Cuba welcomes first American hotel chain in over half a century

While the U.S economic embargo against Cuba is still in place - and has been since the Fidel Castro-led revolution overthrew a pro-American government in 1959 - trade and investment restrictions have been loosened under the Obama administration, with President Obama making a much publicised visit to Cuba in March of this year. This signing by Starwood, therefore, marks a historic moment in relations between the two countries. Four Points by Sheraton Havana is set on the Quinta Avenida in the upscale Miramar district. It features 186 guestrooms, two dining options and a lobby bar, an outdoor pool, 24-hour gym, spa and 1,000 square feet of meeting space. Starwood has advised that the hotel will be gradually upgraded and refurbished while continuing to welcome guests.

“The opening of Four Points Havana marks a monumental moment for not only the Four Points brand, but for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, solidifying its innovative, first-mover spirit,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “With its uncomplicated comfort and reinvented travel experience, Four Points Havana will be the ideal choice for global travelers as they experience Havana’s colorful history, rich architecture and unparalleled culture.”

Starwood will soon take over the management of another iconic Cuban hotel, the state-owned Gran Caribe Inglaterra Hotel. As one of the oldest hotels in the city - it first opened in 1875 - the 83-room property is currently undergoing an extensive renovation before relaunching under Starwood’s Luxury Collection brand on August 31. Cuba’s tourism industry has boomed in the last few years, with 2016 continuing the trend. In the first four months of this year, there were 1.5 million visitors to Cuba - up 13.5 percent compared with the same period last year. Those numbers are expected to increase substantially as further restrictions are lifted.