Douglas Steakley Photography
CUBA!!
December 7-15, 2016
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Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and is an intriguing destination for curious Americans who want to visit and see first-hand the daily life and stimulating culture of this unique country. Cuba is opening up to American tourism and business and now is the time to visit before the island changes dramatically. There still are no commercial signs, no McDonalds or Starbucks and life goes on as it has since the Revolution!
Unbeknownst to most Americans, Cuba has undergone an aggressive program of cultural reforms that has promoted artistic talent, and the result has been a highly-respected environment of art, music, dance studios and academies that have earned international acclaim. Even in the face of economic difficulties, Cuba places a high value on all forms of artistic expression and there is a very lively art scene in Havana..
During our stay, we will be able to visit and a variety of highly accomplished people, from painters to ballerinas, who will offer in-depth commentaries on their pursuits. We will benefit and learn from these intimate personal exchanges and soon realize that Cuban people are well-educated, cultured, generous, friendly and proud. We will experience a Cuban culture that is quite different from the stereotypes promulgated by politicians and the Cuban population living in Florida.
With the emphasis of our tour being photography, we will be accompanied by an English-speaking, local photographer/guide who will provide us with behind-the-scenes access to local people. These intimate opportunities allow for cultural and environmental photographs that are just not available to most visitors. Aside from the opportunities we will have to photograph the Cuban people, there are also landscapes, architecture and those brightly-colored and lovingly-restored American automobiles from the 1950s. Then there is the amazing night life ~ music and dance are a large part of the Cuban scene, particularly in Havana.
Our tour will be based in Havana and we will stay at the elegant Hotel Sevilla, which is perfectly situated in the part of the city and near the Malecon. It will be easy to walk out of the hotel and stroll around the refurbished Havana Vieja.
Havana is a beautiful tropical location with aging, colorful stucco walls and we will be able to participate in and photograph daily life there. The daily street scenes in Havana are colorful and compelling and take us back to a slower time that has long been forgotten in the busy and impersonal way we live in the United States.
We will be traveling under the auspices of Cuba Cultural Travel, an organization that has specialized in travel to Cuba since 1998. In 2011, the U.S. Government passed an executive order making it easier for Americans to visit Cuba and the federal government has issued licenses to a select number of tour companies to operate what are known as "People to People Cultural Exchanges" and Cuba Cultural Travel is one of the companies that holds this license. Although the Cuban and American governments have agreed to increased tourism with fewer restrictions, it is still very beneficial to travel with an organization that has deep roots and connections with the local people.
This tour also includes a couple of days in the colorful southern city of Trinidad. We will drive there and our departure flights will be from the Santa Clara Airport instead of Havana. Visiting Trinidad will allow us to see a different side of Cuban daily life in a smaller, quieter city than Havana.
This tour will be limited to fourteen participant and non-photographer spouses and companions are welcome.
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Itinerary:
Day One-December 7-Arrival in Miami
Participants will fly independently to Miami and overnight at Crowne Plaza Miami located at 950 NW LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126. Ph. (305) 929-0116. Your overnight in Miami is included in the cost of the trip.
Day Two-December 8-Miami to Havana
Arrive in Havana. Clear immigration, customs and baggage, a process that takes about an hour and a half. Upon arriving in Havana, a Cuban representative will welcome the group and assist us with boarding our bus.
We will stop by the Plaza de la Revolucion. The center of government, this area contains most of the offices of the main ministries and is often used for rallies, including that of the Pope's recent visit.
Orientation tour of Havana with stops along the Malecón and other landmarks including tour of modern architecture in Western Havana. Few people realize the important place Havana holds as a treasure trove of 20th Century architecture. Our guide will highlight some of the best examples to be found in this incredibly diverse area of the city, including the Riviera Hotel, the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlour and the Habana Libre Hotel.
12:00 pm Lunch at Río Mar overlooking the bay.
Following lunch we stop at the iconic Hotel Nacional overlooking the Straits of Florida and the Malecón. When the hotel opened in 1930, Cuba was a prime travel destination for many illustrious guests including Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, John Wayne, Marlene Dietrich, Marlon Brando, and Ernest Hemingway.
Afternoon Check-in to Hotel Sevilla in Havana Vieja.
