RoadScholar_CubaEbookExpo_Feb16

PUBLISHED MARCH 2016

CUBA

Feel the Rhythm
of Cuba

Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel,
the not-for-profit world leader in lifelong learning since 1975.

Welcome to Cuba Road Scholar President
James Moses:
Cuba: An island frozen in time since the 1950s, Learn in Cuba While It’s
restricted to Americans for decades, is now still ‘Frozen in Time’
accessible to Road Scholars who want to learn
about this land left behind by modernity. Just Road Scholar is proud to be the largest
a 45-minute flight from Miami, here’s your not-for-profit provider of learning
chance to learn about a place on the brink of adventures in Cuba. Travel to Cuba by U.S.
stepping into the modern world. citizens has been virtually banned by the
U.S. government for more than 50 years.
But, relations between the two countries
are changing rapidly led by Presidents
Obama and Castro.

Road Scholar President James Moses has
explored Cuba twice — first in March 2013
and again last spring. He believes now is
the time to experience Cuba with Road
Scholar, while the nation still retains its
authentic culture and ambiance.

We sat down with James Moses for an all-
things Cuba Q&A:

Road Scholar: Why experience Cuba?

James Moses: People should visit Cuba
while it’s still frozen in time — while it’s
still a place that’s different from the rest
of the world. It’s extraordinary to see a
major city like Havana in a country that
has had virtually no construction for the
past 50 years. There are beautiful Art Deco
buildings along the Malecón, like Miami
in the 1950s, juxtaposed to untouched
Spanish colonial buildings from centuries
before.

RS: Why now?

JM: When I tell people to go now, it’s
because the changes, though subtle, are
already occurring. People think there
will be a McDonald’s on every corner,
and I don’t see that happening. The
change isn’t that blatant. But already
in two years, thanks to the introduction

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of Cuba The Taíno Indians arrive
on the island of Cuba.

of free enterprise, there is a change in in Cuba. We have the experience, the RS: What is one of your favorite spots for
the way people live and perceive their expertise and the contacts — because of learning in Cuba?
opportunities. this, we have some extraordinary people JM: The Museum of Fine Arts in Havana
lecturing on our programs. For example, provides a wonderful perspective on
Road Scholar President James Moses Dr. Carlos Alzugaray, an educator on history as well as art. Our instructor, who
our programs, is a Cuban diplomat who is a key staff member of the museum,
RS: What other changes did you notice? holds several degrees, including a Ph.D. takes you through the phases of Cuban
JM: When I first went, there was virtually in Historical Sciences. He’s a regular art, through each political era, so you
no renovation or construction. However, lecturer on current international affairs at understand how politics affected art. I
this spring there were several buildings the National Defense College in Havana. gained fascinating, deep insights into the
under construction or renovation. The In addition, Road Scholar has access to art of Cuba.
Parliament building was falling apart — and supports a number of flourishing
now it’s beautifully restored. Another arts organizations in Cuba. There is a RS: Now that you’ve been to Cuba twice,
big difference is the food. Two years fantastic modern dance company called do you know how to salsa?
ago, you never got anything green in MalPaso Dance Company, and we’ve JM: Nope. Not even close. But I can truly
any meal. There just weren’t vegetables. been supporting it since the dancers left appreciate a fine cigar!
Every meal was rice and beans, maybe the state dance company to form this
chicken or pork. Now meals are much independent arts organization. Why go with Road Scholar?
more varied and appealing. Raúl Castro
has decentralized farming. He’s allowing RS: What surprised you about Cuba? hh Thousands of Americans have learned
much more freedom for intrepid about Cuba with us.
entrepreneurs — and Cubans are very JM: Once you get out of Havana, you’re
enterprising. Suddenly there’s more of a in a different era. In the countryside, hh To make your planning easy, for our
variety of food and a lot more choice. you still see burros pulling carts. As we land-based programs we include a
RS: Why learn in Cuba with Road Scholar? drove from Havana to Trinidad, we had to round-trip charter flight and your
JM: In 2000, Road Scholar was one of slow down near the rice paddies. People visa.
the first organizations to be granted a were lining the road for miles — every
license to go to Cuba. Not only do we 20 feet — with brooms. Our instructor hh We offer many different learning
have years of expertise, but we are one told us they were rice farmers and they adventures in Cuba, so you can focus
of the biggest providers of programs were drying their rice in the road. It was on what interests you most.
a two-lane highway and half the road
was covered in rice spread out for miles. hh As a not-for-profit organization,
Farmers were laying out the rice, letting it we are able to offer the best, most-
dry and sweeping it all up into bags. inclusive prices.

