Is my money safe if I book with you?
Absolutely. We are a member of ABTA and we also hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority. ABTA and ATOL members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. The air inclusive holidays that we arrange are ATOL protected if the first leg of your trip departs from the UK. Where a holiday is ATOL protected, the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and refund any money for an advance booking in the unlikely event of our insolvency. If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday in the same way except that, if already abroad, you will be returned to the point where your contracted arrangements with us commenced. For further information, visit www.atol.org.uk and www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection. Also see our Terms and Conditions for more information:
Can I pay in instalments?
At the time of booking we will need to collect the following deposits based on the time until your departure date:
Over 3 months before departure: 25% of the total Travel Plan Price
1-3 months before departure: 50% of the total Travel Plan Price
Less than 1 month before departure: 75% of the total Travel Plan Price
Do I need to pay for my flights seperately?
International Flights must be paid for in full before the ticketing deadline. If your flights have been placed on hold, your travel specialist will inform you of the ticketing deadline.
What makes Cuba Travel Plan different?
We’re a tour operator with a twist, offering you a really unique way to experience Cuba. Instead of group tours, we offer you the chance to build your own trip with our range of bite-sized tours lasting a few days each. Our trips are all about flexibility, freedom and independence. When you arrive in Cuba, you’ll be given a welcome pack including all of your local transport tickets and accommodation vouchers, but you’ll travel independently during your holiday, joining a small group for some of the excursions and activities.
Are these group tours?
No. Our trips are independent, giving you the freedom to choose your own route. This also means that your trip does not run the risk of being cancelled due to lack of numbers. You’ll travel independently throughout most of your trip, joining a small group for some of the excursions and activities. During these excursions, you'll be escorted by an english-speaking guide and the group size is normally around 8-12 people. This means that you won't be travelling with the same group of people or guide throughout your whole trip.
Do you tailor make itineraries? Can we request specific hotels?
Although we do create itineraries for travel through Cuba, these are based on a series of our modules rather than specific requests. You can combine these modules in a number of different ways, and we can add extra nights in any of the destinations featured in your trip. All you need to do is list the modules that appeal to you, and we’ll link them together using our local knowledge.
What happens if I want to visit a destination that you don’t offer within your modules?
We believe that we cover the most interesting and beautiful places in Cuba with our modules, so we don’t offer any destinations that are not featured on the website. If, however, you would like to visit somewhere that we are unable to book, this is no problem at all. We can leave a gap within your itinerary and you can arrange this part of your trip separately.
Can you also book my flights?
Of course! We have the expertise and the airline deals to come up with the right flights for you. We'll ensure that your flights are perfectly co-ordinated with your itinerary, giving you the convenience of booking everything under 'one roof'. In addition, we'll keep you up to date with any airline schedule changes that might occur while you're away, and reshuffle your travel plans where necessary.
What if I’ve already booked my flights?
No problem, you can still make use of our services as we can help organise just your land arrangements.
Is there an age limit and do I need to be in really good shape for these trips?
Not at all. We offer a mix of active, adventurous modules as well as more relaxed cultural tours, so you can build an itinerary that is as action-packed or as laid back as you like. This means that we’re suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Our friendly travel specialists will be able to point you towards the modules that match your own personal fitness levels and wishes.
Are prices the same for single travellers?
We can organise trips for single travellers, but please do bear in mind that we do not organise group tours and all of our prices are therefore based on 2 people travelling. Our trips are independent therefore there will be a single supplement for your hotels, but during your tours you will join with a small group of other travellers.
Will we get much free time or is it a strict itinerary?
Our trips are all about freedom and independence, so you’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy your surroundings at your own pace. We offer city tours, cooking classes and local excursions that we believe will really enhance your trip, but you can opt in and out of these as you wish. As you’re in change of building your own itinerary, you can factor in as much free time as you need.
Do you have a brochure you can send me?
