1950’s Time Travel, Cuba Uncovered
New AFS Hemingway’s Cuba
March 19-25, 2025
Havana – Cienfuegos – Trinidad de Cuba
This is a special page created for the pre-lunch
There’s no doubt it’s a unique destination to visit. So much history over hundreds of years, and so much of the culture still lives relatively untouched by outside influences. Cuba has the rare ability to maintain its distinctive identity. On our trip, you get to know the authentic Cuba up close and personal, the way the locals know it in three different regions.
This trip is far more educational, interesting, and memorable than a typical Caribbean vacay. We explore the magnificent heritage as we connect with the Cubans in daily cultural exchanges and activities, explore the depth of performing arts, like music, dance, colonial architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums, and more.
Oh, the fun we will have along the way on our unique visit… Hello Cuba! How about an AFS vintage Car Parade down the Riviera, screaming in our 1950s convertibles and exploring a national park in Russian Army trucks? We include delightful walking tours, workshops with locals, a visit to Hemingway’s Villa, handcraft markets, the iconic Cigar factory, a private AFS boat cruise along the turquoise bay, special lunch with artist Jose Fuster, hacienda dinners, visit to a dance company, resort beach time, salsa dancing under the stars, and so much more! Our guides are the best and make it so thrilling from bustling Old Havana to historic Trinidad and the neoclassic jewel of Cienfuegos.
Travelers’ desirability to visit Cuba is proportionate to how long it has been closed to the outside world and inspires deep curiosity. Once a forbidden fruit, Cuba is now on the bucket list for so many people this year. We make it seamlessly easy to discover this island country under our new licensed “People to People” educational program” both legal and licensed for you. (Many companies offer Cuba tours, but Americans must be cautious on what is promised.) We have the best ground team who loves AFS and tailored the best for us and designed by Cubans for Americans!
Throughout, we include delicious meals, and the finest hotels Cuba can offer. Now is the time to go at a great price with everything included. This trip will sell out fast. Don’t miss our new ‘Cars, Cigars, and Cuba at large’ getaway. The best memories come from extraordinary experiences. Come…. Observe, explore, discover and learn about Cuba, a land beyond the ordinary.
Our Glorious AFS Itinerary
Tap for a printable PDF Itinerary
MAR 19 Fly USA to Havana. Round-trip air to Cuba is easy from Miami. American Airlines has 7 flights daily. More details to come in your trip tips with your detailed legal documents. Land tour begins
Hola Cuba! Arrival at Havana International Airport. Meet your Authentic Cuba Travel tour guide and driver. Private transfer to the luxurious Grand Aston Hotel located on the Malecon, Havana’s evocative 8km-long waterfront boulevard. This luxury hotel is in the heart of everything.
En route, we’ll enjoy a panoramic visit to the Revolution Square (Plaza de la Revolucion). Conceived by French urbanist Jean Claude Forestier in the 1920s, the gigantic square today is the base of the Cuban government and a place where large-scale political rallies are held. It is here where Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis celebrated an open air Mass during their visits to Cuba in January 1998, March 2012 and September 2015 respectively. The Square was also visited by US President Barack Obama during his historic visit to Cuba in March 2016.
Private AFS group check-in and welcome cocktail on arrival to the Grand Aston Hotel. Evening: Welcome Dinner at the family-run restaurant paladar ’Arrecife’ and get to know your group.
Next, we attend one of the most traditional and popular ceremonies in Cuba, The Fire of the Cannon of 9 O’clock at the Fortress of San Carlos de La Cabana where Che Guevara established his headquarters after the Revolution came to power in 1959.
Tonight we have our Welcome Dinner and get to learn about your fellow group travelers.
Overnight Aston Grand Hotel D (meals)
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MAR 20 Exploring Old Havana.
Breakfast at the hotel. Today we travel back in time to a time of popsicles, bikinis, hula hoops and sock hops.
