Dec 31 2014
Name: Anna
Country: Taiwan
I stayed here at: 11/27/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly through Cuba-Junky
I paid 25 CUC per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Best casa I've stayed in Cuba.
How was your room?: Fabulous
How was the food they offer?: Super delicious
Other services they offer: Treat me like family.
Other comments: Nothing can ask for more.
Dec 31 2014
Name: Lutetia Li
Country: United States
I stayed here at: 12/05/2014
I paid 35 CUC (Breakfast additional 5 CUC)
I made a reservation through Cuba-Junky
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Wonderful, unforgettable stay. Definitely coming back to this one.
I went with a good friend and it was the first time for both of us (we spoke minimum Spanish). I was skeptical about booking through email at first (given their internet situation) but Susana always replied the emails promptly and with all the information I needed. We also had a problem reserving for Viazul bus tickets in advance and Susana made us feel so much better by being warm and confident in her emails.
She arranged the ariport pick-up service for us. Our flight was delayed three hours so we arrived late at night. As soon as we stepped out of customs I saw a big sign with my name on it. The driver was also really really accommodating by waiting for us as we got into the long line for money exchange (We only exchanged enough for the taxi since rate is not good at the airport). When we arrived at our Casa it was already around 11pm and Susana popped out of the tall doors of the magnificent building with her exuberance and welcomed us to Cuba! It really made us feel so much better after the long flight and the disorienting feeling of being in a country for the first time.
The next day we had wonderful breakfast and Susana gave us a crash course on all the places to visit in Havana and most importantly, great and affordable places to eat! We also met her husband Arthur who is originally from Canada. They introduced us to their friends and gave us all sorts of advice. Their friend also gave us recommendations on where to dance Salsa. At night, Susana took us to Salsa Club 1830 and we had so much fun! It was the best Salsa dancing we had all week.
We only stayed in Havana for 2 nights in the beginning of our trip and later as we were traveling to places we really missed Susana and her energy! All in all, it was the best way to start our trip and we were seriously sad when we were leaving Havana and Cuba. Susana helped us in everything we asked, money, transportation, travel advice, Salsa, and so much more!
How was your room?: Clean and spacious with a lovely, small balcony. Bathroom is spacious and shared with other guests but cleaned everyday by Susana.
This builiding is not where Susana and her family live. They live a couple of blocks down the street. We returned to Havana at the end of the week and we stayed in a guest room for a night with her family and the room was also wonderfully decorated and comes with a really nice private bathroom.
How was the food they offer?: Breakfast was so wonderful and they offer three choices: continental (scrambled eggs and bread), coconut pancakes, and French toast. We tried all of them during our stay and they were all delicious. The best thing was the fresh juice every morning, really made the day!
Other services they offer: Taxi service pick-up and drop-off from airport 25 CUC each.
Other comments: The phone number posted on Cuba Junky didn't seem to work so double check with Susana what their phone number is.
It would be nice to bring some news magazines and cook books for Arthur!
Dec 9 2014
Name: Neil
Country: France
I stayed here at: 11/29/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
I paid 35 CUC per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Very well located and in an interesting old building. Lovely and helpful host.
They gave good advice on buying cigars from shops which I can add to. Buy them in duty free at the airport, they will be the same price as in town. Can't speak for the street sellers mind you.
Thank you for a lovely stay.
How was your room?: Tidy.
How was the food they offer?: Good breakfast.
Other services they offer: Airport pickup $25
Dec 6 2014
Name: John Phil
Country: Canada
I stayed here at: 11/10/2014
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Altough we had a clear confirmation by email, the owner of the casa decided to book the room to somebody else during our transit. They did not wait for us at the casa at the time we agreed, I had to run around Habana trying to find a phone to call them as nobody answered the door. Beside a weak excuse, they proposed us a casa they knew which was very bad quality. The old casa they proposed had a huge hole in the wall that gave to the street and was not clean.
Be careful before reserving here, I did not see the official government sign outside either.
