We didn't choose this hotel, we stayed as part of an organised overnight trip to Havana. Despite the tour guide warning us not to expect too much, we were pleasantly surprised by the hotel. Nice, clean attractive interior. Staff were very helpful when I had to complain about noise from a neighbouring room.
Despite the bell boy trying to flog me cigars and rum, and being served exactly the same meal four times in a row, we would stay here again in the unlikely event we ever return to Havana. Despite the views from the roof terrace being rather industrial, the location is excellent for exploring Havana

We had had a lovely time in Varadero and took our reps advice to spend the last evening in Cuba in the capital Havana. Our rep booked the trip which included an evening at the Tropicana show. On arrival at the room,(at the Santander) we were so disappointed as you couldnt have got a more stark change from what we had already experienced in our hotel at Varadero. The room was dark and gloomy with a very small window which looked out onto someones accommodation (a hut) and what can only be described as a poor, run down area. No view at all of the harbour. The bathroom was of poor quality with holes in the bath, and the shower had been installed incorrectly so the water couldnt go over your body. The room was not sufficiently cleaned. The communal areas were not much better and the toilets in the recpetion area had no seats and the doors wouldnt shut (this was the ladies toilets). The food was of poor quality and we couldnt eat anything other than toasted sandwiches there. All in all, I wouldnt ever want to stay there again and would not recommend to anyone.

Location is all for this hotel. Couple of minutes walk from markets either side and all the sites in old Havana.

Food is typical Cuban and service is good.

Our room was at the front with an amazing balcony and views over the harbour. All very clean although the lifts were not always walking.

I can only say that my 4 night stay here was very good although having read some of the reviews I was rather anxious prior to my arrival.My experience was very different to that of some of the negative reviewers.My room was on the top floor and I didn't experience any of the noise mentioned but this is a city and the hotel is by the port so if you book there you should realise it might not be quiet.As for the staff they were lovely and helpful and willing to engage in conversation but I always find if you smile and are pleasant to people first the response is usually positve.Breakfast I found very civilised served to you at your table rather than a scrum at a help yourself buffet and the hot pancakes were delicious.Just remember this is Cuba, things are difficult so chill and relax and go with the flow.