Trocadero 55 e Prado y Zulueta Habana, Havana 260, Cuba
Rooms will be reserved on the 6th floor or higher with room facing north to the El Morro fortress and Sea.
We will drop our bags to stroll the historic area surrounding the hotel.
Walk along the Paseo de Marti (El Prado), a tree lined pedestrian promenade leading to the sea. This area includes the home of Cuba's former president Jose Miguel Gomez and the lavish Palacio de los Matrimonios.
See the massive renovation project of the Capitolio and continue to the Parque de la Fraternidad. This is “Old Taxi” central; here you will find all make and models of American cars from the 50’s. It is a great opportunity to mingle and converse with taxi drivers and engage in their favorite subject: their cars.
5:00 pm Return to the hotel.
8:30 pm Dinner at San Cristobal. This cozy paladar has a reputation of excellence in both atmosphere and local cuisine. The food is refined and balanced and the nostalgic atmosphere is unforgettable, adorned in a unique style of art nouveau. President Obama and his family dined here during their historic visit to Cuba.
Day Three-December 9-Havana
Complimentary Breakfast is served daily at the restaurant on the top floor of the hotel from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.
9:30 am Orientation meeting in the hotel lobby. You will be joined by Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana. Please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes today as we will explore Havana Vieja on foot.
10:30 am Rafael Trejo Boxing Gym. This amateur boxing gym is the place for the young and not-so-young athletes to learn and train for their country’s second favorite sport. The determination and focus of these young boxers will inspire you as they train with the aspirations to compete on a national level.
Visit the Plaza Vieja. This plaza is the oldest plaza in Havana, dating from the 16th century. Learn about the massive historic preservation program which began in this Plaza under the leadership of City Historian, Eusebio Leal.
We will stroll through the Plaza de San Francisco, a cobbled plaza surrounded by buildings dating from the 18th century, dominated by the baroque Iglesia and Convento de San Francisco dating from 1719. All of these areas are within easy walking distance from our hotel.
Lunch on your own. Suitable recommendations will be provided.
We will visit the Plaza de Armas, a scenic tree-lined plaza formerly at the center of influence in Cuba. It is surrounded by many of the most historic structures in Havana as well as important monuments. Continue to the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a massive fortress built between 1558 and 1577.
Return to hotel via Obispo Street, a pedestrian promenade, stopping at some of the most significant buildings like the Art Deco style La Moderna Poesia, the Ambos Mundos Hotel, and the banks of the former Havana Wall Street and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
7:30 pm Dinner on your own. For those who choose reservations can be made for the those who choose at local restaurants walking distance from the hotel.
Tonight you may choose to venture on your own for a nightcap at Bar Floridita in Havana Vieja - a short and easy stroll from the Hotel. This popular tourist destination and hangout of Hemingway offers the legendary Daquiri, live music and a life size bronze of a smiling Hemingway leaning against the bar – a great photo opportunity.
Day Four-December 10-Havana
6:30-8:30 am Optional morning photo walk. You will be joined by a Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana.
Morning Board bus and depart for Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway's home in San Francisco de Paula, which contains original furniture, artwork, personal memorabilia & other objects collected by the author. Of special importance is the author's library containing thousands of irreplaceable letters & telegrams, photographs, scrapbooks, manuscripts, & galley proofs.
Continue to the picturesque fishing village of Cojímar. Ernest Hemingway loved this little seaside town. He kept his boat, El Pilar, in harbor of Cojimar, and he used this village setting for his story The Old Man and the Sea, which won him the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954.
1:00 pm Lunch at Paladar Ajiaco in Cojímar. This popular restaurant features fresh menu items created by Chef Roy.
OPTIONAL: Afro Rumba Dance in Vedado. In Cuban music, rumba is a genre involving dance, percussion, and song. There are three main forms: yambú, guaguancó, and columbia. Rumba is an amalgamation of several transplanted African dance and drumming traditions, combined with Spanish influences. People of African descent in Havana and Matanzas originally used the word rumba as a synonym for party. Individual pays admission fees 5CUC.
Dinner on your own. Some may choose El Cocinero in Vedado. This chic and elegant bar & restaurant is located in a converted power station is considered a world class establishment popular with Cubans, Diplomats and foreigners alike.
