CAPTIVATING CUBA COAST TO COAST Havana to Holguin 11 Days / 10 Nights

Transcription

1 CAPTIVATING CUBA COAST TO COAST Havana to Holguin 11 Days / 10 Nights

2 Itinerary Overview Our most in-depth people-to-people Cuba adventure traverses the island from the seaside malecón of Old Havana to the more traditional South-East shores of Gibara, Cuba s best-kept secret. At the center of Cuba s urban culture in Old Havana, we visit private studios of renowned artists, dancers, and musicians, and are introduced to journalists and community leaders who share their unfeigned perspectives of the revolution and evolving US-Cuban relations. Outside the city, contemporary daily life under the revolution is revealed while listening to world-class choirs, dancing century-old songs that hark back directly to African music, on a lively bicycle taxi tour through the side-streets and plazas of Camagüey, and touring a polyclinic for a firsthand look at Cuba s healthcare system. Our adventure concludes in the off-beat and authentic seaside town of Gibara, where we visit local fisherman selling their fresh catch and learn about their rudimentary fishing methods. In the true sense of our Wild Style of travel, every trip to Cuba is singularly authentic and immersive based on the interests of our travelers and the constantly evolving opportunities to connect with Cubans in more personal and meaningful ways. DAY OVERNIGHT HOTEL MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 HAVANA Hotel Sevilla Old Havana D Flight to Havana. Plaza de la Revolution, Prado street 2 HAVANA Hotel Sevilla Old Havana BLD Walking tour of Old Havana, Fine Arts Museum of Havana. Dinner and music at Los Mercaderes paladar 3 HAVANA Hotel Sevilla Old Havana BL Private performance through the musical history of Cuba, National Literacy Museum, community jazz dance project/santeria presentation. 4 CIENFUEGOS Casa Particular BLD Drive to Cienfuegos, snorkeling or swimming at Bay of Pigs, walk the malecon at night 5 TRINIDAD Casa Particular BLD Cienfuegos Choir, walking tour of Cienfuegos, drive to Trinidad, dance at Casa de la Musica 6 TRINIDAD Casa Particular BL Hike at Topes de Collantes Nature Park 7 CAMAGUEY Casa Particular or Hotel BLD Valle de los Ingenios, Torre Iznaga, drive to Camaguey, walking tour, evening Fusion Flamenco or ballet show 8 CAMAGUEY Casa Particular or Hotel BL Tour via bici-taxi, visit art studio of Martha Jimenez, visit Policlinic, Dance lesson 2

3 9 GIBARA Hotel Arsenita BLD Creole Choir of Cuba. Continue on to Gibara fishing village. Dinner at La Cueva 10 GIBARA Hotel Arsenita BLD Meeting the fishermen, cigar factory tour, afternoon catamaran trip, rooftop farewell dinner 11 DEPARTURE -- B Drive to Holguin Airport for Departure Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: FLIGHT TO HAVANA PLAZA DE LA REVOLUCION Arrive in Havana where you are welcomed on the shores of this Caribbean isle by our local expert guide. Your first stop in Havana is the bustling Plaza de la Revolucion, an important location in Cuban history for an introduction to the island. Watch for the classic American cars that are everywhere, holdovers from the pre-embargo era of American trade with Cuba. Wander down Prado Street, the lush, tree-lined boulevard, one of the most central avenues in the city with plenty of opportunities to engage locals amongst the stately, diverse architecture and pastel-hued colonial buildings. You head to the other side of the harbor for a spectacular view of Old Havana. Check in to the hotel, relax, and regroup in your room before meeting for an informal orientation and welcome dinner at Los Naranjos. Known for its fusion Cuban cuisine, classic glamor architecture and interior design, this intimate paladar is located in the bustling neighborhood of Vedado flanked by mansions where Cuban aristocracy once resided. Take a quick stop in Hemingway s old room in the historic Ambos Mundos hotel to see where the iconic writer composed The Old Man and the Sea, and then visit the home of an art collector for an intimate exhibition of his incredible private art collection with a special family history. Throughout the day, you ll have ample opportunities to interact with local vendors as you explore the city streets and your guide s hidden haunts. Overnight at Hotel Sevilla or similar. [D] 3

