Cuba

Havana, cienfuegos, trinidad …and more!

April 15-23, 2023

Start of your vacation at the Merchants House, an amazing private property in Old Havana. A three stories house, no lift needed. Every piece of furniture has been carefully selected to avoid the tired old typical hotel room style and give the rooms decidedly an intimate cozy feel. 2 glamorous en suite Suites, one of them on the second floor with a spacious living room where you can relax and enjoy the liveliness of the neighborhood from the small balcony overlooking the street. The other one situated on the top floor with a large terrace where you can enjoy a colourful breakfast with abundant tropical fruit and a view of the city’s rooftops. You can enjoy complementary WiFi in your room and in the hotel area.

This beautiful colonial House has been re-designed and upgraded for your visit to Cienfuegos. The service is focused on meeting the needs of each guest so you may enjoy your days here to the fullest. A nice interior patio ideal to take relax, have breakfast, or even enjoy a glass of wine.

Built in the second half of the nineteenth century on the edge of Santa Rosa Valley, it is one of the oldest houses in Trinidad. Situated in a middle class residential area. It has 8 spacious Bed & Breakfast rooms including a Jr Suite and a Suite, with a stylish, modern design within a natural and rustic setting. The large garden and back yard looks out on the ruins of a colonial fort. Each room is air conditioned and is en-suite and has a private sitting area outside the front of the room with table, chairs, rocking chairs and even a hammock.

TRAVEL DETAILS

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(Please submit one registration form per household -max 2 people per registration form)

F.A.Q.

VIP Arrival

Upon leaving the plane you will be meet by an our airport representative, Juan Carlos. He will guide you through customs into the VIP lounge to wait for your luggage to come out.

Please address anyone in a uniform if you do not see a VIP staff person holding a sign with your name on it, and let them know you have VIP services. You will pass through immigration quickly but there is no guarantee your bags will arrive any faster. You may want to wait by the carrousel since, of course, you will recognize your bags sooner than the airport staff.

Support for the Cuban People License to Travel to Cuba

For independent travellers and small groups who are using mainly but not exclusively private services including luxury private accommodation and private guides and experiences. Hotels are allowed under this category when alternatives not available.

You are to travel to Cuba with a full itinerary of daily activities that foster meaningful exchanges between you and Cubans except for first and last days which are travel days.

We will supply you with a fully legal itinerary and have it checked by our legal team in the USA who are experts in OFAC travel related regulations.

Additionally our guides will educate you so that your trip is correctly documented should you ever be audited.

Click here for more information on the OFAC rules

Money and currency in Cuba

The monetary situation in Cuba is quite complex. Cuba’s official currency is the CUP - Peso Cubano. Foreign currencies (especially the EUR) are also widely used. 

Cuban Pesos (CUP) formally have a fixed value of 25 CUP = 1 USD, however, as of August 4, 2022 the government has set the foreign currency exchange rate at 120CUP = 1 USD. When changing USD, an 8% conversion fee will apply so the effective rate is 110CUP = 1USD. All other currencies have a 2% conversion fee.

Which Currency Should I Bring to Cuba?

Euros (EUR) and US Dollars (USD) are the best currencies to bring to Cuba in the areas where our tours visit. These are the most widely accepted by locals therefore they can be used to pay directly to businesses or to exchange for CUP.

These currencies can be exchanged at the CADECA and at some banks (surcharge is 2% for most currencies and 8% for USD)

• We strongly recommend exchanging only small amounts of CUP currency at any one time (e.g. 50-100EUR).

• USD is accepted in private businesses in Cuba (such as restaurants and casas particulares) and for exchange to CUP. However, locals are not able to deposit USD cash into their bank accounts, so it could be considered less desirable than Euros.

Where Can I Exchange Money?

Foreign currencies can be exchanged to CUP (at the official government rate) at airports, banks, hotels, exchange houses (CADECA), and shopping malls.

CADECA

The Official Exchange Houses (CADECA) in all cities around Cuba. They provide the following services:

• Exchanging cash between foreign currencies and CUP.

• Exchanging traveller’s cheques to CUP. Nowadays not popular nor convenient.

• Credit Card - Cash advances (Visa and MasterCard). Possible throughout Cuba and from accounts in every currency, except for cards linked to banks in the United States. Cirrus and Maestro are not accepted at all in Cuba.