Located next to the restaurant is Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a popular arts collaborative featuring live music, contemporary arts, film, dance and more. IT was built in the beginning of the XX Century and is the most current collaborative art project in Havana
Day Five-December 11-Havana
Morning Visit the bustling Egido Farmer's Marketplace. While the Cuban government controls nearly every element of commerce in the country, these vendors are part of a new generation of private entrepreneurs. The market has many organic fruits, vegetables and meats that are grown and subsequently transported from the countryside into Havana. Cubans rely on these marketplaces to supplement the monthly food rations they receive from the State and as well as those items that are not readily available in State run ration stores.
Ferry to Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Regla: Santeria Church. As important as it is diminutive, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla, which lies just behind the boat dock in the municipality of Regla, has a long and colorful history. Inside on the main altar you’ll find La Santísima Virgen de Regla, a black Madonna venerated in the Catholic faith and associated in the Santería religion with Yemayá, the orisha (spirit) of the ocean and the patron of sailors (always represented in blue). Each person pays their own ferry fees, less than one dollar.
Afternoon Visit to Callejon de Hamel, a street full of shrines, diverse sculptural pieces, and colorful murals. It has been considered a public temple to Santería and African influences in Cuban culture. Much of the artwork there has been created by artist Salvador González Escalona since 1990. Remainder of afternoon free to explore Havana Vieja. Or visit the Cerveceria Antiguo Almacen de la Madera y El Tabaco, a craft brewery and music joint located on the bustling Malecón. This broad esplanade, roadway and seawall stretches for 4 miles along the coast from the mouth of Havana Harbor in Old Havana, along the north side of the Centro Habana neighborhood to the Vedado neighborhood. There is no other place which shows more of the Havana's soul, or attracts more locals and tourists than the Malecón.
7:30 pm Dinner on the rooftop of Paladar Atelier, a restaurant equally known for its atmosphere and exquisite cuisine. The lighting and textures of the house, coupled with walls adorned in modern art, create a cozy, romantic setting. The chef boasts international experience, serving a range of cuisine from traditional Cuban dishes, paella, and seafood.
Optional: Enjoy an evening of music at Habana Café, a venue that features a nightly variety-type show that includes Cabaret dancers combined with comedy and music. With a 1950’s, nostalgic decor, Habana Café attracts locals and tourists alike. Be ready to get on the dance floor and dance all night to the rhythm of great Caribbean music.
Day Six-December 12-Havana
7:30-9:00 am Optional morning photo walk. You will be joined by a Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana.
10:00 am Attend a private dance performance of the Compañia Irene Rodríguez. We will receive a warm welcome by Irene and her company at the Centro Asturiano. Irene is considered by many to be the finest flamenco dancer in Cuba. (with Temple Beth El Group).
11:15 am Board bus and depart for a rehearsal of Centro Prodanza. This remarkable dance company is the passion project of Grand Maître Laura Alonso, daughter of the famous ballerina and choreographer Alicia Alonso. Her school, located on the outskirts of Havana provides training for all levels of students as well as her highly regarded professional troupe.
1:00 pm Lunch on your own in Jaímanitas. Some may choose the funky Santy Pescador. This hidden gem was recently featured on Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknow on CNN.
Afternoon See the whimsical home and studio of artist José Fuster who has made a major contribution to rebuilding and decorating the fishing town of Jaímanitas, in the outskirts of Havana, where he lives. Jaímanitas is now a unique work of public art where Fuster has decorated over 80 houses with colorful ornate murals and domes.
Remainder of afternoon free to enjoy the pool at the hotel, wander around Havana Vieja, or walk along the Malecón.
Evening Dinner on your own in Havana Vieja. Suitable recommendations will be provided.
Day Seven-December 13-Havana to Trinidad
7:30 am Check-out of Hotel in Havana.
8:00 am Departure for Cienfuegos, the city that was originally settled by French immigrants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been dubbed La Perla del Sur (Pearl of the South). The downtown contains 6 buildings from 1819–50, 327 buildings from 1851–1900, and 1188 buildings from the 20th century. There is no other place in the Caribbean that contains such a remarkable cluster of Neoclassical structures.
