Cuba's first 'five star' hotel opens

The 246-room hotel is located in Old Havana, a Unesco World Heritage site also now classified as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

“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," said general manager Xavier Destribats. “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.”

Kempinski Gran Hotel Manzana was built on top of the historically popular site of Manzana de Gomez. Constructed in 1890, the site now contains the first European-style shopping arcade in Cuba.

All rooms and suites have views of Old Havana and the hotel also has a rooftop infinity pool, Spa Albear by Resense with eight treatment rooms and a fitness room.

Its selection of dining options cover seven bars, lounges and restaurants, including a typically Cuban cigar lounge, a cocktail bar, a tapas cafe and a panoramic restaurant.

The hotel brings Kempinski’s portfolio to 76 hotels in 31 countries.