It's been one year since Airbnb first expanded into Cuba.
Since then, there have been more than 13,000 Airbnb bookings there, making it the site's fastest-growing vacation market, ever. The secret to this success is simple: Airbnb gathered listings from Cuba's government roster of state-authorized rental homes; it now offers 4,000 such homes for vacation rentals online.
Meanwhile, in a historic move, the Obama administration has eased restrictions on travel and commerce in Cuba, making it much easier for U.S. citizens to visit the previously off-limits country.
So, the only question is: Why aren't you getting in on the action? Ahead, we've rounded up eight of the best Airbnbs in Cuba that are available to book right now. Let's get the ball rolling on some Havana nights, shall we?
This charming two-story colonial-style home was built in 1923. The house sits in the middle of Havana's business district, which is perfect for those looking for easy access to nightclubs, restaurants, theaters, and hot spots for dancing. You'll have three bedrooms, plus a balcony and an additional terrace equipped with a grill. And did we mention there's a full bar?
$176/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
Located four hours from Havana in Caibarién — also known as "La Villa Blanca," thanks to its beautiful sandy beaches — this home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a new swimming pool, and a stunning view of the sea. For an insanely low price, you'll get the entire villa to yourself. A short ride away, the Northern Keys of Villa Clara boasts beautiful, coconut-strewn beaches, and boat rides for a fun daytime activity.
$105/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
La Rosa de Ortega is a charming boutique B&B in the center of Havana. Though you can't rent the entire house on Airbnb, the individual rooms are full of Cuban charm. Standard rooms have a four-poster bed, private bath, and windows overlooking the bustling streets of Havana. There's also a private pool and massage center on-site.
$60/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
Do you want to escape city life? Try Villa Leibys y Papito in Viñales Valley, nestled in the Sierra de los Órganos mountains two hours from Havana. Disconnect from everything in your private room, with a balcony overlooking the lush green valley. This spot may be a little tough to find, but totally worth it when you do.
$40/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
If you're looking for cozy rooms, delicious food, and a friendly staff, Hostal D'Cordero II has you covered. The hotel is located in Santa Clara, the capital city of the Cuban province of Villa Clara. The hotel was built in 1930, and most rooms have either Louis XV-style furniture, or paintings, lamps, porcelains, and crystal and bronze ornaments imported from Italy. If you're looking for culture, this is the hotel for you; it's located near several museums and theaters.
$35/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
Casa Melvis is really an apartment in the historic center of Old Havana. Though it only has two bedrooms and one bathroom, what it lacks in space, it makes up for in charm. The eighth floor apartment has a spectacular view of the bay and some of the oldest parts of Havana, best enjoyed from its extremely wide private terrace. Historical monuments, forts, monasteries, and palaces from the colonial era are all easily reachable by foot, taxi, or bus.
$70/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
Varadero, covering Cuba’s narrow Hicacos Peninsula, is a popular beach resort town. Just seven minutes from the Varadero airport is Casa Oceanview, which has — you guessed it — quite the ocean view. There's a pool, bar, and two bedrooms with king-sized beds. Each of the two bathrooms have Jacuzzis. And within Varadero, there are plenty of spa resorts, as well as a golf course. There's also the Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos, a preserve with trails and an ancient burial cave.
$120/night
PHOTO: COURTESY OF AIRBNB.
In Cuba's countryside, 30 minutes from Santiago, is Christian's Waterfront Villa. The three-bedroom property is right by the ocean, and has its own pool. If you're looking to hit the beach, there are two nearby. You can also get dinner, salsa lessons, snorkeling, and massages (all for an addition $10 to $15).
$80/night
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