zWeekend in Havana

You’ll be met at the airport and escorted to the superior first class Melia Cohiba Hotel in the heart of Cuba’s vibrant capital. Join your Trip Leader for an informative orientation briefing and then get to know your fellow travelers over dinner.  Meals D

This morning’s specially arranged meeting with the editor of a popular Cuban newspaper promises fascinating insight and a unique perspective on the social and economic issues facing the nation as well as the impact of recent changes in U.S. policies toward Cuba. Then spend time with a local artist who works with neighborhood children teaching them the art of papier-mâché.
 
Today’s lunch at one of the city’s privately-owned paladares offers a chance to sample Cuban cuisine. In the afternoon, you’ll mingle with local residents at a food co-op and see firsthand how the island’s dual currency system works in daily life. Your day ends on a high note at the legendary Abdala Recording Studio where world-famous musicians like Nat King Cole and the Buena Vista Social Club recorded some of their best known music. This evening is free for you to dine in one of the city’s paladars, private, family-owned restaurants found throughout the island. Our Trip Leader is well-versed in the city’s current dining scene and will be happy to make recommendations. Meals B+L

Havana was founded in 1519 and within a hundred years it had emerged as one of the Caribbean’s wealthiest ports and an important ship-building center. Although it’s now a vibrant capital with more than two million residents, its historical core still retains a wonderful mix of Baroque and Neoclassical architecture - including colorful old buildings with arcades, balconies and delicate wrought-iron gates. Start the day with a walking tour through Old Havana, exploring its lively cobblestone streets and Colonial-era landmarks.
 
The city’s family-run restaurants, like the paladares where you dined yesterday, are evidence of the vast changes sweeping the island. Indeed, there are an increasing number of private home-based enterprises in Cuba and today you’ll meet with some local residents in their homes to learn more about this emerging trend. After lunch, our people-to-people exchange continues with the talented members of a Havana-based choral group.  Meals B+L+D

After breakfast, transfer to the airport and bid farewell to Cuba. Meals B

Limited to never more than 24 guests, our Small Group People-to-People Cuba Journeys are individually programmed and in compliance with U.S. Government regulations. Many of the places we visit and the cultural experiences we provide are not in standard touristic venues and are not always available. Thus, your final itinerary prior to departure will detail each day’s full program.