The island country of Cuba – a tapestry of beautiful landscapes, vibrant rhythms, and a complex history – will win you over! We will explore the best that Cuba has to offer from the exciting energy of Havana, the breathtaking views of Viñales, the colonial quaintness of Trinidad, to the gorgeous landscapes of Cienfuegos. We’ll feel like we’re stepping back in time, but realize that the beauty of Cuba and its people is timeless.
You are an active traveler who loves to see things up-close and personal. You aren’t bothered by standing or walking for long periods of time (1-2 hours) and you can navigate uneven surfaces and easily climb into and out of different kinds of vehicles or vessels. You can handle the rigors of exploring the world in a hands-on way, even if that means getting up early or staying up late!
**Itinerary Subject to Change**
Can US Citizens Travel in Cuba?
Contrary to what you may have heard, US citizens are free to travel to and throughout Cuba. There are 11 categories of permitted travel to Cuba including educational, religious, journalistic, professional meeting and more. The most useful category for most travelers is “Support for the Cuban People.” This category is intended to direct the economic activities of U.S. travelers to primarily benefit the private sector in Cuba. Thus, it encourages travelers to stay in private accommodations and eat in private restaurants.
We have made certain that all of our activities are in accordance with the current US Government guidelines. There is a visa required for US citizens to enter Cuba; it will be provided upon arrival into Cuba and the cost is included in the package price.
We’ll head out as a group to explore Old Havana via guided walking tour. Stopping for lunch in a local Paladar (family-owned vs. government-owned restaurant) and maybe a Daiquiri at La Floridita Bar where Ernest Hemmingway used to drink! You’ll have a bit of time to freshen up before we celebrate the beginning of our Cuban adventure with a festive welcome dinner!
Dinner
SO Paseo del Prado La Habana
Following breakfast at the hotel (served each day), we’ll set out to spend a day exploring Cuba’s art, history, and culture with visits to Jaimanitas, Cojimar, Alamar, and the Artisan’s Market. We’ll partake in a Cuban Marriage – a fine cigar with tastings of fine rum, chocolate and excellent Cuban coffee! We’ll finish up the day with a dinner in a local Paladar.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
SO Paseo del Prado La Habana
Today we head to the west side of the country to explore the scenically breathtaking area of Viñales in the province of Pinar del Rio. We’ll tour this area as locals – riding bicycles through local farms and valleys. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local organic farmhouse, after which we’ll do a little hiking and boating to get to Cueva del Indio (Indian Cave). Before returning to Havana late this afternoon enjoy a highly picturesque hike along El Mirador del Valle trail when the surrounding mogotes are at their most colorful – cameras ready! Dinner will be on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
SO Paseo del Prado La Habana
Today we’ll explore the neighborhoods of Vedado and Miramar – where mansions of old from “back in the day” currently serve as foreign embassies and consulates to Cuba. We’ll visit the home of famed Cuban artist Beatriz Sala Santacana whose ceramics, oils and sculptures have been showcased in art galleries worldwide. After lunch we’ll visit the community project known as Clave del Sol – a group of local professional musicians who teach local youngsters stringed instruments. Dinner will be on your own this evening.
Breakfast & Lunch
SO Paseo del Prado La Habana
We’ve got a bit of a drive (four hours) to get to the beautiful village of Cienfuegos with it’s beautiful city center and neoclassical architecture. We’ll enjoy lunch overlooking the Bay of Cienfuegos, followed by a visit to the Orchestra. From here we’ll head a bit further south to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Trinidad. We’ll have a little time to wander the streets before dining in a local paladar and settling into our hotel.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Iberostar Grand Heritage Trinidad Hotel
After breakfast we’re off to the nearby mountains of the Topes de Collantes where we enjoy a light hike to a waterfall in the countryside. Feel free to swim in the cool, clear waters before we’re off again to have lunch at a farmhouse in the mountains. The afternoon will be ours to explore Trinidad and after dinner our guide will be happy to introduce us to the nearby Casa de la Musica where you hear locals perform some great Cuban music and, by all means, put on your dancing shoes and join in salsa or rumba, dancing with the locals.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Iberostar Grand Heritage Trinidad Hotel
After breakfast we’ll take a drive (one hour) to Santa Clara – one of the largest and liveliest Cuban cities. It has long been a place of pilgrimage for Che Guevara acolytes. We’ll make another philanthropic visit to a nonprofit supporting the arts. We’ll enjoy dinner tonight in the famous La Guarida paladar.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
La Reserva Vedado
Today is yours to explore Havana on your own – see the sights, shop, or just find a place for lunch and to sit and people watch. We’ll regroup to wrap up our trip with a tour of the Malecon in our vintage convertibles and a farewell dinner at world famous Tropicana!
Breakfast & Dinner
La Reserva Vedado
Transfer to the airport to board your departure flight with your heart filled with memories of the sights, sounds and voices of Cuba to carry with you.