11:30 am Visit the Palacio del Valle, the former home of trader Celestino Caceres. This architectural jewel originated as a private residence and later passed into the Valle family who added to it in a Mughal style with carved floral motifs, a stunning Carrara marble staircase, cupped arches, bulbous domes and delicate arabesques.
12:00 pm Lunch at Paladar El Lagarto overlooking the Cienfuegos Bay. Wonderful grilled specialties, fresh ingredients and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
We continue with a visit to downtown Cienfuegos, the main square, Paseo del Prado and the Terry Thomas Theatre. These outstanding buildings, completed in 1895, were built with the wealth made by a sugar baron from Venezuela who arrived in Cuba without money and made his fortune by buying sick slaves for a low price, nursing them back to health and reselling them. Later investment in a sugar estate enabled him to have materials specially brought over from Europe for his buildings.
3:30 pm Visit the Taller de Grafica. A contemporary graphics studio showing the work of several exciting local artists. Founded in 1988 the Taller was augmented in 2006 by a major grant from Cuban artists Kcho.
4:30 pm Depart for Trinidad.
6:00 pm Check-in to Casas.
8:00 pm Dinner on your own. Some may choose to dine in the home of your Cuban hosts. Some may choose to walk to Paladar Cubita Santander. Charming family owned restaurant with Cuban & Central European inspired menu and great music.
9:30 pm Return to hotel.
Day Eight-December 14-Trinidad
Breakfast prepared by your Cuban host and served in the dining area or courtyard of the Casa.
Morning Explore Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating, in 2014, its 500th year anniversary. This 500-year-old city is home to Spanish colonial architecture, underscoring a colonial ambiance that marks the tiny city as one of the country’s greatest attractions. Only a few square blocks in size, historic Trinidad is famous for its lovely, cobblestone streets, pastel colored houses with elaborate wrought-iron grills, as well as beautiful palaces and plazas.
Some interesting sites include the Museo Romantico and the Palacio Cantero, Museum of Decorative Arts. Located in the Colonial Town Center of Trinidad in one of the most impressive homes, this Municipal Museum houses artifacts that detail the history of Trinidad region. It features a spacious entrance hall that opens on to a large courtyard with panoramic vistas of the city and sea.
Lunch on your own. Some may try Restaurant Los Conspiradores in old town Trinidad. Enjoy the sights and sounds of old town from this lovely restaurant. The charming art gallery features wonderful, whimsical work.
Afternoon Visit to Trinidad's large outdoor craft market. This excellent open-air market situated in front of the Casa de la Trova is the place to see a wide variety of Cuban popular art, including wood carvings, jewelry, textiles and crochet.
7:30 pm Farewell Dinner at Paladar Sol Ananda. Wonderful eclectic surroundings and a unique menu with flavors influenced by many cultures.
9:00 pm Optional: Evening musical performance at Casa del la Trova.
Day Nine-December 15-Return flights to Miami
Breakfast prepared by your Cuban host and served in the dining area or courtyard of the Casa.
Return flight schedules to be determined.
Day One-December 7-Arrival in Miami
Participants will fly independently to Miami and overnight at Crowne Plaza Miami located at 950 NW LeJeune Road, Miami, Florida 33126. Ph. (305) 929-0116. Your overnight in Miami is included in the cost of the trip.
Day Two-December 8-Miami to Havana
Arrive in Havana. Clear immigration, customs and baggage, a process that takes about an hour and a half. Upon arriving in Havana, a Cuban representative will welcome the group and assist us with boarding our bus.
We will stop by the Plaza de la Revolucion. The center of government, this area contains most of the offices of the main ministries and is often used for rallies, including that of the Pope's recent visit.
Orientation tour of Havana with stops along the Malecón and other landmarks including tour of modern architecture in Western Havana. Few people realize the important place Havana holds as a treasure trove of 20th Century architecture. Our guide will highlight some of the best examples to be found in this incredibly diverse area of the city, including the Riviera Hotel, the Coppelia Ice Cream Parlour and the Habana Libre Hotel.
12:00 pm Lunch at Río Mar overlooking the bay.