We are an online travel company and as such don't produce any brochures. All of the information about our trips can be found on our website. If you have any questions or would like any further information about our travel options, please feel free to contact me on 01273 320059 or you can reply to this email with any queries you may have.
Accommodation
Which standard of hotel do you use?
We prefer to steer clear of multinational /chain hotels and luxury resorts as these often lack character and atmosphere. Instead, we personally source with a range of small-scale, locally owned properties, all with clean, comfortable rooms and warm welcomes. We believe that you’ll get a far more interesting and authentic experience by travelling this way without sacrificing basic comfort.
What star rating are the hotels?
Rather than using star ratings to classify our accommodation, we go by different comfort levels, as explained on our accommodation page. All the accommodation suggested for you in this Travel Plan is comfort level 3-4. If you would like something even more special, just let me know and I'll upgrade you where possible.
Why can’t you tell me the names of my accommodation before booking?
We personally source small-scale, authentic accommodation for our trips, and these often have only a handful of rooms. Consequently, we choose a small pool of accommodation options in each destination, so if one is fully booked we can offer you another one of the same quality. We continually check to ensure that the quality is consistent across all of our choices. Therefore, like many other adventure travel companies, it is not possible to name the accommodation in advance of booking. However, once the final booking has been made, we can provide you with the full list of names of all of your hotels. In the meantime you can find out more about the style of accommodation we use and an explanation of our comfort levels on our accommodation page:
During your trip...
What kind of support can I expect when I am on my trip?
After you’ve booked your trip, we’ll email you a package of travel documents with details about our local partners with offices in Cuba. This will include an emergency contact number and the addresses of each office. Our local agents will be on hand 24/7 to lend a hand with anything that you need during your trip. Being located within Cuba, they are in a strong position to help with any issues that arise.
How will I get around during my trip?
We prefer to use local transport and therefore support local communities within Cuba wherever possible, as we believe that this creates a really memorable Cuba experience.
What happens after I had made my booking?
Once you're happy with your Travel Plan, just complete the booking form. Once we receive the booking form we will need to collect a down payment, and then we’ll send off your request to our local office to get it confirmed. Once everything has been confirmed, we’ll collect the rest of the balance (if you’re leaving within 3 months of your booking date). We’ll then email all your travel documents, including the details of your accommodation. If during the confirmation process the accommodation or modules are not available, we’ll work with you to re-arrange alternatives, which could have a small bearing on the price, but we’ll always get something sorted.
Is it possible to travel in Cuba with children?
It’s definitely possible to travel in Cuba with children; in fact it’s a popular family holiday destination. There is plenty in Havana and at the beach resorts to keep them amused. Bear in mind that driving distances are long and that young children especially can get very tired, especially in the heat. Many hotels offer discounts for children though it depends on their age. Remember to bring everything you may need with you for babies and childcare as supplies are short in Cuba. Also remember that medical supplies are often unavailable in Cuba so bring everything you may possible need with you. Please take your child’s car seat with you because these may not be available upon your arrival in Cuba.
What happens if I don’t like Cuban food?
Cuba is not famed for its cuisine and with food shortages and rations it’s no wonder why. The shelves in the supermarkets are often bare. It’s a difficult country for vegetarians because fresh fruit and vegetables are lacking so omelettes are often the only option. If you like rice and beans then you will be fine! That said however, you can find some really tasty home cooked meals at the home stays. Chicken and fish are common and generally meals are not at all spicy. Delicious shrimps and lobster are available in season at coastal areas. Be warned, Western dishes will normally always not appear or taste like you would imagine them too.
Will anybody speak English?
Most Cubans are very well educated and in the cities you will find many friendly and helpful English speaking people who want to chat with you and practise their English. In the more rural areas however there is less English spoken. We recommend taking a phrasebook and learning a little bit of Spanish before you go. This will surely help in any potentially awkward situation, but more likely is that you will have some fun practicing with locals which will definitely enrich your Cuban experience. You can always fall back on universal body language too!
