Ramiro’s House

Ramiro’s House occupies the second floor of a modest stone and tile apartment building in a quiet residential neighborhood. A blue door, striped awning, and door bell mark the entrance (although there’s no signage), and Ramiro promptly emerges with a warm welcome. Guests are taken up a narrow set of stairs to the cozy living room drenched in sunlight with simple decor. There’s a retro vibe at play here, with sunny yellow walls, cane furniture, and a selection of Ramiro’s personal photos on display. The space opens to a small sunny balcony overlooking the street. It’s tightly furnished with a couple of chairs and some leafy potted plants. 

Staying at Ramiro’s House is literally taking the spare bedroom in another person's apartment, which works for some, but not others who require more privacy. Ramiro is a former English professor of 44 years, and non-Spanish-speaking guests particularly enjoy the ability to have conversations in English -- a rare Havana treat. The hotel suits travelers seeking a basic, authentic Cuban homestay with cheap rates, who don't mind an intimate atmosphere.

Set in the peaceful residential neighborhood of Cerro, Ramiro’s House is 25 minutes drive from Jose Marti International Airport, and a 10-minute walk from Plaza de la Revolucion. Travelers who enjoy a longer stroll can walk to Vedado in about 20 minutes, where restaurants, bars, and nightlife are in abundance. It’s 30 minutes on foot to Old Havana, otherwise taxis are recommended, or buses can be caught from the local bus terminal that’s a five-to-10 minute walk away from the hotel. 

Set toward the rear of the apartment, the guest room is a good size, quiet, and simply decorated, with a metal-framed bed, two glass bedside tables, a wall-mounted timber desk, and a mini-fridge. Sand-yellow walls have warm undertones, and nicknacks and faux flowers add a quaint, homey touch. There's a black wall-to-wall wardrobe for guests to stow belongings, and the room comes equipped with air-conditioning and a portable standing fan, but it lacks technology like a TV and Wi-Fi. The room has direct en-suite access to the bathroom which is shared with Ramiro -- a second dual entryway provides access from the hallway. It’s tiled white, with contrasts in coastal blues, and a decent-sized shower, but no tub. 

Ramiro is full of information about the city, and his exceptional English is a huge plus for non-Spanish speakers. For a small fee, Ramiro will whip up a great breakfast that receives high marks from guests, featuring fresh fruit, smoothies, eggs, and coffee. Some guests report Ramiro’s coffee up there with the best in Havana. Linens and towels are provided, as is daily housekeeping. Ramiro accommodates check-ins 24 hours which is handy, and he can arrange taxis to and from the airport. Guests with limited mobility should be aware that a stair climb is required to reach the property.