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Thank you for booking our 2025 Enchanting Cuba Land Tour. Your adventure will be here before you know it!
Approximately 30 days before the trip, your personalized travel documents will be sent out via email confirming all of your trip inclusions and airport transfer details. Below you will find additional information to help you prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.
All documentation required for this itinerary is the sole responsibility of the guest. Brand g Vacations will not be responsible for advising on and/or obtaining required travel documentation for any passenger, or for any delays, damages, and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip, related to improper or absent travel documentation. It is suggested that copies of important documents, including your passport and visas, be kept in a separate place, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Within 48 hrs of arrival to Cuba, you will be required to fill out a form. The details of how to access and fill out the form will be provided by your Brand g hosts in Miami.
Passport: A passport that is valid for at least six (6) months after your return date is required for this program. Passports must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
Visas: At the Airport on the day of your departure, when you arrive at Miami International Airport, your Brand g host and or guide will provide you with the Cuban Tourist Card before boarding the flight to Cuba. This document is essential for entering the country and will need to be presented to Cuban immigration upon arrival. Brand g will also provide additional instructions regarding the immigration process and any other forms you may need to complete.
Travel Protection: Travel insurance is advised to participate in this program. If you have not purchased a policy already, you may do so by contacting your travel agent or Brand g Vacations. You may also get a quote and purchase a policy online from Brand g’s recommended travel insurance provider, Travel Insured International. Please be sure to carry all policy information with you during your program.
Vaccinations: At the time of this printing, no vaccinations are required for entering Cuba, but it is recommended that all guests discuss available vaccinations and any other health concerns they may have with their personal physician or a travel medicine specialist.
The consulates of the countries to be visited will also provide information on vaccination requirements and/or suggestions. You may also consult your home country’s centers for disease control for their current recommendations. For the US visit CDC.
Physical Limitations: Some excursions during this program require a moderate amount of walking over uneven terrain. Facilities and services for guests with disabilities may sometimes be limited or non-existent. Guests with physical limitations may find access to sites generally restricted. Additionally, Cuba’s infrastructure is still developing, which may result in further challenges for travelers with mobility needs. While improvements are ongoing, accessibility may not meet international standards at all locations. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.
Medical: Neither Brand g Vacations nor our local providers employ staff nurses or doctors. In Cuba, local medical facilities and emergency services will be utilized should any health concerns or emergencies arise. While Cuba’s healthcare system is regarded as one of the top in the world, common medications can be difficult to find. Therefore, it is important that guests bring any necessary medications with them, such as cold medicines and pain relievers. A small travel-size insect repellent is also recommended.
Although the Cuban healthcare system offers quality care, medical expenses incurred during the trip are the guest’s own responsibility. Neither Brand g Vacations nor our local providers are responsible for the cost or quality of medical care received. Additionally, travelers should note that medical facilities outside of major cities may be more limited. We strongly recommend that all guests have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses while traveling internationally
Dietary Preferences: Please advise us of any special dietary restrictions at least 30 days prior to your departure. This information will be provided to the appropriate personnel, and to the extent possible within local conditions and limitations, every effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail as possible concerning any medically related dietary concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated, and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Independently booked flights to and from Miami: Each guest should check with their selected air carrier for luggage limitations prior to departure, as restrictions on luggage size and weight are subject to change. The limitations on checked and carry-on baggage can usually be found on the airline’s website or by contacting the airline directly. Please remember that international and domestic restrictions may differ. For guests traveling with carry-on luggage, as recommended in Cuba, this can help save time at airports, as waiting for checked luggage may cause delays. However, if you exceed the airline’s luggage restrictions, you may be asked to pay the airline’s overweight or oversized luggage fees.
Included Flights: For your flights between Miami and Santa Clara, Cuba, you are allowed 1 checked bag with a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg) and total dimensions not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm) (length + width + height). Additionally, you are permitted 1 carry-on bag measuring no more than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), along with 1 personal item, such as a laptop bag, which must fit under the seat in front of you. Please note that overweight or oversized luggage will incur additional fees or may not be accepted, and only up to two checked bags are allowed per passenger.