Nov 20 2014
Name: Joe and Gina
Country: UK
I stayed here at: 10/30/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
I paid 25 CUC per night
Casa Bolsa
My review: A super Casa, right in the heart of the old town. Very clean and large.
There was however some noise from the construction across the road.
The biggest plus point, and the reason for the 5 stars is because of the Casa owner. Susana (who is Cuban), and her husband, Arthur (an ex pat from Canada) are truly wonderful hosts. They invited us over in the evenings, and introduced us to friends, they treat you like family. They know their city very well and will talk to you for hours about any subject, we found it enlightening to be able to delve deeply into how Havana (and Cuba) really work.
How was your room?: Large, clean and comfortable
How was the food they offer?: The coconut pancakes and French toast were delicious!
Sept 3 2014
Name: Sheryl Eve
Country: United Kingdom
I stayed here at: 07/10/2014
I made a reservation through another website
I paid 30 CUC per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: I spent the last week of my 4 month Latin American vacation at Casa Bolsa de la Habana and I would recommend that ANYONE who plans to visit Havana should stay here.
Why?
It's a BEAUTIFUL building. Gorgeous high ceilings and tiled floors. And spotlessly clean. A lovely place to relax after a long day in the hot Cuban sun.
If you are in Cuba to dance (As I was) you are in the perfect location for great places to dance salsa, and also a Cuban dance school.
But the best thing about this casa is the host Susana. She is so friendly, warm and welcoming, She knows her city well and if you need anything she will be able to tell you where to find it. Breakfast is great (try the coconut pancakes!).
I will definitely be staying here again - it was the best end to my holiday that I could wish for.
How was your room?: Huge bed!
How was the food they offer?: Great breakfasts
Aug 22 2014
Name: Robin and Debs
Country: Northern Ireland
I stayed here at: 07/23/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
I paid 30 CUC per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: We both had a really positive experience of Casa Bolsa. We really enjoyed arriving to a spacious place with good amenities such as a clean bathroom with hot and cold running water. The room we stayed in (there are 2) had 2 fans that kept the room cool enough in the evening or when we were in the room. There were also 2 balconies in our room which was a nice additional to have although the view isn't that great as there is currently construction going on across the road. It's absolutely no problem though as is isn't that loud and there weren't there for most of the days we were.
Susanna is a wonderful host who has lots of energy and has excellent recommendations for where to eat out. She is more than happy to help and was a really fantastic person to spend time with and ask questions to! We really liked her.
July 28 2014
Name: Thomas and Peter
Country: Holanda
I stayed here at: 07/01/2014
I paid 30 CUC per night
I made a reservation through the Cuba-Junky
website
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Me and my father stayed in the casa on arrival in Havana and the last days before leaving Cuba. The Bolsa, which used to be the former stock exchange, is a beautiful building. High ceilings, big doors and nice details in architecture. The host Susana made us delicious breakfast and helped to find some interesting places in Havana.
We had difficulties with renting a car (even though we had a reservation before hand.. don't trust the rental shops!). Susana's husband Arthuro was very helpful, and found us another car. Also his expertise on cigars helped us to find some very nice cigars!
We had a very nice time in the Bolsa. Thanx Susana and Arthuro!
How was your room?: Nice and big with a king size bed!
How was the food they offer?: Delicious breakfast. We could chose out of 5 options!
Other services they offer: Laundry service, pickup service from airport
June 10 2014
Name: Eva & Moritz
Country: Germany
I stayed here at: 02/14/2014
I made a reservation at Cuba Junky
I paid: 25 cuc per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: The best casa in Habana - and all of Cuba :) I can highly recommend a stay in Casa Bolsa.
I stayed at this casa in February 2014 with my boyfriend. We were on a longer journey through South America before and eventually decided to visit Cuba for Valentine's day. Luckily, we picked the best casa and met the nicest Cubans on our entire journey.