Following lunch we stop at the iconic Hotel Nacional overlooking the Straits of Florida and the Malecón. When the hotel opened in 1930, Cuba was a prime travel destination for many illustrious guests including Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, John Wayne, Marlene Dietrich, Marlon Brando, and Ernest Hemingway.
Afternoon Check-in to Hotel Sevilla in Havana Vieja.
Trocadero 55 e Prado y Zulueta Habana, Havana 260, Cuba
Rooms will be reserved on the 6th floor or higher with room facing north to the El Morro fortress and Sea.
We will drop our bags to stroll the historic area surrounding the hotel.
Walk along the Paseo de Marti (El Prado), a tree lined pedestrian promenade leading to the sea. This area includes the home of Cuba's former president Jose Miguel Gomez and the lavish Palacio de los Matrimonios.
See the massive renovation project of the Capitolio and continue to the Parque de la Fraternidad. This is “Old Taxi” central; here you will find all make and models of American cars from the 50’s. It is a great opportunity to mingle and converse with taxi drivers and engage in their favorite subject: their cars.
5:00 pm Return to the hotel.
8:30 pm Dinner at San Cristobal. This cozy paladar has a reputation of excellence in both atmosphere and local cuisine. The food is refined and balanced and the nostalgic atmosphere is unforgettable, adorned in a unique style of art nouveau. President Obama and his family dined here during their historic visit to Cuba.
Day Three-December 9-Havana
Complimentary Breakfast is served daily at the restaurant on the top floor of the hotel from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.
9:30 am Orientation meeting in the hotel lobby. You will be joined by Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana. Please be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes today as we will explore Havana Vieja on foot.
10:30 am Rafael Trejo Boxing Gym. This amateur boxing gym is the place for the young and not-so-young athletes to learn and train for their country’s second favorite sport. The determination and focus of these young boxers will inspire you as they train with the aspirations to compete on a national level.
Visit the Plaza Vieja. This plaza is the oldest plaza in Havana, dating from the 16th century. Learn about the massive historic preservation program which began in this Plaza under the leadership of City Historian, Eusebio Leal.
We will stroll through the Plaza de San Francisco, a cobbled plaza surrounded by buildings dating from the 18th century, dominated by the baroque Iglesia and Convento de San Francisco dating from 1719. All of these areas are within easy walking distance from our hotel.
Lunch on your own. Suitable recommendations will be provided.
We will visit the Plaza de Armas, a scenic tree-lined plaza formerly at the center of influence in Cuba. It is surrounded by many of the most historic structures in Havana as well as important monuments. Continue to the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a massive fortress built between 1558 and 1577.
Return to hotel via Obispo Street, a pedestrian promenade, stopping at some of the most significant buildings like the Art Deco style La Moderna Poesia, the Ambos Mundos Hotel, and the banks of the former Havana Wall Street and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales.
7:30 pm Dinner on your own. For those who choose reservations can be made for the those who choose at local restaurants walking distance from the hotel.
Tonight you may choose to venture on your own for a nightcap at Bar Floridita in Havana Vieja - a short and easy stroll from the Hotel. This popular tourist destination and hangout of Hemingway offers the legendary Daquiri, live music and a life size bronze of a smiling Hemingway leaning against the bar – a great photo opportunity.
Day Four-December 10-Havana
6:30-8:30 am Optional morning photo walk. You will be joined by a Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana.
Morning Board bus and depart for Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway's home in San Francisco de Paula, which contains original furniture, artwork, personal memorabilia & other objects collected by the author. Of special importance is the author's library containing thousands of irreplaceable letters & telegrams, photographs, scrapbooks, manuscripts, & galley proofs.
Continue to the picturesque fishing village of Cojímar. Ernest Hemingway loved this little seaside town. He kept his boat, El Pilar, in harbor of Cojimar, and he used this village setting for his story The Old Man and the Sea, which won him the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954.
1:00 pm Lunch at Paladar Ajiaco in Cojímar. This popular restaurant features fresh menu items created by Chef Roy.
OPTIONAL: Afro Rumba Dance in Vedado. In Cuban music, rumba is a genre involving dance, percussion, and song. There are three main forms: yambú, guaguancó, and columbia. Rumba is an amalgamation of several transplanted African dance and drumming traditions, combined with Spanish influences. People of African descent in Havana and Matanzas originally used the word rumba as a synonym for party. Individual pays admission fees 5CUC.