Your luggage and all personal belongings are solely your responsibility throughout the trip. Brand g is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
Please place luggage tags on the outside of all of your bags, including carry on and hand luggage, and include a copy of your contact information during the trip on the inside of your checked bags. Valuables and medication should only be packed in your carry-on bags (unless required to be placed in checked bags by your airline).
Please be sure to contact your airline prior to departure and verify that there have been no changes to the flight number or schedule.
Familiarize yourself with current airport security procedures and arrive at the airport at least two and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure. During peak travel times, you may want to arrive three (3) hours prior to your scheduled departure time.
Entry documents will be required at all border crossings, so please carry proper identification with you at all times, and never place it in checked luggage. Please fill in all immigration forms when asked and be aware of local regulations and restrictions to entry.
Most items you purchase in Cuba can be brought back into the U.S., but it is important to familiarize yourself with restrictions set by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). We recommend checking both the U.S. CBP website and the Cuban government for any restrictions on items that may be unlawful to export from Cuba. For example, Cuban-origin alcohol and tobacco products cannot be brought into the U.S., even if purchased for personal consumption (Travel State Gov).
When you return to the U.S., be prepared to declare everything you purchased or acquired while in Cuba. You will need to complete a customs declaration form listing the descriptions and values of the items you are bringing back. To make this process easier, keep your sales receipts readily accessible.
You may bring items like art, books, and similar gifts from Cuba or Cuban-made goods from another country to the U.S., as long as the total value is $100 or less. These items must be typical gift items, not carried by a traveler, and cannot include alcohol or tobacco.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with U.S. customs duty exemptions, limits, and prohibited items to ensure a smooth return from your trip.
For all hotels on this itinerary the check-in is generally after 2:00 PM. If you arrive earlier than this, you may need to wait for your room to become available. In most cases, you can ask the hotel to store your luggage while you explore the area. Every effort will be made to ensure that your room is ready upon arrival, but a short wait may be unavoidable. If you prefer to guarantee access to your room, you may want to consider purchasing early check-in or an additional hotel night.
At the Sonesta Miami Airport (Dates of Stay: January 22-23, 2025), take advantage of its proximity to the airport with a complimentary round-trip shuttle service.
The Melia Trinidad Península (Dates of Stay: January 23-25, 2025) offers beautiful sea views and luxurious amenities, while the Hotel Grand Aston La Habana (Dates of Stay: January 25-29, 2025) provides an iconic stay along the Malecón, featuring views of Habana Bay.
The program officially begins on Thursday, January 22, 2025 at the Sonesta Miami Airport Hotel. That evening meet your fellow travelers at an information welcome reception.
The first group activity after the welcome reception will be our flight American Airlines AA 1579 from Miami International Airport (MIA) at 12:25 PM, with scheduled arrival at Abel Santamaría International Airport (SNU) in Santa Clara, Cuba, at approximately 1:40 PM. Exact meeting instructions will be included in your personalized travel documents, which will be emailed to you at least 30 days prior to departure.
Arrival Transfers: A complimentary shuttle service is provided between Miami International Airport (MIA) and the Sonesta Miami Airport Hotel for guests upon arrival.
Any additional transfers will need to be arranged independently.
Departure Transfers: Departure transfers will be provided from the Grand Aston Hotel in Havana to José Martí International Airport (HAV) to coincide with Brand g’s included flights.
If you experience a travel delay while still in your home country, after working with your air carrier to revise your flight schedule, please contact Brand g’s Operations Office at +1 952-405-9309 to advise us of your revised arrival date and time. If the line is busy or you are calling outside of general business hours, please leave a message.
If you have already departed your home country, please contact our local staff or your Brand g host at the numbers provided in the Emergency Contact section of this page.
If you purchased travel insurance that covers flight delay and cancellation expenses, you will also want to contact your travel insurance company to start a claim for expenses incurred during your delay. If the delay is serious enough that you will miss the starting point of your vacation, any additional hotel, and/or flight arrangements necessary to meet your group will be at your expense.