AFS Vintage Car Parade – Morning panoramic tour around Modern Havana in privately-owned vintage cars. One in 10 cars here are pre-1959. All cars are American – Chevys, Fords, Buicks, Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles. You’ll get delightful photos riding these convertibles through town.
Next, a visit to Havana’s Capitol building, Capitolio Nacional, designed by Cuban architects Govantes and Cabarroca and built by the American construction company Purdy & Henderson. This is one of Cuba’s most outstanding architectural patrimonies. The dome is 300.96 ft. high (7 inches higher than the highest capitol building in the US). Then we lunch at the family-run restaurant paladar ‘La Moneda Cubana’.
Enjoy a guided walking tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Havana. Visit to Square of Arms, ancient military parade ground for Spanish soldiers and surrounded by impressive buildings such as: Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, the former official residence of the governors (Captains General) of Havana, Cuba. Palacio del Segundo Cabo. The seat of the second authority of the island, Castillo de la Real Fuerza. The second oldest fortress built by the Spaniards in the West Indies. El Templete, a small neoclassical building marking the spot where the city of San Cristobal de la Habana was founded in 1519.
Then we explore the Cathedral Square, named after the masterpiece of Cuban baroque architecture: the Cathedral of Havana, built by the Jesuit order. We will visit the Experimental Print Making Workshop, a cooperative workshop where young lithographers ply their art. Continue walking tour onto San Francisco Square, named after the Convent of San Francisco, this square was conceived in 1628, with the objective of supplying water to the ships trading with the metropolis.
Free time in the famous handicraft market of Old Havana, located inside the Almacenes de Depósito San José, an old warehouse on the harborside where you can purchase all sorts of crafts and souvenirs by local artisans. Or stroll over to the unique Arte Corte called “hair alley”, a community project of hair salons.
This evening we recommend you visit FABRICA DE ARTE – The Factory of Art (F.A.C.). This is one of Havana’s finest new art spaces located in a converted factory in Vedado neighborhood. This is the brainchild of Afro-Cuban fusion musician X Alfonso. Celebrities Mick Jagger, Michelle Obama, Lady Gaga, Sting and Katy Perry have visited here. (Optional – Not included in tour cost) or enjoy some poolside salsa music at our hotel.
Overnight: Aston Grande. B, L
MAR 21 Cienfuegos city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boat Cruise.
After breakfast, we board our coach for about a 3 hour drive through the beautiful countryside to Cienfuegos, in Central Cuba. This is the first, and an outstanding example of an architectural ensemble representing the new ideas of modernity, hygiene and order in urban planning as developed in Latin America from the 19th century.
Upon arrival at Cienfuegos city, we’ll have lunch at Paladar ‘Finca del Mar.’
Afternoon: Guided walking tour of UNESCO World Heritage Site Cienfuegos Historical Center. We will visit neoclassical buildings around Paseo del Prado and the main Square Jose Marti, such as The Casa de la Cultura, home of another wealthy sugar baron, a stunning mansion in neoclassical style. The Tomas Terry Theatre completed in 1895. The Cathedral built with the donation of wealthy families like the Lebrancs, the Albis, the Terrys. Inside you find the reproductions of the 12 Apostles in stained glass imported from Paris. Also, the original machinery of the clock tower was built in France. Still in place and working.
Visit to Palacio de Valle. The eclectic building was erected at a cost of a million and a half pesos. French, Arabic, Italian and Cuban artisans worked with marble, alabaster, brass, glass and ceramic imported from Spain, Italy and the United States. The entrance is primitive Gothic style and leads to a dining room of Mudejar influence, which imitates the famous Patio of the Lions of Alhambra in Granada.
In the late afternoon, we enjoy a scenic boat tour around the Bay of Cienfuegos, which offers spectacular views of the city and the Jagua Fortress, built in 1745.
Continue by coach to charming Trinidad de Cuba.