Breakfast
Charm, history, design and a vibrant atmosphere are breathed into the hotel SO/ Paseo del Prado Havana, the new five star tourist facility of the Cuban capital, which welcomes visitors at the entrance to Havana Bay. The brand new hotel, which is located right at the intersection of the busy Paseo del Prado and the Malecón, impressive views of the boardwalk, the Castle of the Three Kings of the Hill and the fortress of San Salvador de la Punta.
Iberostar Heritage Grand Trinidad offers unbeatable cultural heritage in the heart of one of Cuba’s most extraordinary cities. This iconic building, recently restored and refurbished by Iberostar, offers 5-star amenities with an old world feel. Its interior design has kept the natural elegance of the building, but also provides modern services and spacious rooms. The relaxed façades of the historic center will make you want to get to know its inhabitants’ colorful, welcoming and upbeat spirit up-close. Join them to feel Cuba’s music and get to know its personality for yourself.
The history of this boutique hotel is intimately related to the vibrant El Vedado neighborhood; its spirit reflects the Cuban soul. Live the vibrant experience of Havana in the splendor of an old restored house, where art and design are the signs of identity. This beautiful property is ours, exclusively, to end our amazing journey right in the heart of authentic Cuban culture! The tropical garden is the perfect place to eat, drink and relax, while the interior is beautifully appointed and offers selected works of contemporary Cuban artists.
Dates:
8-night package: February 5-13, 2023
Cost:
8-night package: $6,445 per person double occupancy; $7,675 single occupancy
Payment Schedule:
Space is limited. Reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation:
Penalties vary depending on the date of cancellation:
* We will do all possible to resell your space should you cancel. If we are successful, we will refund you in full, less $875 per person.
NOTE: We are constantly monitoring travel conditions as relates to the COVID-19 virus and entry requirements into Cuba. In these unprecedented times, we want to give you as much flexibility as possible. Should a United States or Cuban governmental body determine that travel is not allowed, the trip cost will be refunded in full.
Air Transportation:
You may make your own flight arrangements, or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee (waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni). We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Gabriel Haigazian (gabriel@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2700) or Howard Wise (howard@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2710). It is the responsibility of the traveler to provide the legal name as on the passport. Carriers may deny boarding if name on ticket does not EXACTLY match name on passport.
Supplemental Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation / Interruption:
Your package includes basic trip insurance:
Additional trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Travelers may insure all prepaid and nonrefundable payments against cancellation and interruption due to covered reasons. Note that fear of travel is not covered under these policies. Certain plans include coverage for Pre-Existing Medical conditions, financial default, “Cancel for Work Reasons” and “Cancellation for Any Reason.” Coverage varies by product. Please note that most insurance companies require you to purchase insurance within 14 days of the initial deposit date in order to be covered for pre-existing conditions.
For further information and purchase options click HERE for plans offered by Travel Guard. If you prefer, contact Travel Guard Insurance directly at (800) 826-1300, ext. 3 and speak with an agent. Please provide Agency Code #05-614836.
MedJet Assist – Air Medical Travel Protection Membership
MedJet Assist provides and pays for hospital-to-hospital medical transfer of a member if injury or illness occur during domestic or international travel, more than 150 miles from home. Unlike most travel insurance, a MedJet Assist member is transferred to their home hospital of choice, regardless of medical necessity. There are no “acceptable facility” clauses, no claim forms, no cost caps and no surprise bills after the transport. COVID-19 is covered (with some restrictions)
MedJet Assist is complimentary to travel insurance – it’s recommended to purchase both. Here’s a great 2-minute video that explains the coverage and how it differs from travel insurance. Click HERE to view the video.
Short-term or annual memberships are available. Click HERE for pricing and to enroll:
For those of you 75-84 years of age, you’ll need to call MedJet Assist to enroll at 800-527-7478
Pricing:
All prices quoted are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect as of March 30, 2022 and are subject to change. Rates are based on a minimum group size of 20 paying guests. Should the group size(s) fall below this minimum number, package price or inclusions may be modified.
Unused tour items, missed meals or activities, etc. are not refundable.
Tips and Taxes:
The package includes all service charges, taxes and entrance fees etc. Basic gratuities to drivers, guides, cruise staff and porters are included. You are welcome to extend additional gratuities for anyone who has provided exemplary service.
Baggage:
Please check applicable baggage allowances and fees with your international airline carrier. Overweight luggage and/or additional checked bags can be purchased directly from the airlines.
Passport/Visa:
You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of re-entry to your home country.
Contrary to what you may have heard, US citizens are free to travel to and throughout Cuba. There are 11 categories of permitted travel to Cuba including educational, religious, journalistic, professional meeting and more. The most useful category for most travelers is “Support for the Cuban People.” This category is intended to direct the economic activities of U.S. travelers to primarily benefit the private sector in Cuba. Thus, it encourages travelers to stay in private accommodations, eat in private restaurants and generally avoid spending any money with the Cuban government. There is a visa for US citizens; it will be provided upon arrival into Cuba and the cost is included in package price.
