Cuba: Turning the Last Page of 1962
Workshop Date:
November 10-17, 2024
Cost $5,499.00. | Limited to 8 Participants
“When people look at my pictures I want them to feel the way they do when they want to read a line of a poem twice.”
-Robert Frank
I believe that the greatest photographs are ones that have the feel of a breath held expectant. An instant of time when the photographer was so taken by the moment the gasp of awe of that moment caused the shutter to be released. The breath of the instant of time forever held in an image. Motion caught in stillness. Cuba is a place where these moments of timelessness are in abundance. The future is always on the horizon but the past is present today in Cuba in a way that very, very few places have.
Ernest Hemingway wrote “In order to write about life first you must live it.” The photographer Robert Doisneau said “The marvels of daily life are exciting; no movie director can arrange the unexpected that you find in the street.”
This is a photographic-centric workshop. Our approach is to be where the photographs are: at street level. Every choice is to create an experience that allows you to be taken by the photograph. You will not just view the world of Cuba as a passing glance but experience the moment that makes for images that hold the viewer the same way you were held.
So I invite you to join me for a whole unique journey with access to Schools, artists & artisans, musicians, Ballet dancers, cigar plantations and beautiful landscapes. Experience moments of modern day Cuba while feeling the past and present at once.
What is Included:
Compliance with U.S. Treasury Department regulations:
This ensures that the trip is conducted in accordance with the regulations set by the U.S. Treasury Department regarding travel to Cuba.
Full schedule of guided support for the Cuban people activities:
A variety of guided activities and interactions with the local people, fostering cultural exchange and providing opportunities to learn about the Cuban way of life.
Cuba Entry Visa:
This includes the necessary documentation to enter Cuba legally, such as a tourist visa or other required travel permits.
Legal Letter of authorization:
This letter serves as official authorization for your travel to Cuba under the designated category, demonstrating compliance with U.S. regulations.
Pre-trip departure information:
This includes essential details and guidance provided before the trip, such as travel itineraries, packing suggestions, and any other relevant information.
Land transportation and local transfers in Cuba:
This covers transportation services within Cuba, including transfers from airports or other designated meeting points to the accommodation and various destinations throughout the trip. In Havana, transportation is typically provided in beautiful classic cars, adding a unique touch to the experience.
Seven nights in high-end apartments in Centro Havana:
Accommodation arrangements in high-quality apartments or “Paticulars” located in Centro Havana, providing a comfortable and upscale living environment during the trip.
All Meals:
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in the cost of the trip. Breakfast is served every morning at the Paticular. Lunch and dinner are at “Paladares” (privately-owned restaurants) and unique private dining establishments, allowing you to experience Cuban cuisine and culture.
Comprehensive educational exchange program:
This involves a program of educational activities and cultural exchanges designed to provide insights into the Cuban society, history, and daily life. (The program may include visits to museums, historical sites, art galleries, and other relevant locations.)
Entrance fees to places listed in the itinerary:
The cost of entrance fees or tickets to various attractions, sites, or events specified in the itinerary provided for the trip.
Expert Tour Leader and Expert Local Guide:
In addition to myself, a knowledgeable and experienced local guide or “Fixer” will accompany the group throughout the trip, providing guidance, information, translation and assistance.
Full schedule of guided people-to-people activities:
A variety of guided activities and interactions with the local people, fostering cultural exchange and providing opportunities to learn about the Cuban way of life.
NOTE: Lastly, the most important thing to keep in mind is this; specific inclusions and the order of things and such are subject circumstances on the ground (I.e. weather, changes in event times and the like).
What is Not Included:
Cost of obtaining a passport:
The package does not cover the cost associated with obtaining a passport. Travelers are responsible for acquiring a valid passport on their own.
Travel/cancellation insurance: *
The package does not include travel or cancellation insurance. It is recommended for travelers to arrange their own insurance coverage to protect against unforeseen circumstances.
*NOTE: Should you want it, the service I use to arrange visas offers Travel Guard, as soon as they have their information the forms can be filled out to get a quote.
Flights to Cuba:
The package does not cover the cost of flights to Cuba. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Cuba.
Optional events with admission fees:
Any optional events or activities that require additional admission fees, such as museums, nightclubs, or any other optional activities listed in the itinerary, are not included in the package.
Beverages:
The package does not cover the cost of beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, during meals or other times.
Nighttime performances:
The cost of attending nighttime performances, such as concerts, shows, or other entertainment activities scheduled during the evenings, is not included in the package.
All expenses of a personal nature:
Any expenses of a personal nature, such as personal shopping, laundry, telephone calls, or other personal expenses, are not included in the package.
Airline baggage fees or excess baggage charges:
The package does not cover any fees or charges associated with airline baggage, including excess baggage fees. Travelers are responsible for any additional costs related to their luggage.
Any additional costs not included in the itinerary:
Any additional expenses or activities not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the package and will be the responsibility of the traveler.
Tips:
Tips for guides, drivers, servers, and chambermaids etc. are not included in the package. It is customary to tip for services provided, and travelers should budget for tipping accordingly.