RS: What are some misconceptions about hh From artists in Havana to farmers on
Cuba? the most remote part of the island,
we’ve made connections to people
JM: I think many Americans are under throughout Cuban society who can’t
the misconception that the activities of wait to tell you their story.
U.S. citizens in Cuba are restricted by
the Cuban government. They don’t fully
understand that the U.S. government
is regulating American movement on
the island in order to enforce the U.S.
embargo.

Hotel Nacionál de Cuba

Many Road Scholar groups that go to Havana stay at this historic hotel located
on the Malecón (the broad esplanade that runs along Havana Harbor). Opened in
1930, the hotel is a World Heritage Site and National Monument that has hosted
celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Mickey Mantle, Rocky Marciano,
Tyrone Power, Errol Flynn, John Wayne, Marlene Dietrich, Gary Cooper, Marlon
Brando, Ernest Hemingway and Winston Churchill.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

The Best of Cuba: People, Life and

G ain a sense of the past and experience the quickly changing present in Small Group
the capital city of Havana, the coastal town of Cienfuegos, the colonial Days/Nights: 12/11
gem of Trinidad and the queen of central Cuba — Camagüey — on this Meals: 29 Total (11B, 8L, 10D)
in-depth cultural exchange with Cuban people. Explore Cuban passions
such as baseball and dominoes, art, music and dance. Best of all, experience Program #22143
authentic Cuban hospitality and the new spirit of free enterprise during one
night in a casa particular — a privately owned B&B.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.

We include

rounad-htortipelanirigfahrteinfroMmiaMmiiami,
and your Visa!

Money in Cuba

There are two forms of currency in Cuban: a peso for Cubans
and the Convertible Peso (CUC) for foreigners. The CUC is a
closed currency, which means it cannot be purchased outside
of Cuba. You can change your money at the Cadeca (Money
Exchange Bureau) at the airport on landing in Cuba or at your
hotel. American debit and credit cards won’t work, so you need to bring American cash dollars with you if you plan
on exchanging any money. Regardless of where you exchange your cash, the rate is the same.

Culture

Highlights: architecture and visit Hemingway’s Ernest Hemingway’s
• Explore Hemingway’s haunts: his haunts. Favorite Cocktail

house at Finca La Vigia, the fishing Coach to Cienfuegos. . . . . . . 2 nights Ernest Hemingway was known for
village of Cojimar and his favorite his passions, particularly his love
hotel. Coach to Trinidad. . . . . . . . . . 1 night of Cuba and a good, strong drink.
His ultimate combination of these
• Engage in authentic Cuban Coach to Camagüey. . . . . . . . 3 nights two was a blended lime and rum
passions: Learn to play dominoes, daiquiri at his favorite bar in
try a traditional dance and feel the Flight to Miami for departure Havana — the Floridita. He was
rhythm as you explore the history Explore Cienfuegos and delight in known for knocking back a dozen
of Cuban music. meeting professional musicians daiquiris in one sitting — and
who serenade you with a variety of even taking “trago del camino” or
• Stroll the cobblestone streets of Cuban music. Explore the Valley of “one for the road.”
Trinidad and historic Camagüey the Sugar Mills to meet the farmers
— both celebrating their 500th who grow sugarcane. Discover The Hemingway Daiquiri, also
anniversaries. the town of Trinidad, a lovely known as the Papa Dobles.
colonial-era gem. Spend a night
Lodging: Havana: Newly renovated in a privately owned B&B known Ingredients
hotel. Cienfuegos: Mid-Century as a casa particular. Heading • 1½ ounces white rum
modern hotel with outdoor pool. inland to the UNESCO-listed city • 1/4 ounce maraschino liqueur
Trinidad: Privately owned B&B. of Camagüey, meet with artists in • 1/2 ounce grapefruit juice
Camagüey: Centrally located hotel. their home. Attend a rehearsal of • 3/4 ounce lime juice
one of the best dance companies in • 3/4 ounce simple syrup
Educational Itinerary: Cuba and talk to the dancers about
their careers. Venture to a ranch to Blend and serve in a chilled glass.
Arrival Miami, Fla.. . . . . . . . . 1 night learn about Cuban cowboy culture
and meet the families who work
Flight to Havana (Cuba). . . . 4 nights the ranch to hear about their day-
Enjoy an opportunity to visit with to-day lives.
Cubans to share music, dance
and play dominoes. Embark on a
walking exploration of Havana’s
restored plazas and squares,
and admire the Spanish baroque

What can you bring back from Cuba? 1492

The rules about what United States citizens are allowed to bring Christopher Columbus
back from Cuba have changed over the years. The latest rule claims Cuba for Spain.
allows U.S. citizens to bring home up to $400 worth of goods
from Cuba, including up to $100 in alcohol and tobacco products.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Cuba Today: People and Society

D elve into the rich history and heritage of Cuba. In the heart Small Group
of Havana and Cienfuegos, meet members of the local Program Rating: HHHHH
communities to discuss their lives and cultural traditions. Meet
face-to-face with community leaders, local residents, artists and Days/Nights: 9/8
intellectuals to discuss Cuba today, and explore local landmarks that Meals: 21 Total (8B, 6L, 7D)
are significant to Cuba’s cultural heritage.
Program #20437

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.

