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Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Activity note: This daily schedule is a representative guide. Program elements in Cuba are controlled by the Cuban government and are subject to change on short notice, as are flight times. Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon: After checking in at the hotel, take some time to freshen up. Orientation: 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Our accommodations in Cuba feature clean, comfortable rooms with private baths and standard amenities. Cuban hotel standards may not equal their American or European counterparts. Improvements are ongoing, and we hope that any potential glitch in service or amenities is a minor trade-off for the authentic connections and enrichment we will experience. Some meals will be in paladars: privately owned and operated family restaurants. Periods in the schedule designated as “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. The Orientation meeting is essential for all participants. We will review the regulations that govern our program and are set by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Program elements in Cuba are controlled by the Cuban government and are subject to change on short notice; therefore, the daily schedule is a representative guide. In Cuba, we will have a bilingual Cuban host who will be with us for the entire program.
Dinner: At the hotel, we’ll have a meal with beverage choices of coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 15 miles total, approximately 1 hour. Walking and standing for approximately 3 hours, pedestrian streets, cobblestones, high curbs.
Breakfast: In the hotel restaurant, have what you like from the extensive buffet with a variety of hot and cold choices and beverages.
Morning: Orientation: 8:30 a.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Our accommodations in Cuba feature clean, comfortable rooms with private baths and standard amenities. Cuban hotel standards may not equal their American or European counterparts. Improvements are ongoing, and we hope that any potential glitch in service or amenities is a minor trade-off for the authentic connections and enrichment we will experience. Some meals will be in paladars: privately owned and operated family restaurants. Periods in the schedule designated as “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we’ll have a presentation on the history of U.S.-Cuba relations with an expert in the field. We’ll gain an understanding of Cuban perspectives on the tumultuous relationship between the two countries. We’ll then board our private motorcoach and set out on a field trip to a community project that helps self-taught Cuban artists.
Lunch: At a paladar (privately-owned restaurant).
Afternoon: In the afternoon, we will learn about dominoes. Dominoes, Cuba’s national game, has its own set of rules, played enthusiastically in private and public. More than competition and skill, it is a greatly enjoyed social activity. We’ll meet members of a local dominoes league, learn the Cuban rules, then play with club members. Teams will rotate and each American will play with one Cuban and an opportunity to practice a few words in Spanish!
Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Havana. The Group Leader will be glad to offer suggestions.
Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 124 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. Walking up to 2.5 miles; uneven cobblestone streets in Cienfuegos, few places to sit.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet.
Morning: We will check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach, and begin the journey to Cienfuegos on the southern part of the island. The drive through the countryside will be a fascinating experience as we observe the forms of transportation available to Cubans, including an abundance of horse drawn carriages. En route, we will stop at Playa Larga, in the heart of the Zapata Wetlands, to learn about ecology and conservation in Cuba from a local expert.
Lunch: At a seaside paladar.
Afternoon: After lunch, there will be an opportunity to take a short swim in the Caribbean Sea or walk along the beach. We will then visit the Dancare Community Project and learn about what they do. We’ll reboard the motorcoach and continue our ride to Cienfuegos. Once we arrive in Cienfuegos we will attend a rehearsal of a local music group, with an opportunity to interact with the musicians. Next, we’ll go on a walk with our Cuban host and Group Leader through Plaza José Martí, the main square in Cienfuegos. We’ll hear briefly about the square’s history as we observe local life and see beautiful buildings that surround it including the Tomas Terry Theater. We’ll then reboard the motorcoach, ride to the hotel, and check in.
Dinner: In the hotel restaurant, we’ll have a buffet dinner with beverage choices of coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening: At leisure.
Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 108 miles total, approximately 3 hours. Strenuous walking up to 2.5 miles and standing outdoors; very uneven cobblestone streets; sunny conditions, limited shade. The historic center of Trinidad is not accessible to motorcoaches and ca only be reached on foot.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet.
Morning: We’ll board the motorcoach for a full-day field trip to Trinidad, one of the original Spanish Settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1514, this time capsule of a city is a mix of historic landmarks and majestic natural beauty. We’ll set out walking with our Cuban host to Plaza Mayor where we will see historically and architecturally significant landmarks of this colonial town.
Lunch: At a local hotel with beverage choices of coffee and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon: During our Trinidad field trip, we’ll visit with a local artisan who uses abandoned wood from houses to create one-of-a-kind sculptured portraits. Returning to our hotel in Cienfuegos, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Dinner: In a paladar.