Private check-in at the all-inclusive Melia Trinidad Peninsula Hotel, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and the Escambray mountains. You’ll love Cuba’s 5-star resort on the Caribbean Sea with its private beach, great spa, infinity pools with swim-up bar and all-inclusive amenities. Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Meliá Trinidad Peninsula B L D
About the Meliá Trinidad Peninsula
Imagine immersing yourself in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by the stunning Sierra del Escambray mountains. Picture the charms of the colonial city of Trinidad, with its rich history and vibrant culture. Welcome to the Meliá Trinidad Peninsula, the perfect destination for your next solo getaway.
This 5-star haven offers exceptional experiences for the curious and adventurous solo traveler. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, romance, or action-packed excursions, the Meliá Trinidad Peninsula has something for everyone. Unwind in spacious rooms, indulge in a world of dining options, and soak up the sun by the infinity or swim-up pools. But the Meliá is more than just a hotel – it’s a prime location for exploring the best of Trinidad. Step back in time and wander the cobblestone streets of the colonial city, visit historic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
MAR 22 Trinidad de Cuba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jeeps Into The Mountains.
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, we will board former Russian army trucks for Topes de Collantes National Park in the Escambray Mountain Range, Cuba’s second-
highest mountain range- reaching 3,700 feet atop Pico San Juan. We will arrive at Guayanara National Park. Don your sneakers for some fitness. We will follow an easy to intermediate hike for a few kilometers up to the Salto del Rocío, a beautiful waterfall that concludes with the Poza del Venado, featuring a natural pool in which visitors can cool off. Along the trail, you will be thrilled by the memorable views of Pico San Juan, one of Cuba’s highest mountains. A typical Cuban lunch will be served at Hacienda La Gallega.
Afternoon – Enjoy a walking tour around the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad’s Historical Center. This historic city is known for its cobble-stoned streets, pastel-colored homes and small-town feel. Visit the town’s Cathedral, Iglesia de la Santísima Trinidad, which most locals refer to as La Parroquial Mayor. The Cathedral, completed in 1892, replaced the original 17th-century church that was destroyed in 1812 by a hurricane. The new construction, completed at the end of the 19th century, is rather simple on the outside, but the restored interior reveals a Gothic vaulted ceiling and nearly a dozen attractive carved altars.
Trinidad is well known for its pottery makers. Next, we meet with a family that has been passing the tradition for generations: the Santander. Then, we visit the Manaca-Iznaga Hacienda. The famous Manaca-Iznaga Tower, built in 1816, is 45m high, has seven floors and has 136 steps to the top. The restored hacienda is now a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the valley.
Return to your hotel. This evening, you can explore the area or enjoy traditional local music at Casa de la Trova on your own.
Overnight: Meliá Trinidad Peninsula. B L D
MAR 23 Trinidad – Havana
Savor a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then we’ll make our way back to the vibrant heart of Havana City. Grab lunch at a spot that catches your eye along the way – the perfect opportunity to try some local flavors.
This afternoon, we’ll settle back into the luxurious Grand Aston Hotel in Havana. Spend some time relaxing, or get out and explore – the choice is yours!
As evening falls, get ready to experience the sizzling nightlife that Havana is famous for. This is a city that comes alive after dark, where the rhythms of salsa and jazz fill the air and the rum flows freely. Immerse yourself in the spectacular shows at the world-renowned Tropicana Club, or opt for an intimate dinner at one of the legendary cabarets. The city is your playground. Whether you prefer to dance the night away or enjoy some live music over a cocktail, Havana’s nightlife has something for everyone.
Overnight: Hotel ASTON GRANDE B
MAR 24 Hemmingway’s, Artists and Dancers – Havana. 
Begin the day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for a day filled with unique encounters and experiences. Delve into Cuba’s fascinating history with a visit to the renowned Partagas Cigar Factory, established in 1845 by Don Jaime Partagas. This isn’t just a tour – it’s a chance to meet the artisans who carry on the traditions of this iconic brand.