What are the likely costs when I’m out there?
The amount of money you'll actually spend on holiday, that you'll have to bring along with you, depends on your spending pattern. This can vary from pocket change to platinum credit card depending on taste and comfort. Cuba Travel Plan suggests that on average you'll spend about £35-40 per person, per day for food, drink and petrol. If you’re a shopaholic or partial to more than a few mojitos then this will be substantially more. In general, prices in restaurants are on par with Europe. Taxis are a little bit cheaper and internet is expensive at 6CUC per hour. Museum entrance fees range from 2 - 5CUC. People will want tips for every small service, it is just the way it is in Cuba. People rely heavily upon tourists in order to gain access to the convertible peso as they are paid in moneda nacional and 24 = 1 CUC. Prepare to spend a few CUC’s a day in tips including at live music venues for the musicians.
What travel insurance do I need?
Last year the government announced that all travellers to Cuba need to show a valid travel insurance policy which is valid in Cuba and covers them for medical expenses upon their arrival. You must purchase a policy in the UK (or own country) and ensure that it covers the cost of repatriation back to the UK (or own country) in the unlikely event that it is necessary. Medical supplies are scarce in Cuba and hospital stays are expensive and although healthcare in Havana is good, evacuation by air may be necessary and the Cuban government will not allow you to enter the country without proof that you are covered for this. Although it is possible to purchase a Cuban policy on arrival this is very expensive and does not cover everything you may need. Sometimes insurance policies offered by credit cards or banks do not offer complete protection. In Cuba this is especially important because of limited funds and medical supplies, which is why the government wish to ensure that all travellers are adequately covered. It is your responsibility to provide adequate insurance to cover health so you must thoroughly check that Cuba is included and exactly what is covered. Take the policy wording document and certificate with you ready to show the authorities on arrival.
Do I need an international driver’s license to drive in Cuba?
No, a valid UK drivers license with photo ID is sufficient.
Absolutely. We are a member of ABTA and we also hold an Air Travel Organiser's Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority. ABTA and ATOL members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. The air inclusive holidays that we arrange are ATOL protected if the first leg of your trip departs from the UK. Where a holiday is ATOL protected, the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and refund any money for an advance booking in the unlikely event of our insolvency. If your holiday does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday in the same way except that, if already abroad, you will be returned to the point where your contracted arrangements with us commenced. For further information, visit www.atol.org.uk and www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection. Also see our Terms and Conditions for more information:
Can I pay in instalments?
At the time of booking we will need to collect the following deposits based on the time until your departure date:
Over 3 months before departure: 25% of the total Travel Plan Price
1-3 months before departure: 50% of the total Travel Plan Price
Less than 1 month before departure: 75% of the total Travel Plan Price
Do I need to pay for my flights seperately?
International Flights must be paid for in full before the ticketing deadline. If your flights have been placed on hold, your travel specialist will inform you of the ticketing deadline.
What makes Cuba Travel Plan different?
We’re a tour operator with a twist, offering you a really unique way to experience Cuba. Instead of group tours, we offer you the chance to build your own trip with our range of bite-sized tours lasting a few days each. Our trips are all about flexibility, freedom and independence. When you arrive in Cuba, you’ll be given a welcome pack including all of your local transport tickets and accommodation vouchers, but you’ll travel independently during your holiday, joining a small group for some of the excursions and activities.
Are these group tours?
No. Our trips are independent, giving you the freedom to choose your own route. This also means that your trip does not run the risk of being cancelled due to lack of numbers. You’ll travel independently throughout most of your trip, joining a small group for some of the excursions and activities. During these excursions, you'll be escorted by an english-speaking guide and the group size is normally around 8-12 people. This means that you won't be travelling with the same group of people or guide throughout your whole trip.
Do you tailor make itineraries? Can we request specific hotels?
