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Central Synagogue in Havana.

The Jewish Experience in Cuba

Small Group Travel.

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The ultimate destination for your “Bucket List”.

 

In 2007 The New York Times estimated that there are about 1,500 known Jewish persons living in Cuba, most of them (about 1,100) living in Havana with a thriving community in Cienfuegos. For a time Cuba had no rabbi, but by 2007, one was based in a Havana synagogue. He often encourages visiting Jewish peoples to give Tzedakah (charity) for the community. There are three synagogues in Havana. In December 2006, the Cuban Jewish community celebrated its 100th anniversary.

What to Expect: Our small groups encourage camaraderie and personalized attention. We travel with our experienced English speaking Cuban guide all our visits are coordinated by trained local experts living in each  location we visit to give us an authentic hands-on knowledge.   On this six day program you will have an opportunity to meet ordinary Cuban citizens to visit studios and dinner in private homes; visit two synagogues in Havana (Sephardic and Ashkenazic); the historic cemetery and participate in the Shabbat dinner with members of the community.  In Cienfuegos we will visit the home of the community leader which doubles as a synagogue.   Our programs offer engaging walking tours, a hallmark of our itinerary to examine the personalities of diverse neighborhoods. Guests should be physically fit, able to walk moderate distances, exit and enter the coach quickly and navigate stairs and uneven the cobble stone streets of Old Havana.   The program is designed to give you an in-depth experience of life in Cuba's cultural heritage.   

Registration is limited.  

We are commitment to the health and comfort of our travelers with enhanced sanitation which includes coach disinfection several times daily, requiring the rules for preventing the spread of disease such as wearing a mask throughout the program, respecting social distancing guidelines and remaining contact-less as can be possible.

 

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Details 

Dates    

Fall 2021 

Duration  

 6 days / 5 nights.

Rates

To be determined, based on program dates.

Interest and Activity Level

This program is for the curious to learn first-hand about life in Cuba for today's Jewish community.  Moderate ability for walking is required. 

Itinerary at a Glance

  • DAY 1.  

Arrive Havana.  Enjoy an orientation before our welcome at artist's home in suburb of Havana. 

  • DAY 2. 

Explore Old Havana with our guide  on a walking tour through the neighborhoods of the historic Old Jewish Quarter.   Lunch in Old Havana followed by a visit to the Hemingway Estate outside the city.  Dinner overlooking Havana harbor at the historic Hotel Nacional de Cuba.  Evening free.

  • DAY 3. 

Full day excursion to central Cuba to the 19th century port city of Cienfuegos.  We will enjoy a walking tour of the historic city center, the pedestrian  shopping area, visit to the local  artisan gallery and printmaking atelier to meet the artists and perhaps purchase an authentic local artwork.  After the visit to the city center we visit the home of Rebecca Lemus, the leader of the local community to make donation and learn about Jewish life in Cuba.  Returning to Havana you will have the option of attending Shabbat dinner with the members of the Havana community.  Evening free for Salsa or any number of local Jazz Clubs.

Includes

  • Group transfers to/from hotel in Havana.

  • Overnight accommodations in Havana, including daily breakfast, at the 5-Star Hotel Parque Central.  Centrally located in the center of the Historic Old Quarter.

  • Daily meals include 5 breakfast, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.

  • All activities, entrance fees, services and hotel porterage, plus gratuities for all guides and driver.

  • Throughout your journey you will be in the care of one of our experienced professionals who manages all logistics to allow you to relax and enjoy the experience. 

  • An enriching travel experience with our expert led educational talks.

  • Letter authorizing your participation in a U.S. government  approved program. 

  • Ongoing support from our U.S. and Cuban staff before, during and after travel.

  • DAY 4. 

This morning visit the Sephardic synagogue and community center.   Travel across Havana harbor to the Ashkenazic cemetery before lunch in Old Havana. Afternoon free for private exploration or join your guide to the Craft Market.   Dinner at a  private restaurant.   Free evening.

  • DAY 5. 

 Today we look at Cuba's fine art heritage with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, with examples spanning  from the colonial to the contemporary art.  We have time to visit  private art studios for an intimate look at photography and fine arts.  Travel outside Havana for lunch at the  studio  and home of José Fuster (Fusterlandia).  Balance of the day is free.  Options will be available with our guide.   Farewell dinner at one of Havana's best restaurants.

  • DAY 6. 

Morning check-out.  Depart for airport and return flights.​

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MORE DETAILS

Excludes

  • Flights to/from Havana.

  • Airport transfers not included, unless with the Group.

  • Meals not indicated unless listed on the itinerary. 

  • Optional activities and personal expenses.

  • Travel insurance. 

  • Any liability due to necessary changes to itinerary.

  • Securing the necessary Cuban Travel Cards.  The airline is obligated to supply the Tourist Card and  Cuban Medical Insurance.  We are available for guidance. 

Synagogue in Havana

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Farewell group portrait 

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Group in Cienfuegos

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RETURN

© 1998-2021

 WorldGuest, Inc. All rights reserved.

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST40096

Phone: 305.868.9690

Program is operated by WorldGuest Travel Services, , Inc. and is licensed to travel to Cuba for authorized exchange activities.  These regulations require that guest’s participation on each program is mandatory. All travelers will receive confirmation authorizing travel to Cuba. Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST40096

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