Our host, Susanna, is such a hospitable and charming person. She made our stay in Cuba an unforgettable memory. From the first day on she made sure that we were comfortable with everything and was very caring. She also gave us a lot of "survival introductions" which was a great help for us as first time Cuba travellers. Susanna organized a lot of things for us: stays in different cities, bus tickets, luggage storage. No matter what we asked of her, she always offered her help and was very flexible with booking dates. We first booked a 4 days stay at the casa as we wanted to go backpacking across Cuba. Since we got along so well with Susanna, she gave us all the information we needed and equipped us with a Cuba guide. After two weeks travelling the country, we returned to her place again. Considering the casa, she always kept the rooms very clean and cooked delicious breakfast. We appreciated her warm-hearted spirit so much and were fascinated by her energy.
How was your room?: Our room was left across the kitchen with a huge kingsize bed and air conditioning. Susanna tidied up our room every day, changed the sheets and put fresh towels for showering on the nightstand. The room was also very quiet and offered a good rest after long Havanna nights. Although there was a shared bathroom, it was not a problem at all. Susanna cleaned it every day, so it was never messy. Plus, the casa is decorated really cute with paintings of local artists which are also for sale. Everything is combined neatly in that very special Cuban manner.
How was the food they offer?: The food was very delicious - rico más :) We had breakfast every morning. And: Susanna is a very good cook. The juices she prepared were always naturally delicious. Unfortunately, we only had dinner once, a typically Cuban dish, but it was the best food we ate in all Habana! And don't miss a shot of rum, Ron de Santiago!
Other services they offer: There is basically nothing, you can't ask of Susanna. She's such a helpful person and wants the visitors to enjoy their time in Cuba and her casa. She organized a lot of things for us, like laundry or taxi services or put us in contact with other casa owners in different cities. She even gave us her private contact details in case of any emergency while travelling.
Other comments: I hope to return to Cuba soon and when I do, I'm going to stay at Susanna's casa again. We didn't only had a nice holiday but also won a friend for life in Havanna!
Casa specifics: English speaking, Quiet, Fantastic hosts, Comfortable, Colonial, Cozy, Hidden gem, Romantic, Charming, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Airconditioning, Laundry service, Balcony, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Kingsize bed, Bathroom with shower
June 7 2014
Name: Anastasija Milojevic
Country: Serbia
I stayed here at: 04/29/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
I paid $30 per night
Casa Bolsa de Habana
My review: Best hosts ever, if you visit Havana this is the place to be! I was never before in the private casa, just hotels, but this was amazing experience, the owners of which I will never forget, taught me a lot about Cuba and their culture. Whatever we needed, the owners were there to help. The house currently has 2 rooms, the owners do not live in the house.Susana will come to make a meal if you want that. The owners helped us and to reserve the houses in Trinidad and Varadero, which we later visited. They told us the most beautiful places in Havana, taught us salsa, showed where you can eat best and cheapest food in the town...
There is no private bathroom, so if you don't rend both rooms, you will have to share, but that wasn't problem for us, we had lovely company in the other room, and we have become friens with them. It was exceptionally safe in the house so you can leave your money in the room. You will have towels in the room and water in the kitchen, same price as water in stores.
How was your room?: Amazing! Spacious with a large double bed and two fans, even though he was not hot because of the high ceilings - 4 meters. The house was built in 1902 but is phenomenally well preserved, with marble floors and it's very clean, I have not seen any bug and for me that is really important. One day Susana put a fresh and fragrant flowers in the room I loved that!
How was the food they offer?: Lovely breakfast, Owner Susana made amazing coconut pancakes or eggs with fresh fruit juice.
Other services they offer: They will help you with whatever you need!
Other comments:
Casa specifics: English speaking, Quiet, Fantastic hosts, Elegant, Comfortable, Colonial, Cozy, Hidden gem, Roomy, Romantic, Charming, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Breakfast service, Dinner service, Kingsize bed, Queensize bed, Bathroom with shower
June 7 2014
Name: Anne Kveim Lie
Country: Norway
I stayed here at: 04/06/2014
I made a reservation through Cuba-Junky's Casa App
I paid 25 CUC per room plus breakfast (5CUC)
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: We had a great time in this casa! Only the fact of living in the old Stock Exchange,now inhabitated by People, laughter and laundry, contributes to the experience of staying in a different country. The rooms are large and sparsely furnished, and the Place is not cosy - but rough and cool. We stayed a Family of four and liked it a lot. Everything is clean and Nice. Susana is great, and makes excellent breakfast!