Although we do create itineraries for travel through Cuba, these are based on a series of our modules rather than specific requests. You can combine these modules in a number of different ways, and we can add extra nights in any of the destinations featured in your trip. All you need to do is list the modules that appeal to you, and we’ll link them together using our local knowledge.
What happens if I want to visit a destination that you don’t offer within your modules?
We believe that we cover the most interesting and beautiful places in Cuba with our modules, so we don’t offer any destinations that are not featured on the website. If, however, you would like to visit somewhere that we are unable to book, this is no problem at all. We can leave a gap within your itinerary and you can arrange this part of your trip separately.
Can you also book my flights?
Of course! We have the expertise and the airline deals to come up with the right flights for you. We'll ensure that your flights are perfectly co-ordinated with your itinerary, giving you the convenience of booking everything under 'one roof'. In addition, we'll keep you up to date with any airline schedule changes that might occur while you're away, and reshuffle your travel plans where necessary.
What if I’ve already booked my flights?
No problem, you can still make use of our services as we can help organise just your land arrangements.
Is there an age limit and do I need to be in really good shape for these trips?
Not at all. We offer a mix of active, adventurous modules as well as more relaxed cultural tours, so you can build an itinerary that is as action-packed or as laid back as you like. This means that we’re suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Our friendly travel specialists will be able to point you towards the modules that match your own personal fitness levels and wishes.
Are prices the same for single travellers?
We can organise trips for single travellers, but please do bear in mind that we do not organise group tours and all of our prices are therefore based on 2 people travelling. Our trips are independent therefore there will be a single supplement for your hotels, but during your tours you will join with a small group of other travellers.
Will we get much free time or is it a strict itinerary?
Our trips are all about freedom and independence, so you’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy your surroundings at your own pace. We offer city tours, cooking classes and local excursions that we believe will really enhance your trip, but you can opt in and out of these as you wish. As you’re in change of building your own itinerary, you can factor in as much free time as you need.
Do you have a brochure you can send me?
We are an online travel company and as such don't produce any brochures. All of the information about our trips can be found on our website. If you have any questions or would like any further information about our travel options, please feel free to contact me on 01273 320059 or you can reply to this email with any queries you may have.
Accommodation
Which standard of hotel do you use?
We prefer to steer clear of multinational /chain hotels and luxury resorts as these often lack character and atmosphere. Instead, we personally source with a range of small-scale, locally owned properties, all with clean, comfortable rooms and warm welcomes. We believe that you’ll get a far more interesting and authentic experience by travelling this way without sacrificing basic comfort.
What star rating are the hotels?
Rather than using star ratings to classify our accommodation, we go by different comfort levels, as explained on our accommodation page. All the accommodation suggested for you in this Travel Plan is comfort level 3-4. If you would like something even more special, just let me know and I'll upgrade you where possible.
Why can’t you tell me the names of my accommodation before booking?
We personally source small-scale, authentic accommodation for our trips, and these often have only a handful of rooms. Consequently, we choose a small pool of accommodation options in each destination, so if one is fully booked we can offer you another one of the same quality. We continually check to ensure that the quality is consistent across all of our choices. Therefore, like many other adventure travel companies, it is not possible to name the accommodation in advance of booking. However, once the final booking has been made, we can provide you with the full list of names of all of your hotels. In the meantime you can find out more about the style of accommodation we use and an explanation of our comfort levels on our accommodation page:
During your trip...
What kind of support can I expect when I am on my trip?
After you’ve booked your trip, we’ll email you a package of travel documents with details about our local partners with offices in Cuba. This will include an emergency contact number and the addresses of each office. Our local agents will be on hand 24/7 to lend a hand with anything that you need during your trip. Being located within Cuba, they are in a strong position to help with any issues that arise.
How will I get around during my trip?
We prefer to use local transport and therefore support local communities within Cuba wherever possible, as we believe that this creates a really memorable Cuba experience.
What happens after I had made my booking?
