Larry K.
Excellent authentic Cuban experience.
Our “Long Weekend” itinerary was EXCELLENT. It fulfilled our desire to visit Havana, meet with Cuban people and show support (spent money at local businesses and brought crayons, pencils, pens, rubber bands,etc for kids)...and see the cars of my youth. Karin was very helpful pre-trip in answering all of our questions and the itinerary provided was accurate and diversified. Our guide, Adriana, was the perfect “hostess”, showing, explaining, answering questions, preparing us for what’s next, etc...she made the experience informative and enjoyable. We drove and walked through many neighborhoods of Havana and Old Havana that reflected the daily life of the Cuban people-streets and avenues, marketplaces, churches, a synagogue, public squares, local paladares (restaurants), etc. Our driver, Francisco, was polite and attentive and, although he spoke very little English, was always there when we needed him and his air conditioned car was always cool and a blessing in the summer heat. Our bedroom and private bathroom in the casa particular was very basic but extraordinarily clean and air conditioned ( unlike the rest of the house) and it had a hairdryer (thrilled my wife). Breakfast was basic and good. If there was one disappointment, and only one, it was that the owner spoke very little english so we really couldn’t converse with her but she was very very nice. My wife had a medical need mid-trip and Adriana took us to an International clinic where she was seen quickly and meds provided. All very professional and very reasonably priced. Riding or walking, the sight of the cars from the 50’s and 60’s was very nostalgic, brought back memories and wonder as to how they keep them running. But you’ll just have to visit yourselves to find out! From being met on arrival by Adriana to leaving Cuba four days later, everything worked like clockwork. We highly recommend Espiritu Travel if you want an authentic Cuban experience, and Adriana as your guide.