Jan 7 - Jan 14, 2025
Starting at
3,599
Cuba
Cuba Today: Havana and Viñales
Program No. 22879RJ
Discover the history and culture of Havana as you meet with dancers, fishermen, entrepreneurs and more. Explore the Viñales Valley to uncover the natural beauty of this region.
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800-454-5768
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DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 14 - Jan 21, 2025
Starting at
3,599Jan 28 - Feb 4, 2025
Starting at
3,599Feb 11 - Feb 18, 2025
Starting at
3,599Feb 18 - Feb 25, 2025
Starting at
3,599Feb 25 - Mar 4, 2025
Starting at
3,599Mar 4 - Mar 11, 2025
Starting at
3,599DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 7 - Jan 14, 2025
Starting at
3,899Jan 14 - Jan 21, 2025
Starting at
3,899Jan 28 - Feb 4, 2025
Starting at
3,899Feb 4 - Feb 11, 2025
Starting at
3,899Feb 11 - Feb 18, 2025
Starting at
3,899Feb 18 - Feb 25, 2025
Starting at
3,899Feb 25 - Mar 4, 2025
Starting at
3,899Mar 4 - Mar 11, 2025
Starting at
3,899Not seeing the date you're looking for?
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
At a Glance
Gain rare insight into the history and culture of Cuba through important interactions with local business owners, historians, a dance company and farmers. Contrast the city architecture of Havana with the beautiful landscapes of the Viñales Valley, full of karsts and tobacco farms.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles a day on a combination of cobblestone streets and dirt paths. Getting on and off of a motorcoach. Navigating high curbs, uneven steps, and stairs without railings. Travel in a tropical climate.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Enjoy a performance from an independent Cuban dance company and meet with the dancers to discuss and support their craft.
- Discover the magic of maintaining antique American cars with a visit to a mechanic's workshop.
- Learn about the history of Cuban music during a discussion with a Cuban expert.
General Notes
Road Scholar offers opportunities to travel legally to Cuba under the new OFAC Regulations published June 5, 2019. Following the General License category “Support for the Cuban People,” Road Scholar programs include activities intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba. Each day's program promotes independence for the Cuban people and results in meaningful interactions with the Cuban people. Questions about traveling to Cuba? Road Scholar has your answers. Learn more: https://www.roadscholar.org/travel-tips/cuba/.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Elias Valor
Elias Valor is one of the many amazing bi-lingual Cuban leaders, who works with and has been trained by Road Scholar. He is the Cuban expert, and is responsible for relaying local knowledge, and both cultural and historical information for the places we visit throughout the program. Elias will answer questions pertaining to Cuba and the Cuban people.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Elias Valor
View biography
Elias Valor is one of the many amazing bi-lingual Cuban leaders, who works with and has been trained by Road Scholar. He is the Cuban expert, and is responsible for relaying local knowledge, and both cultural and historical information for the places we visit throughout the program. Elias will answer questions pertaining to Cuba and the Cuban people.
Alberto Faya
View biography
Alberto Faya is a Cuban singer, researcher, composer, and professor of music. He has a degree from the University of Havana, is a professor of musical culture there, and gives lectures relating to Cuban history, culture, and music. During the 1970s, he worked to better incorporate African and Afro-Cuban music in Cuban society, striving to air Afro-Cuban rumba music on radio stations. Faya is a believer in the ongoing melding of different cultures and considers culture as the means by which personal identity is derived.
Julie Cardenas
View biography
Julie Cardenas hails from Naples, Florida. She holds a B.A. in biology from Florida Gulf Coast University and certificates as a Florida Master Naturalist and NAI Certified Interpretive Guide. With an affinity for traveling and being on the water, Julie spent her early career cruising oceans, rivers, and inland waterways. As a naturalist, she traded seasons leading winters in the Florida Everglades and summers in Southeast Alaska. Leading Road Scholar groups since 2012, Julie currently directs programs in South Florida, Cuba, and Alaska.
Carlos Guillermo Campos
View biography
Carlos Campos was born in New Jersey to Cuban immigrants. Currently, he lives in the wine district of Ribera del Duero, Spain. With over 40 years in the travel industry, he has worked in over 85 countries and visited 107 countries in total. One of his favorite destinations to work and spend time in is Cuba. Being of Cuban descent, he feels a very close bond with the country and its people.
Ayleen Robainas
View biography
Ayleen Robainas is an architect who graduated from the Technological University of Havana, CUJAE, in 1989. From 1996 to 2012, she was vice-director and designer at the Directorate of Heritage Architecture, and later as head of the "Colonial Havana" project workshop at the “Restaura” Projects Company. Between 2013 and 2015, she served as executive secretary of the Provincial Monuments Commission at the Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Office of the Historian. Since 2017, she has been a specialist in the Master Plan Management Group.