ATMs- Credit/Debit Cards

The ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) should work in Cuba for Visa, Mastercard, and American International Service (AIS). You will need a pin number for your credit card to be able to use the ATMs.
Except in rare circumstances, no Card issued by a US institution will work in Cuba, so it is important to check that your bank is not associated with a US financial institution. We do know that Visa credit cards obtained through the following banks will NOT work in Cuba:

• Travelex

• Citibank

• Westpac (Australia)

• St George (Australia)

• 28 Degrees

Some rechargeable Travel Cards (Visa and Mastercard) may work in Cuba even though obtained through these banks.

We recommend that you check with your bank before you come to Cuba and have a back-up plan for obtaining cash in Cuba in case your credit card does not end up working.

MLC Card - what is it?

MLC (‘Moneda Libremente Convertible’) is Cuba’s official digital currency that represents a value of 1 MLC = 1 USD. Because of this fixed value, it is often simply referred to as “dollars”.

MLC cards and some foreign credit cards are accepted in Government businesses such as restaurants.

• MLC pre-paid cards are sold at CADECAS in denominations of $50, $100 $200, $500, and $1000.

• Some government stores in Cuba accept only MLC.

• The remaining balance of your MLC card will be refunded at the airport upon departure.

Cryptocurrency

• Is accepted by some guesthouses and a couple of restaurants in Havana.

• Cuban Adventures accepts cryptocurrencies (ETH and BTC) as payment for our tours and services.

Our Tips and Recommendations

Bring EURO or USD cash and plenty of small bills (1, 5, 10, 20). GBP and CAD are often accepted, but can be less versatile for paying directly to restaurants, casas, etc.

1. Bring plenty of cash. Access to your funds outside of Cuba may not be possible so bring more than you expect to spend, just in case. A good rule of thumb is 100USD equivalent per day if you are paying most of your expenses locally.

2. Always take more rather than less, because Cuba is likely to be more expensive than you imagine. Don't spoil your trip in Cuba by potentially being short of funds.

3. Exchange only small amounts of money to CUP at any one time. Changing no more than 50-100EUR at a time will avoid having CUP to change back.

Change back your Cuban Pesos before you leave, they are neither valid nor exchangeableoutside of Cuban territory, so on departures make sure you exchange it back to your preferred currency.

Don’t rely on being able to use ATMs. Sometimes they run out of money or aren't working due to power outages or simply won't accept your card for reasons unknown.

Some ATM machines and banking facilities may not be offering the new exchange rate of 120CUP:1USD. Verify the correct amount before accepting the transaction.

Private businesses (guesthouses, bars, private restaurants, small shops) will most likely prefer payment in foreign currency.

All Cuban State operated sites (Museums, Parks, State run restaurants, official sites, ETECSA, markets) will always require payment in CUP with exception for the MLC stores.

Some Hotels, most grocery stores, state-owned bars, and all medical facilities will only take card payment, not cash. Very few of these places accept US cards.If you decide to change money informally (i.e. on the black market), avoid exchanging with people who approach you on the street. It is better to ask staff at casas or restaurants, guides, or other professionals to help you.

Rules and regulations change quickly and often in Cuba, check on the currency situation before your go.

Glossary of Cuban Money Terms

• CUP- The Cuban Peso. The only official currency in Cuba. CUP has no value outside of Cuba.

• M.N. - Moneda Nacional. This is just another name for CUP.

• CUC- Cuban Convertible Peso. Cuba’s former second currency, but as of 2021 the CUC was taken out of circulation.

• MLC- Moneda Libremente Convertible (Freely Convertible Money). Cuba’s dollar equivalent digital currency.

• MLC Card- A pre-paid card you can buy in Cuba that will work in government stores, restaurants, and hotels.

• Official Rate- The CUP exchange rate offered in CADECAs (exchange houses), ATMs, Banks, Hotels, and with state-run entities. This rate is static and set by the government, not the market.

• Unofficial Rate- The exchange rate you get when you trade with individuals or private businesses, instead of state institutions. Also known as black market or ‘por la izquierda’, this rate is set by supply and demand and will fluctuate. Current rates can be seen here

Cancellation Policy for this trip

If we receive your written notification more than 30 days prior to your departure, your payment will be reimbursed minus an administration fees, planning fees and commissions. However, if you decide to cancel within the 30 days prior to your departure, full cancellation charges will apply. It may not be possible to change some arrangements after the booking has been made and any request for an alteration will be considered a cancellation.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

You can make checks payable to “Zone Travel”

Please mail your checks (allowing 3-5 business days for delivery - PRIOR to deadline) to:
Zone Travel
PO Box 12052
Columbus, OH 43212

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

Pricing details

price Per Person: 

$4685

*Price is based on a double occupancy room.
*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE

• Ground Transportation

  • VIP airport pickup

    • Note- We have quoted the basic rate in a Peugeout Expert or Emper PP, or a minivan Kia Cannibal or something similar (subject to availability).

