Cuba
Cuba Today: Havana and Viñales
Program No. 22879RJ
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Cuba Today: Havana and Viñales
Cuba Today: Havana and Viñales
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Participant Reviews
Based on 123 Reviews
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We felt fortunate to travel to Cuba in this economically uncertain time. We were worried that the situation on the ground would make the activities and our safety a concern, but we put our faith in the quality of the Road Scholar reputation and programming, and we were not disappointed. The trip was well executed, thought-provoking and satisfying. We learned so much about the country and the people. We were uncertain about bringing everyday items for donations, feeling like we'd seem like white-saviors, but these items are needed in Cuba and were delivered and received with graciousness. We brought small toiletries, random medical items (tape, bandaids, salves), a couple of baseball mitts that had been gently used, children's books in Spanish, candies, embroidery thread and yarn. If/when they reopen Cuba for tourism, I'd recommend reading Ada Ferrar's book (Cuba: An American History) and visiting.
— Review left February 22, 2026
Visiting Cuba has been a long time aspiration - this trip far exceeded my expectations! Simply wonderful in all respects! Thank you Rudy and Enedys!
— Review left February 20, 2026
Cuba is a remarkable place and well worth visiting. It's one of our closest neithbors and thrives on our visits. Your view of the world expand!
— Review left February 20, 2026
Don't believe what you read in the newspapers or see on TV about Cuba! Go and see for yourself. You will be glad you did.
— Review left February 12, 2026
If any traveler has the least bit of interest in visiting Cuba, NOW is the time to go! Do NOT let the hype and political insanity currently being circulated about Cuba deter you. You will be immersed in a nation who loves welcoming visitors from the US, and you will treated like royalty. As one Cuban told me, "We LOVE Americano's!" By traveling to Cuba, you will also be doing a most valuable service to help alleviate and mitigate the economic crunch that Cubans are suffering at this point.
— Review left February 10, 2026
This program was a wonderful introduction to so many facets of Cuba, both urban and rural. So many people know so little about a country that is so close to the USA, and there should be more opportunities like this to visit and learn. Our group leader, Marlon, and guide, Karina, were helpful, knowledgeable, and very approachable. I enjoyed every part of the program and the variety that we were able to exprience.
— Review left January 30, 2026
The people who guided us were outstanding with very good information. We got to experience a lot of culture and engage with a lot of professionals. Time was well spent.
— Review left January 29, 2026
I was apprehensive about taking this trip since the invasion of Venezuela occurred just 3 days before departure. Road Scholar assured that they were monitoring the situation & that it was safe. I trust RS. I am so happy that I went ahead as planned. The tour went off without a hitch and I never felt threatened nor unsafe. Our leader Carole & guide Héctor were both fantastic, so knowledgeable, kind, & compassionate. I realize that I knew very little about Cuba & its wonderful people until I visited. It is so very sad to see the effects the USA embargo and world events have had on this beautiful country. The people are very resourceful and try to make do with what little they have and yet maintain a cheerful and welcoming spirit. I came away with both joy & sorrow in my heart.
— Review left January 16, 2026
This rates as one of my top 30+ programs I have had the opportunity to attend with Road Scholar. I highly recommend this program if you have wanted to visit and learn about Cuba and its people. Our guides, Hector and Carole were awesome, all lectures were excellent, getting to meet and interact with so many local Cubans in their various occupations and communities was the highlight of the trip for me. This program is both heart wrenching and heart warming.
— Review left January 14, 2026
This program was very enjoyable, but also very meaningful. Because of the political situation, most Americans know very little or have misconceptions about Cuba and would be surprised at how upbeat and welcoming Cuban people are despite difficult living conditions.
— Review left November 2, 2025
Wonderfully well-organized with a good understanding of what the traveler needs for both comfort and learning. We intend to take more trips with Road Scholar.
— Review left October 30, 2025
While all of Road Scholar tours have been wonderful, this was one of the best - great leadership & logistics. insights & learning about Cuba, its people, history & culture with a great group of participants. Highly recommend. Well worth it.
