VACATION SIDE TRAVEL PRESENTS: A TALE OF FOUR CITIES (9 Days / 8 Nights)

2015
A Tale of Four Cities
Havana and Trinidad - Topes De Collante
Havana Then And Now
Havana and Sancti Spiritus
Vacation Side Travel | 110 E Cedar St | Goodlettsville | Tennessee | 37072 Phone:.855-822-8747

9 Days / 8 Nights
A TALE OF FOUR CITIES
Miami - Havana - Camaguey - Cienfuegos
Located in the idyllic Caribbean just 90 miles off the Southern coast of the U.S., you are greeted by the
enchanting island nation of Cuba. Our Cuba package will give you excitement and mystique begin to
unfold in Camaguey, Cuba's third-largest city, where a labyrinth of winding streets and alleys spill into
public plazas in this first of seven villages founded by the Spaniards. Discover the colonial city of Trinidad,
founded in 1514, showcasing its old-world charms in this well-preserved town situated between mountains
and the sea. Experience Cienfuegos, known as Cuba's "Pearl of the South." Sitting effortlessly beside a
beautiful bay, this city boasts the best example of the 19th century early Spanish Enlightenment
implementation in urban planning. Once known as the playground of the rich and famous, Havana
beckons with its acclaimed Spanish architecture and incredible city views, while authentic cigar rolling
workshops, tobacco farms, rum factories, tobacco plantations, and Cuba's effervescent culture set the
stage for exploring Cuba at every turn. This Cuba tour package will leave you breathless.
Day 1 - MIAMI
Your cherished Cuba adventure begins with an overnight stay in Miami,
Florida. Arrive at Miami International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Tonight, join Central Holidays for an introduction to your Cuba people-to-
people program. Meet your fellow program participants and U.S. Tour
Director, review your travel documents and itinerary, and get ready for the
experience of a lifetime in the fascinating island nation of Cuba.
Day 2 - MIAMI � CAMAGUEY, CUBA
This morning, a short flight takes you to Camaguey, Cuba's third-largest
city. Upon arrival you will meet your professional, English-speaking Cuban
Tour Director, who will take you to discover the city's historic center.
Unique and beautiful, the oldest part of this city is a labyrinth of narrow
winding streets and alleys that begin and end in public squares or ''plazas''
purposely designed in this manner to protect the town from pirate raids in
colonial times. As one of the first seven villages founded by the Spaniards,
much of the city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here
you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant then engage with artists on such
topics as their work, how it impacts their community, and how art motivates
people. Afterwards you will head to the hotel, check in and prepare for
dinner at a local ''paladar,'' a privatelyowned small restaurant serving
homemade Cuban dishes. During dinner you will participate in an exchange
with the restaurant owner and learn about Cuban food and the free
enterprise system in Cuba. After dinner, meet members of the American
Car Association and enjoy a ride back to your hotel in an antique American
car. (B, L, D)
Day 3 - CAMAGUEY � KING RANCH � CAMAGUEY
First on today's schedule of exciting activities, you will meet and get to know dancers of the world-
renowned Ballet of Camaguey, the prestigious Cuban ballet company that has performed across the globe
in more than 40 countries. You will enjoy a cultural exchange with the dancers, teachers, set designers
and costume makers. Next travel along to King Ranch, originally developed as an expansion of the famous
ranch of the same name in Texas. Here you will experience a Cuban rodeo and have the fascinating
opportunity over lunch to engage with Cuban cowboys that have called this ranch their home for
generations. After lunch you will visit the local village that subsists to service the ranch. Here you will

share time in one of the local homes to see how they live, cook, eat, and more. Then, head over to the
local school to meet teachers and students and learn about rural life and education. On the way back to
Camaguey you will visit Casanova pottery studio and learn about the unique earthenware pots called
''tinajones'' known as the symbol of Camaguey. Used to store rainwater historically and even to this day,
these red clay pots can measure up to two meters in height and are still seen outside of homes and
throughout the city. In an educational exchange you will see the traditional way these vessels are made
and interact with the artists. Tonight, savor dinner at a local paladar and enjoy a fiery Flamenco dance
performance, featuring an opportunity to dance and interact with the performers in an open-air setting. (B,
L, D)
Day 4 - CAMAGUEY � TRINIDAD � CIENFUEGOS
Today you will journey south to the Cuban province of Sancti Spiritus to visit the colonial city of Trinidad.
Along the way you will experience the Valley of the Sugar Mills, home to approximately 70 historic sugar
mills that are representative of the importance of sugar to the Cuban economy over centuries. Founded in
1514 as the third Spanish settlement in Cuba, Trinidad is acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage
Site for its colonial architecture, dating back to the 18th century. This verdant valley embedded between
mountains and the sea features one of Cuba's most well preserved cities often referred to as a living
museum. Enjoy sharing time and interacting with local residents as you stroll along the pedestrian,
cobblestone streets of Trinidad, lined by pastel-colored houses with wooden shutters and wrought-iron
grilles. Having songbirds in ornate birdcages outside the home is a tradition in Trinidad that is still kept
alive today. Partake in an insightful guided walking tour of the colonial city and have meaningful cultural
exchanges with local residents, musicians, and new business owners. After lunch you will have a sit down
with doctors and nurses at the local clinic to learn about the Cuban medical system and have an
educational exchange on topics such as the use of herbal medicine and how the facility is sustained.
