Cuba - la Fiesta!
An enigma for many years Cuba is taking its first small steps toward becoming part of the global community. It is the largest island in the Caribbean but possibly the least affected by tourism
Clinging to its socialist past Cuba finds itself the object of a curious world. Defying its pariah status the people have a sincerity and love of life that is infectious. Music sets the pace of life here. We will immerse ourselves in the culture and taste the real Cuba.
There is a colonial feel here and a relaxed pace of life. Riding around in the huge American autos playing Cuban tunes and soaking up the sun. That’s our idea of a holiday. And that's just the beginning. Beaches, Colonial towns, and the legends of pirates in the warm waters of the Caribbean. The ever present ‘ghost’ of Che accompanies us throughout our intriguing journey.
Join us before Cuba joins the world.
Drier winter season. Lovely sub tropical climate. Humidity averages around 80-85%.
Our itinerary includes the vibrant capital of 'Habana' as well as regional locations such as Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba and the Bay of Pigs. It is rich in history, colour and the musical vibe which drives the pace of life in today’s Cuba
| 15 Day Itinerary | ||
| Departure: | 15th May 2010 | (Saturday to Saturday) |
|---|---|---|
| Price: | USD$2650 | (or AUD$ equivalent) |
| Plus Local Payment: | EUR$250 | (What is this?) |
Day 1 - Havana - Arrival Day This evening we will have a group meeting and enjoy dinner at the fabled “La Bodeguita del Medio” Day 2 - Havana to Cienfuegos (via Bay of Pigs) After breakfast we head south east to Cienfuegos known as the “Pearl of the South”. We are in for an interesting day as we visit the Bay of Pigs, scene of the failed US led invasion. A stop at the Playa Giron museum gives us excellent insight into the local version of the events that occurred here in April 1961. There is time for a swim in the turquoise waters of the bay Day 3 - Cienfuegos (day trip Santa Clara) Cienfuegos is a charming town with interesting art and colonial architecture on show. We take a trip to nearby Santa Clara which is the main city of Villa Clara province. We are here to visit the monuments to “mi amigo”, Che Guevara. We tour the sites which include the Museum, mausoleum and Memorial. In the afternoon we head back to our base in Cienfuegos Day 4 - Cienfuegos to Trinidad A leisurely coastal drive to the stunning city of Trinidad which was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1988. There is a definite feeling of walking through an outdoor museum. We settle in and enjoy an afternoon tour of the city centre. An insight into the colonial housing is found at the ‘Museo Romantico’. We pop into the ‘Canchanchara’ and enjoy a cocktail to break up the day. This evening we can delight in a dish of fresh lobster in a local residence before heading to the steps of Casa de la Musica for an outdoor musical feast of ‘salsa and dance’ Day 5 - Trinidad This morning we take a short journey to the Parque “El Cubano” and enjoy a short walk in the local countryside to stunning waterfalls where a cooling swim is very tempting. If we are lucky we may spot the national bird, the ‘Tocororo’. En route we call into a farmhouse occupied by a local family for a coffee and a chat. A free afternoon in Trinidad is an explorer's dream, strolling through the back streets and the local markets Day 6 - Trinidad to Camagüey A leisurely drive today to the provincial capital of Camagüey. We stop along the way in the Sugar Mill Valley, and have time to climb the quirky and interesting Manaca Iznaga Tower. We also visit the town of Sancti Spiritus and enjoy a walk through the centre of this undiscovered and unassuming location. We arrive into Camagüey late afternoon Day 7 - Camagüey This morning we jump on our bicycle taxis for a tour of the narrow and winding streets. The are many picturesque churches and squares to explore including the Plaza San Juan de Dios and the Plaza del Carmen with its Rubenesque statues of local residents strategically placed around the square. The afternoon is free for exploration but remember this town is famed for its maze like streets and neighbourhoods. Hopefully you will make it back for dinner Day 8 - Camagüey to Bayamo A morning drive to Bayamo City, the capital of Granma province. This town was the second Spanish settlement in Cuba, which Diego Velázquez founded in 1513. We have an afternoon walk planned through one of the most relaxing and peaceful towns in Cuba. Starting in the leafy Parque Céspedes we learn the significance of the “Father of Cuba” of whom the square is named. Welcoming smiles greet you along the broad General Garcia Boulevard as foreign travellers are still few and far between Day 9 - Bayamo (day trip Sierra Maestra) A very unique experience is planned today as we head into the Sierra Maestra Mountains. Long a location for guerilla warfare these mountains were the base for the remnants of Castro’s 26th July movement which failed in its attack on Santiago’s Moncada Barracks. We drive along remote roads and tackle a short trek into the rebel headquarters at Comandancia la Plata. Here Castro hid out, regrouped and was able to reignite the revolution which eventually overthrew Batista’s regime. A fascinating and unforgettable day Day 10 - Bayamo to Santiago de Cuba We move on to Santiago de Cuba the second most important city in Cuba. Exuding both music and history, it is considered the 'capital of the east' and birthplace of ‘Son’ music as well as the Cuban Revolution. We will visit the imposing Morro Castle dramatically positioned on the high cliffs overlooking the Santiago harbour Day 11 - Santiago de Cuba Today’s tour of Santiago includes a visit to Céspedes Park and the Moncada Garrison. There is so much to see in this vibrant city. In the evening we will seek out some local clubs to enjoy the musical flavours of the traditional Cuban sound. Bring your dancing shoes or just sit back and enjoy a 'Cuba Libre'. Try stopping those toes tapping! Day 12 - Santiago de Cuba to Havana (fly) We transfer to the airport and take the short flight to Havana. We are back in time for an afternoon city tour of this stunning capital. We begin on foot walking through the historic colonial centre stopping at the 'Capitolo Nacional'. We visit a cigar factory as well as the interesting Museum of the Revolution. Soak up the atmosphere of the cobbled streets and avenues of the Old Havana Day 13 - Havana (Viñales Option) There is an option today (not included) for a full day trip to the rural Viñales Valley west of Havana. Heading out to Pinar del Río in the westernmost province of Cuba this is where the best tobacco trees are to be found. You stop for the grand vista at the lookout point of “Los Jazmines”. Then you will view a prehistoric mural and enjoy a Creole lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon you will visit the ‘Indian’s Cave’ taking a boat journey through the underground cavern. For those choosing to stay in Havana you will have a totally free day to explore this vibrant city Day 14 - Havana This morning we travel by bus ‘under’ the harbour to resurface at the Fortress La Cabaña. You will enjoy sweeping harbour views from this structure which was built by the Spaniards between the 16th and 19th centuries. Your last afternoon in Havana is free to enjoy the sights. Why not a final cruise in an old Cadillac along ‘El Malecón’, the broad boulevard running along the city coast.
Dinner in Old Habana tonight is a fitting finale to your journey through Cuba Day 15 - Havana - Departure day You are free to depart any time today |
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