WHAT IS CUBA LIKE?

Cuba is an amazing country full of colour, contrasts and contradictions. It can be challenging as it is set back in time and resources are limited, but for those willilng to embrace whatever is thrown their way it is a fascinating experience.

To see a little about what Cuba is like, check out this amazing film Cuba Havana by Karim Rashad & Jessica Ross.

"Havana, Cuba is a unique and timeless city featuring classic American cars, luxury brand cigars, delicious rum and beautiful colorful architecture. Many travelers flood the Cuban streets to enjoy live salsa music, art, museums and to mingle with the locals. But there is so much more to both the city of Havana and the Cuban country itself that extends well beyond the beaten path. On my recent trip to Havana, I decided to learn more about the Cuban culture through a salsa lesson and volunteer my time on a local farm. Two experiences that were both educational and humbling."

I later followed in their footsteps and took part in the same voluntary experiennce in Cuba. Hit the link to read about my experience at Finca Tungasuk, not too far from Havana, Cuba. 

Thanks to you both for featuring Experience the Real Cuba and taking part in our Salsa lessons with our professional Dance Instructors.

EXPERIENCE THE REAL CUBA – SUPPORTING CUBAN BUSINESSES

Experience the Real Cuba offers Casas Particulares in Cuba as well as cultural activities and programs in Cuba supporting local Cuban private businesses.

To find out more about Casas in Cuba and our courses and programs (Spanish lessons, Dance lessons, Music lessons, Photography Experiences, Art & Pottery workshops) check out our website:

www.experiencetherealcuba.com

7 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EXPERIENCE THE REAL CUBA

A REAL EXPERIENCE IN CUBA

After carefully planning the perfect itinerary, Tara organised her trip to Cuba with Experience the Real Cuba. Tara visited Cuba in February 2016, she stayed at our Casas in Havana, Viñales and Trinidad and she took Spanish lessons in Havana as well as Spanish and Salsa lessons in Trinidad.

We asked Tara to share her comments with us about her trip to Cuba. She also highlighted some interesting tips for people thinking of visiting Cuba.

1.    WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TRIP?

Spending time in beautiful Trinidad - having over a week there meant I could really relax and enjoy day-to-day life...

2.    DID WE PROVIDE YOU WITH ADEQUATE INFORMATION PRIOR TO YOUR TRIP?

Yes, it was very detailed, easy to read and provided me with everything I needed.

3.     WHERE THERE ANY SURPRISES IN CUBA?

It was my second time so not really. After a couple of days it felt very natural.

4.     WHAT INFORMATION DO YOU THINK IS VALUABLE PRIOR TO VISITING CUBA?

If people have not been before:

-          Bring a decent amount of cash to exchange. ATMs can give big notes which will need to be exchanged to spend in regular places (and even in some CADECAs they will not accept them - a big hotel is probably the best bet in that case), also can be a surcharge of 3%

-          Take a spare loo roll as back up for the rooms in casas (and tissues and hand gel for when you're out and about)

-          If you are unable to get onto a popular tourist bus between locations, take a taxi colectivo! There are always people willing to take you between places for only a few CUC more than the bus

-          All tour agencies charge the same for excursions, makes the decision process a lot quicker :)

-          Be prepared for queues at CADECAs and ETECSA (and everywhere else ;) ). Ask for 'ultimo' in lines and remember who you're behind :)

-          Be prepared for male attention when not with male company (kissy noises, where are you from, do you have a boyfriend...) - all pretty harmless, just incessant :)

-          Most people are just interested to chat to you, although be aware sometimes they have an ulterior motive - offering accommodation, restaurant etc

-          Bring sufficient medicine, sanitary products, toiletries, sun block with you, but maybe leave any excess at the end of your trip

-          Expect a lot of ham and cheese sandwiches ;)

5.     DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU EXPERIENCED THE REAL CUBA?

Yes - last time I was on an organised tour, this time doing it independently gave me a different perspective. I loved taking the taxis colectivos both from town to town and around Havana, I met a lot of interesting people this way.

6.     WERE OUR CONTACTS IN CUBA PROFESSIONAL? DID THEY ASSIST YOU WITH ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES, TIPS, LOCAL INFORMATION?

Yes, Yoanka and Misleydis were both great. I greatly appreciated Yoanka's help with my changing plans!

 7.     HOW DO YOU FEEL WE COULD IMPROVE OUR SERVICE?

The communication and organisation was brilliant, exactly what I wanted. I can't think of anything lacking.

I would like to thank Tara for sharing her experiences in Cuba with us all.

EXPERIENCE THE REAL CUBA – SUPPORTING CUBAN BUSINESSES

Experience the Real Cuba offers Casas Particulares in Cuba as well as cultural activities and programs in Cuba supporting local Cuban private businesses.

To find out more about Casas in Cuba and our courses and programs (Spanish lessons, Dance lessons, Music lessons, Photography Experiences, Art & Pottery workshops) check out our website:

www.experiencetherealcuba.com

HONEYMOON & SALSA DANCING IN CUBA

By Lisa Coyle, Honeymoon in Cuba, Salsa Lessons, Trinidad, January 2014

My husband and I had decided that Cuba would be our honeymoon destination after travelling from Australia to the UK. We begun our research and were particularly interested in staying in a Casa Particular when we were in Havana and Trinidad but found it difficult to find an information source we felt we could trust when making a booking in advance.