(B,L,D)
Day 5 - CIENFUEGOS
Today you experience Cienfuegos - known as Cuba's ''Pearl of the South'' due to its impressively beautiful
bay. Founded in 1819 by French settlers, Cienfuegos is one of Cuba's newest cities. In 2005, UNESCO
inscribed the Urban Historic Center of Cienfuegos on the World Heritage List, citing Cienfuegos as the
best extant example of the 19th-century early Spanish enlightenment implementation in urban planning.
The French influence is seen in many traits, particularly in architecture, including the city's many
mansions. During your time in this breathtaking city, you will enjoy a panoramic overview of its historic
center. Next you will meet with a local historian to learn about the Thomas Terry Theater, built in 1889 by
Leno Sanchez Marmol. The theater remains in its original state, beautifully embellished with painted
ceiling frescoes. While in Cienfuegos you will experience a performance by the local choir and have the
opportunity to interact with them to learn about the musical history of this group and the music culture of
Cuba. Next, participate in an exchange with tobacco rollers at a local cigar factory and discover the
importance of tobacco in Cuba, both culturally and commercially. Tonight, after dinner it's time to don your
dancing shoes for Salsa dance lessons with a local dance group. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - TRINIDAD � BAY OF PIGS � HAVANA
This morning you will journey to Havana through the countryside's sugar cane regions. Our first stop will
be at Playa Giron for a guided visit and interaction with docents of the Bay Of Pigs Museum, housed in an
old sugar mill and used by Fidel Castro as his center of operations during the 1961 conflict. Enjoy lunch at
the Cave of the Fish, named for the nearby ''cenote'' or sinkhole filled with multicolored sea life. You will
join in a cultural and educational exchange with a local naturalist as well as an interaction with the family
that runs the restaurant. This afternoon you will arrive to the vibrant capital city of Cuba, Havana. (B,L)
Day 7 - HAVANA
After breakfast you will enjoy a photo stop at Revolution Square, one of the largest public squares in the
world. Continuing onwards you have an educational exchange with a local architect who will speak about
Havana's unique architecture, the challenges of renovating the city's exquisite historic buildings, and the
future of these restorations. Then, you will explore the charming cobblestone streets of Old Havana, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, while participating in open dialogue with the local architect on architectural

topics of interest. Next, visit the Maqueta Vieja Habana Museum that houses the scale model of the City of
Havana to see the whole city, and learn about its architecture as well as more about restoration efforts.
Following lunch in Old Havana, you will tour the Museum of the Revolution that displays a vast array of
documents, weapons, relics and even planes from the revolution. The museum is housed in the former
presidential palace that was the home to Cuba's leaders from the 1920s until 1959. Heading out of the city
you will arrive at the fascinating fishing village of Jaimanitas and visit the home, studio and gallery of
world-renowned artist, and painter Jose Fuster, known as the ''Picasso of Cuba.'' Roofs, walls, doorways
and benches, stretching for blocks around his studio are adorned with his brightly colored sculptures and
mosaics. Here you will engage with the Fuster family and meet Fuster himself, if his schedule permits, as
well as local residents of the town, to discuss the influence of the artist's work on their lives and the
community. At dinner this evening, take-in the incredible views of Havana from the top floor of the Habana
Libre Hotel, Havana's most symbolic hotel that was originally built as the Habana Hilton and inaugurated in
1958 - offering the perfect end to your first full-day in Havana. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - HAVANA
Today we experience Havana's world-famous Colon Cemetery to see elaborately sculpted stone and
marble memorials. You will discover the cemetery's captivating history and folklore, and hear stories about
the many prominent people laid to rest here, including musicians, filmmakers, writers, politicians, and
Major League baseball players. You will also visit the tomb of La Milagrosa - the ''Miraculous One'' visited
by Cubans as a pilgrimage site believed by many to have healing influences. Next it's off to the district of
Guanabacoa, known for its rich religious diversity. This town boasts some of the finest colonial churches
where locals worship both Catholic and Santeria saints. Santeria is a fusion of religious influences from
West African, Caribbean and Roman Catholic beliefs and was created by slaves who were brought to
Cuba to work on the country's sugar plantations. You will visit the intriguing Guanabacoa Museum of
Santeria Orishas and see many displays of Afro-Cuban culture.
Here you will also experience a Santeria musical performance and get to know the dancers and locals via
a personal exchange. As the day's activities continue, you will enter the realm of Ernest Hemingway with a
visit to Hemingway's Farm, Finca La Vigia. The house where the Nobel Prize winner lived with his wife
Martha for 21 years is situated on this beautiful property overlooking Havana. Tour the perfectly preserved
home where many of Hemingway's personal belongings remain today, as well as his wooden yacht ''Pilar.''
