All Cuban hotels need to be reviewed in the context of other Cuban hotels rather than their counterparts elsewhere in the world. With this in mind, Hotel Saratoga is great and I would stay here again if coming to Havana.
We were upgraded to the Jnr Suite (room 704) on the 7th floor. The room was big, clean and had a comfortable bed with stylish interiors. The shower was good but you needed a few attempts to flush the toilet. There were windows overlooking the street below and you could watch Havana life go by. It was a little noisy with the traffic (windows were not double glazed) but I am a very light sleeper and managed to sleep through without earplugs.
I did return for 1 night and was in a room on the interior of the second floor which overlooks the mezzanine bar. You can hear the music as if you were in the bar and the band plays until 11pm. When I asked to change rooms I was told the only room available was on the second floor and it was exactly the same. I went to speak to the manager and low and behold a room on the 5th floor was free - great as I had to get up at 4am for an early flight. I would definately ask for a room on the 4th floor or above to avoid the noise from the lobby if you will be having early nights.
The rooftop pool area was great for a pre dinner drink and they make the best Dacquiris we had in Cuba, and we had quite a few. I agree with previous reviews that the service isn't great up here - it's quicker just to go to the bar and order yourself.
Breakfast was diverse but service & food not great; there seem to be loads of staff meandering around but you need to set yourself on fire to get their attention. We found this the case in most places we ate in Cuba so I think this is the norm. We ordered eggs benedict one morning that were bought without the hollandaise sauce. When we asked where is was the kitchen told us they didn't have any.
We had dinner there on the first night and it was pretty average. You would do much better at El Templete and it is definately worth making a booking at La Guarida.
Reception staff were fine but not overly friendly. Bellboys and doormen were great & really nice.
Overall, a good hotel by Cuban standards and worth paying the extra money.


(10 votes)