I found myself wishing that I had a friend who had been to Cuba and could make some recommendations! It was then that I stumbled across Rena's Experience The Real Cuba blog which had helpful information about her real experiences in Cuba, in particular Trinidad.

I contacted Rena and she replied immediately with helpful information on exiting the airport, finding transport, booking accommodation and general hints and tips. 

Rena was able to provide advice on the best location to stay in Havana (Habana Vieja) and provided me with a contact for a Casa Particular whom I emailed and made a reservation with (using Google Translate)! I had been forewarned on several travel sites that in some cases a "booking" doesn't necessarily mean a "booking" so I wasn't surprised to find that when we arrived at our Casa Particular in Havana we were taken to a different Casa several doors down (they will always find somewhere for you to stay!)

We had already made my reservation with Rena for Misleydis and Gustavo's Casa in Trinidad and was very happy to know that our 'booking' was actually confirmed so we knew exactly where we were going! We were met at the bus station by a bici taxi who got quite a workout peddling the two of us and our round-the-world luggage! 

Misleydis and Gustavo were so welcoming and Misleydis gave us a run down of the town and all the best spots to eat and drink and also told us about the big street celebrations that happened to take place during our stay. We enjoyed our salsa lessons with Experience The Real Cuba and my husband and I enjoyed practicing our new moves the following night (after a few mojitos of course!) 

It was lovely to have Misleydis (and her perfect English) to help us make bookings to travel to the beach as well as to travel back to Havana in a shared car when it came time to sadly leave Trinidad! 

Cuba is a beautiful destination filled with wonderful people. 

Upon reflection of our trip, we established that what we loved about our experience in Cuba is the surprises around every corner. I learnt that what we had planned to happen might not actually take place, but when you go with the flow even better things happen! 

Thanks for all of your tips and advice Rena! We had an amazing time and we would love to return again! 

EXPERIENCE THE REAL CUBA – SUPPORTING CUBAN BUSINESSES

Experience the Real Cuba offers Casas Particulares in Cuba as well as cultural activities and programs in Cuba supporting local Cuban private businesses.

To find out more about Casas in Cuba and our courses and programs (Spanish lessons, Dance lessons, Music lessons, Photography Experiences, Art & Pottery workshops) check out our website:

www.experiencetherealcuba.com

WHERE TO TAKE DANCE LESSONS IN HAVANA CUBA

BOOKING DANCE LESSONS IN HAVANA, CUBA

DO YOU WANT TO LEARN TO DANCE IN HAVANA?

Experience the Real Cuba have recently teamed up with Yoanka at SalsAmiga All Star and are excited to share the news!  Together we can now organise professional and fun dance lessons in Havana, Cuba. Yoanka and I are both determined to welcome you and offer unforgetable holiday experiences in Cuba.  

WHY SHOULD I TAKE DANCE LESSONS WITH YOU?

Yoanka has been organising Cuban dance classes for 5 years and has built up a team of professional dance instructors.  If you take lessons with us it will allow you the opportunity to interact with magnificent dancers as well as arm you with the necessary knowledge to experience and enjoy the best of Havana's nightlife.   

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

The dance lessons take part in the heart of Vedado, Havana, Cuba where professional instructors and experienced dancers teach you in a friendly and relaxed environment.

WHAT TYPE OF DANCE LESSONS DO YOU OFFER?

We can organise a variety of Cuban dance classes; Salsa, Son, Rumba, Folklore, Orishas, Chachacha, Rueda de Casino etc.

DO I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO DANCE?

Whether this is your first time dancing Cuban style or not it really doesn't matter.  We offer lessons to beginners, intermediate and advanced dancers.  If you are a beginner, you will learn the necessary dance skills, which will help you develop a natural dance style and improve your confidence.  Whereas, intermediate and advanced dance students will be able to improve their dance knowledge, musicality or footwork.

HOW LONG ARE THE DANCE LESSONS?

The dance lessons are minimum 90 minutes or maximum 120 minutes.  You can choose to take a personalized dance lesson, a private dance lesson or in a group with qualified and professional instructors and experienced dancers.  

WHEN CAN I TAKE DANCE LESSONS?

You can take dance lessons in Cuba seven days a week (however dance lessons are not always available on 1st January).

HOW CAN I BOOK DANCE LESSONS?

If you are interested in taking dance lessons in Cuba, please contact Rena at experiencetherealcuba@gmail.com for more information / reservations.

EXPERIENCE THE REAL CUBA – SUPPORTING CUBAN BUSINESSES

Experience the Real Cuba offers Casas Particulares in Cuba as well as cultural activities and programs in Cuba supporting local Cuban private businesses.

To find out more about Casas in Cuba and our courses and programs (Spanish lessons, Dance lessons, Music lessons, Photography Experiences, Art & Pottery workshops) check out our website:

www.experiencetherealcuba.com

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO

Dance Lessons - Havana Cuba

Rueda de Casino

Folklore Dance Lesson - Havana, Cuba