Baggage delays unfortunately occur from time to time, especially during peak travel periods. If you discover any bag did not make it to your destination, do not leave the airport baggage area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your claim. If you have an airport transfer scheduled, and are traveling with a companion, we recommend that one person exit the baggage claim area and locate the representative to inform him or her of the situation. This will allow the representative to ensure that the transfer is properly provided. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel itinerary, along with the hotel and contact information provided in the Contact & Emergency Information section further down this page. Report your lost baggage to your Brand g Vacations Tour Leader and provide them with a copy of your Lost Baggage Report.
Brand g Vacations is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and/or personal belongings. Selecting a travel insurance plan that will cover lost or stolen luggage and/or personal items is highly recommended.
A Brand g Vacations Tour Leader will be with you throughout your travel program to handle all the details, leaving you to relax and enjoy your vacation.
The ability to stay in touch with friends and family is an important part of travel, and many guests choose to bring cell phones on the trip. International roaming charges can be expensive, and it is advisable to contact your domestic carrier to determine the charges and plans available for each country you are visiting, then select the best available plan for your expected usage. In Cuba, SIM cards are available for purchase upon arrival at Havana’s José Martí International Airport or from local ETESCA telecommunications offices that can be used in an unlocked phone (call your carrier to determine if your phone is, or can be, unlocked), providing a local number that can be used both locally and internationally, usually at a significantly lower rate.
Making international calls from hotels is possible, but costly. Connection fees are usually applied, in addition to other call charges. Please refer to the hotel information in your room or call reception for up-to-date prices.
Wi-Fi is available in the included program accommodations, although there may be a charge at certain properties. Please refer to the hotel information in your room or call reception for up-to-date prices.
For your trip to Cuba, please note that U.S. credit cards and bank cards will NOT work in the country, so cash is essential for incidental expenses. We recommend bringing U.S. dollars or Euros in small denominations, as most places accept foreign currency. You will need cash for any expenses not included in your itinerary, such as personal meals, drinks, and souvenirs. For this trip, we suggest bringing $500-$700 per person to cover such expenses.
Although hotels generally have safes for storing your valuables and money, it’s best to carry cash responsibly. Cuban law allows up to $5,000 per person to be brought in or out of the country.
Gratuities for the included components of this program have been pre-paid. You are welcome to provide additional tips at your discretion.
Smoking throughout the program is allowed only in designated areas. The hotels have open areas where smoking is allowed, and may offer smoking areas in specific sections of some indoor lounges. However, all hotel rooms are non-smoking. We ask everyone to refrain from smoking while on excursions.
The voltage in Cuba is 110V/60Hz, similar to the United States. Most outlets in Cuba are compatible with U.S.-type plugs. However, some hotels may have European-style outlets (Type C), which operate at 220V. Therefore, if your devices are not dual voltage, you will need an electrical converter. Additionally, to plug in your devices at hotels with European outlets, you may also require plug adapters. Since voltage fluctuations may occur in Cuba, we recommend unplugging your devices when they are not in use or when left unattended
Your itinerary may take you into some areas where locals are simply living their daily lives. Should you wish to take a photo of locals, please request their permission first (simply pointing to your camera and allowing them to nod is sufficient). When traveling through areas with wildlife, it is imperative to remain as quiet as possible to prevent startling the animals. If you plan to bring a cell phone or tablet on excursions, please ensure it is set to “silent.” Guides will alert you when photos and/or flash photos are not allowed.
Many of the places we visit on this itinerary are not handicapped accessible. Some excursions involve walking over uneven ground, and some excursions are walking tours only. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.
Please also note that Cuba’s current infrastructure is still developing, which may result in additional challenges for travelers with mobility needs. While improvements are being made, facilities such as hotels, restaurants, and public areas may not fully meet international accessibility standards. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding in navigating these unique circumstances
At its sole discretion, Brand g Vacations reserves the right to refuse passage, or to require a passenger to end his or her trip if the passenger’s state of health or physical condition may affect his or her own health, safety, and enjoyment, or that of other guests.
While Cuba is generally safe, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in busy tourist areas. We encourage caution when handling valuables like money and jewelry, especially in public spaces and on excursions. Brand g Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss of money, jewelry, or other valuable items, whether from a hotel room or during excursions. Most incidents of loss or theft can be covered under a comprehensive travel insurance policy, which we strongly recommend.