We include Old Havana

rounad-htortipelanirigfahrteinfroMmiaMmiiami, Havana Vieja was
and your Visa! founded by the
Spanish in the
Havana is founded as natural harbor of the
San Cristóbal de la Habana. Bay of Havana.

1511 1514

Baracoa, the first city in
Cuba, is founded.

Highlights: Cienfuegos: Mid-century modern Coach to Cienfuegos. . . . . . . 3 nights
• Meet with members of a local mu- hotel with outdoor pool. Departure

sical group in Cienfuegos and learn Educational Itinerary: Delight in meeting the Cienfuegos
about their careers as musicians. Chamber Orchestra, with an op-
Arrival Miami, Fla.. . . . . . . . . 1 night portunity to dance to Cuban music.
• Enjoy lively interactions at a local Discover the town of Trinidad, a
Senior Center. Flight to Havana (Cuba). . . . 4 nights lovely colonial-era gem.
Enjoy an opportunity to visit with
• Learn about conservation and Cubans in private businesses and Date-Specific Information: Exact
enjoy lunch at a beachfront private community centers. Enjoy a walking itineraries may change from date
enterprise. exploration of Havana’s restored to date. Call or visit us online to see
plazas and squares, and admire the the itinerary for the date you are
Lodging: Miami: Comfortable hotel Spanish baroque architecture and interested in.
near airport. Havana: Historic visit Hemingway’s haunts.
landmark hotel on the Malecón.

Or choose your perfect Cuba experience …

Small Group Small Group

Stay in a private B&B in Cienfuegos! Fly directly out of NYC to Havana!

Cuba Today: People and Society Cuba Today: People and Society from New York
in Casas Particulares
Days/Nights: 8/7 | Program #22233
Days/Nights: 9/8 | Program #22165
This is similar to our popular program Cuba Today: People and
This is the same program as our popular program Cuba Today: Society, but you’ll fly out of New York City, direct to Havana and
People and Society, but in Cienfuegos you’ll spend three nights back, with no overnight in Miami.
in a clean and comfortable, privately owned B&B, instead of a
hotel.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS on this extraordinary CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS on this extraordinary
Cuban adventure, plus many more. Cuban adventure, plus many more.

Classic Cars in Cuba

“We need tractors, not Cadillacs!” Fidel famously declared after the U.S. halted
all auto exports to Cuba after the revolution. As a result of this embargo, time
stood still on the streets of Cuba. Mechanics found creative ways of resuscitating
’57 Chevys and other classics by swapping out V-8s for Soviet diesel engines.
Today, about one in six cars is an American classic from the ’50s. However, this
charming anachronism may fade into history, as new vehicle imports increase.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Cuba Today: People and Society —

I n the heart of Havana, take an insightful look at music, arts, Small Group
dance, baseball and private enterprise in Cuba today, viewed Program Rating: HHHHH
through the lives of everyday Cubans. Spend a day in the beautiful
landscapes of Viñales to meet tobacco growers. Meet with Afro- Days/Nights: 9/8
Cuban dancers, artisan farmers and vivacious seniors in the Meals: 21 Total (8B, 6L, 7D)
Matanzas region, and enjoy a beachfront location in Varadero.
Program #20610

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.

We include

rounad-htortipelanirigfahrteinfroMmiaMmiiami,
and your Visa!

What’s a Paladar?

Paladars (Portuguese and Spanish for “palate”) are privately run businesses that
are counterparts to state-run restaurants. They offer delicious Cuban food, and
each has a unique story of how the owner pursued his or her dream of owning
a restaurant. Some Road Scholar groups visit the famous La Fontana in Havana,
where the owner sources many of his ingredients from his own farm. Don’t
forget to order the seafood salad with stuffed peppers!

