TRAVEL TORONTO WINTER 2018/2019
movatohome.com
I encourage you to stay in a casa particular to get immersed in local life. In communist Cuba, all hotels are at least partially owned by the government. However, since 1997, the state has permitted citizens to rent out rooms in their homes. Staying in one of these cozy casas particulares lets travellers support Cubans, and learn first-hand about their culture. I booked a private air-conditioned room with bathroom at Prado Colonial, a group of three bed-and-breakfasts run by a family. The common areas are a retro lover’s dream: stained glass windows, neoclassical f loors, and a balcony view of an 18th century cathedral. I enjoyed getting to know the hosts over strong coffee and breakfast each morning. The Internet isn’t readily available in Havana unless you purchase a WiFi card, so I took this opportunity to get offline. •
Staying in a casa particular lets you experience the daily life of a Cuban family. Prado Colonial’s rooms are filled with portraits and heirlooms passed down through generations.
THE WINTER ISSUE
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