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Soul of Cuba
November 3-8, 2022 6 days, 5 nights We cringe a little every time we hear someone say, "Go to Cuba before it changes." What we would prefer to hear is, "When you visit Cuba, prepare to be changed." Tourism may not be a magic wand but it inevitably brings about a greater understanding of the people and places that make up our vast, shared planet. We take "responsible travel" seriously. Join us on a conscientious journey through the heart and soul of Cuba. This is a one-of-a-kind adventure in Cuba. With a group of only six people you will have a truly intimate, all inclusive experience Itinerary
Because our guides are local we are able to keep our finger on the pulse of a place. Because our groups are small we are able to move around with fluidity. Both of these things allow for meaningful changes to our itinerary so we're sure not to miss out on something extraordinary. This is just one of the ways in which our tours stand out. There will be food. Not just any food, lip-smacking good food! The only way to experience the flavors of Cuban cuisine is in Cuba. We will share with you some of our favorite culinary hot spots (paladares) and make sure you stay fueled up on our adventure. Havana is full of rooftop restaurants and what better way to enjoy the lovely weather. We will stay in comfortable, local family homes, giving you the opportunity to get acquainted with Cuban hospitality and the human spirit that continues to rise above. A favorite quote heard on a previous tour was, "Don't try to understand my country. Just enjoy it." Cuba is full of question marks and what better way to navigate them than with a local who knows his country inside and out, who is willing to provide answers but at the same time get you to relax and just go with the flow. Vamanos! La Habana You will be welcomed into the heart of Old Havana by a local to learn about about the city's historical significance and its cultural tapestry woven by creatives, inventors, performers, musicians, dancers, and storytellers. Havana highlights include Paseo de Martí, El Capitolio, the Malecón, Plaza de Armas, private art galleries with commentary from local artists, a walk and talk with student economists, colorful murals, local family home visit, Fusterlandia, Muraleando, and the local markets. We'll spend a morning in a private organic garden where they carefully choose the ingredients for our lunchtime cooking class. You'll learn all about what has influenced Cuban cuisine over time as we prepare several traditional dishes alongside local chefs, then we'll sit down together to share our delicious meal. And, if you don't already know what an international champion cigar sommelier is, you will. We will be the dinner guests of an Olympic Cuban hurdler, turned entrepreneur, who made his way back to his homeland to do good. He will share his secrets of training and maintaining his Olympic form, and the importance of nutritious food. Art and music are seemingly in every corner of Havana. We will meet several artists at home in their studios. Learn not only about their art but how they feel about their role in Cuban society. If you're an art lover, this is a great opportunity to support the arts and bring home something truly special. Let's seek out the music, rhythm and dance that keeps this island’s heart beating. We'll take in a performance, when available, at the emblematic Teatro Martí named in honor of Cuban National Hero Jose Martí, and engage in the creative expression at Fabrica de Arte - a former cooking oil factory turned cultural meeting space for imbibing art and cocktails. Creativity abounds in all the nooks and crannies of Havana. Valle de Viñales - UNESCO World Heritage Centre Travel to the scenic tobacco-growing region of Valle de Viñales to spend the day talking with Cuban farmers about traditional agricultural practices, slowly ramble through cigar country, then enjoy a farm-to-table meal with a view. Get a good feel for life as it is lived in el campo (the countryside). Agriculture and tourism are what drive the economy of Viñales. Take an optional bike ride with a local cycling enthusiast through the valley's winding dirt roads and lush emerald mountains. We'll peer into the depths of Cueva del Indio, an incredible underground show of stalactites and stalagmites, and a boat ride along a subterranean river offering views of cave paintings and remains of artifacts used by indigenous people. No tour of Cuba would be complete without a ride through the city streets, under the stars with the top down, on your last night on the island. |
Cost
From $1,895 Covid-19 vaccine required.
What is included
Not included
Group is limited to 6 participants so reserve your place early. If you are a group with at least 6 people and would like to arrange your own travel dates, please contact us. Tour cost is for double occupancy. Due to the nature of accommodation in Cuba, there are no single supplements. NOTE: Our full-time schedule of activities according to Support for the Cuban People is meant to facilitate meaningful interaction between our travelers and individuals in Cuba. There will be no individually selected and/or self-directed activities on this tour. Resources
Song: Quimbara by Celia Cruz |