On this vessel, Hemmingway patrolled for Nazis and it was also featured in his novel ''Islands in the
Stream.'' Next you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Havana before a tour and interaction with the
founder of a world-famous Spanish Ballet Company who will share the history of her company and dance
education in Cuba. As the day proceeds, it's off to the Cuban Literacy Museum where you will learn about
a national effort to educate rural farmers and families. Education and the development of human capital
was a post revolution priority for the Cuban government. After the Revolution in 1959, the country suffered
from an exodus of educators and intellectuals. A nationwide program, known as the Cuban Literacy
Campaign of 1961, was instituted in response. More than 250,000 literate adults and children, some as
young as 11 years old, formed brigades of people, or brigadistas, and traveled throughout the countryside
to teacher their fellow Cubans how to read. Through interactions with the museum director and docents
you will learn about this highly successful campaign. Further along, you visit El Morro Castle, built in 1589
to protect the mouth of Havana Harbor. Perched on the headland opposite the harbor from Old Havana, it
can be viewed from miles around as it dominates the port entrance and is therefore used as a navigational
landmark. Before dinner, meet a former Cuban baseball player and join in a dialogue regarding the history
and the love of this favorite pastime in Cuba. This evening, experience a farewell dinner with tour at the
renowned Hotel Nacional de Cuba, which has hosted many celebrities and world figures over the decades,
including Winston Churchill, Frank Sinatra, Muhammad Ali, and Steven Spielberg. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - HAVANA � MIAMI, USA
After breakfast, bid ''adios'' to Cuba and depart for the airport and your return flight to Miami with
unforgettable memories of your people-to-people journey to this captivating and engaging Latin country in
Caribbean. (B)
Included Features:

ROUND TRIP AIR TRANSPORTATION - Round trip airfare from Miami
FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS - 8 nights first class hotels.
CUISINE - 20 included meals consisting of 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 6 dinners.
TOUR PROGRAM- People to people discussions, interactions and unusual visits such as: The King
Ranch and rodeo, school house visit, visit a Cuban home and family, meetings and visitations with
artists, the Cuban Ballet, a Cigar Factory, Bay of Pigs Museum, meet a Cuban baseball player,
Hemingway's Farm, Old Havana and more....
PROFESSIONAL U.S TOUR DIRECTOR - Assistance of a professional Central Holidays U.S. Tour
Manager
PROFESSIONAL CUBAN GUIDE - Assistance and guiding from a professional specialized bilingual
Cuban guide
DELUXE MOTORCOACHES - Touring by private deluxe airconditioned motor coach
PEOPLE TO PEOPLE INTERACTIONS - There are daily people to people discussions, and
interactions on unique Cuban events and issues.
BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS - Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage
outside of the airport upon arrival in Cuba
VISA - Cuban travel visa
HEALTH INSURANCE - Cuban health insurance
WATER - Bottled water on the coach each day
GRATUITIES - Pre-paid gratuities for hotel porters, waiters for included meals, all people to people
visits, discussions and Interactions.
LOCAL TAXES AND SERVICE CHARGES - Hotel & City taxes and service charges
DEPARTURE TAXES - U.S. air departure taxes
Notes:
Program Operated by Central Holidays under license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (Treasury Department)
This is a program monitored and assessed by the U.S Treasury Department. The itinerary provides a full time schedule of activities
that result in meaningful exchanges through people-to-people contact. U.S. law requires all travelers joining this program adhere to
the full time schedule.
All payments need to be made out to Central Holidays.
Best Price starting at $3499 (Based on per person in Double Occupancy)

9 Days / 8 Nights
HAVANA AND TRINIDAD - TOPES DE
COLLANTE
Miami - Havana - Trinidad
For the ultimate adventure in Cuba that highlights history, the arts, culture, and the great outdoors, embark
on this fascinating Havanna and Trindad to Topes De Collante travel program. Old Havana beckons with
its amazing colonial architecture and step-back-in-time appeal. Get to know the locals and this storied
capital's history as well as its flavorful cuisine on your people-to-people travel experience. Share in
interactions with local artists and tour schools for Theatre, Dance and the Arts including the Beny More Art
School where you will see first-hand how artists and musicians are cultivated. Let the lively music envelop
your senses as you experience a live percussion and dance performance rooted in flamenco and afro-
Cuban rhythms and moves and even learn some dance moves to try for yourself. Explore the valley of the
sugar mills in Trinidad and venture on to Topes de Collantes, a nature reserve park in Cuba's Escambray
Mountains range, offers sweeping, awe-inspiring views that simply mesmerize. Moments you'll cherish
always await you in Cuba on this people-to-people travel program that showcases the diversity of this
captivating country!
