Cuban Discovery January 19-27, 2019

Dear W&L Alumni, Parents, and Friends,

We invite you to join us on an eye-opening adventure, one specially designed to illuminate the fascinating past, present, and future of a Caribbean nation that has been off-limits to most Americans for over half a century.

At this pivotal moment in time, Cuba remains authentically herself-an island of captivating vitality and unspoiled natural beauty, of vibrant artistic tradition and architectural heritage. Accompanied by expert guides, we'll go beyond conventional tourism to engage in meaningful interactions with local musicians, entrepreneurs, students, historians, artists, and more. Each day of our itinerary offers extraordinary experiences, from strolling through Cuban artist José Fuster's neighborhood-a wonderland of colorful tiles and turrets-to watching the country's flourishing art scene come alive during studio tours and student performances.

This intimate small-group journey features interludes in lively Havana, charming Santa Clara, and the colorful, well-preserved towns of Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and Sancti Spíritus. To make our trip as stress-free as possible, our operator Go Next will take care of our flights to and from Cuba, supply all necessary documentation, and make sure all the worrisome details are taken care of so we can relax and enjoy the trip.

Space is limited on this small group tour, so I encourage you to reserve now and avoid missing this chance to explore Cuba's fascinating cultural landscape.

Sincerely,
Rub Fure, Director, The W&L Traveller

A New Era

From Havana's colonial core-a jewel box of grand churches and mansions-to Trinidad's terracotta rooftops set against a backdrop of rolling green hills, it's easy to fall under Cuba's spell. And now, as US-Cuba relations continue to evolve, there's never been a more exciting time to experience this breathtaking island firsthand. With insider access to premier guides, intimate connections, and off-the-beaten-path sites, our signature journey brings you closer to the authentic Cuba--more complex and inspiring than you ever imagined--with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Destinations

Havana

Dynamic and captivating, Cuba's capital city is an impressive cultural and architectural feast pulsating with Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

Highlights:

  • Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Museum of the Revolution
  • National Museum of Fine Arts
  • NostalgiCar Garage
  • Fusterlandia
  • Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway's estate
  • University of Havana
  • Cojímar, fishing village and setting for Hemingway's The Old Man and the Sea
  • Cemetery of Christopher Columbus
  • Clave de Sol music project
  • NostalgiCar Garage restoration project
  • Dinners in paladares (private homes)

Cienfuegos

The only Cuban city founded by French settlers, Cienfuegos spreads around a lovely natural bay and offers a superb model of 19th-century urban planning in Latin America.

Highlights:

  • French-inspired architecture
  • Punta Gorda Peninsula
  • UNESCO-protected historic center
  • Parque Martí
  • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
  • Ferrer Palace
  • Teatro Tomás Terry
  • Musical performance by the Cienfuegos choir or orchestra

Trinidad

Spanish colonial beauty reaches a pinnacle in wonderfully preserved Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and timeless town where five hundred years of rich history and architectural majesty take center stage.

Highlights:

  • Plaza Mayor
  • Convento de San Francisco de Asis
  • Trinidad Architecture Museum
  • Iglesia Parroquial de la Santísima Trinidad
  • Casa particular (bed-and-breakfast)

Sancti Spíritus

A serene provincial capital with understated charm, Sancti Spíritus lies in the heart of Cuba and boasts one of the best-preserved colonial churches in the country.

Highlights:

  • Plaza de Jesús (Honorato Park)
  • Iglesia Parroquial Mayor (Main Church)
  • Ration store

Santa Clara

The capital of Villa Clara Province, Santa Clara holds an eventful past as the site of the last battle in the Cuban Revolution and an exciting present with its thriving cultural scene.

Highlights:

  • Dance, theater, and music performances by students of the Santa Clara Music and Performing Arts School
  • Che Guevara monument (photo stop)

Inclusions

$4,899 per person, double occupancy.

Miami Included Features

  • 1 night at the Crowne Plaza Miami International Airport hotel or similar accommodation
  • Transfer between Miami airport and hotel
  • Orientation meeting covering documentation, currency exchange, and more
  • Exclusive Go Next local representative in Miami to provide hands-on assistance with travel documents, airport transfers, and airline check-in
  • Round-trip airfare from Miami to Cuba, including departure tax and 1 checked bag per person
  • Cuban airport meet and greet with Cuban national guide
  • Transfer between Cuban airport and hotel (luggage handling and gratuities included)
  • Pre-trip assistance and information including an orientation guide, a book and film list, and more

Cuba Included Features

  • 7 nights' accommodations
  • 18 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners, including a welcome and farewell dinner
  • Private, air-conditioned motor coach
  • Full schedule of educational activities
  • Smaller group size, allowing for a more rewarding tour experience
  • Cuban travel certification under the US Department of the Treasury
  • Entrance fees to scheduled tour sites
  • Private English-speaking Cuban national guide
  • Private Cuban driver
  • Go Next Program Manager
  • Gratuities for restaurant staff, guides on-site at local people-to-people venues, and hotel porters
  • Presentation led by a Cuban expert, providing unique commentary on the nation's economy and culture
  • Cuban travel insurance covering medical repatriation expenses only, as required by the Cuban government, valid only during your stay in Cuba

Not Included

  • Airfare between home and Miami
  • Passport fees
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional travel insurance
  • Excess or overweight baggage fees
  • Gratuities for Cuban national guide and coach driver
  • Other items not specifically mentioned as included
  • A Cuban visa and travel affidavit from US Department of Treasury will be provided by Go Next at the traveler's expense (added automatically to each reservation).