Suggested Reading List
(20 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Cuba Today: Havana and Viñales
Program Number: 22879
Culture Smart! Cuba
A concise, well-illustrated and practical guide to local customs, etiquette and culture.
A Simple Habana Melody, From When the World Was Good
An unlikely love story and lyrical tribute to Latin music by the author of Mambo Kings.
Moon Cuba
A practical guide in the Moon series, packed not only with travel necessities (hotels, restaurants, sights), but also with a good overview of history and destinations throughout Cuba.
Cuba, A History in Art
This slim, yet comprehensive survey of Cuban art between 1725 and 1959 explains the development of artists’ styles and how developments in Cuba (and especially Havana) changed their work.
Trading with the Enemy
Miller captures the openness, sensuality and pride of Cuba and the Cubans in this eloquent account of entertaining travels in Fidel's Cuba.
Cuba, What Everyone Needs to Know
Director for Latin America Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, Julia Sweig traces the geography, history and identity of Cuba in this admirably succinct portrait of the island nation and its role in world affairs.
The Distant Marvels
A life-affirming tale of love set during a hurricane in 1960s, post-revolutionary Cuba. To keep hope alive amongst the evacuees, Maria Sirena tells the incredible story of her childhood during Cuba's Third War of Independence.
Cuba, This Moment, Exactly So
This deluxe coffee-table book organizes 250 black-and-white photographs around micro-stories that immerse readers in the heat and culture of the "Pearl of the Antilles." Includes a foreword by great travel writer Pico Iyer.
Cuba Journeys
Fields presents Cuba in his newest collection, featuring 120 color and 30 black-and-white photographs that illustrate the island's diverse landscapes. He captures the Matanzas coastlands, Vinales Valley tobacco fields and Havana metropolis, which serves as a backdrop to a series highlighting classic American cars. Includes cultural and historical commentary written in English and Spanish.
Our Man in Havana
The classic story of a British vacuum cleaner salesman who gets accidentally drawn into Cold War espionage with disastrous results.
The Pride of Havana
Professor Gonzalez Echevarria expertly traces the arc of baseball in Cuba, intertwining its heroes and their stories with the politics, music, dance, and literature of the Cuban people.
The Spaces Between, Contemporary Art in Havana
This study of shared, communal spaces for Havana artists examines the context of contemporary Cuban art. Including major contemporary figures, the work discusses artists’ techniques, their major themes and the environments in which they create.
Cuba
With full-page photographs, introductory essays on history, architecture, music, food and more, this oversized, illustrated paperback by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Francois Missen and photographer Pierre Hausherr captures the spirit of Cuba, its people, nature and culture.
Cuba and Its Music, From the First Drums to the Mambo
A thorough and entertaining history of Cuba and its music by the popular radio producer, music historian and cofounder of Cuban record label QbaDisc.
Havana, A Cultural and Literary Companion
An illuminating guide to the city, its history and geography, as the inspiration for writers, artists, musicians and intellectuals.
New Art of Cuba
A survey of Cuban art since 1981, all by young artists who have come-of-age since the revolution, and revised to reflect more recent developments. Twenty-four new color plates augment the 200 black and white illustrations.
Passage to Cuba
An wonderful coffee-table book that takes readers through the crumbling, baroque splendor of Havana. Subtitled "An Up-Close Look at the World's Most Colorful Culture."
Havana, History and Architecture of a Romantic City
This magnificent history of Havana, featuring 480 color illustrations, shows the city and its growth from its founding as a Spanish colony to independence.
The Old Man and the Sea
Hemingway's brief story of a fisherman who, after 84 days with no luck, finally makes a big catch. It’s an affectionate portrait of life in Cuba and winner of the 1953 Pulitzer Prize for fiction.
Havana & Cuba West Map
A full-color map to the city center of Havana, at a scale of 1:10,000. Plus, on the reverse, a regional map of Cuba at a scale of 1:600,000.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Havana
Program Concludes
Havana
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
17
| 7B |
5L |
5D |
Activity Level
Gain rare insight into the history and culture of Cuba through important interactions with local business owners, historians, a dance company and farmers. Contrast the city architecture of Havana with the beautiful landscapes of the Viñales Valley, full of karsts and tobacco farms.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Enjoy a performance from an independent Cuban dance company and meet with the dancers to discuss and support their craft.
- Discover the magic of maintaining antique American cars with a visit to a mechanic's workshop.
- Learn about the history of Cuban music during a discussion with a Cuban expert.
