Refugio 104, Betwen Morro Street and Paseo Del Prado Street. Old Havanaa, Havana, Cuba | (586) 210-9239
Located on a quiet mixed-use street in Old Havana
Cozy and clean rooms with air-conditioning and mini-fridges
All rooms have private bathrooms
Furnished lounge and balcony terrace
Free and hot, cooked-to-order breakfast
Hands-on owners available to provide recommendations
No Wi-Fi (typical of most Cuban homestays)
Some detached baths
Situated on a quiet side street in Old Havana, the Casa Castellon offers cozy budget lodging and most of the essential amenities. Relative to the city’s many casa particulares (private homestays), the six rooms here are surprisingly modern with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and ensuite bathrooms. Common amenities include free hot breakfast and a small, lovely lounge and furnished, city-view balcony. The surrounding neighborhood and balcony views aren’t picturesque by traditional standards, but they do offer an authentic slice of modern Havana life. Although its rooms are more rustic, Casa Colonial 1715 has similar amenities just one block from Old Havana’s popular pedestrian mall for the same money.
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Scene
Tiny, budget homestay with a relaxed and homey vibe
Casa Castellon occupies two floors of a five-story, mixed-use building that includes other casa particulares, a massage studio, and a barber shop. From the outside, there’s little to distinguish the hotel from other homes and businesses on the same street. Inside, the decor is clean, bright, and mostly modern. The dark wood furniture, pastel walls, and eclectic artwork and knickknacks all create a look that’s tasteful and homey. Due to the property’s tiny size, the social scene is limited. Although, guests are free to relax in the small living room or on the balcony overlooking the street. The husband and wife owners can frequently be found in both spaces to offer tips and recommendations on what to see and do in the area.
Location
On the edge of Old Havana, a 10-minute walk from the Obispo pedestrian mall
The neighborhood is mostly quiet with a mix of modest homes, apartments, and businesses. Many of the city’s famous tourist attractions -- including the Museo de la Revolucion, Museo de Bellas Artes, and Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta -- are within a 10-minute walk. The Obispo pedestrian mall is likewise reachable in 10 minutes and offers dozens of local restaurants, shops, bars, and museums. Old Havana is quite walkable, but taxis are the most convenient way to cover more ground. Without meters, tourists should be aware that rates can vary widely (often at the whim of the driver) so it’s important to agree on a fare in advance. José Martí International Airport (HAV) is located 40 minutes south by car. Taxi service is again the best, most reliable mode of transportation, particularly if arranged through the owners.
Rooms
Relatively modern rooms with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and private bathrooms
Rooms are bright, cozy, and modern by Cuban standards. Traditional, dark wood furniture, bright curtains and bed linens, and IKEA-esque accents combine to create a look that’s eclectic but homey. Floor plans in every room offer similar space with only enough square footage for a bed (or two), a sizable open closet, and a few simple furniture pieces. Amenities include the essentials: air-conditioning, small safes (large enough for wallets, passports, and jewelry), electric tea kettles, and mini-fridges. Private bathrooms are provided for every room, although some rooms feature a detached bath. All bathrooms are equipped with walk-in shower stalls and generic soaps.
Features
A modest lounge and balcony, plus free hot breakfast daily
As with most of Cuba’s casa particulares, Casa Castellon offers only the most essential amenities. Guests are welcome to use the common living room which offers a flat-screen TV and stereo system. There's also a modest, furnished balcony. The latter provides a glimpse into the authentic side of modern life in Havana. A hot, cooked-to-order breakfast is served in the dining area daily. Wi-Fi is unavailable, however, paid service (a prepaid Nauta Internet card is required) can be found two blocks away at Hotel Sevilla.
