Jim Ashworth, Groups Team

Where have you been?
Cuba: Havana, Viñales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad ,Camagüey, Baracoa, Santiago and Bayamo.

Have you been there before?
No

How did you get there?
Flew direct with Virgin Atlantic

How long were you there?
14 nights

Which was your favourite...
Place: Trinidad
Hotel: Camino del Hierro, Camagüey
Excursion: Comandancia de la Plata trek.

Appeals to which type of traveller/client?
Can appeal to everyone especially those interested in history – social as well as colonial history. People looking for a mixture a historical interest as well as relaxation/beach. Also for open minded people who can handle different experiences – and sometimes things going wrong!

Key items to pack/take with you?
Toiletries. We take for granted that we can just buy the shampoo and toothbrush anywhere but it’s not the case in Cuba. Make sure you have your own!

Any good food, drinks, restaurants or bars recommendations?
In general restaurants are getting better, but for a traditional experience go to a Paladar. Also, every town has a Casa de la Musica where you have live music and can find cheap and good rum.

Room for improvement?
With the Americans coming things in general will improve dramatically. Which could also be for the worse as some of the backwardness is what makes Cuba unique; part of its charm.

How would you summarise /sum up your trip in a sentence?
One of the most interesting and fascinating places I have ever been . Latin America meets the Soviet Union.

Take a peek at our Self-drive eastern Cuba: Havana to the Sierra Maestra.