General Notes
Road Scholar offers opportunities to travel legally to Cuba under the new OFAC Regulations published June 5, 2019. Following the General License category “Support for the Cuban People,” Road Scholar programs include activities intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba. Each day's program promotes independence for the Cuban people and results in meaningful interactions with the Cuban people. Questions about traveling to Cuba? Road Scholar has your answers. Learn more: https://www.roadscholar.org/travel-tips/cuba/.
Featured Expert
Elias Valor
Elias Valor is one of the many amazing bi-lingual Cuban leaders, who works with and has been trained by Road Scholar. He is the Cuban expert, and is responsible for relaying local knowledge, and both cultural and historical information for the places we visit throughout the program. Elias will answer questions pertaining to Cuba and the Cuban people.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Alberto Faya
Alberto Faya is a Cuban singer, researcher, composer, and professor of music. He has a degree from the University of Havana, is a professor of musical culture there, and gives lectures relating to Cuban history, culture, and music. During the 1970s, he worked to better incorporate African and Afro-Cuban music in Cuban society, striving to air Afro-Cuban rumba music on radio stations. Faya is a believer in the ongoing melding of different cultures and considers culture as the means by which personal identity is derived.
Julie Cardenas
Julie Cardenas hails from Naples, Florida. She holds a B.A. in biology from Florida Gulf Coast University and certificates as a Florida Master Naturalist and NAI Certified Interpretive Guide. With an affinity for traveling and being on the water, Julie spent her early career cruising oceans, rivers, and inland waterways. As a naturalist, she traded seasons leading winters in the Florida Everglades and summers in Southeast Alaska. Leading Road Scholar groups since 2012, Julie currently directs programs in South Florida, Cuba, and Alaska.
Carlos Guillermo Campos
Carlos Campos was born in New Jersey to Cuban immigrants. Currently, he lives in the wine district of Ribera del Duero, Spain. With over 40 years in the travel industry, he has worked in over 85 countries and visited 107 countries in total. One of his favorite destinations to work and spend time in is Cuba. Being of Cuban descent, he feels a very close bond with the country and its people.
Ayleen Robainas
Ayleen Robainas is an architect who graduated from the Technological University of Havana, CUJAE, in 1989. From 1996 to 2012, she was vice-director and designer at the Directorate of Heritage Architecture, and later as head of the "Colonial Havana" project workshop at the “Restaura” Projects Company. Between 2013 and 2015, she served as executive secretary of the Provincial Monuments Commission at the Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Office of the Historian. Since 2017, she has been a specialist in the Master Plan Management Group.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles a day on a combination of cobblestone streets and dirt paths. Getting on and off of a motorcoach. Navigating high curbs, uneven steps, and stairs without railings. Travel in a tropical climate.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(20 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
8 days
7 nights
What's Included
17 meals | 7B | 5L | 5D |
2 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
2 hands-on experiences
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit, Arrive Havana, Check-in, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Havana
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Grand Aston La Habana
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 available from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
After checking in at the hotel, take some time to freshen up.
Dinner:
At a paladar (private restaurant).
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Orientation, Urban Architecture, Craft Ice Cream Maker
Location:
Havana
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Grand Aston La Habana
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 15 miles total, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking and standing for approximately 3 hours, pedestrian streets, cobblestones, high curbs.
Breakfast:
In the hotel restaurant.
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. This program is staffed with a Study Leader, who will provide educational content, and a Group Leader who will deal primarily with logistics. We also will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead discussions. Program-related travel and transfers will be via private motorcoach unless noted otherwise. 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 hear a presentation by an urban architect and city planner in a lecture room at the hotel. The lecturer explains every phase of Havana’s architectural development from pure examples of the Colonial Period, masterpieces of the Art Deco style and the startling examples of the Russian period. After the presentation, we will transfer by motorcoach to Old Havana where we will participate in a recycled paper workshop at the community project “Cyclopapel.”
Lunch:
At a paladar.
Afternoon:
We’ll set out with our Cuban host on a walking field trip into two of Old Havana’s four plazas: Plaza de la Catedral that originated in 1592, with its main feature the ornate Catedral de San Cristóbal; and Plaza Vieja, laid out in 1559 when it was the “new” square, now surrounded by elegant, historic buildings. After lunch, we will have a unique opportunity to visit with a craft ice cream maker. We will have a discussion with the owner to learn about entrepreneurship in Cuba and the process of making the craft ice cream and the distribution channels. After the discussion, we will get to enjoy this delicious ice cream!
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. You might like to try one of the many paladares in Havana. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
3
Cuban Music Lecture, Master Chef Project, Dance Performance
Location:
Havana
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Grand Aston La Habana
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 1 mile and standing, approximately 3 hours throughout the day; mainly pedestrian-only streets, cobblestones, high curbs, sunny conditions, limited shade.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will enjoy an expert presentation at the hotel on Cuban music. We’ll be introduced through words and song to the diverse African, European, and American traditions that merge harmoniously together to create Cuban music. This session will conclude with a look at current Cuban music including reggaeton, now a mainstream genre popular across Latin America and in the USA. After, we’ll participate in a lively “Cuban Master Chef” workshop where we will shop for ingredients at a local market, and learn how to prepare a typical Cuban meal and Cuban cocktails.