Day 1 - Sat Miami
Your celebration of this amazing adventure begins withyour arrival in
Miami, Florida and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 - Sun Miami � Welcome to Havana Cuba
Depart on your charter flight from Miami to Havana. Upon arrival in the
capital of Cuba, you will be transferred to your Havana Hotel and convene
for an introductory lecture and briefing by our tour leader and bilingual local
guide. This afternoon, a visit to the Muraleando project in the Luyano
district will take you to participate in an exchange about the project. Then
enjoy lunch arranged with residents of the local community.Return to your
hotel to check-in and settle into your accommodations.This evening you will
share in a welcome dinner at Do?a Eutimia a local ''paladar'' - privately-
owned small restaurant serving homemade Cuban dishes. After dinner, you
will attend the canon blast at La Cabana Fortress, an iconic Havana
experience that was introduced centuries ago where in each evening the
resounding blast would signal the closing of the city's walls. (L,D)
Day 3 - Mon Havana
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then take part in a walking tour of Old Havana
led by an expert from Office of the City Historian. During this insightful
experience you will have the opportunity to participate in a dialogue with
local entrepreneurs. Next on your people-to-people cultural exchange you
will visit a graphic arts workshop where local artist Jacqueline Brito and her
sister will enlighten you about their work in an open forum. Then it's on to
taste authentic Cuban recipes during lunch at a restaurant in Old Havana. After lunch, have an exchange
with Humberto Rodriguez and students from the National Art School (ENA). Humberto Rodriguez has
directed the Theater Company Olga Alonso and has worked with very famous Cuban artists including
Jorge Perugorria of the movie ''Fresa y Chocolate'' and Laura de la Uz of ''La Pelicula de Ana.'' Visit the
Quisicuaba community project, whose aim is to rehabilitate traditional folk culture in the community. Here
you will have a discussion and exchange about the project's efforts. Tonight you will dine at La Moraleja
restaurant and have the optional opportunity to experience a Havana night club after dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Tue Havana � Cienfuegos � Trinidad
After breakfast at your hotel and check-out, travel to Trinidad, with a stop in Cienfuegos for lunch. Visit the
Benny More Art School and interact with the students and teachers or visit the Cienfuegos Choir. Today
you will taste local cuisine at Paladar Villa Lagarto. This afternoon you will take part in a walking tour of
Cienfuegos where you willtalkwith community residents and small business owners before departing for
Trinidad. After checking into your hotel and settling-in, you will have dinner on site. Tonight you will have
the opportunity to enjoy an evening of dancing and personal interactionswith localsfrom Trinidad. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Wed Trinidad
Today's activities begin with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a fascinating walking tour of
Trinidad with a local expert from the City Historian's Office. You will explore the valley of the sugar mills,
interacting along the way with ''CuentasPropistas'' or small business owners as well as community
residents. El Colonial restaurant is your next stop along the way on the day's adventures where you will
enjoy lunch. This afternoon, visit Casa de Chi Chi, a well-known artists' ceramics studio, where you will
learn about his art and interact with his family members and studio workers. You will have some time to
refresh yourself at the hotel before enjoying dinner at San Jose Paladar in Trinidad. After dinner, a guided
walk through the city in the evening offers the ideal setting for people-to-people interaction with area
locals.(B,L,D)
Day 6 - Thu Trinidad - Topes De Collantes � Trinidad
Enjoy breakfast in your hotel, and then depart for breathtaking Topes de Collantes, a nature reserve park
in the Escambray Mountains range in Cuba whose namesake also refers to the country's third highest
peak. Sweeping awe-inspiring views will mesmerize you as you travel up the mountains by truck. With the
local guide, you willget to know the work of coffee farmers and engage will local residents. See the largest
freshwater lake in Cuba and have an interchange with the families that live in the area. Next is lunch at
Casa de Gallega, a family-run restaurant. After lunch, take part on one of the recommendedexperiences in
the area, such as:
Hike Caburni Falls:A distance of approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 mi), this is the most popular hike
through coffee plantations, traditional farm houses, and cliffs to end at theCaburniRiverthat falls from a 62
meters (203 ft.) rock wall into a series of ponds.
Discover Hacienda Codina:This ranch features several attractions including medicinal mud baths;
medicinal and ornamental gardens; the orchid's collection with more than 40 local species including
bamboo; the altar's cave from where a secret passage ends in a natural lookout facing south of the
mountain system and the Valley of the sugar mills; and inspired views of Trinidad and Ancon.
Experience the Ecology Walk or Paseo Ecologico: This1 kilometer (0.62 mi) local path connects the
Kurhotel with hotel ''Los Helechos'' and is teeming with mariposa shrubs and arborescent ferns under the
canopy of pines and eucalyptus.
Gaze over ''El mirador'': Literally meaning The Lookout, this splendid point showcases with view down to
Trinidad between the Valley and the range from 600 meters above sea level that offers spectacular vistas
of the city and peninsula below.
Before sundown, you will be transferred down the mountain back to Trinidad. Dinner this evening will be at
your hotel and the evening is open for you to get to know the city.(B,L,D)
Day 7 - Fri Trinidad � Havana
Power-up with breakfast at your hotel then depart for Havana. Along the way, you will visit El Divino
organic farm and nursery community project with more than 120 varieties of herbs grown for local 'green
medicine' purposes. Have a sit down with the agronomist and director of the project, who is frequently
visited by local school groups. Next is lunch at ''El Divino'' before heading on to Cojimarwhere you will take
part in a short walk and have exchanges with local fisherman as your guide explains the special

relationship between Cojimar, Hemingway, and The Old Man and the Sea.Check-in at your hotel back in
Havana. This evening Havana awaits for you to savor dinner at your choice of local restaurants. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Sat Havana
Have breakfast at your hotel then embark on a guided tour of the Museum of the Revolution located in the
former presidential palace. Visit the Sephardic Center and the Holocaust Memorial and meet with the
Director of the Center. Next, head to Hotel Nacional's La Barraca Restaurant for lunch followed by a brief
tour of the famous hotel.In the afternoon, you will take a ferry to Reglaand visit Iglesia de NuestraSenora
de Regla accompanied by a specialist for an exchange about Santeria, the Afro-Cuban religion that
encompasses a fusion of religious influences from West African, Caribbean and Roman Catholic beliefs
and was created by slaves who were brought to Cuba to work on the country's sugar plantations. This
afternoon you will have a special opportunity to experience a performance by Habana Compas dance
troop, featuring a mix of percussion and dance rooted in flamenco and afro-Cuban rhythms and moves.
