Tons of people, Texans in particular, travel to San Antonio annually for vacation to enjoy the ever popular tourist attraction called the Riverwalk, but it’s that very uber touristy nature of the Riverwalk itself that turns this travel experience seeking girl O-F-F. I’ve been to San Antonio many times, and each time my desire to get away from the tourist traps and really delve into the culture of the city has grown exponentially.

There are tons of nice–downright lovely even–and popular hotel options that are located on the main part of the Riverwalk, which is chock full of restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, but when I began my research for the hotel Mr. Bubbleista and I would stay in, but I knew none of those options would do. That meant in preparation for my most recent trip there earlier this summer, I was determined to tap into the best and most distinctive options that San Antonio had to offer–I wanted to find the best of the city’s hidden gems. Enter Hotel Havana.

If you’re looking for an “approach-ably luxe” boutique experience that is enveloped in character, details, and top notch service, then look no further than Hotel Havana. The hotel was originally built in 1914 by a local grocer named Edward Franz who had a dream of recreating the colorfully, elegant, “tropical allure” of Havana, Cuba. And having actually traveling to Havana in September of last year, I can attest to the authentic charm of this place!

One of the things that drew me in right away when I was doing my research about about Hotel Havana was that the 27-rooms at this historic hotel are all unique, decorated with different personalities, and are a design lover’s dream. Vintage rugs? Check. Old, original hardwoods? Check. Antique furniture? Check. Exposed brick? Check. Different headboards in every room including a bright green wooden 4 poster bed? Checkity-check-check-CHECK!

The rooms are categorized as Havana Queen; Havana King; Queen Suite {suites have separate lounge areas with separate seating and/or a desk}; King Suite {hello four-poster green bed!}; Terrace Suite {two tvs, a preloaded iPod, and a SMEG vintage fridge and mini bar}; Grand Suite {large at 650 sq ft with a large living rom space and dual sinks in the bathroom}; and the grande dame, the Penthouse Suite which is two stories {semi-private veranda, guest washroom on the lower level; ornate staircase leading to the loft master suite, and a large walk-in shower}.

We stayed in a King Suite {although not the one with the green bed–womp, womp…maybe next time} and had a super pleasurable stay. Plenty of space to move around; high ceilings; comfy beds and pillows; a reading nook and desk; and cute pink vintage tile bathroom sealed the deal.

Plus the hotel had a SUPER ADORABLE restaurant and underground bar, which I will cover in “part 2″ separate post because they are worth of their own review! In the meantime, scroll on for the full photo diary of my hotel stay! {all photos snapped by Davon D. E. Hatchett unless otherwise noted. ©}