While Cubans drink tap water, we strongly advise against doing so during your stay. Please do not use tap water for drinking, brushing your teeth is safe. Complimentary bottled water will be provided at your hotel and during excursions to ensure your hydration and comfort.
Weather forecasts are widely available on the Internet, and some of the favorites for large, international cities are www.weather.com and www.cnn.com/weather.
Average temperatures
During your trip through Cuba and Miami, expect a tropical climate with warm days and cooler evenings.
Travel Essentials: The following items are essential for any destination: sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, rain coat and umbrella. It is recommended that you bring; Electrical convertor and adaptors, duplicates of prescription eyewear, enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for the duration of the trip, copies of credit card information, and copies of your passport information pages and visas.
Clothing: Comfortable, sporty, casual clothing is appropriate throughout this program. We suggest lightweight, light-colored clothing in natural, moisture-wicking fabrics that may be layered. A mix of shirts, everyday slacks/pants, skirts/dresses, and walking shorts are appropriate. Early mornings, late evenings, and air-conditioned spaces may also require a light sweater or jacket.
On excursions, you may wish to bring long pants and long-sleeve shirts to protect against both sun and insects. Many companies now offer expedition-style clothing in lightweight materials with sun protection and/or insect repellent in the fabric. We also recommend packing a swimsuit since there are pools in the hotels. Sport jackets and cocktail dresses are not needed at any time during this program; however, you may wish to pack a few nicer outfits for evening meals or nights out on your own.
Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, with good ankle support are highly recommended, as there is a significant amount of walking on many excursions.
Dates of stay: January 22 – 23, 2025
Experience the laid-back South Florida lifestyle at Sonesta Miami Airport. Conveniently located just 1.5 miles from Miami International Airport, this hotel offers round-trip airport shuttle service, making it an ideal choice for travelers. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as Port Miami Cruise Terminals, Brickell, and Downtown Miami. The hotel offers a comfortable and relaxing environment, perfect for a short stay before or after a flight.
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Dates of stay: January 23 – 25, 2025
Discover the beauty of one of Cuba’s most stunning regions while enjoying the exquisite services at the modern 5-star Melia Trinidad Península. Located alongside the sea, this hotel offers spectacular views of the Caribbean and the Escambray mountains. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool or explore the nearby historic city of Trinidad, this hotel provides an ideal base for a luxurious stay in Cuba.
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Dates of stay: January 25 – 29, 2025
Located in the heart of the Malecón, Hotel Grand Aston La Habana offers a new level of luxury in one of Havana’s most iconic locations. With stunning views of the Habana Bay, this hotel combines glamour, history, and modern comforts to provide an unforgettable experience. Guests can relax and recharge while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.
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Please take a copy of this with you and provide a copy to your family members or friends in case they need to reach you in the event of an emergency.
Cuban time zone is GMT-5 hours, so when it is noon on Thursday in New York, it’s 12:00 PM in Cuba. International telephone calls can be placed by dialing the International Access Code (+53), the country code, and then the phone number. If your inbound flights are delayed for any reason, please contact our local representatives immediately. Should you need to utilize these numbers, please specify that you are traveling with Brand g Vacations.
| Dates of Stay | Hotel Name & Phone Number | Address |
|---|---|---|
| January 22nd – 23rd, 2025 | Sonesta Miami Airport +1 305-253-1234 |
950 NW Le Jeune Rd, Miami, FL 33126, USA |
| January 23rd – 25th, 2025 | Melia Trinidad Península +53 41-990130 |
Peninsula Ancón, Trinidad 62600, Cuba |
| January 25th – 29th, 2025 | Hotel Grand Aston La Habana +53 7-838-3000 |
Avenida Malecón, La Habana 10400, Cuba |
Your Brand g program hosts are Jeremy & Randy.
Jeremy can be reached via WhatsApp or cellular at +1-602-684-0006
Randy can be reached via WhatsApp or cellular at +1-303-868-0148
We love our solo travelers – and we have many!
This page is designed to offer information on the solo traveler experience with Brand g.
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