The Cuban capital, a major destination with a wide range of offers for the thousands of vacationers who visit the largest Antillean Island, emerges as an original mixture of options guaranteed by a rich colonial past that left its imprint on the city.

Options for leisure, which range from the warm waters of the Eastern Havana Beaches to traditional hotel colossuses such as the Nacional, or new-generation lodging facilities like the Occidental Miramar or the Meliá Cohiba hotels, meet the needs of the most demanding guests.

Inserted in this panorama are the establishments located in the historic heart of the nearly 500-year-old city. They play a major role for those who bet on culture, traditions and the singular touch of the area.

They are unique places for cigar lovers, such as the Conde de Villanueva Hotel, or resemble a monastery, like Los Frailes Hotel, and are complemented by the facilities of Palacio de San Miguel (San Miguel Palace), an attractive proposal for those who love culture and privacy.

Palacio de San Miguel has an excellent location, at a walking distance from the sea, and is surrounded by an urban setting that integrates the colonial fortresses of the city's former defense system to the colorful display of handicraft sellers.

The establishment is housed in a building bought in 1916 by Antonio San Miguel y Segalá, an illustrious citizen, journalist and author, who turned the edifice into a center for intellectual meetings.

Cast-iron stairways, balconies with brilliant marble railings and 10 rooms distributed among the building's three stories provide an excellent view of the Bay of Havana and are equipped with modern amenities ranging from air conditioning to satellite TV.

The stone-cut façade excels in harmony with the traditional blacksmith work of the early 20th century, along with marble walls and color-stained glasses rescued after painstaking restoration works.

The exhibition of original photos from San Miguel's personal collection in every room and hall gives the establishment a singular touch, bringing daily events and persons from the past to the present.

Hotel guests can spend a wonderful time at the San Carlos lookout terrace, on the top floor, from where they enjoy a panoramic view of the bay, including the breathtaking silhouettes of the Tres Reyes del Morro Castle and the Royal Force Fortress.

For protocol events, receptions and cocktails, the Gran Salón de Palacio offers such services as communication by fax, word processing and photocopy of documents.

The hotel also has a cozy 16-seat breakfast nook, where light meals and even a menu for children are offered. In the lobby bar, visitors and guests can enjoy traditional drinks and excellent coffee made with fresh grains, typical of eastern Cuba.

Because of all these advantages, Palacio de San Miguel incorporates a new option of traditions, culture and Bohemian inspiration to the offers of the group Habaguanex S.A. in the historic heart of the Cuban capital.