09/02/2017
Best place to stay in La Habana! There are many, many reasons why the Casa of Tamara and Chen is #1 in Havana on Tripadvisor. Those are the same reasons why we've stayed at their casa particular three times in two years.
Soon after the regulations for Americans visiting Cuba were changed, we made plans to visit Havana. We were thrilled to be able to book a room at the top rated Casa of Tamara and Chen. (You must reserve early to secure a room at their casa particular.) It turned out to be even better than we dared to imagine. Their casa, a lovely, bi-level apartment opening on the ground floor, was completely renovated in December 2014. Its modern, sleek interior is comfortable, sparkling clean and welcoming.
The location, nestled in La Habana Vieja could not be better. But, the best part of the casa is neither location nor design. It is the warm hospitality of Tamara, the owner, who lives nearby, and Nana, whose cheerful greeting and lovely breakfast makes each day begin with a smile. These two ladies are a dynamic duo – full of energy and enthusiasm. Just being in the room with either of them will put a smile on your face. Tamara’s English is perfect but Nana speaks very little. It doesn’t matter; Nana’s gestures and expressions make her an effective communicator and fun to be with. Her breakfasts, with fresh squeezed tropical juices and special omelettes are the best in Havana!
We were concerned, on our first visit, about arriving in Cuba, off limits for so many years. We didn't need to be. Tamara met us at the airport! After es**rting us to the bank in the airport, a must stop for travelers, she took us by cab to the casa. She is a bubbly ambassador for the country that she loves. She has boundless energy and makes sure that her guests have a blue ribbon experience! Tamara’s concern and commitment to us as visitors to her country and as guests to her casa particular were well beyond expectations!
Using the Casa of Tamara and Chen as our base, we walked everywhere and felt safe as we rambled the streets, met Habeneros, local residents, listened to the music, discovered artists and marveled at all those old cars.
The cost of staying in this lovely home was ONE THIRD the price of a standard hotel in Havana - and much more personal. We really felt that we had a personal experience with a Cuban family and their culture.
On our second trip, we traveled to Cienfuegos and Trinidad—destination Cuban cities. Tamara helped us make arrangements for transportation and lodgings. She was our virtual es**rt as we traveled for ten days through the Cuban countryside. When we returned to Havana, she even made an appointment for us to meet with one of Cuba’s most famous artists.
The Casa Particular of Tamara y Chen has earned its well-deserved reputation for comfort, convenience and friendliness. Equally, Tamara earned our admiration for her efforts on our behalf which went far beyond those expected of a casa particular host.
Very simply, the Casa of Tamara y Chen is our warm, friendly home in Old Havana. We will keep coming back! We love the Habaneros, enjoy the restaurants, dance to the music and enjoy visiting the artists. Havana has scores of young artists at work in small galleries on side streets everywhere. The Casa of Tamara and Chen is a modern treasure in an old city.
