Clarification: We didn't actually stay here, because she was booked. HOWEVER...

Ana and Pepe, if you haven't figured it out already, are some of the best hosts on the planet. Once I had determined that I wanted to stay in a casa particular (and if you are interested in local flavor, you MUST do this), I contacted Ana. Of course, she was booked but she recommended her friend, Casa Diana, and we were blown away! Ana emailed me and answered questions and gave me practical advice about where to exchange money, etc ahead of time. She was FAR more helpful than my travel agent!

We got quite busy the first couple days we were in Havana, but finally got to go over to Ana's house to thank her for everything she had done. We (my husband and I) fell madly in love with Ana and Pepe from that moment. We laughed and hung out and realized how much we had missed by not visiting them immediately after getting of the plane! They are like long lost relatives. We heard then how Pepe can give tours and were devastated that we didn't know that ahead of time. Fortunately, Ana mentioned that she could make dinner and made us lobster that night. As amazing as the food was, the best part of the evening was hanging out with Ana & Pepe. Their home is like a mini-
United Nations--the day we were there we met Aussies, a Jamaican, a lady from Grand Cayman, and two women from Tanzania. When we left we felt like we were leaving family. If we a lucky enough to get back to Cuba, we will absolutely be contacting Ana.

Ana and Jose (otherwise known as Pepe) are the perfect hosts. The rooms are large and tidy. The casa is in a safe location about an hours stroll along la rampa and then the malecon into habana veija, or a five minute cab ride. The breakfasts at 3.50cuc and 5.50cuc a pop are a little pricey but delicious. Pepe's tour is a must. The pretty courtyard garden is perfect to wind down in with one of Pepe's mojitos and a cohiba at the end of a long day.

I know it has been said many times before but it deserves to be said again. Ana and Pepe are just wonderful hosts. They are genuinely kind and helpful. And of course I have to mention the ever smiling Yuri who prepares your food and the charming ‘Barca’ fan Tony who generally helps around the place. There is a lovely warm atmosphere here and you feel really at home. Ana booked wonderful houses for us in Vinales (Basita) and in La Boca (Elroy). We were unable to stay with Ana on our return and she arranged for us to stay with Carmen, a neighbour who has the most beautiful furniture and a lovely outside terrace. Although some may feel the location is not central it was never a problem for us. ( 3 CUC taxi from National Hotel and 5 CUC from Old Havana)
I would certainly recommend the Casa de Ana and will certainly return there. Also take Pepe’s tour of Old Habana.

Myself and my Fiance stayed with Ana and Pepe in December and January. The rooms are basic but more than what you require and in Cuban standards its great! Each room has an en-suite one room bigger than the other. The beds are comfortable however are two singles made into a double, which is rather difficult for a young couple like ourselves if you catch my drift!! hehehe!

The sheets are changed every other day and the room is cleaned thoroughly everyday. Its like staying with a long lost aunty and uncle. Ana and Pepe are so nice and very trust worthy and helpful. However, they make every effort to help you and help their friends by pointing you to people they know for services like taxis, tour guides etc.

Hot water is available but periodically mornings is best!

The atmosphere is wonderful very relaxed and so many tourists coming and going just for Ana and Pepe's help. They are truly nice people. If you don't smoke you may find Cuba difficult as everyone smokes.

Its a good idea to explore food options as the casa's tend to charge around $15-20 per person and you can spend that on a meal for two.

Breakfast at the casa is good, fruit and cooked eggs with ham. However, the bread is sometimes stale due to the heat and the fact they need to ration.

We had a brilliant stay in Havana with Ana and Pepe and I would definitely return.