Café Cubano — More Than

Havana and the Countryside Just a Cup of Coffee

Highlights: Prepare for your experience during Meet with locals for lessons in
• Meet Cubans engaged in private Orientation in Miami. Engage tCruadbaitniosnloavleCtuhbeairncdoaffneceeasn: dSalsa
with Cubans in private enterprise ahnadveDpaenrzfeocnt.edVitshietiar nowonrgsatnyilce.farm
enterprise, including a joint Cuban- including a joint Cuban-American oiCnwalnaleneddeCsbpayfréeasnCsuoabrcatunipsoa,wniittf’hsamsaeisrlwvyeeadentd
American company. publishing company. Delve ecnrejomyaaflpoeartfinogrmonantcoep.oTf hAefrcor-emCuaban
into Cuba’s art history as you disann’ctem. ade from cream, but from
• Attend a rehearsal by a Cuban explore the Havana Museum of demerara sugar that is beaten into
dance company and speak with the Fine Arts and meet children in a the coffee as it is being brewed.
dancers about their performance. special needs community center. For the full experience, sit down
Learn about Cuban music history at a café and order a Café Cubano,
• Enjoy interactions with a local and take in a performance by a play a game of dominoes and have
Community Arts Project, an organic musical group. Enjoy expert- a passionate conversation about
farmer and a Cuban baseball player. led excursions showcasing the baseball, politics or art.
beauty of Old Havana. On the
Lodging: Miami: Hotel near airport. outskirts of Havana, explore Ernest
Havana: Historic landmark hotel on Hemingway’s farm, Finca La Vigia.
the Malecón. Varadero: Oceanfront Spend a day on the famed Tobacco
hotel. Route in the Vinales Valley.

Educational Itinerary: Coach to Varadero. . . . . . . . . 2 nights

Arrival Miami, Fla.. . . . . . . . . 1 night Flight to Miami for departure

Flight to Havana (Cuba). . . . 5 nights

“I didn’t know Americans could go to Cuba before I learned about
Road Scholar. I was excited just to be going. It was one of the best trips
I have ever taken. Cuba is a beautiful country. I gained a lot from the
learning experiences, meeting Cuban people and hearing more about

U.S. and Cuban relations from Cubans.”

— MARY FROM WICHITA, KANSAS

Why are Cuban cigars so good? 1717

It’s the tobacco! Cuba’s ideal climate and nutrient-rich soil create the The King of Spain, Philip V,
perfect growing conditions for tobacco. It is also the only place where establishes a monopoly on
the wrapper leaf and the filler tobacco are grown. But it takes more
than the best tobacco to get that famous robust flavor. The Cuban cigar tobacco in Cuba.
makers play a major part as well. These torcedores are the best in the
world. Cuban cigars, commonly referred to as habanos, are hand-rolled
following techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Inside Cuba: An In-Depth Island Journey

On our most in-depth learning adventure in Cuba, journey across Small Group
the island from Santiago de Cuba to Havana, exploring the Program Rating: HHHHH
historic Spanish colonial cities and interacting with Cubans from all
walks of life. Meet musicians, artists, students, farmers, teachers, Days/Nights: 16/15
workers and the new rising entrepreneurs. This is a rare chance to Meals: 40 total (16B, 13L, 11D)
experience the country’s natural beauty and the warm people of Cuba.
Program #20612

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.

We include

rounad-htortipelanirigfahrteinfroMmiaMmiiami,
and your Visa!

1728 1748 Havana Cathedral

The University of The Baroque-style The Havana Cathedral is
Havana is founded. Havana cathedral is mainly made up of coral. If
you look closely, you can find
completed. preserved marine fossils within
the outer wall of the facade.