Next, we head to Finca Vigia, the hilltop retreat of the legendary Ernest Hemingway. For 21 years, this villa was the author’s home and inspiration, where he penned some of his most famous works. Today, it’s a meticulously preserved museum offering a rare glimpse into the life of a literary giant. You’ll have the opportunity to see Hemingway’s original manuscripts, letters, and personal artifacts up close, as well as his impressive collections and library.
The afternoon brings a chance to meet some of Cuba’s vibrant artistic talent. Enjoy lunch hosted by Jose Fuster, the celebrated ceramist and painter who has transformed an entire Havana neighborhood into a living, breathing work of art. You’ll have the chance to meet the local residents who have become part of this creative project, and see the impact it’s had on the community.
The energy continues with a visit to the Havana Compass Dance Company, whose work has captivated international stars. This is your chance to meet the talented dancers and instructors, learn some of their moves, and experience the passion and dedication that goes into their craft.
The day concludes with a farewell dinner at ‘Atelier‘, one of Havana’s most acclaimed privately-owned restaurants. This intimate setting is the perfect place to reflect on the unforgettable encounters and experiences of the day, over a meal of exquisite cuisine.
Grand Aston Hotel B L D
MAR 25 Hasta la bye-bye Cuba!
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Havana International Airport for departure.
LAND PRICE: $3295 per person, twins share. (based on 20 participants. (Small group price incurs $200 increase). Gratuities for licensed guides, drivers, and porters of $85 will be added to the invoice for your convenience.
Single rooms limited costs an additional $895
Have you read the Trip Tips yet? Scroll to the top of the page and click the link.
Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change. Modifications may be made.
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Prepare to be thrilled by our new Cuba adventure, so near, but so far away in this uniqueness. Our past groups loved it all and this year we greatly enhanced it with added tours and first class hotels. Together we step back in time into a land of vibrant culture and scenic beauty. I know you’ll love Fuster’s house, our car parade, delicious cuisines, Hemmingway’s and especially our interactions with the Cuban people.
Many tour companies offer Cuba but one must be extremely cautious about licenses and legal guidance. We have you covered with our beloved ground team in Havana who received Americans for 36 years. We have a fabulous group of travel lovers. I know all of you but two and I anticipate much laughter among you daily.
Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addendums will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.
FINAL PAYMENT – Due Jan 10. You will be emailed an invoice with a link in order to pay your final payment.
Your fearless GTL (Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly.)
GTL Salanda, your ultimate travel companion! With decades of experience, 12 years with a top travel management company, and over 50 AFS tours led since 2000, Salanda knows how to create unforgettable journeys. This self-proclaimed “gadget girl” arrives equipped with ingenious tools like pocket-sized washing machines and video-recording sunglasses, showcasing her mastery of travel’s little things.
As a wanderlust warrior who has explored all seven continents, over 100 countries, and all 50 states, Salanda thrives on action-packed, nature-connected adventures. Her attention to detail, infectious enthusiasm, and sharp leadership have earned rave reviews. With Salanda, you’re not just a tourist – you’re part of the journey.
Buckle up, fellow travelers! With Salanda as your guide, get ready for the ultimate adventure. Let’s explore our incredible world, one unforgettable experience at a time.
- Trip Prep:. Take a photo of your passport data page to store on your phone and also print a copy of your passport to present on airport arrival in Havana.
• Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
• Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages. Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now except a digital copy from your email.
• To speed through US Customs download Mobile Passport. Look in your App Store for details.
• Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
• All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.
Visa – Once the trip is confirmed we will send you our Cuba Orientation Letter. This is a 12-page long document very specific on the details and instructions RE: currency exchange, amount of cash necessary, internet and telephone access in Cuba, packing list, clothing suggestions, donations and gifts, electricity and time zone, tipping guidelines, health and safety, and much more.
