Vintage Cuba

Day 1 - Day 1 – Welcome to Santa Clara, Cuba
On arrival at the airport and clearance through immigration and customs, you’ll begin your Vintage Cuba experience here in the historic town of Santa Clara, the site of the last and most decisive battle of the Cuban Revolution in 1958. Get your first glimpse into the island’s enduring cultural traditions when you meet some local musicians who play vintage music on 19^th-century instruments. Dancers from a local troupe will also be on hand to teach you their national dance. Then explore the historic town center of Santa Clara, filled with colorful Colonial-era buildings, and visit with a local artist in their studio. Continue to the inviting town of Remedios and check-in to our comfortable hotel for a 2-night stay. After an informative orientation briefing with your Trip Leader and professional Cuban guide, we’ll gather for a congenial dinner in one of the city’s fine, privately-owned paladares.  Meals L+D

Day 2 - Day 2 – Discover Caibaríen + Remedios
This morning, we’ll depart for Caibaríen, a small coastal town known as the Villa Blanca, or white village, for its sugary sand beaches. Once there, you’ll visit a local print shop that still relies on century-old equipment and methods, and meet with children and staff at a community art project. At the Sugar Mill Museum, we’ll delve into the history of the industry that contributed so greatly to Cuba’s wealth and development. Then it’s all aboard the train, a timeless mode of transit that’s still used in certain areas in Cuba. Our journey will take us back to Remedios, where famous street celebrations called Las Parrandas have occurred every December since the 18th century. An afternoon visit to the Casa de las Tradiciones offers further insight into vintage ways that still endure across much of the island.  Meals B+L+D

Day 3 - Day 3 – Onward to Havana
This morning, we’ll explore Remedios aboard traditional bicycle-taxis, the perfect way to experience this history and ambience of Remedios. We’ll visit a local church and also the Museo de Parrandas to learn more about the town’s annual December celebrations.
 
In nearby Santa Clara, you’ll delve into the life and legacy of Che Guevara at his impressive memorial and mausoleum. In addition to its soaring bronze statue, an easily-explored on-site museum contains fascinating artifacts including Guevara’s gun and binoculars as well as a collection of vintage photographs. As we make our way to Havana after lunch, you can sit back and soak in the sights of the beautiful countryside. And feel free to engage with our knowledgeable guide on any questions you have about Cuban life, culture or history. On arrival in the capital, you’ll check in to the superior first class Melia Cohiba Hotel.  Meals B+L+D

Day 4 - Day 4 – The Grandeur of Old Havana
This morning, we’ll explore the evocative cobblestone streets of Old Havana, where beautiful town squares hum with modern-day life and echo with the memories of decades and centuries long past. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its fine ensemble of Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, your guided tour also offers the opportunity to experience the rhythms of life in Cuba. By special arrangement, you’ll also meet with a PhD from the University of Havana, who will share his insights on social equality in Cuba.
 
After lunch, you’ll visit a hairdressing salon that has also been transformed into a unique museum dedicated to antique hairdressing tools as well as vibrant art inspired by the trade. This evening is free for you to dine in one of Havana’s many paladares; these private, family-owned restaurants can be found throughout the island and offer fine Cuban cuisine and ambiance. Our Trip Leader and Cuban guide are both well-versed in the city’s current dining scene and will be happy to make personal recommendations.  Meals B+L

Day 5 - Day 5 – Out + About in Havana
This morning’s ride on the ferry across the harbor offers wonderful views of Havana. We’ll step off in the district of Casablanca on the eastern shore to visit Castillo de los Tres Reyes del Moro. Guarding the entrance to the port of Havana, this impressive 17^th-century fortress is one of the largest in the Americas and has become a recognizable symbol of the Cuban capital.
 
Next you’ll visit the small fishing village of Cojimar, the setting for Hemingway’s famous novella The Old Man and the Sea. Our literary theme continues at Finca Vigia, Hemingway’s home from 1940 to 1960. It was here in this charming hilltop residence where the author wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls as well as The Old Man and the Sea. After spending time with the talented performers of a Havana jazz dance company, we’ll take you to one of our favorite Havana restaurants for a memorable farewell dinner.  Meals B+L+D

Day 6 - Day 6 – Depart Cuba
We’ll take you to the airport for your return flight to the U.S.A.  Meals B

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