  • Daily ground transportation

  • Boat transfers where applicable, listed in itinerary

• Guesthouse accommodations

  • Merchants House (4nts)

  • Casa Buenavista (1nt)

  • Stylish Farmhouse (3nts)

• Some Meals

  • Breakfast each day

  • some lunches

• Daily Tours

  • These tours are designed to legally allow you to visit Cuba

• Visas

• Most taxes and fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• Incidental charges 

• International flights

• Services NOT mentioned in program and those referred to as “suggestions”, “reserved only”, “optional”, "to be paid locally" and “NOT included”

• 4% processing fee per payment (if paying w/credit card)

• Local taxis (that are not listed in the itinerary)

• Most meals/beverages (unless specifically listed as “included” in the itinerary)

• Tips

  • Local guides and drivers (recommended at least $5/pp)

• Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY

  • Basic (starting at $153)

    • Please Note: This plan does NOT include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.

  • Cancel for Anytime (starting at $289)

    • Please Note: Under certain conditions, covered reasons for some benefits of this plan include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.

  • Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.

SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE

There are three payment options available to you. 
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment. 

Option 1: Full payment (plus insurance)- due no later than December 1, 2022.
(Most affordable overall)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Option 2: One payment will be due by December 1, 2022 and the second payment will be due no later than January 1, 2023.

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, for this delayed payment option)
(More than 2 payments are not allowed without a 10% administrative fee per payment)
NOTE: If you choose the Cancel Anytime insurance, it will be due with your first payment. If you choose Basic insurance, you can choose to add that payment on at any time prior to departure of your trip; however, please note that you will not be covered for any changes or cancelations until you purchase this policy. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

Two-payment plan:

(price per person)
Dec 1: $1306 + Insurance (suggested)
Jan 1: $3430

Option 3: Monthly payments are due, please see the suggested payment schedules below.

(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, in addition to a 10% admin fee per payment for this delayed payment option)
NOTE: If you choose the Cancel Anytime insurance, it will be due with your first payment. If you choose Basic insurance, you can choose to add that payment on at any time prior to departure of your trip; however, please note that you will not be covered for any changes or cancelations until you purchase this policy. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)

*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)

***SPECIAL: IF YOU PAY THIS TRIP IN FULL BY DECEMBER 31, YOU WILL NOT HAVE TO PAY THE $50/PP nor the 10% FEE!***

Monthly payment plan:

(price per person)
Dec 1: $1306 + Insurance (suggested)
Jan 1: $1909
Feb 1: $1859

REGISTRATION 

• A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)

  • If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 people.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance

TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT

Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.

Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."

Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.

BASIC PLAN:

The Basic Plan is so affordable you can have your fun and protect it too - all while staying within your budget. The plan has a wide-variety of covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and it can also include coverage for existing medical conditions so you can book your trip with complete confidence.
Please Note: This plan does NOT include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.

Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost

Trip Interruption: Trip Cost

Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $10,000.00

Emergency Medical Transportation: $50,000.00

Baggage Coverage: $500.00

Baggage Delay: $200.00

Travel Delay: $300.00

24-Hour Hotline Assistance: Included

CANCEL ANYTIME: 
(NY RESIDENTS-PLEASE ENQUIRE ABOUT SIMILAR OPTIONS)

The Cancel Anytime Plan gives you the extra flexibility of knowing you can cancel your trip for almost any unforeseen reason that the Classic plan does not already cover at 100% and receive 80% of your non-refundable trip costs back. It includes benefits like trip cancellation protection, primary emergency medical benefits, 24-hour travel assistance, and more. This plan also has SmartBenefitsSM that can pay you proactively and simplify your claims process with no receipts required. Under certain conditions, covered reasons for some benefits of this plan include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.
Please note: This plan must be purchased within 14 days of your initial trip deposit and must cover the full non-refundable trip cost ($10,000 maximum). You could also be eligible for pre-existing condition exclusion waiver if all requirements are met (please refer to plan documents for details).
Important information about this plan: Plan charge includes costs of insurance benefits and assistance services. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, your plan excludes losses due to that condition unless you qualify for a waiver under the terms of your plan. See Plan and Pricing Details for more information.

Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost

Trip Interruption: Trip Cost

Emergency Medical/Dental Coverage: $25,000.00

Emergency Medical Transportation: $500,000.00

Baggage Coverage: $1,000.00

Baggage Delay: $300.00

Change Fee Coverage: $500.00

Loyalty Program Redeposit Fee Coverage: $500.00

Travel Delay: $800.00

24 Hour Hotline Assistance Plus: Included