— Review left April 30, 2025
This was a wonderful experience. The guides were knowledgeable and very helpful throughout the entire trip, The accommodations were excellent. The excursions and sites were interesting …. Loved the antique cars and the owner of the car shop was very entertaining. There was sufficient time to explore solo. All-in-all I highly recommend this tour!
— Review left March 21, 2025
I would go again tomorrow. Same program, same group, same leaders. In a world where so much is misleading, this was the real deal. Wheels up!
— Review left March 20, 2025
I could not rate this experience any higher! The programming, pacing, variety, and knowledgeable staff and experts were fantastic.
— Review left March 19, 2025
My daughter and I had an amazing time in Cuba. It is a trip neither of us will ever forget. Cuba is a country of contradictions. It is a beautiful country with a rich history, yet it is sad because of its poverty and crumbling infrastructure. As I learned about Cuba, I also discovered much about myself during and after this immensely valuable experience. Thank you, Road Scholar.
— Review left March 16, 2025
Very educational trip and just the right length of time. Short flight from Florida and in the eastern time zone! What more could you ask for!
— Review left March 7, 2025
Cuba Today was an amazing opportunity to visit and learn about this historical and culturally rich island 90 miles from Florida. The Road Scholar instructors and leaders were top notch and the experiences were varied and interesting. I can recommend travel to Cuba with Road Scholar without reservation.
— Review left March 5, 2025
The tour allowed me to see Cuba as it is today, learn it's journey, interact with the locals that are very open about their individual journey. La Habana, Cojimar, Vinales showed me how people live in the City, by the seaside and in the rural areas.
— Review left February 23, 2025
Thanks to a well planned tour of Havana & Vinales and our passionate Cuban-American guide Carlos, we had a great time in Cuba. So close to us, and yet so far from modern day America! We learned so much about history, our neighboring people, and politics. We will never stop caring about and trying to help the Cuban people and relations with these neighbors.
— Review left February 19, 2025
If you think it's hard or scary to go to Cuba, you're wrong; it's not. if you think that you might have missed the best time to go to Cuba, you're wrong; it's still great. But if you see a great piece of art, and are not sure it's right; get it. It's inexpensive, and you won't see anything like it again, probably. Go. Just go.
— Review left February 17, 2025
This program was not only educational but it helped open my eyes about the Cuban people and their long history.
Being able to experience the entrepreneurs that are creating opportunities for themselves and others in addition to the farms that are existing withoutthe benefits of modern equipment. All eager to share their way of life and culture with us. A great way to gain a new perspective and become educated about our Cuban neighbors.
Truly a great experience!
— Review left February 12, 2025
Wonderful educational experience! In just 7 days I gained considerable insight into Cuba (people, economy, life, etc.) as well as empathy for the struggles of our tiny island neighbor. I highly recommended this trip for those who are curious about Cuba, are open to questioning their pre-existing notions, and flexible enough to embrace the challenges of visiting a place that is far less privileged.
— Review left January 29, 2025
The trip provided insight into the realities of the people, politics and economy of Cuban life today.
It was totally doable, enjoyable and worth the adventure. Highly recommended and appreciated.
— Review left January 27, 2025
Traveling to Havana and Vinales was a trip that I will appreciate and remember forever. If you are contemplating going, I encourage you to go. Road Scholars has created a wonderful program that will immerse you into Cuban culture and allow you to see the many beautiful aspects of Cuban people.
— Review left January 25, 2025
Loved experiencing the island of my father's family - this was incredibly meaningful to me. And I got to see how my grandmother rolled cigars in her day!
— Review left January 22, 2025
We never ever thought about going to Cuba until I discovered the trip while reviewing all the Road Scholar trips on their website. We picked this tour because it was much closer to home than traveling to Europe again or Asia, it was only one week long and it was a warm place to visit in January. We were somewhat anxious and fearful because Cuba is a communist country and the United States government has not had freindly relations with Cuba since before the Cuban Revolution. Before we went, were worried about our safety and what kind of accommodations we would have. Our initial anxieties about safety and lodging proved unwarrented. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of our accommodations and felt completely safe throughout our stay. We were very pleased with our experience. Very "eye opening" and educational.