4 DAY 2: OLD HAVANA WALKING TOUR FINE ARTS MUSEUM Experience a day rife with cultural education kicking off with a lively discussion on U.S.-Cuba relations led by Camilo Garcia-Lopez, prominent member of the Union of Writers and Artists in Cuba (UNEAC). Your walking tour starts at the Central Park of Old Havana, in the vibrant and colorful heart of the city. Here music streams out of balconies and locals watch over street cafes and open-air bars including Floridita where Hemingway spent many hours. Cuba s 400 years of rich colonial heritage and architecture is revealed in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. At about 11 am arrive at Callejon de Hamel where music is generally performed until 2-3 pm. This is a center for Afro-Cuban music and religions and on Sundays, starting around 11am, there is always a group playing and locals dancing. This narrow two-block long alley in Central Havana also features art created by Salvador González. There are brightly-colored paintings, sculptures and murals, depicting rituals and deities. (Note: This dense area is crowded, and is one of the few places we caution against pickpockets. If you aren t interest in rumba and/or Afro-Cuban music you can enjoy the art at other, less busy times when there is no musical performance.) After lunch in a local café you are accompanied by a Cuban art specialist to the iconic Fine Arts Museum of Havana where you encounter the works of some of Cuba s most celebrated artists. Enjoy free time to wander through Old Havana on your own before reuniting for dinner at Los Mercaderes, one of the finest paladares in Old Havana serving a fusion of dishes combining Afro-Cuban style with international flavors and flair. Overnight Hotel Sevilla or similar. [BLD] DAY 3: HAVANA LITERACY, MUSIC, AND DANCE Discover the rich culture of rhythms and songs as Professor Alberto Faya sings and strums his guitar on a virtual tour through the history of Cuban music. The National Literacy Museum showcases Cuba s wildly successful literacy project spearheaded by Fidel Castro. You ll enjoy lunch at a vibrant restaurant in Havana s Vedado neighborhood before heading to a community jazz dancing project started in the former neighborhood of Cuban Jazz legend Chucho Valdes. Take note of the dance moves on the floor and maybe you ll get a chance to step out yourself! This evening, chat with locals over drinks about their everyday lives, giving you the time to interact with native Cubans in a more intimate, relaxed setting. You might consider dinner at one of the great local paladares in town. As the Havana night sets in there are many entertainment options to consider such as the Bertolt Brecht Theater. Overnight Hotel Sevilla or similar. [BL] 4

5 DAY 4: CIENFUEGOS EXPLORATION, BAY OF PIGS A 3-hour drive takes us to Cienfuegos, Cuba s seductive Pearl of the South. This little town possesses a hearty mix of French and Caribbean culture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors are drawn to the glittering waters and eclectic colonial architecture. En route you stop at one of the most famous locations in all of Cuba the Bay of Pigs or Bahia de Cochinos. It was here that the infamous 1960s CIA-sponsored invasion took place, but centuries earlier there had been other invasions, including one by the French pirate Gilbert Girón. The town of Playa Giron is home to an excellent museum you visit to learn about the 1961 invasion. Today, this is a peaceful place and now people raid Playa Girón for the warm Caribbean waters whose wealth of coral reefs and marine life make it a diver s paradise. You stop for a snorkel session to witness first hand some of the healthiest coral reefs in the world located within the boundaries of the Zapata National Park. With our local guide, you also discuss the reasons for the reefs health and Cuba s role in protecting its marine ecosystems. It s the perfect place for snorkeling, with colorful fish and transparent, warm waters that make your environmental learning most enjoyable! Upon arrival, you check into your casas particulares. After dinner, those with energy to keep going can stroll the seaside malecón where musicians and poets thrive. Overnight at Casas Particulares. [BLD] DAY 5: CIENFUEGOS EXPLORATION, CANTORES CHOIR, TRINIDAD This morning you visit the Cantores de Cienfuegos, a world-renown a cappella choir for a special treat. Under the direction of Honey Moreira, their repertoire includes different styles and classical periods, as well as contemporary works from different countries and cultures. This afternoon you start your walking tour of Cienfuegos urban historic center at Jose Marti Plaza, the site of Cienfuegos most impressive buildings. From the Boulevard to Marti Park you ll see the Triumph Arch, Bar Meson El Palatino, the oldest building in the city; La Casa del Dundador, residence of Don Luís de Clouet; the old Mayors Office, San Lorenzo School, the Pure Conception Church, and the theatre Tomas Terry built in 1890, now a national monument. En route to Trinidad, you ll stop at a friendly local fruit vendor s stand and sample his delicious fare, and possibly share a cup of coffee in his home. After a 1 hour drive, you arrive late afternoon to Trinidad, a city beloved for its old-world charm. Walk around the preserved Spanish colonial settlement now a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the grand tastes of the past are present in the Italian frescoes, finely wrought chandeliers, and bone china still gracing the plantation-era mansions. It s a tranquil town very different from Cienfuegos feisty Cuban vibe. There are many options for night life including the Casa de la Musica and Rincon de la Salsa, among other venues. Overnight at Casas Particulares. [BLD] 5