Highlights: Flight to lage meet a family and hear about
• Learn about the Spanish colonial Santiago de Cuba (Cuba) . . . . 4 nights their day-to-day lives. Explore
Trinidad de Cuba, a UNESCO World
era, the Cuban Revolution and life Begin your discovery of Cuban Heritage Site and pristine exam-
on the island today. culture and history of the ple of a Spanish colonial Caribbean
revolution at Santiago de Cuba’s town. Experience the warmth and
• Interact with Cuban people eager to Plaza de la Revolution and the hospitality of Cubans while spend-
teach you about culture, religion, memorial to Jose Marti, Cuba’s ing a night in a casa particular — a
music, dance, cuisine and more. national poet. Meet with salsa private B&B — and support private
dance instructors to learn about enterprise firsthand.
• Explore grand plazas, churches, forts, life in Cuba, while participating
sites of the Cuban Revolution, muse- in a dance class. Interact with Santa Clara. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 nights
ums and Ernest Hemingway’s home. musicians to learn about the
original Cuban musical style that Coach to Havana. . . . . . . . . . 4 nights
Lodging: Miami: Modern, full- has spread from Guantanamo to In Cienfuegos, also a UNESCO
service hotel near airport. Santiago all other parts of the Island. Learn World Heritage site, learn about
de Cuba: Modern, four-star resort- about Afro-Cuban history and its outstanding architecture and
style hotel. Camagüey: Clean and eastern Cuban religions. Visit an meet with members of a local
comfortable hotel. Trinidad: Clean island fishing community. choral group. At the local senior
and comfortable privately-owned center in Santa Clara, engage
B&B with private bathroom. Santa Camagüey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 nights with vivacious seniors and learn
Clara: Clean and comfortable three- what retirement is like in Cuba.
star hotel. Havana: Historic landmark Coach to Trinidad. . . . . . . . . . 1 night Explore Old Havana and its quickly
hotel on the Malecón. Heading inland to the UNES- changing architecture. Visit Ernest
CO-listed city of Camagüey, meet Hemingway’s house, La Cabana
Educational Itinerary: world-renowned sculptor and fortress and meet residents of
painter Martha Jimenez. Attend a a sustainable eco-community.
Arrival Miami, Fla . . . . . . . . . 1 night rehearsal of one of the best dance Explore Cuba’s history through art
companies in Cuba and talk to the at the Fine Arts Museum and dine
dancers about their careers. Ven- in privately owned paladars.
ture to a ranch to learn about Cuban
cowboy culture, and in a rural vil-

The Rise of Organic Gardening in Cuba

They are called organopónicos: a system of urban organic gardens in Cuba. During the “Special Pe-
riod” — the time in the early 1990s when the Soviet Union suddenly pulled out all support to Cuba
— Cubans lost 85% of their agricultural imports and faced a food shortage. By necessity, they began
growing their own food in urban gardens without pesticides or herbicides, mainly because there was
none available. The result was an increase in people throughout the island growing organic food and
eating locally. In Havana alone, there are 8,000 gardens tucked into almost every conceivable corner.
They produce broccoli, tomatoes, cabbage, lettuce, onions, bok choi, radishes and much more.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Cuba In-Depth: A Grand Voyage Around the Island

C uba may be best known for the faded colonial splendor of Adventures Afloat
Havana, but the island’s real story is told in its villages and Program Rating: HHHHH
landscapes. On this remarkable voyage, explore Cuba by land and
sea, discovering coastal towns, remote beaches and the lush, tropical Days/Nights: 14/13
interior. Gain a special perspective of the Cuban people, their culture, Meals: 36 Total (13B, 12L, 11D)
history and daily life. And learn why Christopher Columbus, upon
first laying eyes on the northern coast of Cuba in 1492, said this is Program #21305
“the most beautiful land human eyes have ever seen.”
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Highlights: including Holguin and Santiago. on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.
• Meet and talk with youth, farmers, Itinerary: Arrival Miami, Fla., 1 night;
entrepreneurs, seniors and others who flight to Holguín (Cuba), 2 nights; coach
introduce you to the full spectrum of to Santiago de Cuba 2 nights, aboard MV
modern Cuban life. Celestyal Crystal, 5 nights (ports: Maria La
Gorda and Havana); disembark Cien-
• Explore the Fine Arts Museum and fuegos, coach to Santa Clara, 1 night,
Ernest Hemingway’s home. coach to Havana, 2 nights, departure.

• Experience remote regions of Cuba,

Choose your adventure aboard the MV Celestyal Crystal! See this page and the next page.

This 521-foot ship carries up to 1,200 passengers. Its elegant public spaces include three
restaurants, several lounges, a pool and more. All cabins have private baths, AC and TV.

Category 1: Deluxe outside stateroom on Deck 7. MV Celestyal Crystal Category XF.

Category 2: Outside stateroom on Deck 4.
MV Celestyal Crystal Category XD.

Category 3: Outside stateroom on Decks 3
or 5. MV Celestyal Crystal Category XB.

Category 4: Deluxe Inside Cabin on Deck 6 or 7.
MV Celestyal Crystal Category IE.

The battleship USS Maine explodes
and sinks in Havana Harbor,

igniting the Spanish-American War.

