Inside Cuba's Only Five-Star Boutique Hotel

Banish all of your preconceived notions about what it might be like to visit Cuba. And more specifically, do away with any ideas you might have about hotel accommodations on a Caribbean island that's currently grappling with a commercial, economic, and financial embargo imposed by the United States. Why? Because with its incredibly chic and stylish decor; very modern, upscale amenities and outstanding food offerings, Paseo 206 defies all expectations of Cuban hospitality that have been bandied about in the American media.

This sophisticated hotel could quite literally be anywhere in the world. Yet at the same time, it oozes distinctly Cuban warmth and character. From its location on a tree-lined street in Vedado, (the economic and cultural heart of La Havana), to the building itself, a Cuban family home dating back to 1933, Paseo 206 represents Cuba at its finest and most charming.

To truly understand Paseo 206, you must have a bit of a primer about who owns and operates this unique gem of a property. It's run by a Cuban Italian family, led by the husband and wife team of Andrea Gallina and Diana Sainz, two former World Bank employees who left behind their high powered jobs after years of globetrotting to settle in Diana's home country and become hoteliers. Together, the duo has painstakingly converted a former private Cuban residence (owned during the 1930s by a well-to-do senator who worked in the administration of President Gerardo Machado) into a 10-room boutique hotel that aims to combine the best of both Italian and Cuban culture.

The couple first saw the house that would become Paseo 206 in 2015, not long after President Raúl Castro restarted diplomatic relations with the United States and opened Cuba to American tourism. After laying eyes on the property, they were smitten and decided to pursue a dream. "This is a work of love," Gallina explained during a recent interview, adding: "Diana and I traveled so much for work or for pleasure over the years and we really enjoyed small hotels. We thought people usually open hotels like this when they retire, but we should do it now, while we have energy." And thus the Paseo 206 project was born.

It took about 11 months to restore the property, an effort that aimed to maintain the soul of the structure and preserve its unique architectural elements including refinishing intricate wooden moldings and replacing glass on original cabinetry. The couple also imported furnishings from Italy and adorned the walls and public spaces with the art of locals. And last but not least, they recruited family to help run the hotel. The result is a warm, stylish and property where you'll often bump into Gallina's mother in the hallways and each evening will be treated to live music from local musicians in the restaurant.

Each guest room at Paseo 206 is bright, modern and comfortable, designed to be peaceful enclaves from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city. The decor is both welcoming and sophisticated, all of which is no accident. Before retiring from the World Bank, Andrea and Diana had visited no less than 60 countries. That globetrotting has clearly informed their couple's current project.

Room categories range from the Matchbox Room, which is the smallest room in the house (ideal for shorter stays) to Rooftop Suites. In between these two categories, there's also Junior Rooms and Master Suites.

The Master Suites at Paseo 206 feature distinct zones for sleeping, relaxing or working, and are decorated with Italian mid-century original furniture, as well as custom made lighting. Another noteworthy detail, these accommodations feature an in-room bathtub for an added bit of romance.

The Rooftop Suites at Paseo 206 offer an added bit of charming style and spaciousness. They include private terraces with jacuzzis providing views over the Malecon and the sea - perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Havana.

Some of the additional property highlights and amenities at Paseo 206 include Hermes amenities; Marshall speakers; free, high-speed Wi-Fi (which is no minor detail in Cuba); 24-hour room service and king-size beds decked out with luxurious Frette linen. Spa services are also available on-site.

The warm, freshly baked croissants that melt in your mouth. The olive oil imported from Italy, specifically from the Bulgari family's limited collection - these are just some of the memorable highlights of a meal at Paseo 206, and more specifically its restaurant Eclectico. Here again, the family's Italian heritage plays a big role. Eclectico was designed to be a tiny corner of Italy in Cuba and to that end offers traditional Mediterranean recipes and dishes paired with the intense aromas of the Caribbean. The restaurant's chef Vincenzo Frassanito and his Cuban staff serve up a distinctive interpretation of Italian cuisine that emphasizes artisanal ingredients working with local farmers and small producers.

To further immerse guests in Cuban culture Paseo 206 offers a variety of local experiences, among them boxing, salsa classes, cooking lessons, fishing, and photography workshops in Old Havana, Gallina explained. The hotel, which showcases original artwork from locals, can also provide guests direct contact with Cuban artists and galleries.

Rates at this not to miss, restored colonial mansion range from about $150 per night to $300 per night depending on the season and the room you choose. For more information contact Paseo 206 at [email protected].