6 DAY 6: TRINIDAD EXPLORATION, TOPES DE COLLANTES After breakfast, you ll head to Parque Natural Topes de Collantes to enjoy an afternoon hike. Topes de Collantes, which translates literally to Collantes Highs, sits almost 2,600 ft above sea level, along with Potrerillo Peak at 3,054 ft and San Juan Peak at 3,740 ft; they are all located in the Escambray Mountains. Soak in the nature of this area that includes caves, rivers, waterfalls, grottos, canyons, natural pools with crystal clear water, and mountain hills surrounded by mariposa, Cuba s national flower. There are several hikes to choose from, but the 3-mile Guayanara is one of our favorites. Head back to Trinidad to enjoy dinner on your own before calling it a night in your casa particular. Overnight at Casas Particulares. [BL] DAY 7: DRIVE TO CAMAGÜEY, VALLE DE LOS INGENIOS, TORRE IZNAGA, WALKING TOUR, FUSION FLAMENCO LIVE DANCE Begin your morning with breakfast at your casa. A short journey will take you to the Valle de los Ingenios, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 7.5 miles outside the city. Here there is a series of three interconnected valleys that were a center for sugar production in the late 18 th to 19 th century. Climb to the top of the Manaca-Iznaga Tower and take in the view of the surrounding valleys. Continue east to Camagüey (4 hrs), passing through small towns and sugar plantations recalling the importance of sugar in Cuba s history and culture. After dinner watch a live musical performance from the dance troupe Andarte Compañia de Fusion Flamenco that showcases both traditional Spanish flamenco and the troupe s uniquely choreographed Cuban take on the lively dance. Should the group be not available, we will look for an alternative activity for the night. Overnight at Casas Particulares. [BLD] DAY 8: CAMAGUEY ART, BICI-TAXI, POLICLINIC AND DANCE LESSON You are fortunate to have a private tour of the studio of world-renowned Camagüeran artist Martha Jiménez, who works with varied mediums including sculpture, painting, and ceramics, with a focus on women. Explore Camagüey via the best mode of transportation for this intricately laid out city: bicitaxi. Zoom through the maze of narrow streets on the back of a bicycle taxi greeting locals as you snap photos of the city s colorful pastel architecture. In the afternoon, visit one of the most prestigious art schools in the province to chat with students and teachers. Today a local doctor takes you through a health clinic revealing the workings of Cuba s progressive national healthcare system. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the city and dinner on your own at one of the many paladares near the hotel. Overnight at a Casas Particulares. [BL] 6

7 DAY 9: GIBARA FISHING TOWN Gather for a musical performance by the Creole Choir of Cuba, an internationally recognized Haitian-Cuban group that performs in Creole. The group s singers are the descendants of freed Haitian slaves and maintain their rich cultural legacy through music. Bid farewell to your B&B hosts and drive to Holguín. You continue heading east to Gibara, a seaside fishing town at the end of the road situated on a stunning cobalt-blue bay lined with brightly colored Spanish-era buildings. Legend has it that Gibara is the site of Christopher Columbus s first landing in Cuba. Considered the more authentic side of Cuba, this charming city is an opportunity to experience daily life with locals who are equally interested in your life in the States. Enjoy an orientation walk around town from our centrally-located hotel followed by dinner in a well-known local paladar, La Cueva, that specializes in seafood. Overnight Hotel Arsenita. [BLD] DAY 10: CIGAR FACTORY, CATAMARAN CRUISE FOR COASTAL EXPLORATION You start your exploration of Gibara walking to an iconic Cuban cigar factory learning about tobacco cultivation and why Cuban tobacco is considered among the best in the world. Stroll to the marina where fishermen sell their catch and share their daily tasks. A cataman will be waiting to take you on a cruise around the Bahia de Gibara for a relaxing time enjoying the coast views and beaches. Farewell dinner. Overnight Hotel Arsenita. [BLD] DAY 11: DEPART GIBARA, HOLGUIN OR EXTEND YOUR STAY Savor your last moments in lush Cuba with a relaxing morning before transferring to Holguin for your departing flight or ask about additional people-to-people experiences in other areas of the island. [B] END OF SERVICES THE WILD STYLE IN CUBA As a legal people-to-people tour you are immersed for 5-6 hours a day in Cuban life and culture, urban and rural. We have carefully designed this itinerary in collaboration with our American escort and Cuba maven, Joslin Fritz, ala the Wild style. Based on Joslin s many years of exploring Cuba we connect with local Cubans from all walks of life many of whom are her friends and personal acquaintances. You dine in some of Cuba s best paladares, privately owned restaurants and cafes, and your accommodations range from classic boutique hotels to renovated casas particulares, private family-run B&Bs hosted by enterprising Cubans interested in engaging with the world by opening their doors to share their life at the start and end of their day. 7

