Accommodations: Casas Particulares

In 1997 a major change occurred in Cuba with regard to accommodations. The Cuban government allowed residents to rent rooms in their houses to tourists, and are called Casas Particulares. At least half of all 'regular' hotels are 50% owned by the Cuban government. Other hotels are 100% owned by the Cuban government.

Cubans with a special license can rent up to two rooms in their homes to foreigners. You can recognize them from the street by seeing the blue anchor-like signs, which Casas owners must post on their front doors. The signs will also read: 'Arrendador Divisa. The owners of the blue or green triangle casas pay the government 50 cuc per month for the sign, and in addition, pay between 100-250 cuc as a tax to the government, depending on its location.

If you choose to stay in a Casa Particular, you'll pay average 25-35 cuc per room per night (in Havana); meals are extra. E.g. Breakfast is 3 cuc, and dinner is about 7 cuc, however, prices will vary between cities and towns.

Casas offer a unique, more authentic experience that enables the tourist to meet and live with a Cuban family. Additional benefits include meals that are often better than restaurants, and helpful advice for making the most of your vacation.

The following links provide listings and contact information for casas in Havana:

http://www.casaparticular.info/

http://www.bedincuba.com/casa_particular_cuba_havana.htm

http://www.casaparticular.org/showlist.asp?Lang=0&Loc=prov%2D3&offset=10

http://www.cuba-junky.com/havana/havana-casa-particulares-home.htm

http://www.cubaccommodation.com/houseresults.php?searchtype=ALL&currpage=7