1864 1886 1896

Student Nemesio Guillot returns from school Slavery is abolished
in the U.S. and introduces baseball to Cuba. on the island.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

A Caribbean Voyage to Cuba

D iscover the people and culture of Cuba on a round-trip voyage Adventures Afloat
from Montego Bay, Jamaica. Learn about traditions and daily Days/Nights: 8/7
life as you engage with youth, seniors and business owners. Enjoy Meals: 20 total (7B, 6L, 7D)
dance performances and presentations by community arts organi- Program #21303
zations as you step back in time in the colonial streets of Santiago
de Cuba, experience the heart of Old Havana, the Caribbean panache OUR LOWEST ACTIVITY LEVEL!
of feisty Cienfuegos and the Spanish influence in Trinidad de Cuba.
Participate in exclusive Road Scholar People-to-People interactions CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
in each port, and engage in fascinating onboard lectures. on this extraordinary Cuban
adventure, plus many more.
Highlights: • Meet and talk with private
entrepreneurs, youth, performers,
• Delve into Cuban culture and history artists and others who introduce you to
during Road Scholar lectures onboard modern Cuban life.
the ship.
Itinerary: Arrival Montego Bay (Jamaica)
• Attend performances, rehearsals to embark MV Celestyal Crystal, 7 nights
and presentations by community (ports include Santiago de Cuba (Cuba),
organizations in Havana and Santiago Havana, Maria La Gorda, Cienfuegos;
de Cuba. disembark Montego Bay (Jamaica) for
departure.

1898 Colón Cemetery

Spain relinquishes Named for Christopher
sovereignty over Cuba. Columbus, this 140-acre
cemetery is noted for its
many elaborately sculpted
memorials and is the largest
cemetery in Havana.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Birding in Cuba: Discover the
Island’s Endemic & Native Species

V enture to coastal habitats, tropical rainforests and Biosphere Outdoor Adventures Small Group
Reserves in search of vibrant, exotic birds — many of which Days/Nights: 16/15
can only be found in Cuba. Exploring with an ornithology expert,
look for the brilliant yellow collar of the Cuban Grassquit, spy the Meals: 43 total (15B, 14L, 14D)
dazzling green and red Cuban Parakeet and keep an eye out for the Program #22426
endangered Gundlach’s Hawk. Meet conservationists and scientists,
and learn about culture and history in colonial Old Havana.

Highlights: With pristine beaches and verdant CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
forests, Cayo Coco is an ideal spot for on this extraordinary Cuban
• With a birding expert, search for observing wildlife. adventure, plus many more.
Cuba’s 368 bird species, including 25
species that can only be found here. Coach to Topes de Collantes. . . . 2 nights
Continue birding in Caguanes National
• Explore a variety of diverse bird Park and take a field trip to the Nuñez
habitats on field trips to National Parks Jiménez Foundation. Explore the
and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. waterfalls and rainforest of Topes de
Collantes Natural Park.
• Meet the locals and learn about organic
farming and conservation projects. Coach to Zapata . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 nights
Continue to Zapata, a coastal zone
Lodging: A series of comfortable and boasting more than 250 bird species.
rustic hotels.
Coach to San Diego
Educational Itinerary: de Los Baños. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 nights

Arrival Miami. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 night Coach to Havana. . . . . . . . . . . 2 nights
Departure
Flight to Camagüey (Cuba) . . . . 2 nights
Begin your birding adventure in Najasa Discover Cueva de Los Portales, a cave
Protected Area. With an ornithology that served as Che Guevara’s. At the
expert, look for the Cuban Grassquit’s Viñales Biosphere Reserve, search for
black-masked face and keep an eye the Cuban Tody and Gundlach’s Hawk.
out for Cuban Parakeets, Blue-winged Continue birding at Las Terrazas, a
Teals, and Cuban Green Woodpeckers. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Coach to Cayo Coco . . . . . . . . . . 3 nights

The Fine Arts in Cuba

A blend of African, South American, European and North American influences, Cuban art re-
flects the diverse cultures of the island. After the Revolution in 1959, artists were censored by
the government and became more isolated from artistic movements of the U.S. and Europe.
However, since the 1980s, there has been a rebirth of expression on the island thanks to the
emergence of a new generation of Cubans who paint isolated characters, shadowy forms or
boats symbolizing freedom and escape. Cuba has invested in art education with a major art
academy in each region of the island and a well-funded art university in Havana.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Portrait of Cuba: Small Group
A Photographic Journey Program Rating: HHHHH

J oin a prize-winning photojournalist for an inspiring photo- Days/Nights: 9/8
graphic journey into the heart of Cuba. In Havana, get an in- Meals: 21 Total (8B, 6L, 7D)
sider’s look at this quickly changing city as you meet local dancers,
artists, photographers and some of Cuba’s fascinating new entrepre- Program #21768
neurs. Journey to Trinidad, the colonial gem, and enjoy access to
artisans and private Cuban homes. Throughout, we keep our eyes
open for photographic opportunities as we get to know Cubans
through the lens — and one-on-one!