8 Click here for Pricing Click here for Dates INCLUDED SERVICES All guided tours and excursions (subject to change) Spanish speaking driver and Fully Bilingual guide throughout the trip Accommodations in superior hotels and private casas particulares B&Bs Meals as indicated [BLD] Breakfast, Lunch, dinners. 2 drinks are included for lunch and dinner Private air-conditioned transportation within Cuba Gratuities for presenters, luggage service and meals included in itinerary Medical insurance limited to $1,000 while in Cuba is included in your ticket price. (Travelex traveler s insurance including evacuation, medical, trip cancellation and interruption is highly recommended) Legal, licensed travel permit as a people-to-people program Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services Airport departure taxes included on your airline ticket price NOT INCLUDED SERVICES International airfare Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than those listed above Personal expenses for extra services or goods, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control Gratuities for Main Local Cuide and driver Tips for local musicians at restaurants and hotel chambermaids Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services or evacuation Private departures and custom trips are available on request for a minimum of 4 persons. We are traveling under a people-to-people license as authorized by the Office of Foreign Assets Control by the general license of 31 CFR (b). 8

9 POSSIBLE TRIP LEADERS Joslin Fritz Joslin is our Cuba maven, on-the-ground fixer, and lead guide. She has an extensive career as an international tour leader and outdoor recreational guide. She has guided in Bhutan, India, Vietnam, and Ecuador, though she now considers Cuba her specialty. Joslin has traveled and explored the Caribbean island from one end to the other many times for many years, she is captivated by the warmth of the Cuban people and the vibrant music, culture, and history of this inimitable country. Joslin spends the majority of the year in Cuba having helped us design our trips in the Wild Style that assures our people-to-people experiences are as fun and personable as they are genuine and informative, while allowing for spontaneity and time for individual exploration. Yadira Sardinas "Yadi, as she is affectionally known in her native Cuba, has been involved in tourism for over ten years. She studied languages at the University of Havana and is fluent in English, German and Spanish. She is passionate about sharing the history and culture of her country and has led trips all across the island. She has a darling young son, Yadiel, who is two years old. She prides herself on sharing her wide network of friends and acquaintances to create upclose and personal experiences for Wildland travelers so you better understand her complex country and fall in love with its people. Other experts that we engage on this trip generally include: Alberto Faya Professor of music at the University of Havana, co-founder of Nueva Trova music movement and part of well-known Cuban band Moncada. Camilo Garcia-Lopez Trigo Frequently published writer, esteemed professor and member of UNEAC (Union of Writers and Authors in Cuba). Note: Actual routes and activities may vary. As tourism to Cuba continues to evolve, we are always looking for new Wild-style travel opportunities to share deeper and more personal insights through our expanding network of friends, boutique hotel proprietors, artists and musicians, professors and diplomats, and other Cubans who have much to share with us. Due to such rapidly changing developments in Cuban tourism, we may change programmed activities as new opportunities arise, and substitute accommodations as new options become available. As a result of increasing tourism to Cuba domestic prices continue to rise and are subject to change without notice, so it s best to book your trip ASAP to lock in your cost. 9

10 ACCOMMODATIONS HOTEL SEVILLA, HAVANA Built in 1908, the historical Hotel Sevilla is located in the old Havana neighborhood, a world heritage site and a great choice for travelers looking for live music, history, and atmosphere. The exterior façade showcases beautiful Moorish architecture with many rooms offering balconies. There s an outdoor pool and fitness center, as well as 3 on-site bars and 2 restaurants. The 178 rooms are furnished with flatscreen satellite TVs, air-conditioning, safes, refrigerators, hairdryers, and bathrooms that feature a bathtub. Wi-fi is available. CASAS PARTICULARES In Trinidad, Cienfuegos, and Camaguey you stay in casas particulares. Spanish for private house, Casas particulares are owned by enterprising Cubans who want to share their homes and their lives with guests. Run similar to Bed and Breakfasts, these modest homes are renovated for comfort with private bath, natural light, and a/c. The neoclassical style of many homes includes spacious rooms gaily painted with outside gardens or terraces. Each casa is different with unique décor reflecting every family s personal charm and style. Although modest in amenities and service, these experiences offer a truly memorable and personal people-to-people experience. HOTEL ARSENITA, GIBARA Recently renovated, this 12-room property is one of the most charming boutique hotels in Cuba, just a block from the water and a short walk to the center of town. Dating back to the beginning of 20th century, Hotel Arsenita recreates the atmosphere of a family house, where comfort, intimacy, and personalized service are combined in a quaint style. The restaurant serves authentic local Cuban fare. Enjoy sweeping sunset views of the coast from the rooftop lounge. Rooms have a/c, hair dryer, telephone, TV, and minibar with views of the city, patio, or the sea. 10

11 Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows: * $1000 per person *Additional deposit may be required to hold room reservations depending on time of booking CUBA PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus the trip deposit, and any other additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure Cancellation fee per person 91 or more: Deposits are non-refundable days: 50% of land and charter air cost 60 or less: 100% of land and charter air cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Pre- Departure Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a or info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local in-country ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary; however, it is possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality (if upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply). All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions 11