Accommodations must be reserved in advance of your visit to the island, or it's possible that Immigration will arrange lodging for you at a state-operated hotel. Some are fine, and others not as wonderful. Check the Moon or Lonely Planet guides for phone numbers and locations of hotels and private house rentals.

Santiago de Cuba has quite a range of hotels as do other major cities, ranging from elegant to basic. The most elegant is the Sol Melia, called Hotel Santiago by the locals, which has a bar, several restaurants, a cigar shop and a business center with internet access. The Hotel Las Americas, located nearby, is popualr for its casual outdoor bar/restaurant. Resort areas feature all-inclusives. The Casa Grande Hotel, located on Parque Cespedes, has a bar overlooking the park and is convenient to cultural attractions like Casa de la Trova, a mecca for lovers of son.  Taxis gather outside the hotels, and negotiations can be made to travel to outlyings areas like El Cobre or the Dinosaur Park. Agree on transportation prices in advance if the taxi is unmetered.

Another lodging option in Cuba that saves money and can be quite enjoyable is to stay at a casa particular. Prices vary but are less expensive than hotels, usually 15 CUC to 30 CUC depending on the season and location. Look for the green triangle sign indicating a licensed casa outside the house. Have their license number and address available for the immigation officials when you arrive. Some provide breakfast or other meals for a nominal cost. In a casa particular, your host can familiarize you with local attractions, point out interesting sites off the tourist's map and allow you to experience Cuban life and people outside the resorts.
It isn't legal for foreigners unrelated to Cubans to stay in their private (unlicensed) homes. The Cuban may receive a fine if the visit isn't approved by local authorities.