We have reached out to those who chose to travel Cuba on a small group to find out more about why it was their preferred option, what they found, what they’d change and most importantly would they recommend it?
I have been telling you about the benefits of leaving the hotels and going past the Havana boundary lines. There’s just a whole new world to experience out there. Sure, it can be overwhelming to try to figure it all out yourself, trying to plan the itinerary, ensure the accommodation is up to scratch, researching the sights to see, but it doesn’t have to be like that!
One of the things people loved most about being on a small group tour in Cuba was that the itinerary was organised, they felt they fit in a lot more being able to go with the flow of the itinerary rather than trying to figure everything out themselves.
Given the fact that most things aren’t easily researched, booked or found over the internet from afar, it is great to have someone on the ground who know what they are doing to sort things out.
Due to the fact that Cuba is at least a few hour plane ride for most, those who joined a tour felt that there was no point on flying so far just to sit by the pool or even beach at the hotel for their whole holiday! Instead they were up to meeting different people, both on tour an on the ground and getting a deeper experience and building connection.
When asked what the best part about being a tour, they sighted the other people on the trip, having a guide, driver, and everything organised. Other benefits were being able to see lots of different places yet not having the itinerary over crowded, making the trip quite relaxing and quite laid back.
The people asked, also had the opportunity to spend some time at a hotel on their trip. This was actually noted as one of the downers. Casas on the other hand were noted to be a great experience due to the hosts and the insight it has given into Cuban lives. We are very glad to only use the services of local casas to ensure a great experience from start to finish.
It is also great to hear that some myths were busted whilst enjoying a small group our in Cuba, things like being strictly controlled as a tourist, having a complicated dual monetary system – which has seized since and ensuring that you do in fact have the right travel insurance coverage in place. Latter is more important than ever in the current climate.
The travelers enjoyed having the insight of Cuban life from the people on the ground and get immersed into the Cuban experience and felt safe during the whole tour. In fact many noted that it seemed safer in Cuba than at home.
One challenge they found was about the visa – what they needed and how they go about it. Here at Simply Cuba we assist you to prepare for your travel. We want to be with you every step of the way, which is why we provide you with communication about requirements and contacts/links to organise your travel insurance, visa, and the like. If you are ever unsure, just reach out. We are happy to help!
As to what tips they’d give to a fellow traveller, majority said – Stay at least 2 weeks if you can, choose a tour to travel around on so you get to see more!