Dinner on your own. Some may choose El Cocinero in Vedado. This chic and elegant bar & restaurant is located in a converted power station is considered a world class establishment popular with Cubans, Diplomats and foreigners alike.
Located next to the restaurant is Fabrica de Arte Cubano, a popular arts collaborative featuring live music, contemporary arts, film, dance and more. IT was built in the beginning of the XX Century and is the most current collaborative art project in Havana
Day Five-December 11-Havana
Morning Visit the bustling Egido Farmer's Marketplace. While the Cuban government controls nearly every element of commerce in the country, these vendors are part of a new generation of private entrepreneurs. The market has many organic fruits, vegetables and meats that are grown and subsequently transported from the countryside into Havana. Cubans rely on these marketplaces to supplement the monthly food rations they receive from the State and as well as those items that are not readily available in State run ration stores.
Ferry to Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Regla: Santeria Church. As important as it is diminutive, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla, which lies just behind the boat dock in the municipality of Regla, has a long and colorful history. Inside on the main altar you’ll find La Santísima Virgen de Regla, a black Madonna venerated in the Catholic faith and associated in the Santería religion with Yemayá, the orisha (spirit) of the ocean and the patron of sailors (always represented in blue). Each person pays their own ferry fees, less than one dollar.
Afternoon Visit to Callejon de Hamel, a street full of shrines, diverse sculptural pieces, and colorful murals. It has been considered a public temple to Santería and African influences in Cuban culture. Much of the artwork there has been created by artist Salvador González Escalona since 1990. Remainder of afternoon free to explore Havana Vieja. Or visit the Cerveceria Antiguo Almacen de la Madera y El Tabaco, a craft brewery and music joint located on the bustling Malecón. This broad esplanade, roadway and seawall stretches for 4 miles along the coast from the mouth of Havana Harbor in Old Havana, along the north side of the Centro Habana neighborhood to the Vedado neighborhood. There is no other place which shows more of the Havana's soul, or attracts more locals and tourists than the Malecón.
7:30 pm Dinner on the rooftop of Paladar Atelier, a restaurant equally known for its atmosphere and exquisite cuisine. The lighting and textures of the house, coupled with walls adorned in modern art, create a cozy, romantic setting. The chef boasts international experience, serving a range of cuisine from traditional Cuban dishes, paella, and seafood.
Optional: Enjoy an evening of music at Habana Café, a venue that features a nightly variety-type show that includes Cabaret dancers combined with comedy and music. With a 1950’s, nostalgic decor, Habana Café attracts locals and tourists alike. Be ready to get on the dance floor and dance all night to the rhythm of great Caribbean music.
Day Six-December 12-Havana
7:30-9:00 am Optional morning photo walk. You will be joined by a Cuban photo guide who will accompany the group for the day and as needed during your time in Havana.
10:00 am Attend a private dance performance of the Compañia Irene Rodríguez. We will receive a warm welcome by Irene and her company at the Centro Asturiano. Irene is considered by many to be the finest flamenco dancer in Cuba. (with Temple Beth El Group).
11:15 am Board bus and depart for a rehearsal of Centro Prodanza. This remarkable dance company is the passion project of Grand Maître Laura Alonso, daughter of the famous ballerina and choreographer Alicia Alonso. Her school, located on the outskirts of Havana provides training for all levels of students as well as her highly regarded professional troupe.
1:00 pm Lunch on your own in Jaímanitas. Some may choose the funky Santy Pescador. This hidden gem was recently featured on Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknow on CNN.
Afternoon See the whimsical home and studio of artist José Fuster who has made a major contribution to rebuilding and decorating the fishing town of Jaímanitas, in the outskirts of Havana, where he lives. Jaímanitas is now a unique work of public art where Fuster has decorated over 80 houses with colorful ornate murals and domes.
Remainder of afternoon free to enjoy the pool at the hotel, wander around Havana Vieja, or walk along the Malecón.
Evening Dinner on your own in Havana Vieja. Suitable recommendations will be provided.
Day Seven-December 13-Havana to Trinidad
7:30 am Check-out of Hotel in Havana.