— Review left January 22, 2025
I've been intrigued by Cuba for a long time, and had wanted to visit since before Covid. I finally found the opportunity to take this wonderful Road Scholar trip. I could not have wished for a better way to fulfill my curiousity about Cuba.
— Review left December 20, 2024
Participants should not be discouraged from visiting Cuba because of the many adversities that are reportedly affecting that Country. They have minimal impact in the well organized Road Scholars tours. Cuba and the Cuban people are well worth the adventure.
— Review left December 20, 2024
Cuba Today: Havana and Vinales was a fabulous adventure. Road Scholar has organized an excellent program. Our Cuban-American group leader, Jose, our Cuban leader, Alejandro, and all the wonderful Cuban people we met brought the program alive! Thank you.
— Review left December 4, 2024
The experience in Havana and Vinales, Cuba, was terrific. It was educational and very eye-opening. Interacting with the Cuban people was a wonderful experience.
— Review left November 27, 2024
The program offers a broad range of experiences to truly learn about the Cuban people and culture. You also learn about the many challenges in everyday life and how the Cuban people are resilient and adaptable. The RS host and Cuban guide are exceptional and enable a broad and deep learning experience. Bring your sense of adventure, curiosity, and patience and you will have an amazing trip!
— Review left November 21, 2024
We just returned from the Havana and Vinales Road Scholar tour and it was awesome. I can’t say enough about how great our two guides, Betty and Jose Luis, were. They were so informative about Cuba and its people. We met fantastic people both in our tour group and in Cuba. Also cigars were smoked, rum was drunk, and Cuban dominos were played. We wish only the best for the resilient Cubans.
— Review left November 19, 2024
Very interesting trip to see Cuba as it is today! It goes back to the 50s!
— Review left October 27, 2024
CUBA is our neighbor but most of us know little about it and have incorrect perceptions. Road Scholar is recommended for everyone who has a true interest in out Cuban neighbors.
— Review left October 23, 2024
The program was wonderful but there were way too many papers sent prior to leaving. Too much paperwork! It should have been condensed!!!
— Review left May 29, 2024
Could not have been better. Jose and Hector took such good care of all of us….5 Stars!
From my journal of the trip:
It’s hard to describe the experience of the heat and humidity. We are soaking wet all day. The shade and breezes feel miraculous. A drink of cold juice like a religious nectar. But it’s not unpleasant. No whining or complaining from anyone. We know for us this is temporary. Tomorrow we will be in a four star hotel in Havana. For the locals, this is their life until fall and the hurricane season begins June 1. It’s as if now, past patio time and lying on my bed in my underwear with a battery operated fan next to me and the screenless windows open, my thoughts are, “so this is what THIS is like. Vinales Valley. Incredible natural beauty AND this heat.
I know the oven-like heat of the desert in summer - scorching sun, the oven like dryness of stepping outside at 3 in the afternoon, but this wetness is not an oven but a sauna, a steam room…poisons leaking from every poor, skin glistening, the graceful touch of the moist breeze and the repose of shade.
Generator - or power- kicked on? Loudes, our hostess, knocks on the door to tell me the power is on and I can turn on my air conditioner with a smile on her face. I assure her in Spanish it has not been a problem. I will keep this day in fond memory.
— Review left May 28, 2024
It was an excellent trip! The trip leaders were well-organized, knowledgeable, and very personable. They worked very well together and constantly made sure that all was going well with each member of the group. All the activities were interesting and helped us have a much better understanding of the country and its culture.
The program was well-paced and well-run.
— Review left May 28, 2024
This trip was a wonderful experience. Our guides, Jose and Hector, were so good and I would be happy to have either of them as a guide again. The activities and programs had a wide variety and gave me the opportunity to see Cuba and experience the Cuban culture as well as see the challenges Cubans face daily. Experienced guides are invaluable as a source of where to eat in Cuba. Not only where the food is good, but where it is safe to eat! The Cubans I had contact with were friendly, helpful and want to share their culture with you. If I have a chance to go back to Cuba again, I wouldn't hesitate to go.
