Travel
Are flights included in the cost of this holiday?
No, flights are not included in the cost of this holiday. You should book your flights independently and let us know when and where you are arriving so that we can organise your transfer.
Transfers
For those arriving at Santiago airport or the Viazul bus station in Santiago we can arrange local transfers.
For those arriving at Holguin airport, we can arrange transfers to Santiago de Cuba which is approximately a 2.5 hour journey. The cost is £120 one way for a private transfer for 1-2 people.
For anyone flying into Havana airport, you can either book domestic flights to Santiago de Cuba (a 1.5hr flight), or a long distance bus journey which is a cheaper option of travel and which will take approx. 14-16 hours each way.
Accommodation
What type of accommodation is included in the trip?
Single rooms in homestay accommodation are included in the cost. For those travelling with someone else, we can arrange double/twin room accommodation as required.
What is homestay accommodation like?
Homestay accommodation provides a real insight into the everyday lives of Cubans, and offer a safe, friendly and welcoming place to stay. All our homestay accommodation is licensed by the Cuban state and guarantees a good standard of cleanliness and decent facilities as well as daily contact with truly wonderful welcoming hosts. Your room will have air conditioning and an ensuite toilet facilities with a shower. You will also have access to a fridge in the house.
Where are the homestays located?
All of our homestays are located right in the city centre, within easy walking distance of the main squares, the venue for tuition and most cultural activities.
Are meals included?
Breakfast and evening meals are included at your homestay for the entire trip, starting with dinner on the first evening and ending with breakfast on your last morning. You can expect good home cooking using delicious local, seasonal produce and hearty portions. You don’t eat your meals with your hosts. Breakfast usually consists of coffee, juice, bread, eggs, fresh fruit. Dinner varies each night and is normally a typical Cuban dish which can be rice, beans, vegetables, salad, and meat/fish.
I have a dietary requirement, can this be catered for?
Yes, our homestays often have guests with dietary requirements and they are happy to cater to your needs as much as possible as long as we know in advance.
Santiago de Cuba
What is the city like?
Santiago de Cuba is a vibrant city, full of life and with a strong Afro-Haitian culture, yet has a very relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. It is the second biggest city in Cuba and has a compact historic centre, making it very easy to get around on foot.
Dance and music classes
Will my tutor speak English?
Our Cuban dance and music tutors are all professional performers and most of them speak some English. You will have your own professional Cuban dance partner/music tutor for the Afro-Cuban lessons.
Cost of the trip
Is there a single supplement?
No, the cost of the trip includes single room accommodation. If you are travelling with someone else and you are both sharing a room, we are happy to offer a small discount. Ask us for details.
Is there a high season supplement?
No, the price we charge is the same all year round.
Visas
Is a visa required to enter Cuba?
Yes, all persons visiting Cuba must have a valid tourist card to enter the country. The tourist card is valid for up to 30 days from the date of your arrival in Cuba, and is the required visa for those travelling for tourism purposes. Càlédöñiâ Worldwide is authorised by the Cuban Consulate in the UK to issue tourist cards, so please contact us if you require one.
If you are travelling from the US, irrespective of your nationality the required travel visa must be supplied by an authorised US travel company. A number of American airlines also provide the required US visa. Our trips comply with the Support for the Cuban People category of authorised travel from the US to Cuba.