Havana hotel is in the city's famed Old Quarter
IAN STALKER
A newer addition to Havana’s lodging scene has the very sort of impressive neighbors that puts the Cuban capital’s old quarter firmly on the tourist circuit.
Old Havana’s Gran Hotel Bristol, which is affiliated with Kempinski, opened its doors in November, the third property in Cuba to fall under the banner of upscale European chain Kempinski.
“Our hotel is only a few steps away from the Capitolio and Parque Central. It is right next to the hidden gems of La Habana Vieja (Old Havana), and a 10-minute walk from the Malecon,” resort general manager Jaume Ferrer says of his hotel.
Kempinski now manages three hotels in Cuba, two of them in Havana and the other on Cayo Guillermo.
“Gran Hotel Bristol has it all,” Ferrer continues. “One of the most remarkable things about our hotel is its convenient location in the middle of the city, just a stone’s throw from many of the important sights and the famous streets of Habana Vieja, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
“Our property is a lifestyle hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace, on which guests can sip on exquisite Cuban cocktails and enjoy an assortment of delightful snacks. After a good night’s sleep, they can have breakfast in the company of the Capitolio.
“The spacious and comfortable rooms inspired by Art Deco are the perfect place for guests to unwind/relax after a day out in the city.”
Ferrer is a big promoter of the Cuban capital, saying it can accommodate all types of travellers.
“It is a very safe city, in which travellers can wander around without having to worry about their safety,” he adds. “Its traditional Spanish architecture attracts many admirers, as do the classic American cars. Cuba’s tropical climate offers the perfect conditions for a relaxing holiday in the Caribbean. The city is famous for its vibrant culture, talented musicians, exhilarating music festivals, and gorgeous sights.”
Ferrer says the Gran Hotel Bristol combines the “personalization of a boutique hotel with the Kempinski standards of quality, incorporating the current trends in hospitality: culture and design to offer a unique experience.”
Most hotel clients are in Havana on vacation, rather than being business travellers.
Meanwhile, Ferrer suggests that those choosing Cuba for a holiday can stay at more than one property managed by Kempinski during their Cuba stay.
“I would tell guests not to miss out on the opportunity of staying at Gran Hotel Bristol managed by Kempinski,” he says. “I strongly encourage them to take advantage of the new flight route from Havana to Cayo Coco and stay in the new Kempinski hotel Cayo Guillermo, where they can spend the night in overwater villas overlooking the stunning Playa Pilar in the middle of the Caribbean.”