1- Cuba entry documentation requirements – valid passport, airline tickets, Cuban Electronic Visa (E-Visa), Mandatory electronic form to enter Cuba, and Cuban Health Care Insurance. More details to come.
2- Cuban Electronic Visa (E-Visa). Best to apply online for your visa before departure.
All US airlines flying into Cuba easily facilitate the Cuban Electronic Visa (E-Visa) at an extra fee of $85 approx. Here is the link reserved for AA passengers only. https://cubavisaservices.com/product/aa-e-visa/
3- Cuban Health Insurance – All US airlines flying into Cuba include Cuban Health Insurance (by Asistur) in the cost of the passenger’s fare (a $25 surcharge). Passengers must retain their boarding pass during their stay in Cuba. The boarding pass will serve as evidence of the insurance policy should any emergency medical services be required during the trip.
4- Mandatory electronic form to enter Cuba
All travelers are required to complete this electronic form within seven days before arriving to Cuba. The form is available at https://dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio
Once the form is completed, travelers will receive a QR code by email. You must show a printed version of the QR code to the authorities upon arrival.
NOTE: Closer to departure we send you detailed step-by-step instructions on how to fill out this form.
5- Cuban Airport Departure Tax
All US airlines flying into Cuba include the Cuban Airport Departure Tax in the cost of the passenger’s fare.
6- CUBA PROHIBITED ITEMS
Narcotics, explosives, pornography, anti-Cuba literature, stand-alone GPS devices, satellite telephones, walkie-talkies, electronic cigarettes and personal vaporizers, drones and items that might be considered weapons. Electronic devices with GPS technology may be confiscated upon entry.
7- Trip Cancellation Insurance
Trip cancellation insurance is not included in our package. Though travel insurance is optional, we highly recommend it. Past travelers have found that the following companies will extend coverage to Cuba for US citizens. Please note that we do not sponsor these companies, and provide you with this reference on an informational basis only. We strongly suggest that you make independent inquiries.
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Cuba Travel Rules: This may seem daunting but it’s a thrilling destination to visit. One should be flexible here. Things can always change but we are on it for you. Credit cards are rarely accepted if at all. Internet is very limited for or nonexistent. (See Communication below). See list of prohibited items below. You must follow our group on our legal people-to-people itineraries and not deviate off on your own as a tourist. Don’t drink the tap water. Bottled water will always be available to you. It’s OK to have your passport stamped. For purposes of our visit, never write “Tourism” on any form. Instead, write “Group People to People Trave”. OFAC recommends you keep a record of all your cash and credit card expenditures and save them for two years. Believe me, it’s an adventure!
Fitness level –– Moderate walks and activities daily. You should be able to walk one mile in 20 minutes. If you have concerns, text your name at 770-432-8225 to discuss. (Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventures with moderate activity. Our trips are large fun and can be active. All tours involve walking, at times extensive with uneven pavement.
General Air Info – Always download and use your airline’s app! Use app to track your booking, delays, bags, to show boarding pass and to contact them. If you have a flight problem go to the airline’s website “contact us” page or reach them by text, social media, Skype or call their international number.
Group Air: None. Sometimes we offer group air but find few people book sometimes find better rates on own direct from hometown. This provides you better flexibility to go early or extend at trip end. I know we will not meet the minimum required to make a group booking since this is a small group. Doing own air – We like Google Flights. 3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems. Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.
Important Air Dates: Mar 19- 25. Air is easy round trip to Havana. The best fares all depart from Miami. Airlines to consider our Delta, United, Southwest and best of all is American – for group cohesion we suggest getting on American Airlines flight number ##. AA has 6 to 8 flights daily from Miami to Havana. Prices are good now averaging $350-$450.
Sample:
Flights: Here is a flight combination that we like.