Evening: At leisure.
Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 145 miles (233 km), approximately 3 hours including stops. Walking up to 2 miles, uneven ground.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet.
Morning: After checking out of the hotel, we’ll board our motorcoach for the return trip to Havana.
Lunch: At a paladar in Cojimar, a fishing village on the outskirts of Havana.
Afternoon: Following lunch, we will visit an independent organic farm and see the various ways food is grown. Next, we’ll arrive in central Havana for a motorcoach overview of some of the city’s key sights including Havana University, Paseo del Prado, Revolution Square, and the Malecon. . We’ll check in to the hotel late afternoon with some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner: In a paladar.
Evening: At leisure.
Activity note: Walking about 2 miles, standing indoors and out up to 2 hours; pedestrian streets, cobblestones, high curbs; sunny conditions, limited shade.Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet.
Morning: We’ll be joined at the hotel by a local architect who is involved with the ongoing government-funded restoration projects in Old Havana. We’ll learn about the work being done and discuss the challenges and the vision for Havana’s future. Next, we’ll set out on a walking field trip to explore the historic plazas of Old Havana, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “Havana was founded in 1519 by the Spanish. By the 17th century, it had become one of the Caribbean’s main centres for ship-building. Although it is today a sprawling metropolis of 2 million inhabitants, its old centre retains an interesting mix of Baroque and neoclassical monuments, and a homogeneous ensemble of private houses with arcades, balconies, wrought-iron gates and internal courtyards.” We’ll then meet with members of a graphic arts cooperative and learn what they do.
Lunch: At a paladar.
Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll ride to their practice space to meet with members of a modern dance group. We’ll observe a rehearsal and have conversation and interactions with some of the group’s members.
Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be glad to offer suggestions.
Evening: At leisure.
Activity note: Walking up to 1/2 mile and standing indoors and out; pavement, cobblestones, stairs without railings, uneven curbs and sidewalk surfaces. Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet.
Morning: We’ll joined by an expert in gender studies and sociology for a presentation on women in Cuba that will provide perspectives on women in today’s Cuban society. Next we will visit the Sephardic Synagogue of Havana and explore the Holocaust museum there.
Lunch: At a paladar.
Afternoon: Next, we will visit a local market of independent artists. We will regroup at the hotel to attend a performance by a women’s a capella chorale. This is an opportunity to hear beautiful voices and to discuss what life is like for women today in Cuba.
Dinner: We will ride to a paladar. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity note: Hotel check-out 12:00 Noon. See your program’s Transportation Information regarding transfers.
Breakfast: Hotel buffet or boxed breakfast depending on flight times. This concludes our program.
Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
I found the website user friendly
Cuba is an important neighbor to the US. I’m so glad I went to see for myself and learn first-hand, while visiting Cuba is still an option.
This is the first time my wife and I travel through Road Scholar. We had an Excellent Experience. All activities were executed as planned. The Cuban tourist Guide was very knowledgeable and patient to answer all questions. The Road Scholar Guide coordinated all activities very well. And last but not least the Cuban People are amazingly friendly. I will definitely use Road Scholar for my next trip. Thanks Omar Vitobaldi
This Road Scholar experience was so well done that I feel it changed me. This experience provided a view and understanding of the people of Cuba, that has made me a more aware and empathetic person. An investment of time and money, well worth it.
This Cuba program is just the right length for a first experience. It was very educational!! We are so glad we went!
I have been on a lot of tours with many companies and I believe Road Scholar is one of the best companies in the market. Tom G
This program offered a wide variety of activities, sites, and lecturers. I had a wonderful time and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring Cuba.
IF you are looking for excitement and the truth about the Cuban people and Cuba this is the trip for you!!! This was one of my bucket list dream and I had a Phenomenal time..... I LOVE CUBA!!!!! rmm
A wonderful experience. I would highly recommend this trip
This exceptional trip allowed me to appreciate the Cuban people as having resiliance in the midst of adversity. It is a somewhat difficult trip and well worth it as I find myself experiencing my world with more patience, compassion and especially appreciation. I have never been hugged and smiled at by so many strangers! This itinerary is filled with many unforgettable experiences...
Very information program at a good value.
Our visit to Cuba was amazing. The lectures, guides, bus driver, and especially our trip leader and Cuban guide were simply amazing! The trip was not only educational, provided a unique opportunity to interact with the Cuban people, but delightful in fulfilling a bucket list dream. I definitely intend to go back.