After refreshing at the hotel, ride in a 1950s car to your group's farewell dinner at La Fontana with show.
(B,L,D)
Day 9 - Sun Depart Havana � USA
Bid adios to your time experiencing and exploring the amazing culture, people and places of Cuba as you
board your flight back to the USA.(B)

7 Days / 6 Nights
HAVANA THEN AND NOW
Miami - Havana
This Cuba tour package will bring you to old-time Havana. Cuba brings images of eras gone by to life on
this adventure vacation to the past. Cuba's capital city is where sophistication and style come together and
put this island nation on the map as the chic place to be for jet-setters from around the world. Mystery and
intrigue await your exploration in beautiful Havana. Amid Spanish-colonial architecture and classic
American cars, Havana showcases its prosperous past and ingenuity-driven present. The treasures of
Havana and its surroundings reveal themselves at every turn ... from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of
Old Havana and the incredible city views from atop the hotel originally inaugurated in 1958 as Hilton's
Caribbean gem ... to the area's authentic cigar-rolling workshops, tobacco farms, rum factories, tobacco
plantations, and stunning nature-scapes. Just beyond the city, explore the beauties of Vinales Valley, Pinar
del Rio, Guanabacoa, Hemingway's Farm and much more! It will be a once in a lifetime Cuba vacation.
Day 1 - Arrive Miami
Your celebration of this amazing adventure begins with your arrival in
Miami, Florida and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, join Central Holidays for
an introduction to your Cuba people-to-people program. Meet your fellow
program participants and U.S. Tour Director, review your travel documents
and itinerary, and get ready for the experience of a lifetime in the
fascinating island nation of Cuba.
Day 2 - Miami � Welcome to Havana Cuba
This morning, you will be transferred to Miami International Airport for a
short flight to Havana, Cuba. Upon arrival at Jose Marti International Airport
and after clearing customs, you will meet your professional, Cuban English-
speaking Tour Director. Your peopleto- people interactions begin right away
with a group lunch at a local ''paladar,'' a privately-owned small restaurant
serving homemade Cuban dishes. Here you will have a cultural exchange
with the restaurant's owner and enjoy learning about such topics as Cuban
food and the free enterprise system in Cuba. Next, you will head to Bocoy
Rum Factory, originally established in 1878. Take part in an informative
dialogue with a local docent about the history of Cuba's renowned rum
industry and the rum making process as you tour this long-standing factory
and working museum dedicated to Cuban rum. (L)
Day 3 - Havana
After breakfast you will enjoy a photo stop at Revolution Square, one of the
largest public squares in the world. Continuing onwards you will have an
educational exchange with a local expert who will speak about Havana's unique architecture, the
challenges of renovating the city's exquisite historic buildings, and the future of these restorations. Then,
you will explore the charming cobblestone streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while
participating in an open dialogue with the local expert on architectural topics of interest. Next, visit the
Maqueta Vieja Habana Museum that houses the scale model of the City of Havana to see the whole city,
and learn about its architecture as well as more about restoration efforts. Following lunch in Old Havana,
you will tour the Museum of the Revolution that displays a vast array of documents, weapons, relics and
even planes from the revolution. The museum is housed in the former presidential palace that was the
home to Cuba's leaders from the 1920s until 1959. Heading out of the city you will arrive at the fascinating
fishing village of Jaimanitas and visit the home, studio and gallery of world-renowned artist and painter
Jose Fuster, known as the ''Picasso of Cuba.'' Roofs, walls, doorways and benches, stretching for blocks

around his studio are adorned with his brightly colored sculptures and mosaics. Here you will engage with
the Fuster family and meet Fuster himself, if his schedule permits, as well as local residents of the town,
to discuss the influence of the artist's work on their lives and the community. At dinner this evening, take-
in the incredible views of Havana from the top floor of the Habana Libre Hotel, Havana's most symbolic
hotel that was originally built as the Habana Hilton and inaugurated in 1958 - offering the perfect end to
your first full-day in Havana. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Havana
Today we experience Havana's world-famous Colon Cemetery to see elaborately sculpted stone and
marble memorials. You will discover the cemetery's captivating history and folklore, and hear stories about
the many prominent people laid to rest here, including musicians, filmmakers, writers, politicians, and
Major League baseball players. You will also visit the tomb of La Milagrosa - the ''Miraculous One'' visited
by Cubans as a pilgrimage site believed by many to have healing influences. Next it's off to the district of
Guanabacoa, known for its rich religious diversity. This town boasts some of the finest colonial churches
where locals worship both Catholic and Santeria saints. Santeria is a fusion of religious influences from
West African, Caribbean and Roman Catholic beliefs, and was created by slaves who were brought to
Cuba to work on the country's sugar plantations. You will visit the intriguing Guanabacoa Museum of
Santeria Orishas and see many displays of Afro - Cuban culture. Here you will also experience a Santeria
musical performance and get to know the dancers and locals via a personal exchange. As the day's
activities continue, you will enter the realm of Ernest Hemingway with a visit to Hemingway's Farm, Finca
La Vigia. The house where the Nobel Prize winner lived with his wife Martha for 21 years is situated on
this beautiful property overlooking Havana. Tour the perfectly preserved home where many of
Hemingway's personal belongings remain today, as well as his wooden yacht ''Pilar''On this vessel,
Hemmingway patrolled for Nazis and it was also featured in his novel ''Islands in the Stream'' Next you will
enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Havana before a tour and interaction with the founder of a worldfamous
Spanish Ballet Company who will share the history of her company and dance education in Cuba. As the
day proceeds, it's off to the Cuban Literacy Museum where you will learn about a national effort to educate
rural farmers and families. Education and the development of human capital was a post revolution priority
for the Cuban government. After the Revolution in 1959, the country suffered from an exodus of educators
and intellectuals. A nationwide program, known as the Cuban Literacy Campaign of 1961, was instituted in
response.