— Review left May 22, 2024
We learned quite a bit about our closest off-shore neighbor. The people were very friendly and hardworking - making the best of a difficult political situation. Our tour guides were very good. Carlos was a stitch! Alejandro was very knowledgeable. The tours were very interesting - showing us how many people are making a living in very creative ways.
— Review left May 21, 2024
My first Road Scholar trip was to Cuba, a really exceptional place to visit and learn about. The program was so well organized and presented, with genuinely meaningful experiences
— Review left May 17, 2024
My husband and I visited Cuba in March 2024 and thoroughly enjoyed the people on the trip with us and activities planned by Road Scholar. Everything about the trip was beautifully planned and out time was well spent. Carol and Hector made sure any issues that came up were dealt with immediately - and there were very few of those! We particularly enjoyed Vinales and beautiful valley in which it sits. Havana is a unique city and we enjoyed learning about the history, architecture and culture of its wonderful people. We highly recommend this trip!
— Review left April 18, 2024
My experience was wonderful. The Road Scholar leader was excellent. The local expert/leader was amazingly knowledgeable about Cuba. The group was just the right size. Great accommodations and transportation. At some point I want to return to Cuba again with Road Scholar. I trust them to make sure it all works out.
— Review left April 6, 2024
Great in so many ways. Glad it went and would like to do more of Cuba! Thank you for organizing a wonderful venture into a world that we do not know enough about...a real learning experience!
— Review left April 4, 2024
I enjoyed my first road scholar trip tremendously & was impressed with presenters’ knowledge & value for the cost. As soon as I returned home I started planning my next road scholar trip.
Our driver, group leader & guide worked in unison to make the experience fun and educational..
— Review left April 4, 2024
The Cuban trip to Havana and Vinales exceeded my expectations in being informative, enjoyable and life-changing. Our Tour Director, Julie Cardenas was uber-organized, accommodating, cheerful and a great trouble-shooter (although there were very little troubles). The quality of the group was first-rate and we were cohesive and upbeat. The Cuban Tour Guide, Jose Luis Sande was likewise beyond my expectations. He was informed, humorous and as a former teacher, presented material in an engaged and accessible way. I cannot praise more highly this adventure; it fulfilled a long-held dream of mine. Thank-you, Road Scholar.
— Review left April 4, 2024
I was nervous having read all the materials preparing for the trip (they were very helpful). The trip far exeeded my expectations and due to outstanding leadership it went smoothly. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the program and would highly recommend it.
— Review left April 3, 2024
This trip was a life changing experiences because of extensive interactions with the Cuban people and the opportunity to gain some sense of the challenges they face. Our guides, Hector and Carlos, helped me gain a much better understanding of the culture, customs, cuisine, and history. They were very knowledgeable and accommodating. There was a fantastic lecture on Cuban music and I enjoyed a dance performance to percussive music in a suburb of Havana. It was a special treat to visit places associated with Hemingway - the tour of the Finca Vigia was a highlight. It was fun talking with fishermen in Cojimar and meeting an elderly man who had known Hemingway and had fished with him. I had an opportunity during free time to visit La Floridita for a daquiri and to see Hemingway's room (now a museum) at Hotel Ambos Mundos. It was an eye opener to see how much the economy is suffering and to see how little the people have. Shelves at pharmacies were empty. We got to experience power and internet outages, especially in Vinales, and appreciate the challenges faced every day by the Cuban people. The food was excellent, but I felt guilty knowing that the cost of one meal could be equivalent to the monthly income of the average Cuban. The people were warm and welcoming. Highlights included riding in classic cars and visiting the garage where they are maintained and visiting a tobacco farm. I loved the architecture, especially in restored areas, but was sad to see many grand old buildings crumbling. It was a memorable visit and I would love to return some day.
— Review left March 31, 2024
This was a chance to see Cuba with all in its natural beauty and its internal struggle after departure of the Soviet Union. The people are the natural resource of Cuba. They pride themselves in their culture,music, mechanical talent for old car restoration. The people have a way of making visitors feel welcome and their spirit of perseverance is inspiring.