Casa specifics: English speaking, Quiet, Roomy
Amenities: Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Bathroom with shower
May 26 2014
Name: Baris Bahar
Country: Turkey
I made a reservation at Cuba-Junky
I paid 30 cuc per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: When we met with Susanna and went up the stairs to the casa, we felt that now we are in Habana,
Every morning Susanna comes with her Cuban energy, starts preparing those delicious breakfasts; and we get up, her energy gets to us and makes the best start for a day.
Then we go out and see that we are at he heart of Old Havana, where old the attractions are so close.
At night when coming back to casa, we see how safe it is and how charming it looks as being the old stock exchange building.
Day by day, our pleasure increased as we go out to the balcony, sit at the patio and feel the romance and history that the casa has.
And our hosts, Susanna and Arthur, who were there with us whenever we need any help or guidance. They were like a friend who were hosting us at their house and trying their best for our vacation.
There is a lot to say but better to go and have the experience by yourself. (which we hope to have in near future)
How was your room?: Room was very nice and clean with that small details that Susanna always care.
How was the food they offer?: The breakfast are delicious with different options to choose, where pancake and the eggs were our favourite.
Every morning you have the fresh and handmade juice, and the best coffee we had in Cuba.
Also we did have the chance to eat dinner once which made us regret going out ever night instead of trying Susanna`s delicious Cuban meals.
Other services they offer: You name it and both of them do their best to help you. We are really glad to meet with Arthur and have the chance to see Habana with his instructions and help.
Other comments: Susanna and Arthur meant more than host to us during those 5 beautiful days; they were really like a long known friend. We are more than happy for choosing this casa to stay.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Fantastic hosts, Comfortable, Colonial, Romantic, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Private entrance, Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Bathroom with shower
May 13 2014
Name: Sharon Krause
Country: Wales
I stayed here at: 04/24/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
I paid 30 cuc per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: This Casa is set within a beautiful colonial stock exchange building with original features and fittings. It has a great sense of history and ambience.
It is positioned on Obrapia Street in the heart of Old Havanna where you can experience the vibrancy and the warmth of the Cuban community, welcoming, kind and a zest for life.
The hosts are very hospitable and make you feel at home by sharing their knowledge and experiences and cater to your individual needs.
The Casa is spotlessly clean and tidy and the owners always at hand to guide and support you to ensure you have a fantastic holiday.
It is also set in a very convenient location for sightseeing and a stones throw away from the famous Obispo.
A great Casa with friendly English and Spanish speaking hosts.
How was your room?: Clean, tidy, well ventilated and great balcony for watching the world go by.
How was the food they offer?: Both hosts are exceptional cooks, serve delicious dishes and are willing to share their knowledge of cuban cuisine and give you the "real" cuban experience.
Other services they offer: The hosts cater to individual needs and tastes and will go out of their way to help and make your holiday special.
Other comments: Thank you so much for your kindness and making my time in Havanna very special.I will be coming back soon.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Fantastic hosts, Elegant, Colonial, Roomy, Romantic, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Private entrance, Private bathroom, Minibar, Balcony, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Bathroom with shower
 April 16 2014
Name: arianna
Country: united states
I stayed here at: 04/10/2014
I made a reservation at the casa directly
Bolsa de la Habana
My review: It's a great place, the house very clean, big and very well organized. The owners are good persons and the house is located in the center of old havana. It is a very cozy and very good for group of family and friends. I would recommend this place for everybody want to travel. Casa Bolsa de La Habana.Obra pia 257 % Aguiar Y Cuba, Habana Vieja
How was your room?: Clean, well organized and perfect!!