More than 250,000 literate adults and children, some as young as 11 years old, formed brigades of
people, or brigadistas, and traveled throughout the countryside to teacher their fellow Cubans how to read.
Through interactions with the museum director and docents you will learn about this highly successful
campaign. Further along, you visit El Morro Castle, built in 1589 to protect the mouth of Havana Harbor.
Perched on the headland opposite the harbor from Old Havana, it can be viewed from miles around as it
dominates the port entrance and is therefore used as a navigational landmark. Before dinner, meet a
former Cuban baseball player and join in a dialogue regarding the history and the love of this favorite
pastime in Cuba. This evening, experience a dinner with tour at the renowned Hotel Nacional de Cuba,
which has hosted many celebrities and world figures over the decades, including Winston Churchill, Frank
Sinatra, Muhammad Ali, and Steven Spielberg. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Havana � Vinales - Pinar Del Rio - Havana
Today you will venture northwest out of Havana through the Cuban countryside to the UNESCO World
Heritage site of the Vinales Valley, located in Cuba's western most mountainous range. This region,
situated in the province of Pinar Del Rio, is known for its breathtaking scenery. The area is dotted with
spectacular limestone mountains (mogotes) rising to a height of up to 300 meters. Here you will gaze upon
spectacular caverns and rivers and discover the region's vast tobacco fields, still cultivated today using
traditional methods that have survived unchanged for centuries. In Pinar Del R?o you will tour the
Franciso Donatien Cigar Factory to learn about the manufacturing of fine Cuban cigars and enjoy an
educational exchange with workers about the history and process of cigar-making in Cuba. As your day
continues, you will visit a traditional tobacco plantation and farmhouse where you will get to know an
authentic tobacco farmer. During this enlightening interaction you will learn about tobacco cultivation and
the tobacco leaf drying process then experience a cigar rolling demonstration firsthand. Enjoy a visit inside

the farmer's home and have a sit-down with his family while sipping on a ''cafecito'' a sweetened shot of
Cuban-style espresso coffee. This is a superb opportunity to witness up-close how Cuban families live in a
rural setting. After this exciting encounter, a stop at Los Jasmines viewpoint offers the ideal photo-op with
its awe-inspiring views of Vinales Valley, perfect for panoramic pictures of this splendidly beautiful region.
(B,L)
Day 6 - Havana - Matanzas - Havana
Today's activities begin after breakfast with an introductory exploration of the world of art in Cuba as you
delve-into the National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana. Housed in its current location since 1954, the
museum boasts an impressive collection of artwork from painters dating back to the earliest colonizers of
Cuba. Here you will meet with a Cuban art expert and a local historian for a presentation on the
importance of the artistic pieces housed in this spectacular museum. Next along your journey, you will
travel through rural Cuba and arrive in Matanzas, known as ''the Venice of Cuba'' for its many bridges.