— Review left March 27, 2024
The educational portion was perfectly balanced with the fun and entertainment. It was also interesting to see Joseph Rosendo from Travel Scope filming portions of his new program Steppin' Out. The filming crew was knowledgeable and fun to watch work and get to know them as individuals
— Review left March 27, 2024
This was a thoroughly enjoyable introduction to today's Cuba. The Cuban Guide as very knowledgeable and he shared openly. The two morning lectures gave a good overview of what we would be experiencing in the day ahead (architecture and music). The hotel in Havana is very comfortable. I didn't need to spend any money there as the tour provides three meals a day including drinks and bottled water. I was not a fan of the food in Cuba. We were served lots of meat and fried foods. Most of the meat was overcooked for my liking. The mojitos were great!
The three days traveling outside Havana showed how Cuban's live in the countryside and non urban locations. THe accommodations in Vinales where we stayed overnight for two days were clean and comfortable. We stayed with local families in what we might call a Bed & Breakfast or Tourist Home. We experienced the power shut off's, but it all worked out fine. The bus was very comfortable and the bus driver was a real expert.
I recommend ear plugs for those two days if you like total silence.
— Review left March 23, 2024
If you want to truly understand what life is like in Cuba, then book this trip! You will live it and learn amongst like-minded participants.
— Review left March 20, 2024
This is a great trip for learning about Cuba. The main focus is Havana, but part of the trip was to the countryside. I would highly recommend this trip.
— Review left March 14, 2024
This trip is a very interesting combination of very urban Havana and the rural Viñales valley. There is a wide variety of activities and presentations that helped us understand what life in Cuba is like these days.
— Review left March 13, 2024
A very limiting view & experience of Cuba. However our guides Hector, Carlos & Ernesto were fantastic.
— Review left March 4, 2024
Good
— Review left March 3, 2024
Trip to Cuba in December was awesome. Loved being immersed in the culture. Hector our guide was one of the most kind and compassionate men I have met, excellent tour guide. Program was well organized in locations explored and logistics of the trip was exceptional. No glitches or hitches. The members of the group became cohesive from the moment we met. A great group of individuals. A trip to always to be remembered.
— Review left February 29, 2024
I knew nothing about Cuba and this program opened a whole new area of knowledge for me. A highlight was seeing the creativity and hard work of the people as they run businesses in the midst of difficulty. Be prepared to be flexible with accommodations etc and you will be rewarded with a wonderful time. The 8-day trip was just right to see both urban and rural sides of Cuba.
— Review left February 20, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. Perfect itinerary. Food was good. Accommodation were satisfactory. I will carry great memories.
Thank you!
— Review left February 17, 2024
A perfect blend of activities!
— Review left February 15, 2024
What an eye-opening adventure! I learned so much about the Cuban people and their way of life. Hector , our local guide, is so very knowledgeable on every aspect of Cuba and her people. I highly recommend this trip to Cuba with Road Scholar.
— Review left February 3, 2024
The beauty, history and present political situation of Cuba is so amazing. It is a life-changing visit to a wonderful country full of welcoming people.
— Review left January 28, 2024
This trip is one of the most impactful experiences I have had in my travels. The Cuban people were so welcoming and their culture and history so rich. I can’t say enough about the importance for U.S. citizens to visit and learn about this important neighbor to us.
— Review left December 29, 2023
Spending a week in Cuba, with time divided between Havana and Vinales, was great. I learned a lot and a week was enough time to get a good feel for the country and its challenges.
— Review left December 6, 2023
I signed up for this trip because it was on my husband's "bucket list" and I was there purely as a "good sport" but I ended up loving this trip and becoming fascinated by Cuba - its successes and failures, challenges, burgeoning entrepreneurial activities, the day-to-day difficulties of navigating their lives in situations of crumbling infrastructure and yet the cheerful good nature of the people.
— Review left March 4, 2020
If you’re looking for an enjoyable, inspiring, informative first experience in Cuba consider the 6 night Havana & Vinales trip. It was wonderful!
— Review left March 4, 2020
Marvelous adventure--terrific staff, fascinating travel mates, delicious cuisine, great accommodations, well-planned itinerary and travel arrangements.
— Review left February 29, 2020
The Havana and Vinales trip was truly an education on the subject of Cuba and an opportunity to interact with and help the Cuban people. Thanks to Road Scholar and to the team who led our trip!
