The Real Cuban Experience
Hostal El Lucero
TRINIDAD, CUBA - Last month, Fashion Studio Magazine had an opportunity to visit Trinidad, one of the most picturesque cities in Cuba offering a unique insight into the past. We were totally amazed by the city's beautiful colonial architecture as well as the friendliness and hospitality of local people.
Below you can find more information about Trinidad, a short description and a photo diary of our trip, and our review of Hostal El Lucero - recommended place to stay.
COLONIAL BEAUTY
Trinidad, located in the central Cuban province of Sancti Spíritus, was founded in the early 16th century. Often called “the museum city of Cuba”, this perfectly preserved Spanish colonial settlement has been protected since 1988 by UNESCO for its outstanding examples of 18th- and 19th-century architecture.
Trinidad is one of the oldest European-founded settlements in the Americas. Walking the cobbled streets and watching the locals go by with their lives, you can't help the feeling like you've been transported back in time... Welcome to the world where days are measured not by Twitter and Facebook messages on your screen, but by the rising and setting of the sun.
Roofs of Trinidad seen from Hostal El Lucero
View from Hostal El Lucero (Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine)
The city has a unique cultural tradition, a perfect blend of the Hispanic and the African worlds. In particular, the artisan and ceramic culture has been passed down for countless generations. The scenic beauty of the Escambray Mountains (Sierra del Escambray), waterfalls, beaches and crystal clear ocean waters make this part of Cuba a magnet for nature lovers.
Walk, Don't Run
To truly enjoy your time in Trinidad, make sure you adjust yourself to the same pace as the locals. Slow down...
Include the following places in your Trinidad's itinerary: Plaza Mayor - main square in the city; Iglesia Parroquial Mayor - the oldest church in Cuba (originally constructed of wood in 1522 and rebuilt in stone in 1680); Museo de Arte Cubano - for contemporary Cuban artists; Las Cuevas (Disco Ayala) - a club located in a cave (!); Casa de la Música - for a night out; Casa del Café - choose from more than 22 different types of coffee; Galería Comercial Universo and small fashion boutiques located on Antonio Maceo street - you can find interesting handmade dresses and jewellery over there; La Casa de La Cerveza (Ruinas del Teatro Brunet) - great place for a Mojito; Playa Ancón - beautiful beach located a short taxi ride from the city centre (see below).
Playa Ancón (Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine)
Flowers at Playa Ancón
Camilo Cienfuegos street
Life in slow motion
Shopping at Antonio Maceo street
Local fashion boutique, Antonio Maceo
Fashion boutique, Antonio Maceo
Massage Hall, Antonio Maceo - withing easy walking distance from Hostal El Lucero
Cactus at Hostal El Lucero (Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine)
HOSTAL EL LUCERO
Located in a quiet part of Camilo Cienfuegos street, Hostal El Lucero is perfect for couples and friends looking for cozy and affordable accommodation in Trinidad. El Lucero has a friendly, homelike atmosphere and gives you a glimpse into the real Cuban life - something you can't experience staying at the resort.
Time to Unwind
El Lucero features an indoor courtyard with comfortable hammocks and a small swimming pool surrounded by exotic plants. It is a great place to relax after exploring all Trinidad's attractions.
View from the balcony
Jacuzzi (Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine)
What You Can Expect
"Hostal El Lucero offers four rooms in a colonial style building dating back to 1830. - describes Mercedes, the owner - We have two terraces where you can dine throughout the day or just relax and admire Trinidad's historic city centre and nearby mountains. Our beautiful garden features a variety of flowers and is a natural habitat of hummingbirds and mockingbirds. And when the weather in Trinidad gets too hot, you can always use our jacuzzi - there is no better way to relax!"
"Opening my own business in a place where I was born was spectacular. I am so proud to belong to such a recognized city in Cuba as Trinidad. - adds Mercedes - Our ultimate goal is to become the best guest house in Trinidad. We are constantly improving our services and in the future we would like to create a spa centre offering facial treatments and massages for our guests."
Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine
Relaxing at the balcony (Photo by José Ramon)
Dining Like a Local
The home-cooked food at El Lucero is delicious. There is no need to eat out! Breakfast consists of freshly squeezed juices, Cuban coffee, bread, ham, cheese, eggs, and fresh fruit selection.
In the evening, you can opt for a romantic dinner with candles and wine...
Cuban coffee
Breakfast at El Lucero
Good Night's Sleep
Our bedroom, located on the first floor, was spacious and comfortable. It had air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom and enough storage space for two people. Bright yellow colour was an instant mood lifter every time we walked into the room.
At night, you can close the window shutters and enjoy complete darkness and uninterrupted silence - a good night's sleep is guaranteed!
At night, you can close the window shutters and enjoy complete darkness and uninterrupted silence - a good night's sleep is guaranteed!
Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine
Stylish floor tiles
Wardrobe - more than enough space for all your clothes, handbags and accessories
Black & white decor elements
Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine
Pretty in Pink
The en-suite bathroom was bigger than expected. It featured a spacious shower area and soft pink towels - a nice change from the boring white towels offered by most hotels. Hot and cold water was available 24 hours (something you still can't take for granted in many places in Cuba).
Bathroom (Photos by Eva Fydrych / Fashion Studio Magazine)
Did you know that 'El Lucero' means 'bright star' in English? And if you climb up to the rooftop of the hotel at night, that's exactly what you can do - watch the stars...
It is a quiet spot with a beautiful view and if you are looking for something different, you won't be disappointed. Sometimes the most memorable moments in life are the ones that are most simple and spontaneous.
“Sometimes the most ordinary things could be made extraordinary, simply by doing them with the right people.” (Nicholas Sparks)
A toast to the Good Life :)
Sunset seen from the rooftop
Camilo Cienfuegos #266
e/ A. Maceo y Franciso Cadahia
Trinidad, Sancti Spiritus
62600 Cuba
Email: colinacu1@gmail.com
Tel: (+53) 1 41 992298
Trinidad, Sancti Spiritus
62600 Cuba
Email: colinacu1@gmail.com
Tel: (+53) 1 41 992298
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*Special thank you to Hostal El Lucero for hosting Fashion Studio Magazine in April 2014.
Read more about Cuba: STYLISH DESTINATIONS - HAVANA
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