Hotel Terral

Terral’s sleek glass-and-sandstone facade is a rare architectural sight for Havana, where most structures are faded throwbacks to a bygone era. The contemporary design fits this setting perfectly, in many ways mirroring the streamlined stone Malecon promenade it faces. Terral is in prime position to admire the waterfront panorama, and observe the highway action, as classic cars in bold Technicolor hues whizz up and down this iconic six-laned coastal stretch. That contemporary look continues through the boutique's four stories, which displays clean lines, sandstone walls, stainless steel, and bold splashes of color. The futuristic all-white lobby sports a metal fish mobile and ultra-modern strip lighting. A geometric reception desk and waiting bench in a wedge shape appears to hover above ground. But despite its angular looks, the hotel is relaxed. Lounge bar-like music sets a chilled-out mood, and a warm welcome also offsets the cool decor. Common areas are fairly compact (which frees up more space for rooms) but also limits any room to meet and mingle. However, the restaurant is open all day for guests craving a cocktail, sports game (on the bar TV), or a meal from the modern (albeit pricey) menu. 

Hotel Terral sits right on the Malecon, opposite Havana’s seafront. This famous promenade is often considered the city's best people-watching, but guests will have to cross six busy lanes of traffic to get on it. Plenty of restaurants and bars are also within the immediate area, and a few sights can also be reached in a 15-minute walk, such as the Museo de la Revolucion and restored 16th-century fortress Castillo de San Salvador de la Punta. The nightlife hub of Vedado can be reached in 15 minutes on foot, too. A longer 20-minute stroll will take guests to El Capitolio and museums like Museo de Bellas Artes and Musee Des Beaux Arts Cuban. Hearty walkers could also reach Old Havana and its sights in around 30 minutes, but others can take a short 10-minute taxi ride. (Reception can assist with cabs.) Jose Marti International Airport is about a 30-minute drive.

Available in Standard, Triple, and Junior Suite categories, guest rooms carry on the contemporary look of public spaces. All are very spacious, clean, and pleasantly decorated (though a few details betray a slightly '80s aesthetic). Contemporary color palettes vary from room to room with matching nature prints, and sandstone accent walls give each one an earthy contrast. Dark-finished wood furniture is clean-lined and minimalist, so there’s even more space to move around. All rooms feature flat-screen TVs, well-stocked and reasonably priced minibars, safes, hairdryers, and individual toiletries. Coffeemakers, however, are not provided. Guests appreciate the size of the huge bathrooms, but many complain of sewer-like smells. All have showers and bathtubs, and Junior Suites up the ante with spas and twin vanities. The higher the category, the larger the layout, and Junior Suites open right up through dual glass sliders to vast L-shaped terraces with spectacular views up and down the Malecon and across the water. Opt for a higher room to maximize views and minimize street noise. 

The star feature here is the fabulous seafront Malecon setting and those uninterrupted water views. Other than that, Terral offers a bar and restaurant serving all meals, although the food gets mixed reviews, and prices are high for Havana. Breakfast, however, is free, and most guests enjoy it. Wi-Fi isn’t available (which isn't atypical in Havana hotels), but staff can advise on where to find it. Both indoor parking and bicycle storage are available. Multilingual staff speak excellent English, and reception can assist with arranging tours and activities around the city. Elevators connecting floors are a plus, and the property is wheelchair friendly.