— Review left February 25, 2020
The Road Scholar trip to Havana and Vinales (and points between) is an amazing journey, a wonderful introduction to Cuba and truly is a way to help the Cuban people. Highly recommended!
— Review left February 25, 2020
Fascinating overview of a country that has been of interest for decades! I am much better informed, and will continue to study this country as it faces many challenges. Enjoyed a warm, gracious welcome from locals!
— Review left February 24, 2020
This is a great trip for those who want to understand better the history and current state of affairs between Cuba and America.
— Review left February 17, 2020
A wonderful opportunity to understand the background and effects of the decades-long trade embargo.
— Review left February 17, 2020
This was a wonderful experience, and Jocelyn and Yolandra made it even better. Jocelyn surprised us with a lot of "treats," including a multi-car tour of Havana in antique cars and goodies to taste along the trip. Yolandra had a wealth of knowledge and a great personality to deliver it. And Modesto, our driver, was terrific. We got a flavor of the country, its government, and its people. Everyone should take a tour like this one.
— Review left February 10, 2020
What a wonderful experience! There was so much to see and learn about Cuba.
— Review left January 31, 2020
Excellent way to visit Cuba!
— Review left January 30, 2020
My wife and I really liked this tour! I would highly recommend it to anyone who would like to learn more about the Cuban culture in this time of transition. The Cuban people we met were quite friendly, and we felt very safe wandering around. At time of writing (2020) many items that we can pick up in pharmacies and dollar stores are still difficult for the average Cuban to obtain, so please be generous about bringing donations/gifts that your trip information may recommend.
— Review left January 28, 2020
I participated in the program to Havana and Vinales in Cuba. Please tell all your friends that Cuba is an exceptional place to visit. It is "still open" and, yes, it is safe. To experience Cuba for the first time, Road Scholar is the way to go.
— Review left January 21, 2020
Love to learn about other cultures, beyond food and costumes? This is the place! I hope to make more trips with Road Scholar.
— Review left December 30, 2019
Cuba: Havana and Vinales far exceeded expectations. The trip surprised and delighted at every turn. We connected with locals, experienced variety in culture, politics and activities. Accomplished everything on my list, though not all in the agenda. Food, though fairly similar everywhere, was a surprise in preparation. Group leaders met every need with flexibility and knowledge. Could not have enjoyed the trip more! Unforgettable!!!! Thank you!
— Review left December 29, 2019
This trip exceeded expectations! The people of Cuba are warm and welcoming. Havana has a surprise around every corner and the rural areas were breathtaking! Highly recommend this trip!
— Review left December 23, 2019
Wonderful educational experience chucked full of cultural, culinary, and varied learning adventures. Warm and very knowledgeable tour guides. Safe, and pleasant bus driver and bus. Friendly travelers from all over the USA.
— Review left December 19, 2019
ROADSCHOLAR website is well organized and offered an excellent description of our trip.
— Review left December 13, 2019
I learned so much about this neighboring country. The guides and lecturers were very knowledgeable and informative and the sites were amazing!
— Review left December 12, 2019
Great time to go to Cuba: so much happening! The Road scholar tour is first-rate: very informative and with so many new angles to explore.
— Review left December 11, 2019
Loved Cuba, but my group had 24 participants - not what I consider "Small Group."
— Review left November 17, 2019
This was a once in a lifetime experience. Our guides, Rosa and Jim were knowledgeable, caring and well organized. They went out of their way to make this a special experience. We were able to meet and talk to the people and the places and events that were planned were excellent. We were able to experience the art, music, dance and spirit of the Cuban people and witness their struggle to survive up close.
We rode an old train to a sugar factory and took a tour of Havana in the old convertible cars from the 50's. We visited community cultural projects and had private concerts. We had a lecture from a Cuban diplomat and historian. This was one of the best trips I have ever taken and I definitely plan to travel with Road Scholar again in the future.
— Review left July 6, 2019
This is a wonderful way to travel and see more than could be planned by an individual. Each day is well organized and particpants are carefully guided though each experience while touching many who are doing exciting things in their country if origin. This program is well researched.
