Jamie Swan
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..

Homestays vary greatly, they are after all someones house but this means you get to experience a different side of Cuba and it's little quirks. That's not to say you'll be intruding on a family, it's very much like a B&B so you'll still have privacy and the home comforts you expect.

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