Casa specifics: English speaking, Italian speaking, Quiet, Fantastic hosts, Comfortable, Beautiful
Amenities: TV, Private bathroom, Balcony, Extra bed available, Bathroom with shower
March 31 2014
Name: Sarah
Country: Germany
I stayed here at: 03/14/2014
I made a reservation at: Cuba Junky website
I paid: 30 cuc per night
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: Very nice casa particular.Walking distance to capitolio, Malecon, plaza vieja.
The host was very nice and speaks English very well. Has a lot of good tips for Habana.
Perfect for our stay in Habana. We stayed there for 3 nights.
How was your room?: Room was very nice and clean. Huge appartment with a private bathroom and kitchen.
How was the food they offer?: Very good breakfast. You could choose between eggs, french toast or fruits and toast. Fresh and handmade juice every morning.
Other services they offer: Very helpful host. She organized other casa particulares for us in Trinidad, Santa Clara and Varadero.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Colonial, Safe
Amenities: Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Kingsize bed
March 10 2014
Name: Leona and Jim
Country: Canada
I stayed here at: 12/31/2013
I made a reservation at:
Cuba Junky website
I paid: $35 per night
Casa Bolsa
My review: Upon arrival Susana and Arthur warmly greeted us at the Casa. Immediately we felt at home and very welcomed into their casa particular. Both Susanna and Arthur were very informative, helpful and so kind we knew we made the right decision in staying here for 5 nights including New Years 2014 which they ensured was rung in the Cuban way.
The casa is ideally located in Habana Vieja on Obrapia street just one block off of Obispo the main tourist street in Habana Vieja. The building itself is stunning to walk up to with it's grand entry and balconies that look over the street. Susanna ensured all of our needs were taken care of in Habana including arranging accommodations for us in Cienfuegos. The casa itself is the old Stock Exchange Building which still retains its old world charm including a stock trading pit and old safe with bullet holes. very cool. There are large bedrooms, one with a separate private sitting area, and a brand new bathroom with HOT WATER! There is also a large common living space with gorgeous tiled floors. With all the space provided this would also be an ideal rental for groups or families. We even had our own kitchen with all necessary amenities. This casa is very private as the owners live a couple of blocks away and Susanna was available to ensure that any of our questions or needs were taken care of. We stayed in Casa Particulars throughout Cuba and this was defiantly one of our favourites.
How was your room?: Large and Clean
How was the food they offer?: Excellent
Other services they offer: Susanna is very accommodating and can take care of your needs
Other comments: Wonderful people, accommodations and culture. We loved this Casa and most importantly we loved Susanna and Arthur.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Quiet, Fantastic hosts, Comfortable, Colonial, Hidden gem, Roomy, Romantic, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Laundry service, Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Queensize bed, Bathroom with shower
Feb 2 2014
Name: marlene proper
Country: netherland
I stayed here at: 01/04/2014
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: We had a wonderful time in the case bolsa. Susana, the hostess was waiting for us and her hospitality and enthusiasm made us feel at home. The case is impressive and has big rooms with large windows. We slept like a rose.
In the morning Susana came to make breakfast with fresh fruit and great shakes and we could ask her about everything and she gives us all the details about havana. We also met the partner of Susana who was a very warm-hearted person. It is impossible for me to find me in the review of 2 dec. 2012.
