For the last five days of our trip to Cuba in January , 2024 my sister Ann and I decided to stay at La Iglaterra Hotel in the Historic Centre of Old Havana. This hotel is actually the oldest hotel in Cuba and can be best decribed as a living time capsule that tells a captivating story of a bygone era. Our first impressions entering the La Iglaterra Hotel was just what we imagined it would be …. a luxurious , beautiful historic hotel, evocative of a bygone era, full of history and subtly modern. Time stood still for a moment as we paused to admire the glass stained windows, intricate ceilings and elegant interiors, incredibly luxurious lobby , with Morrocan influence, such as an arabesque arch and classic green, blue and gold tiles. The lavish gold statues are like the Spanish dancer La Sevillana, after whom the bar is named It was as if we were had entered another dimension in time to the days of old world grandeur and luxury at this iconic colonial landmark in Cuba . The staff was beyond helpful and the level of service is the best we experienced during our Cuban heritage trip. No extra money for early check in and being two elderly guests we only had to wait a few minutes before we were escorted to our room by a member of staff. The maid who had prepared our room before the normal check in time was also there to greet us with a smile and welcome us , wanting to know if we needed anything else to make our stay more comfortable. I applaud the welcoming staff for going beyond their duty to make our stay an enjoyable one. Now regardless, if you’re a history buff or not , who would not be thrilled at staying in the oldest hotel in Cuba where there was a rich blend of modern amenities , including availability of wi fi coexisting with the old adding that bit of glamour and charm to this well preserved hotel. Imagine being entertained in the El Colonial restaurant (where breakfast is served), with its neoclassical style, facing the horseshoe-shaped reception area. by a charming, elderly gentleman playing the piano ? Guests were also afforded the opportunity to have their favourite song played on the piano. My sister requested the songs “YESTERDAY” by the Beatles and the BLUE DANUBE” by Johann Strauss which almost brought tears to her eyes. To those just interested in enjoying the ambience of this magnificent hotel one can sit on one of the cast-iron chairs in the lively and dynamic outdoor terrace café, the Grand Café Le Louvre, and be entertained with live music , while relaxing and having a cup of coffee ,while watching the activities taking place on the street in front of the hotel. What made our stay at this hotel even more memorable was the fact we actually found ourselves sharing a space on the first floor near to the actual rooms where historical personalities ,politicians, film artists, musicians, members of royalty