Tips -Travel to Cuba to experience the rhythmic Caribbean vibe

From Cuba's historical streets of Havana to the pristine shores of the Caribbean, stroll through World Heritage cities, relive a fascinating colonial history and experience the rich heritage of music and dance that Cuba is renowned for. Dive into the incredible marine world and history of the Bay of Pigs, prepare to be wowed as you discover Baracoa’s mountainous surrounds, visit the birthplace of salsa and admire Trinidad’s unrivalled ambience on this two-week adventure. From historic cars to fragrant cigars, and with plenty of rum and rumba in between, this adventure will take you into the heart of all things Cuban.

Why you'd love this trip…

• Old-world charm, rich history, exciting nightlife - evocative Havana is like nowhere else on Earth. See the difference between city and coastal life on a guided walking tour of the old capital • Take inspiration from the locals and mix things up with a bicycle-taxi tour of the colonial city of Camaguey • Practice your Spanish in a language class, loll about on an unspoilt Caribbean beach or peddle through sugar plantations on a bicycle •After an informal salsa lesson, you'll be ready to hit the dance floor with the locals. With its vibrant music scene and Afro-Cuban roots, sultry Santiago de Cuba is a great place to bust out some moves • There's a lot more to the life of Che Guevara than what you'll learn from watching 'The Motorcycle Diaries'. Pay your respects to the famous revolutionary during an included visit to his mausoleum • Cuba is different, and that's a big part of its allure. Things don't always go according to plan, and many things don't work the same way as back home. Patience and good humour will go a long way in this beautiful destination. • As this trip covers a lot of land, you'll be spending quite a bit of time looking out of a bus window. Don’t forget your headphones!

Tips...

> UK Tourist card visa is a must for entry, but please check gov.uk website for up-to-date requirements. > CUC is the currency used within the tourist areas (another within the smaller poorer communities) > Internal flights aren’t recommended for nervous flyers due to the size of air craft and relaxed nature of the Cubans! Some air craft aren’t advised to get in either due to the maintenance. > Ladies, be prepared to be adored, please enjoy this rather than being offended. > Understand this is a 3rd world country. Poverty is taken fairly lightly by the Cubans, who are proud and generally don’t hassle you for money, instead they dance and enjoy life! > If somethings broken eg, a light bulb, don’t think they aren’t fixing this or appreciating your concern or dissatisfaction – they have to source a lightbulb, this can take – erm, months? Try and see the funny side. > I’ve had many people tell me they had bland meals here. I disagree. I had some exceptional food here. The banana chips and fish dishes were a firm favourite. Your hosts or guides will always recommend places should you be unsure where to choose. > Try staying in the local guest houses, just once along your travels. Please ensure this isn’t just any locals house!

If you are considering a trip to Cuba, I can help choose the best location for you.

Ciao for now! Shara