— Review left June 21, 2019
Rode Scholar exceeded my expectations in all aspects (logistics, meals, hotels, tours, etc). I have never been part of a tour group, having always traveled alone with my wife at our own pace, but Rode Scholar opened avenues into the people that have not been generally available to us as individuals. The interactions with the people of Cuba were invaluable. Additionally, the cost of this trip was comparable (if not less) than what I expect when travelling individually. Rode Scholar is a tremendous cultural and financial value.
— Review left June 21, 2019
My Road Scholar trip to Cuba was fabulous! I was fully prepared by the staff, and I was well cared for by the tour guides. It was perfect. I would travel with Road Scholar again!
— Review left June 20, 2019
Our Road Scholar tour was the best from start to finish. The itinerary and leadership was first rate. The guides and tour info was everything we needed and they responded to all of our questions before and during the tour.
— Review left June 20, 2019
Recently returned from the Remedios and Havana Cuba trip and cannot speak highly enough of the experience. The trip was well-planned and provided the opportunity to have some amazing experiences - from hands-on activities to people-to-people opportunities to being with fellow travelers. Our instructor, Vivian, was knowledgeable and provided just the right amount and level of information. Our guide, Alex, was amazing - keeping the group organized, providing excellent care to all the travelers, and surprising us with fun moments.
This is the first Road Scholar trip we have been on; it will certainly not be our last!
— Review left June 7, 2019
This trip was fascinating thanks to our excellent guides, Alex Vicente and Vivian Quintero. This is an immersion experience in Cuban culture and history, not a beach vacation. Our itinerary took us to an astonishing variety of places to meet people in all walks of life, all of whom were interesting and welcoming. If you are interested in culture, art and history, I highly recommend this trip with Alex and Vivian. The tour participants were a wonderful, congenial bunch.
— Review left June 6, 2019
Loved the trip, would go back in a minute. Leaders were outstanding! Great experience....
— Review left June 2, 2019
Absolutely Fantastic! A wonderful trip. Prepare to open your hearts because the Cuban people will open theirs.
— Review left May 4, 2019
I truly enjoyed this trip, and learned from the experience. I loved meeting the Cuban people, and hearing about their lives.
— Review left April 28, 2019
This was a great program. Our US guide, Carole, and our Cuban guide/hostess, Yohandra, were wonderful. As a 70+ year-old person who grew up in the US where our government has hated and feared Cuba for decades, I came away from this trip convinced that Cuba and its people represent a remarkable society that has grown in pride, resourcefulness and energy. I discovered a patient people who are waiting for the foolish embargo of their country to end so Cuba can (and will) take her place among the most respected countries of the world. If you go, you will be impressed and delighted by what you see and the people you meet. The lodgings were first rate, the food was great and the days were filled with excitement. My only complaint was that I was unable to stay longer. Go now! Go before our current government cuts back travel opportunities!
— Review left April 23, 2019
This trip to Cuba was a most exciting adventure, enlarging my understanding of the island of Cuba and its history and heroic people. I whole-heartedly recommend it to anyone interested in Cuba.
— Review left April 22, 2019
This program was not about mojitos on the beach or moonlight cruises. It was a wonderful glimpse of the lives of Cuban people and a chance to hear them tell their own stories.
— Review left April 18, 2019
This program made me want to learn more and be a strong as the people of Cuba. I would recommend this program to all.
— Review left April 16, 2019
The trip to Cuba was an eye-opening experience that has altered my world view. This people to people cultural exchange helped me understand another, very different, part of the world. Road Scholar has included so many experiences in this trip that I have to review my photos day-by-day to remember all the activities we shared with the wonderful Cuban people. I would go back in a heartbeat.
— Review left April 13, 2019
A great insight into a close neighbor
— Review left April 11, 2019
It is chock-full of info with intuitive navigation.
— Review left April 2, 2019
I participated in the Remedios to Havana Road Scholar trip and I loved it! The guides were knowledgeable, courteous and efficient. This particular trip immersed in the history and culture of Cuba. The team, Liliana, Rosalyn and Luis (the bus driver) made sure that the trip ran very smoothly. I would highly recommend a Road Scholar trip to Cuba (there are several). I hope that all are as good as the one to Remedios and Havana.
