El Encanto de Perseverancia

This is the second time that I have had the pleasure to stay at El Canto. This enamoring home from a former period of time captured my heart. I am certain it is not just the exquisite building, but the beautiful staff that makes this house a home. I felt as if I was in my own dwelling. The amazing women of the kitchen put out a beautiful fresh breakfast spread daily. Raysel and José welcome guests with their infectious smiles and outpouring of self. To see the absolutely gorgeous owner, Tamara present, over seeing the day today operations is a wonderful thing, knowing she has everyone’s best interest… by being present, you know you are going to have a good experience. I have not stayed anywhere else in Havana. And when I come back, I see no other reason to go anywhere else but home at El Encanto.

Our tour group of 10 stayed here while we were in Havana. It is located in Centro Havana in an authentic Cuban neighborhood. The Malecon is a short walk away and you can see the water from the front of the building. It is rather large and resembles a hotel of a bygone era. The common areas are very nice as is the rooftop patio. Both are good places to enjoy a glass of wine or a beer. Our room was small and very clean. There was plenty of closet space, a fan and air conditioning, a safe and a hair dryer. The staff were great, accommodating, friendly and most helpful. Breakfast was also very good with fruit, tomatoes, juice, toast, ham, cheese, eggs cooked to order and coffee and tea. There are several nice restaurants within walking distance. We enjoyed watching the children at the primary school next door and across the street. The Cuban neighbors were pleasant and friendly.

I stayed here as part of the friendly planet tour. Ray and Jose were amazing hosts. They went out of their way to make sure all was AOK and were a pleasure to talk with. The cooking and maid staff were friendly as well. The rooms were spacious and came with AC, and best Wi-Fi I had during my stay. They provided recos in the neighborhood and even walked us to a dinner one night. Highly recommend.

Beautiful hostel/family home. Super helpful staff. Clean rooms. No lift so if you want the roof top views, be prepared for some stairs. Great breakfast too. Located in the middle of the real Habana. Easy walking to the old city. If you want to experience Cuba, stay here.

Another great stay at El Encanto. Everything is just so easy and they really give you that personal service like you are home. It is great to be back in Cuba after COVID. Everything is back and better. El Encanto is perfectly located in Central Habana. Super close walking distance to everything... the Malecon, Vedado, Hotel Nacional, Habana Vieja and Downtown. The rooms are well appointed with flat screen TVs, full bathrooms with plenty of hot water and good pressure, they even have little refrigerators for drinks and snacks. Definitely recommend staying here. Very safe area to walk at any time. Close to many restaurants. The hotel can exchange money for your which makes it super convenient and trustworthy. They know the area well and have plenty of recommendations. Taxis are easily available. The hotel can call and make reservations and taxis. They speak English. There are many room types for families, single travelers, etc. Great views from the roof terrace as well. They also have beer and water to purchase. The Wifi is included and reliable. Oh, and the included breakfast is perfect to start the day.