Hotel E La Union, a pleasant surprise

By: cubaism Expert, United Kingdom Posted: 2010-04-10

This is one of Cuba's provincial gems. First, take the location just one block from the main plaza in the heart of downtown. Then there's the thoughtful remodel of this three-story, neoclassical 19th-century hotel, which exudes elegant yesteryear airs thanks to its antiques and quality antique reproductions.

All 39 rooms, 11 junior suites, and two suites are arrayed around an atrium courtyard with tinkling fountain. The period decor is a romantic throwback in time, and the new two-tone ceramic floors and modern bathrooms bring the hotel into the 21st century. The amenities are as to be expected, including air conditioning, satellite TVs, radios, telephones, small refrigerators, and in-room safes. And bathrooms here, clad floor to ceiling in modern tiles, even have bidets and travertine countertops.

The swimming pool comes as a pleasant surprise, especially on hot summer days. It's built into a ground floor courtyard with faux-Romanesque elements such as classical statuary. And the hotel's Restaurant 1869 is undisputably the city's finest; the menu is unusually inventive for Cuba, although some dishes fall flat on their face. Bring a wrap or jacket, however, to fend off the Arctic air-conditioning. The bar here is cozier than most of Cuba's provincial hotels. A gym has just enough equipment to guarantee an all-round work out. A small spa offers massage and beauty treatments. There's a small business center with Internet access. Plus there's secure parking across the road, adjoining a car rental office. And a foreigners-only pharmacy in the hotel could prove handy in case of a medical need.