La Colonial 1861

As its name suggests, La Colonial was built in 1861 and has retained its striking original structure within a thoughtful restoration at the hands of its owner/host, Armando, who also has a background as an art director. The residential Vedado setting is a calm departure from Havana’s touristy spots, and La Colonial makes a handsome statement between two scruffy apartment blocks -- with its immaculate all-white facade, decorative iron-and-pillar fence, and lush cactus strip. Past a gated buzzer entrance, a garden walkway leads to the front porch -- where white iron rocking chairs and a wicker dining setting exude alfresco chic. Inside, exposed beam ceilings soar over archways, chandelier lighting, and elegant antique furniture. An eclectic mix of photos, coffee table books, and Cuban artworks add culture and cool quirk, and fresh-cut tropical flowers bring more color and nature indoors. Beyond the living, dining, and wet-bar area, a long sky-lit patio provides access to each of the rooms. A well water feature filled with white carp sits at the rear. Also on-site are a couple of small, well-behaved resident dogs, and one very sleepy house cat, which adds another level of coziness to the property -- although those with severe allergies should take note. All in all, guests appreciate the beautiful colonial architecture, elegant decor, artful touches, and intimate vibe this casa offers.

Hotel La Colonial is peacefully located in a residential corner of Vedado. The legendary coastal stretch of the Malecon, considered Havana's main waterfront promenade and a meet-and-mingle spot, is located right at the end of the street, a two-minute walk away. An array of restaurants and bars are also within easy walking distance of the casa. But other sights and attractions require a car or taxi ride: The nightlife hubs La Rampa and Calle 23 are about eight minutes’ drive away, the John Lennon monument is a seven-minute drive, and Plaza de la Revolucion is 11 minutes by car. Reaching Old Havana also requires a 15-minute drive, though many guests also appreciate being set away from that area's bustle and its late-night bar/music scene. Jose Marti International Airport is about 28 minutes away by car.

Rooms have a rustic vintage feel with exposed-beam ceilings soaring over stone-and-whitewashed walls, vintage floor tiles, and antique wood furniture. The five rooms on offer consist of Family Room #1 -- featuring a duplex layout with two double beds; Room #3 with two single beds; and Rooms #2, #4, and #5 -- each containing double beds. Their farmhouse-style shuttered French doors let in plenty of natural light when open. All rooms feature private bathrooms surrounded in white-painted brick with walk-in showers done up in white mosaic tiles. Vintage floor tiles and colored concrete sink basins add warm contrast. Pump hand soap is provided, but that’s it for toiletries. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, hairdryers, safes, and stocked mini-fridges. However, TVs and coffeemakers are not provided. Rooms are thoroughly cleaned each day, while towels and sheets are refreshed every three days. The rooms are all accessed off the long internal patio, and while typically quiet at night, guests and staff can be heard coming and going during the day.

As expected for a tiny historic property, features at La Colonial are limited, but what is on offer adds to the property's overall charm. Delicious home-cooked breakfasts and dinners are available at extra cost, and must be booked in advance. Common areas open to guests include the formal living and dining rooms, a front furnished porch overlooking the garden, and the sunny interior patio from which rooms are accessed -- so there’s plenty of space to spread out and lounge. Guests can place local telephone calls for free, and a laundry service is available at extra charge. La Colonial 1861 can assist with transportation to and from the airport. Owner and host, Armando, speaks excellent English, which is a big plus for non-Spanish speakers, and he’s full of local recommendations on where to eat, drink, dance, and explore.