— Review left March 28, 2019
Very educational and well organized. Do not hesitate to go. This is a great experience!
— Review left March 26, 2019
This is a trip everyone should take. So much is packed into a week that can change your outlook of the world.
— Review left March 24, 2019
We loved everything about this trip. It was well organized, and very interesting.
— Review left March 22, 2019
Tourism is one of the few areas of development today for Cuba and the Road Scholar Program provides an interesting learning experience. I hope that my participation will help, in even a ver modest way the wonderful people of Cuba.
— Review left March 10, 2019
This was a sensational trip. Get some comfortable shoes, and sign up.
— Review left March 9, 2019
The warm and informative "people to people" moments in this program were exceptional--opportunities we never would have had if traveling on our own. We felt like welcome guests rather than tourists, thanks to the grace of our guides. They also demonstrated an impressive depth of familiarity and understanding of the Cuban culture, and their ability to communicate enhanced every experience. The hotels were superb!
— Review left March 9, 2019
This was one of the best trips I have ever taken. The country is wonderful, welcoming and upbeat. The people to people activities were very special and allowed for a much deeper understanding of Cuba. The program was diverse and I loved the surprise activities! In addition Carole and Vivi were exceptional leaders. I would most highly recommend the program.
— Review left March 9, 2019
Going to Cuba has been a lifelong dream. I lived the dream on my recent tour. Our Cuban guide was extremely informative, enthusiastic, had a great sense of humor and was a perfect hostess. Cuba is so warm, colorful, lively, interesting and safe. The fact its economy is so stifled did not affect us as tourists as the economy needs us and caters to us. I would go again and again. The art, the history, the music and dance all have much to offer.
— Review left February 28, 2019
I am happy to have Road Scholar use my comments on the evaluation form.
— Review left February 12, 2019
Cuba was amazing, incredible. I would highly recommend this trip. The booklist was very useful and informative.
— Review left February 11, 2019
This tour was the best ever. I learned far more about the country and the people than I would have on my own. The quality and the knowledge of the guides was outstanding. It is a totally no hassle experience from the moment one arrives at the airport in Cuba until one steps on the airplane to return to the States. Do not miss this one!!!!
— Review left February 8, 2019
The Road Scholar Cuba Today: Remedios and Havana tour was everything we hoped for - informative, fascinating, compelling and lots of fun. The quality and intelligence of the guides was very strong, and they spared no effort to provide us a full program while showing great passion for sharing the country and it's people. It was truly a people-to-people experience.
— Review left January 27, 2019
Our Road Scholar trip to Cuba was the best traveling experience of my life so far, and I've traveled a lot. If you want to actually "experience" and learn about another culture rather than simply sightsee and souvenir shop, this is the way to go. My husband and I felt this tour was worth every penny it cost--and then some. We plan to take more Road Scholar trips in the future!
— Review left January 26, 2019
For anyone interested in better understanding the people, culture, economics, politics, history of Cuba, this trip offers a first hand view. I left feeling inspired by the hopefulness and warmth extended to us. I will never forget this trip.
— Review left January 24, 2019
I cannot say enough about how wonderful my first Road Scholar adventure was. Road Scholar's employees were top notch in every way. Their Cuban partners were just as wonderful. The experience was beyond my expectations in every way. I will recommend Road Scholar to everyone I know. I hope to be able to take other Road Scholar excursions in the future.
Julie Richardson
— Review left January 20, 2019
Trip provided insights on the life of everyday people in Cuba.
— Review left January 17, 2019
Fabulous trip. Particularly liked the dance school, the water tower community center and the family in Remedios.
— Review left January 12, 2019
I enjoyed reviewing trips and info on the website.
— Review left January 11, 2019
I can't say enough for what Road Scholar provided for our trip to Cuba. What an outstanding company that I would highly recommend for travelers who like difficult areas planned out in minute detail. Their group leaders are so well trained and so competent in their areas.
— Review left January 11, 2019
The print is too small!
— Review left January 1, 2019