The 246-room Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana has opened in Old Havana, the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Cuban capital. The new property is a revival of the former Manzana de Gmez site, originally built in 1890. Manzana de Gmez became the first European-style shopping arcade in Cuba and later housed government offices and schools. The Manzana marks Kempinski Hotels’ re-entry into the Americas.
“Since it was declared one of the new ‘Seven Wonders of the World,’ tourism has exploded in Havana,” said Xavier Destribats, COO, the Americas and General Manager of Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana.Ê”We believe the market is ready for a true luxury hotel. Our property will not only be the first of its kind in this market, but we believe it sets a new standard for the entire Caribbean. We have been very strategic about the expansion of our brand, and we are convinced that this is the right time and the right market for Kempinski in the Americas.”
The property offers 3,725 square feet of meeting space and a 1,500-square-foot panoramic terrace for events. Other features include the Spa Albear by Resense with eight treatment rooms, a thermal bathing area, a state-of-the-art gym and a rooftop infinity pool. Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana has six restaurants and bars: Confluencias, Evocacin Tobacco Lounge, Constante Bar, El Arsenal Lobby Bar and Lounge, San Cristbal Panoramic Restaurant, and El Surtidor Pool Terrace and Bar.
By Lisa A. Grimaldi from Meetings & Conventions