DEPART
Miami, FL to Havana, Cuba
Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Flight AA2705 departs MIA at 10:05 AM and arrives HAV at 11:36 AM
RETURN
Havana, Cuba to Miami, FL
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Flight AA1334 departs HAV at 11:45 AM and arrives MIA at 12:55 PM
Entry to Cuba – US state department prohibits US citizens from visiting Cuba for fun or tourist purposes. We travel under the legal people to people license. In February, will send you all details you need to know on this. Documents you will need include Cuban tourist card (visa), all US airlines flying into Cuba easily facilitate this electronic EV visa for you at check-in for a fee of $85. (Those flying on American can buy it online next to their reservation or get it at the airport.) Next you will need the Cuba orientation letter, the Cuba health insurance electronic form and finally the Cuba airport departure tax. (Taxes included in ticket).
Return to USA – as per Current regulations on travel to Cuba, we will license ourselves as a group people to people educational travel. Section 31 CFR under 0FAC regulations. AFS will issue a letter including all your travel names. We will advise you to print out a copy of this letter one reentering the USA and present to customs.
Airport Transfers- We will have one group airport pick up to accommodate as many people as possible. If your times fall outside the group, simply take a taxi to the hotel
(With travelers arriving and departing on different days and times, it is insurmountable to manage. Group air airport transfers are based on set time. Without group air, there can no longer be any pick-ups or drop-offs. Unfortunately, now like other tour companies, transfers are your responsibility. Details later.
Meet Up With Group- On MAR 19 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.
Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland. You change hotel properties several times. 1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 44lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale. Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag.
Packing- Google weather in Havana a week prior departure – should be in the 80’s.
This trip is so easy and casual throughout. Simply pack spring/summer clothing with a light jacket for nights. Umbrella, wide brim hat, swimsuit for resorts, sunscreen, comfy sneakers for walking tours.
Electric– Same as USA
M0ney Matters – Always bring some cash! Change money only on arrival at airport or your hotel. Always avoid moneychangers here. There are no ATMs. $400 to $500 will suffice in cash. Nearly everything is included in your tour package except a few meals and anything else is very affordable.
The Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), which was previously the official currency used by travelers visiting Cuba, is no longer in circulation. The Cuban Peso (CUP) has replaced it as the official currency. The CUP floats in value against world currencies. Exchange rates vary daily. Today’s rates are based on 1.00 USD equals 120.00 CUP. If you decide to exchange some US dollars into Cuban Pesos, we strongly recommend that you exchange no more than $40-$50 USD into CUP at any time (as you may not need to use them at all!).
US Dollars and Euros are very popular in Cuba and can be used for many purchases and tipping. We suggest you bring cash in US Dollars. Participants should carefully evaluate daily spending needs prior to departure. Prices are similar to those in the U.S, and it can be very challenging to obtain more money, if you run out.
Credit and debit cards issued by U.S. financial institutions do NOT work in Cuba.
Gratuities – please note that $85 has been added to your final invoice for ease of distribution. It’s protocol to tip our guides, assistance, drivers, porters, and more. Discretionary tips help insure a good relationship and the only thing we travelers leave behind is our reputation.
Tipping on own – If service is stellar, feel free to give more directly. All we tourists leave behind is our reputation. I carry a stash of US ones in an envelope to draw from as needed. Porters – AFSers roll bags to their room. If you use a porter, please tip. For group lunches or dinners included, please leave $1 to $2 for waitstaff!
Communication – Telephones: AT&T, Sprint, Verizon and T-Mobile currently have roaming agreements with ETECSA (Cuba’s Telecommunication Company). IMPORTANT: Roaming and international rates can be expensive. You should ask your carrier about any additional charges for voice calls, data, roaming, and outgoing text messages that you may incur during your trip. Before you leave for Cuba, you could also rent a compatible mobile phone from companies such as Cellular Abroad (by National Geographic), Cello Mobile, or Mobal for use in Cuba.
Internet: When available, Wi-Fi is complimentary at most hotels but at some hotels you need to purchase a Wi-Fi card. When connected to WiFi, we highly recommend WhatsApp for phone and video calls, and instant messages. IMPORTANT: Be sure to set up your WhatsApp account and connect with your family and friends before you depart for Cuba!
