Cuba & Its People~Havana

Cuba awaits your discovery! Start the morning with an insightful lecture about Havana’s architecture. Then discover the effervescence of Habana Viejo. See the influences of Spanish conquistadors at the Plaza de Armas and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, and talk with local vendors at a market. You’ll also enjoy an informative talk with women business owners at an independently owned clothing store. Later, visit the Casa de la Cultura, a center dedicated to preserving Cuba’s art and heritage.

The romance of Cuba is best experienced in a vintage American convertible. Climb aboard one for a trip through the historic district. Stop at an agromercado, an open street market, followed by a stroll along the eclectic Callejón de Hamel, a colorful alleyway that is a central part of Afro-Cuban culture. This afternoon, see “Lookout Farm,” home of author Ernest Hemingway for 20 years! End the day with talk about U.S. Cuban relations, followed by dinner at your leisure.

Enjoy an enlightening talk about the role of women in Cuban life and join an expert to tour the National Museum of Fine Art. At the studio of notable artist Jose Fuster, pass by walls encased in ceramic tiles and whimsical murals. This afternoon, delve into Cuban fascinating justice system with a local university professor, followed by dinner at your leisure.

Delve into the cultural riches of Matanzas, where residents chat in sunny plazas, colonial architecture crowds the streets and Afro-Cuban culture remains profound and visible. Visit the San Severino Museum, a castle built in 1735 by slave labor. While touring this symbolic museum, learn about the history of the slave trade, and how Afro-Cuban culture is celebrated in various forms of expression. The castle is part of a UNESCO and Cuba co-founded project: “The Slave Route: Resistance, Freedom, and Patrimony.” Back in Havana, join Dr. Rosaida Ochoa for a thought-provoking discussion about race and the Cuban Revolution.

After breakfast, join Norma Guillard, Cuban social psychologist adjunct lecturer at the University of Havana, who shares stories about her work. Visit the Sephardic Hebrew Center and a contemporary dance studio for a behind-the-scenes look into Cuba’s infectious dance scene. Enjoy the opportunity to meet a few of the studio’s talented dancers and learn about their experiences. Later, gather for a special reception and dinner at the Ludwig Foundation of Cuba, a non-governmental, non-profit cultural institution dedicated to Cuban artists.

Weave through rich farmland, blanketed with sugarcane on your way through rural Cuba! Visit a small community and meet with farmers and others to learn about their day-to-day lives in rural Cuba. This afternoon’s activities include a lively discussion about Cuban music, followed by a jazz show and a Farewell Dinner at a local paladar!