8:00 am Departure for Cienfuegos, the city that was originally settled by French immigrants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been dubbed La Perla del Sur (Pearl of the South). The downtown contains 6 buildings from 1819–50, 327 buildings from 1851–1900, and 1188 buildings from the 20th century. There is no other place in the Caribbean that contains such a remarkable cluster of Neoclassical structures.
11:30 am Visit the Palacio del Valle, the former home of trader Celestino Caceres. This architectural jewel originated as a private residence and later passed into the Valle family who added to it in a Mughal style with carved floral motifs, a stunning Carrara marble staircase, cupped arches, bulbous domes and delicate arabesques.
12:00 pm Lunch at Paladar El Lagarto overlooking the Cienfuegos Bay. Wonderful grilled specialties, fresh ingredients and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
We continue with a visit to downtown Cienfuegos, the main square, Paseo del Prado and the Terry Thomas Theatre. These outstanding buildings, completed in 1895, were built with the wealth made by a sugar baron from Venezuela who arrived in Cuba without money and made his fortune by buying sick slaves for a low price, nursing them back to health and reselling them. Later investment in a sugar estate enabled him to have materials specially brought over from Europe for his buildings.
3:30 pm Visit the Taller de Grafica. A contemporary graphics studio showing the work of several exciting local artists. Founded in 1988 the Taller was augmented in 2006 by a major grant from Cuban artists Kcho.
4:30 pm Depart for Trinidad.
6:00 pm Check-in to Casas.
8:00 pm Dinner on your own. Some may choose to dine in the home of your Cuban hosts. Some may choose to walk to Paladar Cubita Santander. Charming family owned restaurant with Cuban & Central European inspired menu and great music.
9:30 pm Return to hotel.
Day Eight-December 14-Trinidad
Breakfast prepared by your Cuban host and served in the dining area or courtyard of the Casa.
Morning Explore Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating, in 2014, its 500th year anniversary. This 500-year-old city is home to Spanish colonial architecture, underscoring a colonial ambiance that marks the tiny city as one of the country’s greatest attractions. Only a few square blocks in size, historic Trinidad is famous for its lovely, cobblestone streets, pastel colored houses with elaborate wrought-iron grills, as well as beautiful palaces and plazas.
Some interesting sites include the Museo Romantico and the Palacio Cantero, Museum of Decorative Arts. Located in the Colonial Town Center of Trinidad in one of the most impressive homes, this Municipal Museum houses artifacts that detail the history of Trinidad region. It features a spacious entrance hall that opens on to a large courtyard with panoramic vistas of the city and sea.
Lunch on your own. Some may try Restaurant Los Conspiradores in old town Trinidad. Enjoy the sights and sounds of old town from this lovely restaurant. The charming art gallery features wonderful, whimsical work.
Afternoon Visit to Trinidad's large outdoor craft market. This excellent open-air market situated in front of the Casa de la Trova is the place to see a wide variety of Cuban popular art, including wood carvings, jewelry, textiles and crochet.
7:30 pm Farewell Dinner at Paladar Sol Ananda. Wonderful eclectic surroundings and a unique menu with flavors influenced by many cultures.
9:00 pm Optional: Evening musical performance at Casa del la Trova.
Day Nine-December 15-Return flights to Miami
Breakfast prepared by your Cuban host and served in the dining area or courtyard of the Casa.
Return flight schedules to be determined.
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Pricing:
$4,150.00 per person double occupancy
$4,375.00 per person single occupancy
What is Included:
One (1) night accommodation at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Miami before departure to Havana (December 7)
Five nights accommodation at Hotel Sevilla in Havana Vieja
Two nights accommodation at Casa Particulares in Trinidad
All breakfasts in Cuba and Miami
Cuba Photographer Guide
Guide service and transportation in comfortable air-conditioned tour bus from Havana Tur
Three lunches and three dinners
Dance performance by Irene Rodríguez and dance rehearsal at ProDanza
Airport transfers from airport to hotels and back
Compliance with US Treasury Department
An amazing trip!