Enjoy a city tour where your guide will provide insight into the city's rich history. Tour the well-preserved El
Museo Farmaceutico, an old French Colonial pharmacy formerly known as Botica La Francesa that was
originally founded 1882. It was operational until 1964 when it was transformed into The Museo
Farmaceutico. Time has remained still here where many of the items that would have been found in a
pharmacy during that time period still line the shelves, such as: hand painted French porcelain vases,
more than 500,000 original medical recipe formulas, antique bottles and jars, other seemingly ancient
pharmaceutical items. During an illuminating tour you will discover the museum's interesting exhibits and
collections including, a prize-winning dispensary table (winner of a bronze medal in the Paris Exposition of
1900), together with tools used for the production of medicines. Next, you will enjoy a brief architectural
tour of the famous DuPont Mansion including lunch. Further along you will experience a pottery-making
demonstration at the Taller de Ceramica Artistica (artistic ceramics workshop) and interact with artists to
learn about this art form. A stop is made at Bacunayagua Bridge, the highest bridge in Cuba with an
observation area offering excellent views for photos. (B,L)
Day 7 - Depart Havana - USA
After breakfast, bid ''adios'' to Cuba and depart for the airport and your return flight to Miami with
memories to cherish and share of your Discover Cuba trip to this enchanting country in the Caribbean. (B)
Included Features:
ROUND TRIP AIR TRANSPORTATION - Round trip airfare from Miami
FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS - 6 nights first class hotels
CUISINE - 12 included meals consisting of 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners
TOUR PROGRAM - People to people discussions, interactions and unusual visits such as: Jose
Fuster, known as the ''Picasso of Cuba'', a Cigar Factory, Cuban farmhouse, Santeria experience,
meet a Cuban baseball player, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Cuban Literacy Museum,
Hemingway's Farm, Old Havana and more...
PROFESSIONAL U.S TOUR DIRECTOR - Assistance of a professional Central Holidays U.S. Tour
Manager
PROFESSIONAL CUBAN GUIDE - Assistance and guiding from a professional specialized bilingual
Cuban guide
DELUXE MOTORCOACHES - Touring by private deluxe air-conditioned motor coach
PEOPLE TO PEOPLE INTERACTIONS - There are daily people to people discussions and
interactions on unique Cuban events and issues.
BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS - Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage
outside of the airport upon arrival in Cuba
VISA - Cuban travel visa
HEALTH INSURANCE - Cuban health insurance
WATER - Bottled water on the coach each day.
GRATUITIES - Pre-paid gratuities for hotel porters, waiters for included meals, all people to people
visits, discussions and Interactions.
LOCAL TAXES AND SERVICE CHARGES - Hotel & City taxes and service charges
DEPARTURE TAXES - U.S. air departure taxes

Notes:
Program Operated by Central Holidays under license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (Treasury Department)
This is a program monitored and assessed by the U.S Treasury Department. The itinerary provides a full time schedule of activities
that result in meaningful exchanges through people-to-people contact. U.S. law requires all travelers joining this program adhere to
the full time schedule.
All payments need to be made out to Central Holidays.

9 Days / 8 Nights
HAVANA AND SANCTI SPIRITUS
Miami - Havana - Sancti Spiritus
The intriguing Caribbean country of Cuba awaits you to explore its amazing history, landscapes,
architecture, customs and culture in this exciting opportunity that U.S. travelers had not been permitted for
decades. The mystery and mystique begin to unfold in Havanna as you tour Old Havana's city center, taste
flavorful Cuban cuisine at ''paladar'' restaurants owned by locals, and enjoy cultural exchanges with
teachers, artists, students, historians and more! Travel along to Sancti Spiritus, capital of the province with
the same name that is located in central Cuba founded in 1514. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains
and valleys, Sanct Spiritus is situated along the banks of the Yayabo River and is known for its sugarcane
and cattle cultivation and well as important tobacco leaf growing areas. In the colonial city center, you will
meander around the labyrinth of winding streets and alleys that converge in public plazas and enjoy time
getting to know the locals. Come discover the magic of this mystifying island nation at every turn on this
Havanna and Sancti Spiritus people-to-people cultural experience with time to delve into the city's capital
and off-the-beaten path cities and towns for the adventure of a lifetime.
Day 1 - Sat Miami
Your celebration of this amazing adventure begins with your arrival in
Miami, Florida and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 - Sun Miami � Welcome to Havana Cuba
Embark on your charter flight from Miami to Havana. Upon arrival in the
capital of Cuba, you will be transferred to your Havana Hotel and convene
for an introductory lecture and briefing by our tour leader and local bilingual
guide for your Havana and Sancti Spiritus experience. This afternoon, a
visit to the Muraleando project in the Luyano district will take you to
participate in an exchange about the project. Then enjoy lunch arranged
with residents of the local community. Return to your hotel to check-in and
settle into your accommodations. This evening you will share in a welcome
dinner at Do?a Eutimia a local ''paladar'' - privately-owned small restaurant
serving homemade Cuban dishes. After dinner, you will attend the canon
blast at La Caba?a Fortress, an iconic Havana experience that was
introduced centuries ago where in each evening the resounding blast would
signal the closing of the city's walls. (L,D)
Day 3 - Mon Havana
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel then take part in a walking tour of Old Havana
led by an expert from Office of the City Historian. During this insightful
experience you will have the opportunity to participate in a dialogue with
local entrepreneurs. Next on your people-to people cultural exchange you
will visit a graphic arts workshop where local artist Jacqueline Brito and her