Highlights: Educational Itinerary:

• Meet with photographers and artists in Arrival Miami. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 night CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Havana to discuss their work and the on this extraordinary Cuban
important role art plays in the lives of Flight to Havana . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 nights adventure, plus many more.
Cubans. Depart for an overview orientation
drive around Havana, to gain a sense
• Learn to improve the artistic and of the city’s layout. Visit a private-
technical aspects of your photography. ly-run photography school, interact
with members of a senior community
• Experience Cuban hospitality at a center and visit the offices of OnCuba
privately owned B&B in colonial Magazine, learn about the first Ameri-
Trinidad. can business to be authorized in Cuba.

Lodging: Havana: Historic landmark Coach to Trinidad de Cuba. . . . . 3 nights
hotel on the Malecón. Trinidad: Clean Return flight to Miami for departure
and comfortable family-owned bed and
breakfast with private bathroom and air Meet your Cuban family hosts at each
conditioning. of the casa particulares and enjoy a
home-cooked meal. Bring your
camera on a field trip through We include
the Sierra del Escambray
mountain range. Meet a coffee round-trip airfare from Miami,
farmer and learn about life on a hotel night in Miami
his plantation. and your Visa!

Ernest Hemingway purchases Fidel Castro and Che land in eastern
a home outside of Havana. Cuba and begin their guerilla war in the

1940 Sierra Maestra mountains.

Fulgencio Batista 1955 1956 1959
becomes president.
Fidel and Raul Castro meet Batista is overthrown by
the revolutionary Castro’s army of 9,000
guerillas and flees Cuba.
Che Guevara in Mexico.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

SUMMER SESSION: The People of Cuba:
Meet Leading Musicians, Athletes, and Artists

I n the heart of Havana, you and your college-age grandchild Summer Session
join local musicians, athletes, artists, performers, dancers and
entrepreneurs for an intimate and insightful look at music, baseball, For adult grandchildren
arts, dance and private enterprise in Cuba. Discuss the local art scene ages 18-24!
with artists. Music and dance come to life as you attend rehearsals
and private performances with well-known Cuban dance companies Intergenerational Small Group
and musicians. Meet with artisan farmers and vivacious seniors in For grandchildren ages 18-24
the Matanzas region. Enjoy a beachfront location in Varadero.
Days/Nights: 9/8
Highlights: Flight to Havana (Cuba). . . . . . . 5 nights Meals: 21 Total (8B, 6L, 7D)
Prepare for your experience to Cuba
• Meet Cubans engaged in private during orientation in Miami. Engage Program #22032
enterprise, including a joint Cuban- with Cubans in private enterprise,
American company. including a joint Cuban-American CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
publishing company. Delve into on this extraordinary Cuban
• Attend a rehearsal by a Cuban dance Cuba’s art history as you explore the adventure, plus many more.
company and enjoy an opportunity Havana Museum of Fine Arts for added
to speak with the dancers about their insight. Meet children in a special-
performance. needs community center. Learn about
Cuban music history and take in a
• Enjoy interactions with a local performance by a musical group. Enjoy
Community Arts Project, an organic expert-led excursions showcasing the
farmer and a Cuban baseball player. beauty of Old Havana.

Lodging: Miami: Hotel near airport. Coach to Varadero. . . . . . . . . . 2 nights
Havana: Historic landmark hotel on the
Malecón. Varadero: Oceanfront hotel. Flight to Miami for departure
Meet with locals for lessons in
Program Particulars: Program open to traditional Cuban dances: Salsa and
any combination of grandparent, parent Danzon. Visit an organic farm owned
and young adult 18-24. by an artisan family.

Educational Itinerary:

Arrival Miami, Fla . . . . . . . . . . . 1 night

The U.S. government Pope John Paul II visits Cuba.
sponsors the failed
Bay of Pigs invasion. 1989 1998

1961 1962 The “Special Period” begins, as the USSR
stops all aid to Cuba and GDP falls 80%.
The Cuban missile crisis
resolves and the USSR removes

its missiles from Cuba.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Authentic Cuba: A Family Learning Adventure

Share the rich history and heritage of Cuba with your children and Family Adventure
grandchildren! In the heart of Havana, join artists, performers and
children’s community groups for an intimate and insightful look at For grandchildren
daily life and culture in Cuba’s quickly changing society. Share the local 12 and older!
passions for music and art, which come to life as you attend rehearsals
and private performances with Cuban dancers and youth groups. Meet Family Program Small Group
with an artisan farmer and learn salsa in the Matanzas region. End your For grandchildren ages 12-18
adventure on a beachfront location in beautiful Varadero.
Days/Nights: 9/8
Highlights: Educational Itinerary: Meals: 21 total (8B, 6L, 7D)

