A slice of Havana in America

When looking for new places to stay, I love a hotel with a story...somewhere with a bit of history, and today's featured accommodation certainly has that. The Hotel Havana in San Antonio, Texas was originally built in 1914 by a successful local grocer as a residence hotel for his buyers. The inspiration for the name came from the riverfront surroundings which are reminiscent of the Caribbean island city.  

Photo courtesy of Allison V. Smith 
The hotel is situated on the river, and is less than a ten minute stroll to the main section of River Walk in a fairly quiet part of downtown that is still convenient for all the attractions and restaurants. In April 2010 the 27 room hotel was renovated, and I have to say they have done a superb job - it oozes style.

Photo courtesy of Allison V. Smith 
The hotel features 16 queen rooms and 11 king suites; each with antique furniture; plantation shutters, and rich, dark wood floors. The quirky thing I love is that they also have imported SMEG mini-bars fully stocked with local food and drink!

Photo courtesy of Allison V. Smith 
In the Havana's basement is one of the most popular spots for locals and visitors and was chosen by Esquire Magazine as one of the "Best Bars in America". The furnishings are rich vintage, and the candlelit bar is a great place to sample the extensive rum and mescal selection, or even to enjoy a Cuban coffee or dessert. There is also a lounge upstairs (Ocho) situated in a glass and steel conservatory with tables spilling into the courtyard.

Photo courtesy of Allison V. Smith 
If you're looking for somewhere for a special occasion, or if you want to make a stopover more special, then this could be the place for you! If you want more information on the Hotel Havana, then please click on the link to the official website here.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

The undisputed King of Chicken Piri Piri!

Image
If you like chicken, and haven't yet tried Piri Piri, I have to break it to you.....you're missing out big time! The dish is traditionally made from Piri Piri peppers which originated in South Africa, and were imported to Portugal from Angola and Mozambique. Restaurants across Portugal have their own individual recipes for the dish; but the Algarve town of Guia is said to have the most authentic Piri-Piri houses, and I am quite confident when I say I think I have found the best. O Teodósio (otherwise known as King of Chicken) opens for lunch at 12 noon; and 6pm for evening meals. Trust me, it pays to get there just before it opens. Long queues of people soon build up, and every time I've eaten there it has been mobbed - quite impressive when you consider it seats nearly 700! Although they do serve other dishes, you never see a menu being handed out - you simply order "Frango piri piri, batatas fritas e salada" (chicken piri piri, chips, and salad). It'...
Read more

Life is not a dress rehearsal

Image
Ever since I was a little girl, my dad told me "Life is not a dress rehearsal". While it was a phrase that stuck in my mind, it didn't resonate with me until I got a bit older, and realised that he was totally right! We spend so much of our lives at work; in meetings, and sometimes doing things we don't always enjoy. So when we have time off and go on holiday, we have to make the most of it. Take time to look up at that blue sky, breathe in that fresh air to give us new energy for when we have to return to reality! One of my passions is travel - another is research, which combine to make a brilliant partnership! I love finding places off the beaten track; hotels that make you go 'ooooooh'; B&B's that make you feel you could just unpack your suitcase and stay forever, and attractions in different countries that you may not find in your guide book!  This is why I decided to start Travel Lightbulb - I want to share some of the great things I've...
Read more

Thailand at its best: Rayavadee, Krabi

Image
If you've never been to Thailand before, then picture a lush country with white sand beaches and emerald waters. Today I'm featuring a fabulous hotel which is set on the edge of Krabi's National Marine Park at the heart of the stunning Phranang Peninsula. Courtesy of Rayavadee, Krabi Inspired by a southern Thai village, the Rayavadee resort has won awards for its architecture. There are 96 two-storey pavilions and 5 luxurious villas, all dotted through tropical gardens and coconut groves.  Courtesy of Rayavadee, Krabi There are several restaurants to choose from, with everything from elegant dining to casual beachside fare. As for things to do, there is a fabulous spa at the resort which also offers a full range of excursions to places on Krabi itself, as well as the area's outlying islands.  Courtesy of Rayavadee, Krabi The beaches here are stunning and there are three incredible ones just a few steps away. Phi Phi island can also be reached by spe...
Read more