See Cuba now. Change is in the wind and it probably won't be the same in 5 years
this trip to Cuba was the best trip I have ever taken.
Go to Cuba!!!!! The program is fantastic and highly educational. We visited many sites and learned so much. In addition the music and dance and art presentations were fantastic. This trip exceeded all of our expectations.
This is the best organiced tour I ever had.
I would highly recommend Road Scholar for an informative visit to another country/culture. It is a good program and one you can use as a base to explore that culture more on your own.
Our trip to Cuba was a wonderful learning experience and opportunity to learn about this close-by neighbor. Program was comprehensive, varied, and informative. Guides and lecturers were first class! 3 cultural activities( danc performance, chamber orchestra, and vocal group) were all outstanding. Food is plentiful but less varied than in Us. Service is generally good but spotty at times. Food quality is sometimes good and sometimes less so due to limitations of Cuban economy and system. We had a great time!
Cuba is our neighbor. This is a comprehensive and illuminating picture of the culture and survival skills of its people. It is also an opportunity to present a picture to the Cubans of our culture.
Cuba was a terrific experience thanks to the expertise of our guides and the educational activities presented during the program
My first solo trip! Fantastic experience! Our group leader, James Fitch, did an amazing job and our local guide, Alejandro Anido, was extremely knowledgeable about Cuba and answered our many, many questions with great detail and enthusiasm. This made Cuba come alive for us! Fun and interesting participants and I made new friends! I’m already planning my next Road Scholar trip!
Cuba Today:people and society is educational and fun, we’ve made new friendships.
Our 8 day trip to Cuba was exceptional. I have returned with a new understanding of this country which fulfilled a lifelong dream for my husband.
Great trip! Recommend it highly! Very informatively!
Great way to experience the culture and life of Cuba, with well informed guides, great lectures and high quality arts. A friendly and interesting place to visit!
This trip far exceeded my expectations! We were able to see the beauty of Cuba and her people in ways that could only be appreciated by direct contact with the people in their actual work/play spaces.
This trip exceeded expectations. The cost is much less than comparable programs. The people to people interactions and cultural experiences were amazing and very memorable-much better than routine sightseeing. I hadn't really been looking forward to those so was pleasantly surprised. The lectures likewise were really high quality. Cuba is great for a week. This was our first Road Scholar trip but we plan to take more.
Cuba was amazing, unfortunately our trip organizers were well organized, well informed or enthusiastic.
We feel that we acquired an understanding of Cuba past, present and future which would not have been possible without the rich tapestry of educational and experiential opportunities woven into this program by Road Scholar.
I’m not a traveler but Cuba intrigues me and this trip gave me a wonderful introduction to an amazing place. I hope I am a better and more understanding person because of this experience. I have great confidence that Road Scholar will take good care of me on my journey, see that I am exposed to interesting new ideas and return me safely.
It is very interesting and educational to utilize the Road Scholar organization for traveling. especially if it going somewhere for the first time.
I have just returned from a delightful and educational Road Scholar trip to Havana and Cienfuegos! A trip to Cuba should be on every traveler's "bucket list"! Rita Champagne
This was a very informative and interesting program. I learned a lot about the country, the people and the history. I highly recommend.
Our leaders, the expert speakers, the field trips to meet Cubans, all combined to provide us with an understanding of this wonderful country and people. Loved it.
Cuba is not like other Latin American countries. Go now!
Our trip to Cuba was very enlightening and extremely worthwhile. Taking and interacting with Cuban people again reinforced the feeling as to how much we are alike and and share similar values.
Our trip -Cuba Today:People and Society: Havana to Cienfuegos was one of the best trips we have taken. Our lodgings were excellent, our tour leaders were amazing, and the country people were extremely friendly. We would certainly look into another Road Schlolar trip in the near future. J W Vermont
The program gave a wonderful overview of life in Cuba today and the events over it's history that shaped it
We were surprised and delighted by our amazing experience traveling through Cuba with Road Scholar. The education we received gave us a much better understanding of the history we read before the trip. Even though we were only there for 7 days, I feel we saw a great deal of the country seeing city and countryside, large cities and small. Our guide was wonderful and greatly enhanced our trip. We met so many different types of Cubans, old and young, musicians, artists, workers and entrepreneurs. It was a wonderful experience.