• Interact with Cubans of all ages in Arrival Miami, Fla . . . . . . . . . . . 1 night Program #20591
community-based activities in arts
and music. Flight to Havana (Cuba). . . . . . . 5 nights CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Meet in Miami at an airport hotel for on this extraordinary Cuban
• Attend a baseball game and share the program orientation and welcome. Fly adventure, plus many more.
Cuban passion for dominoes. to Havana to share a variety of cultural
People-to-People exchanges with
• Enjoy an evening interacting Cubans in arts, music, sports and local
with residents of a neighborhood community.
community arts project.
Coach to Varadero. . . . . . . . . . 2 nights
Lodging: Miami: Modern airport hotel.
Havana: hotel in heart of the city. Flight to Miami for departure
Varadero: Modern all-inclusive resort on Journey through the Matanzas region
Varadero beach. to meet an artisan farmer. Learn
salsa dance steps, meet with youth
Program Particulars: This is a family and enjoy Cuba’s most famous beach.
program, ideal for any combination of Return to Havana for charter flight to
parents, grandparents, children and Miami.
grandchildren ages 12 and older.

Economic reform allows The United States government
for the first form of grants “People-to People”
private enterprise. license to Road Scholar.

1999 2000 2008 2011

The documentary “Buena Vista Raul Castro takes over the Road Scholar sends its first
Social Club” enthralls American presidency from his brother. group of 22 participants on a
learning adventure to Cuba.
audiences with Cuban jazz.

Call toll free at (877) 426-8056. For complete program itineraries visit www.roadscholar.org.

Weekend in Havana:
An Introduction to the People and Culture of Cuba

I n the dozen and more years before 1959, Americans loved to fly down to Small Group
Havana for the weekend, soaking up its irresistible rhythms. Re-create that Days/Nights: 5/4
era in the heart of Havana, experiencing its jovial soul in five lively days as you Meals: 9 Total (4B, 2L, 3D)
join musicians, dancers and entrepreneurs for an intimate and insightful look at Program #21700
life and culture in Cuba’s quickly changing society. See Havana spring to life as
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
you share the local passions for music and as you attend rehearsals and private on this extraordinary Cuban
performances. Trace the footsteps of Hemingway in his favorite haunts and adventure, plus many more.
stroll the cobblestone streets of historic Old Havana to discover the architecture

and vivaciousness of this cultural mecca.

Highlights: Lodging: Miami: Modern airport hotel.
Havana: Newly renovated hotel in
• Enjoy exclusive presentations of a desirable Vedado district.
variety of Cuban music styles.
Itinerary: Arrival Miami, Fla., 1 night;
• Trace Hemingway’s footsteps in Old flight to Havana (Cuba), 3 nights; return
Havana, his farm and the fishing flight to Miami.
village of Cojimar.

• Discuss U.S.-Cuban policy and meet
artists, writers and entrepreneurs at
the first U.S.-Cuban joint venture,
OnCuba Magazine.

We include

round-trip airfare from Miami,
a hotel night in Miami
and your Visa!

More than 2,000 Road Scholar Road Scholar now offers
participants learn about Cuba. an array of 14 adventures
in Cuba by land and water.

2012 2013 2014 2015

Cubans can buy Cubans can buy Road Scholar is among the first
and sell cars legally and sell homes. organizations to be granted its
third People-to-People license.
for the first time.

New Ways to Serve You Better

Extended Call Center Hours We’re pleased to be able to serve you better with new

extended call center hours. Call (877) 426-8056 to learn more about any of Road Scholar’s

programs, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.

Online Chat You can also chat with us in real-time at www.roadscholar.org.

Just click the icon at the top of the homepage and program pages.

Road Scholar reserves the right to: grant or deny program Road Scholar Trip Cancellation, Interruption & Travel Delay
participation; cancel programs prior to departure or while in Insurance protects you against transfer and cancellation fees. You
progress; revise prices and/or itineraries; take photographs will receive a detailed brochure about how to purchase this optional
or videos of participants for promotional purposes during insurance policy when you enroll in a program.
programs. Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable
accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to Road Scholar’s Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658.
participate in our programs. Please contact us at (877) 426-8056 to CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.
discuss your needs.
© 2016 Elderhostel. All Rights Reserved. The Road Scholar service
Due to space limitations, this is an abbreviated list of program terms marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by
and conditions. For complete terms and conditions, please visit Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring
www.roadscholar.org or call toll free at (877) 426-8056. adults to learn, discover and travel.

Arrange a Private Group Charter to Cuba!

Photography clubs, Lifelong Learning Institutes, families and groups of all kinds are able to reserve
a private Road Scholar charter to Cuba exclusively. To learn more, visit www.roadscholar.org/groups
or call toll free at (877) 209-4634.