Health / Vaccinations:
We are constantly monitoring requirements for travel to Cuba and will advise if COVID requirements change. As of March 30, 2022, to enter Cuba you will be required to present a negative PCR-COVID test taken no earlier than 72 hours before your flight arriving in Cuba. Currently (and this may change), to return to the United States from Cuba, you will be required to provide a negative COVID test (antigen or PCR) taken no earlier than 24 hours prior to your departure flight. You may wish to consult your physician for recommendations. Additional information is available on the CDC website for Cuba and the US.
Travel Documents:
Final travel documents will be sent to your mailing address approximately two weeks prior to departure.
Risks of Travel and Your Responsibilities:
International travel involves inherent risks. The CTP Group/WOW! Travel Club (CTP/WOW) cannot be liable for any injury, death or loss of personal property in connection with your participation in CTP/WOW activities. By participating in this CTP/WOW travel program, you assume risk of inherent dangers (including without limitation, annoyance and expenses) related to military or political action, civil disturbances, quarantine, strikes, detention, mental trauma, pilferage, weather, epidemiological events, acts of God or any other circumstances over which CTP/WOW has no control.
I understand that CTP/WOW reserves the right to refuse as a trip participant or remove from a trip, any person it judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in activities, or who it determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. I agree to follow all written and verbal rules of safety presented to me by CTP/WOW. CTP/WOW reserves the right to make route, hotel, itinerary and trip modifications as required or desirable to improve the trip quality and/or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests.
CTP/WOW reserves the right to alter or cancel any trip due to weather, sickness, political climate, and/or insufficient registration or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. While CTP/WOW will make every effort to obtain full or partial refunds from suppliers, CTP/ WOW cannot guarantee your ability to recoup payment.
The above Terms and Conditions are hereby expressly incorporated into the “Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement” to be signed by you as a WOW! Travel Club participant.
WOW! Vows:
All guests will be asked to sign and agree to the WOW! Vows for responsible travel:
Consent:
Payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for registration of a participant for CTP/ WOW activities constitutes consent by all guests/participants registered by the party completing online registration. You and your guests/participants hereby agree to the Terms & Conditions of this website. The Terms & Conditions set forth on this website may not be modified or amended except in writing by an authorized officer of CTP/WOW.
All guests/participants are required to initial and sign a Release Waiver and Indemnity Agreement, which will be sent upon receipt of your deposit. Your final payment cannot be processed until you return the signed Release.
Please note: This trip includes full days of sightseeing and significant amounts of walking on stairs and uneven surfaces. You should be in good physical condition to participate in this journey to its fullest.
March 2022 CST # 1016440-10
Can US Citizens Travel in Cuba?
Contrary to what you may have heard, US citizens are free to travel to and throughout Cuba. There are 11 categories of permitted travel to Cuba including educational, religious, journalistic, professional meeting and more. The most useful category for most travelers is “Support for the Cuban People.” This category is intended to direct the economic activities of U.S. travelers to primarily benefit the private sector in Cuba. Thus, it encourages travelers to stay in private accommodations, eat in private restaurants and generally avoid spending any money with the Cuban government. There is a visa required for US citizens; it will be provided upon arrival into Cuba and the cost is included in package price.
What will the weather be like?
The best time to visit Cuba is between January and February. The island’s location in the Caribbean affords warm temperatures year-round, with the average lows in Havana dipping to 65° and the average high of 81°. Because of its location, there are really only two seasons in Cuba: wet and dry. The dry season runs through “winter” in Cuba, (November to April).
What should I wear?
When in Cuba our advice would be to dress in a casual, low key fashion and leave your expensive jewelry at home. In this sub-tropical climate lightweight natural fabrics such as linen and cotton work well. Jeans and t-shirts also work. The island is cooled by the trade winds, so pack a light sweater or wrap for the cooler evenings.
Do I need to get any vaccinations?
Nothing specific is required, but you should be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. Consult the Center for Disease Control website for current recommendations: For travel to Cuba. Check with your physician at least 30-60 days prior to travel.
Are there any special precautions for COVID-19?
Currently, all passengers traveling to Cuba must be in possession of a negative RT/PCR test certificate for COVID-19, taken at a maximum of 72 hours before their flight departure time. Also, by decree of the Cuban government, as of January 5, 2022, all travelers 12 years and older must possess a current vaccination card. Since testing requirements are constantly changing, we will address the need for testing to return to the US and will assist with procuring tests (at traveler’s cost).
What about airfare?
International airfare is not included in the package. We can assist with reservations for a service fee of $75 per person. (Service fee is waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni.)
Will I need an adaptor to plug in my appliances and chargers?
In Cuba the power plugs and sockets are of type A & B (used in the US), C (two pin) and L (three pin). You may need a power plug adapter for sockets type C and L. Please note: even with an adapter, a US hairdryer should not be used. All hotels will have hairdryers available.
Can I use my cell phone in Cuba?
With most providers, it’s best to activate an international data and telephone plan. We suggest that you contact your carrier to discuss potential costs for data and voice communications.
What is the currency?
It’s complicated… but that’s why you travel with WOW!, right? More detailed information will be provided as travel dates approach.
What about travel insurance?
We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of deposit. Here are links to two travel insurance providers: Travel Guard and MedJet.
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