Hotels

Hotels are subject to change for similar accomodations.

Meliá Cohiba

Located in Havana's colorful Vedado neighborhood, the modern Meliá Cohiba hotel is just a short drive from Old Havana. Stroll along the Malecón, the city's famous promenade; explore the Plaza de la Revolución; or enjoy the hotel's outdoor pool, whirlpool, solarium, gym, restaurants, and bars.

Hotel Plaza

Standing in the old quarter of Sancti Spíritus is the charming Hotel Plaza, offering a memorable and authentic Cuban hotel experience. Originally built in the 19th century as a family mansion, this quaint hotel has been completely renovated to reflect its former colonial style. Take in views of the main square from the rooftop terrace, or visit the on-site bar and restaurant.

Operator/Participant Agreement

Go Next, Inc. (hereinafter GN), located at 8000 West 78th Street, Suite 345, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55439-2538, in return for full payment by you of the amounts specified, is responsible to arrange for the transportation, accommodations and other services specified as included in this brochure as and to the extent you have selected them, and subject to the following terms and conditions. Unless expressly specified as included by this brochure, services, taxes and fees are not included.

Responsibility

GN is responsible to you for arranging all included transportation, accommodations and other services. However, in the absence of negligence on its part, GN and the affinity group (hereinafter AG) for which this program was developed are not responsible for personal injury, property damage, or any other loss, claim or damage arising out of or related to goods or services offered or included. GN and the AG for which this program was developed are not responsible for personal injury, property damage or any other loss, claim or damage related to or arising out of, in whole or in part, the acts or omissions of any direct air carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other person not its direct employee or not under its exclusive control supplying any services or providing any goods offered or included. GN and the AG for which this program was developed are not responsible for personal injury, property damage or any other loss, claim or damage arising out of, either in whole or in part, acts of God, weather, labor strife, government actions, mechanical breakdowns, war-like acts, terroristic activities or other causes reasonably beyond the respective control of GN and the AG for which this program was developed. GN and the AG for which this program was developed are not responsible for incidental or consequential losses or damages.

Neither GN nor the AG for which this program was developed are responsible for any penalty, loss or inconvenience resulting from air or land arrangements made independently by travelers, including non-refundable conditions, restricted travel or frequent flyer tickets.

Traveler Responsibility

GN has been issued a specific license by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (hereinafter OFAC) to organize and conduct a program consisting of a full- time schedule of educational exchange activities that will result in meaningful interaction between the travelers and individuals in Cuba. U.S. law requires that all participants adhere to this full-time schedule of activities, and imposes on GN the obligation to ensure such adherence. By registering, I/we confirm and agree to adhere (without deviation) to the itinerary submitted by GN and approved by OFAC. In the event any traveler does not adhere to this full-time schedule, GN will require the traveler to leave the travel program and may result in legal penalties for the traveler. OFAC may require the submission of a report from each participant concerning the activities undertaken pursuant to GN's license. Each participant is required to keep a record of all transactions undertaken pursuant to GN's license for a period of at least five years from the date of travel.

Payment

A deposit in the amount shown on the reservation form and a signed agreement for each person is required to secure reservations. Final payment is due as shown on the reservation form. If space is fully booked, your payment will be returned or, with your authorization, your name placed on a waiting list. ALL CHECKS AND MONEY ORDERS ARE TO BE MADE PAYABLE AS INDICATED ON THE RESERVATION FORM. CONFIRMATION IS SUBJECT TO RECEIPT BY GN OF DEPOSIT AND A SIGNED AGREEMENT.

Prices

GN RESERVES THE RIGHT TO INCREASE PRICES IN THE EVENT OF ANY INCREASED SECURITY OR FUEL RELATED SURCHARGES, OR AIRFARE INCREASES IMPOSED BY THE AIRLINE THAT MAY BE IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF TICKETING OR TRAVEL, FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC TAX INCREASES, OR ADVERSE CURRENCY EXCHANGE FLUCTUATIONS, AFTER JANUARY 01, 2018. GN RESERVES THE RIGHT, IF NECESSARY OR ADVISABLE, TO SUBSTITUTE HOTELS BUT IS NOT OBLIGED TO DO SO.

The price is based on tariffs in effect for estimated 2019 prices as of January 01, 2018. Prices increase every year, and it is therefore possible that increases could occur after the printing of this brochure and in advance of your departure.