Retail therapy – incredible art and paintings, exquisite pottery, cool communist crafts, jewelry, vintage maps, and coins, coffee and much more. You can smoke a cigar there but you cannot bring any cigars back to USA.
Safety: AFS, safety of our Travelers is our priority since our inception in 1989. Our local teams constantly monitor any issues with your destination. They can access real time safety updates and inform us if necessary.
Health – All our meals are pure and water is filtered. Bottled water provided throughout. Don’t use ice outside hotels. (Poverty – you may witness an eyeful of poverty omnipresent. The beauty is found in its humanity with dignity inherent in the spirit of the people here who possess virtues of simplicity, hard work, gentleness and perseverance. No beggars will harass you. Humbling to see them so happy with so little.)
Photography – Before taking pictures of locals, know it is polite to ask. Your AFS Private Facebook Group Page is a great way to share your best shots with each other. AFS loves photos with group participants (not typical churches, monuments, or any shot that looks like you pulled it off of the net, etc.) for our website.
Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel. Hotels can change, but it’s rare.
Roommates – Single supplements have significantly increased in price– if available at all. Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone, but save money when traveling by rooming together. Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching. 99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night. The best option is to invite a friend. Note, kindness begets kindness. Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise. We share rooms only to sleep at night.
Private Facebook Group Page – The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour. The link can be found in your Wetravel welcome letter after your initial deposit. (We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody misses a thing.)
Emergency Contact – AFS phone or text 770-432-8225, or email us at https://afstravelers.com/contact-us/ More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure. Your guide can handle a call home for a true emergency. Do not expect to use your trip leader’s cell phone; you’ll need to use your own.
Travel Insurance – See note on Cuba health insurance. General travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation. Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com. CFAR or cancel for any reason covers Covid but is expensive. Note that no company covers for fear.
Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage. The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (eg. like adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15 day period. We like TravelSafe, Allianz or Seven Corners.
- Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online
AFS Group Etiquette – Prepare for your departure joyfully with no contempt before investigation upon arrival. Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude and adventuresome spirit. If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience. Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude. Be spontaneous. Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness and kindness always begets kindness. Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, get great photos, have large fun, and return home safely with memories worthy of recollection.
10 Commandments for AFS Travelers
- Thou shall not expect to find things as thou hast at home, for thou hast left thy home to find things different.
- Thou shall not take anything too seriously.A carefree mind is the beginning of a fun vacation.
- Thou shall not let other group members get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.
- Thou shall not forget that doist represent America (Canada too) at all times. Kindness begets kindness, ugliness begets ugliness.
- Thou shall not worry. This is for thine AFS trip leader. They who worry hath no pleasure, and few things are fatal.
- Remember thy passport at all times. A person without a passport is a person without a country.
- Blessed is the person who can say “thank you” in any language
- When in Rome, do as the Romans do
- Do not judge the people of a foreign land by one person with whom thou hast had trouble.
- Remember, thou art a guest in each land. They who treateth their host with respect shall be treated as a guest of honor.
Please note that AFS is non-partisan – With our groups, we all want to focus on the common denominator – our love of travel. In today’s divisive world, we suggest members not discuss politics and if you must, please practice my rule of TOK: Tolerance, Open-mindedness and Kindness.
Please be advised that the operation of some tours may need to be rearranged or modified to suit local conditions, but all activities stated will be included. We are here for you to address any questions about your trip. In time, we believe travel will begin to normalize with less rules and we appreciate your cooperation until then. Now more than ever before, travelers value the privilege of travel to explore our world. You’ve been waiting so long, it’s time for recess!
The best spirit of an Explorer requires the openness of a child – Suzy
“When traveling, remember that a foreign country isn’t designed to make you comfortable. It’s designed to make its own people comfortable.” – Clinton Fadiman
TBA