Once you're happy with your Travel Plan, just complete the booking form. Once we receive the booking form we will need to collect a down payment, and then we’ll send off your request to our local office to get it confirmed. Once everything has been confirmed, we’ll collect the rest of the balance (if you’re leaving within 3 months of your booking date). We’ll then email all your travel documents, including the details of your accommodation. If during the confirmation process the accommodation or modules are not available, we’ll work with you to re-arrange alternatives, which could have a small bearing on the price, but we’ll always get something sorted.
Is it possible to travel in Cuba with children?
It’s definitely possible to travel in Cuba with children; in fact it’s a popular family holiday destination. There is plenty in Havana and at the beach resorts to keep them amused. Bear in mind that driving distances are long and that young children especially can get very tired, especially in the heat. Many hotels offer discounts for children though it depends on their age. Remember to bring everything you may need with you for babies and childcare as supplies are short in Cuba. Also remember that medical supplies are often unavailable in Cuba so bring everything you may possible need with you. Please take your child’s car seat with you because these may not be available upon your arrival in Cuba.
What happens if I don’t like Cuban food?
Cuba is not famed for its cuisine and with food shortages and rations it’s no wonder why. The shelves in the supermarkets are often bare. It’s a difficult country for vegetarians because fresh fruit and vegetables are lacking so omelettes are often the only option. If you like rice and beans then you will be fine! That said however, you can find some really tasty home cooked meals at the home stays. Chicken and fish are common and generally meals are not at all spicy. Delicious shrimps and lobster are available in season at coastal areas. Be warned, Western dishes will normally always not appear or taste like you would imagine them too.
Will anybody speak English?
Most Cubans are very well educated and in the cities you will find many friendly and helpful English speaking people who want to chat with you and practise their English. In the more rural areas however there is less English spoken. We recommend taking a phrasebook and learning a little bit of Spanish before you go. This will surely help in any potentially awkward situation, but more likely is that you will have some fun practicing with locals which will definitely enrich your Cuban experience. You can always fall back on universal body language too!
What are the likely costs when I’m out there?
The amount of money you'll actually spend on holiday, that you'll have to bring along with you, depends on your spending pattern. This can vary from pocket change to platinum credit card depending on taste and comfort. Cuba Travel Plan suggests that on average you'll spend about £35-40 per person, per day for food, drink and petrol. If you’re a shopaholic or partial to more than a few mojitos then this will be substantially more. In general, prices in restaurants are on par with Europe. Taxis are a little bit cheaper and internet is expensive at 6CUC per hour. Museum entrance fees range from 2 - 5CUC. People will want tips for every small service, it is just the way it is in Cuba. People rely heavily upon tourists in order to gain access to the convertible peso as they are paid in moneda nacional and 24 = 1 CUC. Prepare to spend a few CUC’s a day in tips including at live music venues for the musicians.
What travel insurance do I need?
Last year the government announced that all travellers to Cuba need to show a valid travel insurance policy which is valid in Cuba and covers them for medical expenses upon their arrival. You must purchase a policy in the UK (or own country) and ensure that it covers the cost of repatriation back to the UK (or own country) in the unlikely event that it is necessary. Medical supplies are scarce in Cuba and hospital stays are expensive and although healthcare in Havana is good, evacuation by air may be necessary and the Cuban government will not allow you to enter the country without proof that you are covered for this. Although it is possible to purchase a Cuban policy on arrival this is very expensive and does not cover everything you may need. Sometimes insurance policies offered by credit cards or banks do not offer complete protection. In Cuba this is especially important because of limited funds and medical supplies, which is why the government wish to ensure that all travellers are adequately covered. It is your responsibility to provide adequate insurance to cover health so you must thoroughly check that Cuba is included and exactly what is covered. Take the policy wording document and certificate with you ready to show the authorities on arrival.
Do I need an international driver’s license to drive in Cuba?
No, a valid UK drivers license with photo ID is sufficient.