sister will enlighten you about their work in an open forum. Then it's on to taste authentic Cuban recipes
during lunch at a restaurant in Old Havana. After lunch, have an exchange with Humberto Rodriguez and
students from the National Art School (ENA). Humberto Rodriguez has directed the Theater Company
Olga Alonso and has worked with very famous Cuban artists including Jorge Perugorria of the movie
''Fresa y Chocolate'' and Laura de la Uz, of ''La Pelicula de Ana.'' Visit the Quisicuaba community project,
whose aim is to rehabilitate traditional folk culture in the community. Here you will have a discussion and
exchange about the project's efforts. Tonight you will dine at La Moraleja restaurant and have the optional
opportunity to experience a Havana night club after dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Tue Havana - Sancti Spiritus
Have breakfast at your Havana hotel before departing for Santi Spiritus, capital of the province with the
same name that is located in central Cuba along the banks of the Yayabo River and is known for its
sugarcane and cattle cultivation and well as important tabacco leaf growing areas. As you venture along
towards Santi Spiritus, you will participate in a morning visit to FincaYoandra, an urban garden, where you
will get to know the people who work there via personal interactions and learn about their work. Heading
on to Cojimar, you will take part in a short walk and have exchanges with local fisherman as your guide
explains the special relationship between Cojimar, Hemingway, and The Old Man and the Sea. Enjoy
lunch at Las Brisas and drive on to Sancti Spiritus. After check-in at Los Rijos and some time to settle-in,
you will have dinner at the hotel. Later, you can take part in an evening cultural excursion at Casa de La
Trova, offering a perfect opportunity to interact firsthand with local residents. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Wed Sancti Spiritus with the FANJ
After breakfast at your hotel, visit the Antonio Nunez Jimenez'' Foundation (FANJ) Headquarters in Sancti
Spiritus, whose work is focused on urban sustainability. Here you will have the opportunity to meet and
engage with representatives and members of this organization. The morning's activities with FANJ will
include visits to sustainable agricultural sites and interactions with workers and residents. You will also
enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with members of the FANJ. After lunch, visit a community project and
participate in an interchange with residents and workers. Then visit a community school for more people-
to-people interactions and opportunities to dialogue with teachers and students. Return to the hotel where
dinner will be arranged this evening. After dinner, tonight you will have the opportunity to enjoy an evening
of personal interactions with locals from Sancti Spiritus. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Thu Sancti Spiritus � Trinidad - Sancti Spiritus
Today's activities begin with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a fascinating walking tour of
Trinidad with a local expert from the City Historian's Office. You will explore the valley of the sugar mills,
interacting along the way with ''CuentasPropistas'' or small business owners as well as community
residents. El Colonial restaurant is your next stop along the way on the day's adventures where you will
enjoy lunch. This afternoon, visit Casa de Chi Chi, a well-known artists' ceramics studio, where you will
learn about his art and interact with his family members and studio workers. This evening enjoy dinner at
San Jose Paladar in Trinidad. After dinner, return to Sancti Spiritus for your overnight stay.(B,L,D)
Day 7 - Fri Sancti Spiritus � Havana
Breakfast at your hotel starts the day then it's off to visit a polyclinic in Sancti Spiritus where you will learn
in exchanges with doctors and nurses about their work.Next, depart for Havanastopping en route at
Aguada de Pasajeros for lunch. This afternoon, you will check in to your hotel in Havana. Check-in at your
hotel back in Havana. This evening Havana awaits for you to savor dinner at your choice of local
restaurants.(B,L,D)
Day 8 - Sat Havana
Have breakfast at your hotel then embark on a guided tour of the Museum of the Revolution located in the
former presidential palace. Visit the Sephardic Center and the Holocaust Memorial and meet with the
Director of the Center. Next, head to Hotel Nacional's La Barraca Restaurant for lunch followed by a brief
tour of this famous hotel. In the afternoon, you will take a ferry to Regla and visit Iglesia de NuestraSenora
de Regla accompanied by a specialist for an exchange about Santeria, the Afro-Cuban religion that
encompasses a fusion of religious influences from West African, Caribbean and Roman Catholic beliefs
and was created by slaves who were brought to Cuba to work on the country's sugar plantations. This
afternoon you will have a special opportunity to experience a performance by Habana Compas dance
troop, featuring a mix of percussion and dance rooted in flamenco and afro-Cuban rhythms and moves.
After refreshing at the hotel, ride in a 1950s car to your group's farewell dinner at La Fontana with show.
(B,L,D)
Day 9 - Sun Depart Havana � USA
Bid adios to your time experiencing and exploring the amazing culture, people and places of Cuba from

your Havana and Sancti Spiritus as you board your flight back to the USA. (B)
Notes:Optional People to People Activities to Include:
(If in season, go to a baseball game and meet with Players before the game.)
Contact:
Name: Steven
Email: steven@vacationside.com
Phone: 855-822-8747
Fax: 615-800-8069
Notes
This is an expanded brochure which has all the tours available with Cuba included.
Terms & Conditions
FARES, PRICES and RATES: Packages and rates are subject to change without notice. Prices are
subject to change based upon your choice of travel dates, number of travelers, departure city, and your
choice of flight, hotels or other items, and may require a minimum nights' stay. Package prices are
guaranteed upon full payment received by Vacation Side Travel, and solely subject to change due to
imposition of taxes or other charges by government authorities. Package inclusions and options subject to
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VACATION SIDE TRAVEL PRESENTS: A TALE OF FOUR CITIES (9 Days / 8 Nights)

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