Educational Travel in Cuba

If you want to get to know Cuba rather than simply lying around on the beach, there are lots of activities that will help you get under the skin of the country.

First up, you could visit the town of Viñales, known as the center of the Cuban cigar industry. It’s just three hours from Havana in a spectacular valley and you can follow the whole process from tobacco cultivation to drying and cigar rolling.

Those who feel like being active should consider a dance class. Cuba is an incredibly musical place and there’s no better way to make local friends than by joining in with some dancing. Take a class and you’ll be able to hold your own on the floor rather than tripping over yourself.

As most people are surely aware, Cuba is also famous for its rum. Havana Club is perhaps the most famous brand and offers tours of its facilities where you can see traditional distilling equipment and get to know more about the process.

Another good option is a trip to Callejon de Hamel in Havana. This alley is famous for its connection to Santeria, a syncretic religion hugely popular on the island. Come down to watch the dancing on Sundays at midday and learn about the belief system.