“Great first experience of a Casa Particular”

My wife and I, Toronto residents in our 60’s, had a wonderful stay at Hostal “Autentica Pergola” in Santa Clara in early April. We visited Santa Clara for a couple of days, travelling down from our resort on Cayo Santa Maria. It was our first experience of staying in a “casa particular” and could not have been better. Our hosts, Carlos and Carmen Obregon were most obliging and helpful, very hospitable.

LOCATION: La Autentica Pergola is very centrally situated close to the centre of town, Parque Leoncio Videla, walking distance to all the cafes and most places of interest such as monument to the Tren Blindado, Teatro de La Caridad, etc. However, it is quiet at night, as the rooms (3) are off a central courtyard in the traditional colonial style. The cool and welcoming courtyard was decorated with a water fountain and plants of all types, along with exotic birds and a friendly parrot (all of whom are sent upstairs at night, so no noise after hours).

ROOM: Our room, and we presume all others, was very clean, had an ensuite bathroom with shower and washbasin (a second wash basin in the room), refrigerator with water, wine and beer supplied, TV. We found the mattress somewhat on the hard side, but not to worry after a night on the town. Each room had a couple of chairs and table outside for guests to relax, read etc in the cool patio area, a nice touch. MEALS: the dinner at La Autentica Pergola was unquestionably the best meal we had in Cuba, despite staying at a five star resort for the week. Delicious lobster, amazing soup, ice cream, fruits, and also a delightful breakfast the next morning with excellent coffee. All served at our own private table, we felt like privileged guests at a private hideaway. With wine and meals, including the room, the total bill came to around $ 70 CUC, amazing value.

HIGHLIGHT OF VISIT: We took a child’s bike down with us to Cuba. This had been re-furbished from a cast-off by a friend of ours, a serious cycling enthusiast who participates in a volunteer program which regularly donates bikes to Cuba. Through the help of our hosts Carlos and Carmen, we were able to make contact with a young family, and hand the bike over to their 8 year old daughter. A highlight of the trip, as you can imagine.

LukeandLeo

Toronto, Canadá

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