I'm sorry to say that my experience of Pepe & Rafaela's casa fell so short of expectations that in all honesty I cannot recommend a stay with them. Sure, their first floor 1912 property is architecturally impressive, but their attitude is not at all acceptable and quite frankly it defies belief that they come recommended. In my 3 weeks in Cuba Pepe displayed the rudest and most arrogant manner of any individual I had the experience of meeting. In country where most people are hospitable, friendly and polite, his character stands in stark contrast. As his casa occupies a prime listing in the Lonely Planet guidebook, he has clearly become over-complacent, and realises that he does not actually have to make an effort any more. He has a network of others to whom he sends those he cannot accommodate (and takes a cut in the process). He is too ready to judge, criticise and dismiss others' opinions and has a tendency to treat his guests with contempt. When not grumbling he and his wife barely communicate, and when they do it is usually to pursue an argument. In 20 years of travelling throughout the world, this is the first time I have come away with such a sour taste that I have to publicly report that I would NEVER recommend this place to anyone. Incidentally, during my time in Havana a guidebook author was also staying (anonymously) at Pepe & Rafaela's and had such a bad time that the listing is coming OUT of the next edition.
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