Situated right on The Malecon (Coast Road), listed as one of the must do walks or rides in Havana, our room on the 9th floor gave us great views of the waves crashing in and over the sea wall. It’s location outside of Old Havana is mitigated somewhat by the complimentary bus service into Old Havana and it serves as a quiet Oasis after a day spent in the hustle and bustle of the town.
Our Standard room was well equipped with the majority of things we needed for our stay. Air Con, Hairdryer, Mini-fridge, safe box, voltage 220V (plug size European), iron and board, TV. The only niggle was that they supplied a coffee maker but charged 3CUC for coffee sachets, when they throw in bath robes, good toiletries, tooth brushes etc. charging for coffee sachets seems a bit petty I think. Some of the bath towels are a bit shoddy and grey and need replacing but other than that things are of good quality.
Reception very helpful & got things sorted when we were given the wrong room, not clear if the booking agent or hotel made the original mistake.
Very modern lobby area, with plenty of room to sit and a bar where we enjoyed our complimentary welcome drink.
There is a nice pool, with complimentary beach towels, plenty of loungers including cabana style beds. This area could really do with a clean up and make over as its beginning to look a bit tired and dirty. There’s a nice poolside restaurant here too, where we ate one evening.
Nice breakfast area, good quality food buffet style but much of it was not kept hot & was luke warm or cold. Staff very attentive, clearing tables, topping up coffee.
The second time we stayed here (one week later) we upgraded to The Level, on the 17th to 21st floors. On 20th floor there is a smaller separate breakfast area, exclusive check in reception. The rooms are similar in size and include complimentary wifi (but it is painfully slow), some other little extras including complimentary coffee sachets, a little extra luxury for a little extra cost. We were welcomed with a drink again. plus were had a fruit plate and a bottle of rum in our room, nice gift. The option of a late check out room is also very useful and a major plus when you have a late flight and want to make the most of your last day.
There is some nice art, particularly in public areas in the first floor.
The Italian restaurant on 1st floor was good when we were too tired after a day’s wandering around to go out again, I recommend the Calzone. They also have The Havana Club here and other restaurants but we didn’t use them.
Probably one of the better hotels in Havana and generally the standard is high but they need to spend some money now before things start to look dated and shabby. I would stay here again.
Note: Melia Hotels have a loyalty scheme called Melia Rewards. Its worth signing up for this before you arrive at the hotels as it gives you certain extras e.g. Free WiFi and mineral water on first day.