Dear Susana, thank you for feeling us so welcome in Cuba.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Fantastic hosts, Elegant, Comfortable, Colonial, Roomy, Romantic, Charming, Safe
Amenities: Private entrance, Private bathroom, Laundry service, Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Kingsize bed, Bathroom with shower
How was your room?: Very roomy and classical
How was the food they offer?: fresh and lots of fruit
Other services they offer: pick-up from the airport. Aranging taxis
Feb 2 2014
Name: Thomas Ter-Borch
Country: Denmark
I stayed here at: 01/21/2014
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: This is without a doubt the best casa i have stayed in during my travels in Cuba! I stayed 7 nights in this great place right in the heart of Old Habana. This was absolutely perfect, very short walking distance to all the sights of old Habana. The appartment had high ceilings which ment fresh and cool air during those hot Havana days, and if that was not enough, remote controlled fans could be turned on. Bathroom was new and very modern and no problems with the hot water as I have experienced in other casas around Cuba. I travelled alone and enjoyed the privacy of this appartment but would say it is indeed also perfect for families or groups because of the large living room where you can hang out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The owner is so sweet and very helpfull if you have questions about Havana or needs advice on travelling to other cities + as others have mentioned, her breakfast is fantastic and is the perfect start to a day full of sightseing. On top of this the appartment is located in the building og the old Habana stock exchange which just gives the experience the perfect historic touch you want to have when going to Cuba. I had a great stay in this casa and will definately use it again when going to Cuba.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Fantastic hosts, Elegant, Comfortable, Cozy, Hidden gem, Roomy, Charming, Beautiful, Safe
Amenities: Private entrance, Minibar, Laundry service, Balcony, Ceiling fan, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Queensize bed, Extra bed available, Bathroom with shower
How was your room?: Large, clean, big comfortable bed and with 2 balconies
How was the food they offer?: Great breakfast! Fresh, tasty fruits and big omelets!
Jan 25 2014
Name: CM
Country: USA
I stayed here at: 12/25/2013
Casa Bolsa de la Habana
My review: I love this casa! One of the best places I stayed at in Cuba. You basically have your own apartment with a big living area and full kitchen and courtyard. It’s quiet, private, and the location is right off of Obispo, right in the heart of Habana Vieja. The owners are amazing, friendly, super helpful and made me feel right at home. It really felt like a home away from home. I felt spoiled when I left and stayed at other casas in Cuba, not realizing how great this place was by comparison and how much I looked forward to returning to Havana at the end of my trip just to stay here. I have recommended this casa to other travelers and insist that you also have breakfast because it’s so good! I’m vegetarian too and they really went out of their way to accommodate my special dietary needs, which I found to be quiet difficult elsewhere in Cuba. Again, I think this place is amazing and will definitely stay here when I go back to Cuba.
Casa specifics: English speaking, Quiet, Fantastic hosts, Elegant, Comfortable, Hidden gem, Roomy, Romantic, Charming, Beautiful, Safe, Patio
Amenities: Private entrance, Private bathroom, Laundry service, Balcony, Breakfast service, Dinner service, Kingsize bed, Queensize bed, Extra bed available, Bathroom with shower
How was your room?: Beautiful! Huge and incredibly spacious. I had not one but TWO balconies!
How was the food they offer?: SO GOOD! HUGE PORTIONS! I looked forward to having breakfast every day because it was such a bountiful feast.
Other services they offer: Really helpful in arranging travel to other cities and sites in Havana.
Other comments: i loved it here!
Dec 2 2013
Name: JP
Country: USA
I stayed here at: 11/18/2013
Casa Bolsa de Habana
My review: Be aware. Although the casa has some charm and location ideal near Obispo, I will not recommend at all for you to stay there.
The owners claim to have everythig and in fact we did not have any hot water for the whole week. No a/c an the most difficult the casa is located just in front of a state building in complete renovation. A lot of noise
The Bathroom is located outside of the apartment and it is not convenient. The neighbors ask you money. No phone no internet.
The owner is a louzy cook, my friend tried her breakfast once, did not like it. The husband of the owner is a gringo / Asian guy fluent in English but be careful as he mentioned when he had troubles, this is Cuba man!
The price of the casa is $35 Cuban Pesos which is $10 more tahan any casas. We negotiated $30 because we had troubles with our casa.
Do not trust them on providing
you servives. Instead we will recommend few casas near Plaza Vieja Calle Leonor Perez named as Calle Paula wonderful casas private bath private entrance, internet and phone as well. $25 including breakfast. Hostal Mirador de Paula.
Casa specifics: Colonial, Roomy
How was your room?: Spacious room and private apartment but no a/c and lots of noise
How was the food they offer?: not good
Other services they offer: Drinks from the fridge and laundry (expensive 50 a piece)
Other comments: Be aware the photos look better than the casa looks |