Lunch:
We’ll enjoy the fruits of our labor during lunch at a nearby paladar.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll attend a performance by a contemporary dance company and learn about their training and daily lives at their rehearsal space.
Dinner:
In a paladar.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Transfer to Viñales, Cojimar, Finca Vigia, Vinales Valley
Location:
Viñales
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Casa Particular Vinales
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 115 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time with stop en route. Walking up to 1 mile and standing indoors and out up to 2 hours. Cobblestones, high curbs, sunny conditions, limited shade.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will begin our journey by motorcoach to Viñales, a beautiful valley in the Pinar del Rio province of Cuba in the Sierra de Los Organos. This area is rich with lush landscapes, tobacco farms, and karsts. On the way, we will stop in the fishing village of Cojimar and meet with local fishermen to hear their tales.
Lunch:
At a paladar.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will also visit one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite refuges, Finca Vigia. Hemingway wrote “The Old Man and the Sea” at Finca Vigia. There, you may visit Hemingway’s own fishing boat, Pilar, which served as the basis for many of the scenes depicted in the novel. Then, we’ll continue our drive through the picturesque Viñales Valley. After checking in to the casa particular, we’ll explore Viñales on foot with our Cuban host before returning in the early evening.
Dinner:
At a paladar.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Tobacco Farm Visit, Farm-to-Table Lunch, Cueva del Indio
Location:
Viñales
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Casa Particular Vinales
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 25 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles indoors and outdoors, uneven terrain, limited shade.
Breakfast:
In the casa particular.
Morning:
We’ll travel by motorcoach to the Valle del Silencio where we will visit a tobacco plantation. At the plantation, we will travel by horse-drawn carriage and ox carts and learn about their natural farming practices. There will be an opportunity to talk with the farmers and learn about life as a farmer in Cuba.
Lunch:
After learning about the tobacco growing and drying process, we'll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at the farm’s on-site restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we’ll board the motorcoach to visit the ancient indigenous dwelling Cueva del Indio. We’ll travel through the cave system by small boat and see the cave paintings and archeological remains from pre-Columbian Cuban civilizations. We’ll return to the Casa in the late-afternoon and adjourn for the day.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. You might like to try one of the many paladares in Viñales. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer tomorrow.
Day
6
Organic Farm, Social Project, To Havana
Location:
Havana
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Grand Aston La Habana
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 115 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time with a stop en route. Walking up to 1 mile; standing indoors and out up to 2 hours. Cobblestones, high curbs, sunny conditions, limited shade.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and travel to the Casa Caridad Botanical garden where we will learn about the garden from the owners. Next we will stop to see the amazing 120 m long Mural de la Prehistoria. We continue to the farm Finca Agroecologica. Here, we will meet with the owners and workers and have a walking exploration of the agroecological farm to learn about what is grown there and organic farming methods.
Lunch:
After learning about the farm, we'll enjoy a delicious meal prepared with their own organic ingredients.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we will stop to visit a social project as we transfer back to Havana. Late afternoon arrival in Havana.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Antique Car Project, Havana Vieja,
Location:
Havana
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Grand Aston La Habana
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles total, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking and standing for approximately 3 hours, pedestrian streets, cobblestones, high curbs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast we will be met at the hotel by a fleet of antique cars that will drive us to the Santos Suarez neighborhood. Here we will visit a typical Cuban mechanic shop where they will demonstrate how solutions are always found to maintain these antique cars. We will return to city in the antique cars for a walking exploration of Havana Vieja with our Cuban host.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy local fare.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will continue our exploration of Havana Vieja with our local guide.
Dinner:
At a paladar. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
8
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Havana
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on flight time.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we’ll transfer to the Havana airport. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. 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!
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MEALS
17 Meals
7 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
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Participant Reviews
Based on 92 Reviews
Sort By:
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
Visiting Cuba was incredible! All program leaders and other program participants were all super friendly and welcoming! This was our first trip and we are already planning another!!!
— Review left February 21, 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 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
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
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
A wonderful opportunity to understand the background and effects of the decades-long trade embargo.
— Review left February 17, 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
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
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
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
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
Do explore Cuba program offerings . It is a wonderful opportunity to explore a country that is so close to us and yet so different in terms of culture, economics and-lifestyles!
— Review left April 11, 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
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
This was a sensational trip. Get some comfortable shoes, and sign up.
— 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