What is Not Included:
Air fare to and from Miami
At this time we are not including air fare from Miami Havana and from Santa Clara to Miami. Air fares are in a state of flux and we are not able to determine the exact price at this time. Cuba and the United States are currently negotiating direct flights and this may be resolved by this summer, at which time we will be able to determine the costs to and from Miami, which will include visa/tourist card fees.
Any item in the itinerary that is described as “pay in cash”
Airline baggage fees (individuals pay $20 per bag, $2.00 per each pound over 44 pounds)
Tickets to cultural events, baseball games or other activities not included in the itinerary
Tips at meals
Individualized hotel expenses (mini bar, room service, laundry fees, etc)
Cuban Airport Departure tax ($25 CUC)
Gratuities for guide and driver. Recommendation is minimum $7 a day for guide and $5 a day for driver, per person
Tips for the photography guide. The recommended minimum amount is $7 a day
Taxis or other ground transport not included in the itinerary
Registration:
I have arranged this tour through Cuba Cultural Travel. They are located in Fallbrook, California and will be available to answer your questions and concerns. Registration is done through them and they will collect all funds.
I encourage you to register for this tour as soon as possible if you are certain you want to go. Most of my tours fill quickly and additional people are added to a waiting list.
Please CLICK HERE for a registration form.
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Comments from previous travelers:
$4,150.00 per person double occupancy
$4,375.00 per person single occupancy
What is Included:
One (1) night accommodation at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Miami before departure to Havana (December 7)
Five nights accommodation at Hotel Sevilla in Havana Vieja
Two nights accommodation at Casa Particulares in Trinidad
All breakfasts in Cuba and Miami
Cuba Photographer Guide
Guide service and transportation in comfortable air-conditioned tour bus from Havana Tur
Three lunches and three dinners
Dance performance by Irene Rodríguez and dance rehearsal at ProDanza
Airport transfers from airport to hotels and back
Compliance with US Treasury Department
An amazing trip!
What is Not Included:
Air fare to and from Miami
At this time we are not including air fare from Miami Havana and from Santa Clara to Miami. Air fares are in a state of flux and we are not able to determine the exact price at this time. Cuba and the United States are currently negotiating direct flights and this may be resolved by this summer, at which time we will be able to determine the costs to and from Miami, which will include visa/tourist card fees.
Any item in the itinerary that is described as “pay in cash”
Airline baggage fees (individuals pay $20 per bag, $2.00 per each pound over 44 pounds)
Tickets to cultural events, baseball games or other activities not included in the itinerary
Tips at meals
Individualized hotel expenses (mini bar, room service, laundry fees, etc)
Cuban Airport Departure tax ($25 CUC)
Gratuities for guide and driver. Recommendation is minimum $7 a day for guide and $5 a day for driver, per person
Tips for the photography guide. The recommended minimum amount is $7 a day
Taxis or other ground transport not included in the itinerary
Registration:
I have arranged this tour through Cuba Cultural Travel. They are located in Fallbrook, California and will be available to answer your questions and concerns. Registration is done through them and they will collect all funds.
I encourage you to register for this tour as soon as possible if you are certain you want to go. Most of my tours fill quickly and additional people are added to a waiting list.
Please CLICK HERE for a registration form.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Comments from previous travelers:
"Cuba was truly fabulous! I felt like a kid in a candy store on the entire trip as the diversity of photographic opportunities in Cuba was more than I dreamed of seeing. Doug is patient, kind, knowledgeable, a veteran traveler and an experienced teacher. The local guides were friendly, helpful and incredibly fun, and the fellow travelers a complete blast. Take this trip!"
--Cokie Lepinski
"My wife and I have done extensive travel. But this was our first photography focused outing and it was our first time to Cuba. I have been raving about this trip ever since our return. Each of the planned events presented a completely new venue to try and capture Cuban places, people and culture. It ranks up there as one of our best and Doug is a fantastic photographer and tour leader. I hope to do other trips with Doug at the helm."
--Frank Marshall
--Cokie Lepinski
"My wife and I have done extensive travel. But this was our first photography focused outing and it was our first time to Cuba. I have been raving about this trip ever since our return. Each of the planned events presented a completely new venue to try and capture Cuban places, people and culture. It ranks up there as one of our best and Doug is a fantastic photographer and tour leader. I hope to do other trips with Doug at the helm."
--Frank Marshall