Hotel Raquel

Hotel Raquel, Havana, Cuba: A Comprehensive Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

Hotel Raquel in Havana, Cuba, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, deep cultural ties, and prime location in the heart of Old Havana. While some typical Cuban hospitality quirks are present, guests generally praise its charm, service, and historic ambiance.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Hotel Raquel is largely positive, with guests frequently describing it as "very nice," "charming," and "beautiful". Its distinctive character and meticulous restoration are often highlighted, making it a special place to stay in Havana. The hotel is considered an upper-middle-range property, appreciated for its blend of historic elegance and comfortable, if sometimes basic, accommodations.

2. Key Highlights

• Design & Architecture: The hotel is a stunning example of Art Nouveau-inspired architecture, originally built in 1908 as a textile warehouse and renovated in 2001. Its impressive interior boasts shining marble floors, polished columns, and posh period sofas. A striking feature is the stained-glass atrium skylight that bathes the lobby in soothing yellow light. The ornate facade, historic wrought-iron elevator, and beautiful common areas, including a rooftop terrace with a charming dome and city views, contribute to its romantic ambiance.
• Jewish Theme: Hotel Raquel is notable for its poignant references to Jewish tradition and faith, making it a unique "Jewish-themed hotel" in Havana. Decorative items such as a Star of David engraving at reception, mezuzahs on doorposts, and biblical names for rooms are present. The restaurant, Jardín del Edén (Garden of Eden), and the lobby bar, Lejaim (L'Chaim), further reinforce this theme.
• Location: The hotel enjoys a prime and very central location in Old Havana, just a block from Plaza Vieja and near Saint Francis of Assisi Square. Many significant colonial sights are within a five-block radius, and a stroll up San Ignacio leads directly to the Cathedral of Havana. This places guests amidst restaurants, nightlife, and popular tourist attractions.
• Service: The staff are frequently described as very good, helpful, and attentive, with the front desk service being noted as "exceptional." Guests often feel "treated like family," a testament to Cuban hospitality.

3. Room Quality

Hotel Raquel offers between 21 and 25 comfortable accommodations spread over three floors around the central atrium. Rooms are generally spacious with high ceilings and a palatial feel, decorated in an old colonial style with patterned tile floors, wooden furniture, and wrought iron beds. Amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electronic safes, telephones, and private bathrooms with hot and cold water, hairdryers, and toiletries. Some rooms boast balconies or terraces, while others, unfortunately, lack windows. Junior Suites provide additional space. While considered "fairly basic" by some, they possess charm. Guests have reported occasional issues with noise from the street or lobby, a musty smell due to humidity, and minor wear or cleanliness concerns with tile grout or linens. Most rooms are equipped with twin beds, with only a couple offering double beds.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel's elegant specialized restaurant, Jardín del Edén, serves a unique blend of Cuban and international cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, including typical Jewish dishes. Signature Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja, Tostones, Vaca Frita, and Flan are highlighted, alongside classic cocktails like the Mojito. The restaurant also caters to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options.

Breakfast, which is included in the rates, receives mixed reviews. Some guests have found it "good and varied" or even "excellent," while others describe it as "terrible" and "mediocre," often citing pre-cooked eggs. However, the bread and coffee are consistently praised as "divine." The lobby bar, Lejaim, is noted for serving very good Mojitos at excellent prices.

5. Service & Staff

Hotel Raquel is renowned for its hospitable and attentive staff. Guests consistently highlight the "exceptional" front desk service and generally very helpful and friendly team. Many reviewers have shared experiences of being "treated like family." The hotel prides itself on retaining most of its original staff over many years, contributing to a sense of continuity and warmth. The front desk operates 24/7 and offers multilingual assistance, currency exchange, and security services. While attentive, some guests from Western backgrounds note a different "working style" that may be perceived as less efficient, but suggest embracing it as part of the Cuban experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Situated at Calle Amargura, No. 103 esq. a San Ignacio, Hotel Raquel boasts an excellent central location in Old Havana. It is conveniently close to major landmarks like Plaza Vieja and Saint Francis of Assisi Square, making it an ideal base for exploring the historic center on foot. Numerous restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions are within easy reach. The hotel is approximately a 20-minute drive from José Martí International Airport.

7. Value & Pricing

Hotel Raquel is considered an upper-middle-range hotel, offering a good balance of historic charm and amenities. Rates typically include breakfast. Historical pricing data from 2018-2019 indicates standard rooms could range from approximately $115 to $306 per night, depending on the season. Current offers may vary, with some indicating prices as low as $46-$78 per night. The hotel is managed by the Office of the City Historian of Havana, meaning profits are reinvested into the restoration of the city's historical center.

8. Common Complaints

While highly regarded, Hotel Raquel does have some recurring criticisms:

• Water Pressure: Guests frequently report poor water pressure in showers and sometimes a lack of hot water.
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Information on Wi-Fi is contradictory. Some sources state there is no Wi-Fi, or that it is slow and for a fee, which is a common issue in Havana hotels. However, other official hotel descriptions mention "Free Internet Access" or "WI-FI service" in common areas.
• Room Views & Conditions: Some rooms are noted for lacking windows or having less inspiring views. Minor issues like a musty smell due to humidity, dirty tile grout, and worn towels or sheets have also been mentioned.
• Breakfast Quality: Despite some positive comments, the breakfast buffet is a common point of contention, with several guests finding it "terrible" or "mediocre."
• Noise: Rooms, particularly those on upper floors with balconies or centered around the lobby atrium, can experience street noise or noise from the lobby.
• Dated TVs: Some rooms may still feature older, 34-centimeter TVs.

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