Air Transportation

Airfares are capacity controlled and may have restrictive terms and conditions. Participants who make their domestic airline reservations with Go Next will be responsible for any airline fees or penalties incurred as a result of program cancellation and/or change in travel dates, or airline schedule(s). After tickets are issued, penalties up to 100% of the ticket may be assessed by the airlines if reservations are changed or canceled after ticketing. Travel participants who choose to make their own domestic airline reservations independent of Go Next, will be wholly responsible for any airline fees or penalties incurred as a result of program cancellation and/or change in travel dates, or airline schedule(s). GN reserves the right to specify the international charter air carrier and routing. Some airline-imposed fees may be additional, including but not limited to baggage, priority boarding, and special seating.

Baggage

GN CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR DAMAGED LUGGAGE. YOU SHOULD GIVE IMMEDIATE NOTICE OF ANY LOST OR DAMAGED LUGGAGE TO THE INVOLVED AIR CARRIER, HOTEL, AND TO YOUR OWN INSURANCE COMPANY. AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES WILL BE ADDITIONAL. ALL FLIGHTS HAVE LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS.

Aircraft Boarding

The air carrier reserves the right to substitute equipment but is not obliged to do so. GN reserves the right to substitute air carriers but is not obliged to do so. GN CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR AIRLINE DELAYS.

Aircraft boarding privileges are limited to persons whose full payment and signed agreement have been received by GN and whose names are on the manifest given to the carrier before departure. All persons must also present a passport with at least six months validity beyond their return date and a Cuba visa when boarding. Improper documentation, inadequate proof of identity, inadequate proof of age for children under 2, or any other reason may result in denial of boarding privileges. The air carrier reserves the right to decline, accept or retain any person on the flight at any time within their sole discretion. If you are denied boarding privileges, you forfeit all monies paid and will be assessed any non-recoverable costs.

Visas

A visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba. GN's OFAC authorized travel service provider will endeavor to assist travelers in applying for the necessary visa subject to the following. A signed, valid passport is required for each person and it is suggested that if you do not already have your passport that you apply for it immediately. If you currently have a valid passport, it must be valid a minimum of 6 months after your scheduled date of return to meet the requirements for your visa. Visa assistance will only be provided for those travelers paid in full 45 days prior to departure.

Hosts and Lecturers

Advertised hosts and lecturers (if applicable) are subject to availability and may be contingent on a minimum number of travelers; therefore, they cannot be guaranteed.

Notices

Any complaints or claims against GN must be made in writing and received by GN within 90 days after scheduled termination of the trip. Any action or suit against GN must be commenced within 1 (one) year after scheduled termination of the trip or be forever barred.

The rights and remedies relating to cancellations made available under this agreement are in addition to any other rights or remedies available under applicable law. However, we offer any refunds under this agreement with the express understanding that the receipt of that refund by you waives all other remedies.

While Go Next makes every effort to adhere to the specifics shown in this brochure, all information contained herein is subject to change. Go Next is not responsible or liable for typographical errors, omissions or misprints. INSURANCE: Travel insurance is available and can provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances that could disrupt your trip. See panel above. INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS ONLY: International travel involves stringent identification and documentation requirements. Be sure you are familiar with them sufficiently in advance and early in your planning.

Advisory

When you are traveling outside of the United States, please be aware that significantly different health, safety and legal standards may prevail. You should plan and act accordingly and exercise good personal judgment for your own health and safety at all times when abroad. If you have special medical or physical requirements, you should investigate your destination(s) beforehand and ensure the care and conditions you need will be available.

Refunds and Cencellations

Any refunds are provided only in accordance with the following schedule below. Any requests for cancellation must be communicated to GN in writing. Applicable refunds, if any, will be made within 14 days after the cancellation.

Land Program Cancellation Fees

  • 105 days or more before initial flight departure = $200 per person
  • 104-96 days before departure = $950 per person
  • 95-61 days before departure = $3,000 per person
  • 60 days or less, no refund

Health

Any physical or mental condition requiring special medical attention or equipment must be disclosed in writing to GN at the time the participant makes a reservation. GN may reject the reservation of any person who, in the opinion of GN, is unfit for travel or might be a danger to themselves or incompatible with others on the trip. Participants requiring special assistance, including without limitation those who permanently or periodically use a wheelchair, must be accompanied by someone who agrees to provide the required assistance and participate in the program. GN reserves the right in its sole discretion to terminate the authority of any participant to remain in Cuba under GN's license.
THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS OF ANY KIND (INCLUDING MEDICAL EXCEPTIONS) TO THESE POLICIES. No refunds will be made for any portion of the arrangements we have made for you that are not actually utilized by you. There is no variance from these policies for the services we arrange as described in this brochure.

California Seller of Travel Registration No. 2077280-40, Washington Seller of Travel Registration No. 602-900-725, Iowa Seller of Travel Registration No. 477

Go Next, Inc. is a qualified people-to-people sponsoring organization allowed to conduct educational exchanges in Cuba. Designed to promote cross-cultural connections, this program includes a full-time schedule of educational exchanges and does not involve tourist-oriented or self-directed activities.