Salsa Splash Mexico & Cuba - This holiday is no longer available -

• Return Flight from a London Airport (Regional add-ons available at a supplement)
• At least six hours of salsa classes in Mexico
• Flight between Mexico and Cuba
• A full programme of evening entertainment in Mexico
• Optional excursions in Mexico including Chichen Itza, Tulum, Xcaret and more
• At least 15 hours of brilliant and  entertaining classes in Cuban salsa and related dances in Havana (Son, Cha Cha, Salsa, Rueda, Rumba, Afro-Cuban etc)
• The delightful company, every night, of a team of professional Cuban dancers, included in your holiday price
• Wonderfully organised programme of salsa nights out in Havana
• Expert hosting by Robert and Jean White of Mambo City
• Meet & Greet upon arrival, and all airport and hotel transfers.
• Seven nights All Inclusive at the 5* Iberostar Quetzal, five nights Bed & Breakfast at the 4* Hotel Comodoro and four nights Bed and Breakfast at the 4* Hotel Nacional in Havana
• Private transfers to and from Havana's Salsa clubs in the evening for six nights in Cuba
• Welcome party and Orientation Pack on arrival  

Hotel Comodoro**** (Bed & Breakfast) (Included) 

Comodoro Bungalows are located in the Comodoro Hotel and Bungalow Complex, in the heart of Havana’s Miramar district. Just twenty minutes by car from Old Havana, the Comodoro Bungalows are an ideal base for discovering the wonders of Havana and the surrounding area.

There are two freeform pools and a choice of resturants including the Comodoro Restaurant - A la carte restaurant located on the ground floor serving international cuisine, La Cascada, and International buffet restaurant, La Fonnaza Di Roma, a cafe restaurant serving Italian cuisine and the Comodoro Bar, a grill bar.

All rooms have air-conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, safe, hairdryer and mini-fridge.
 

Iberostar Quetzal***** (All Inclusive) (Included) 

The 5 star All Inclusive IBEROSTAR Quetzal hotel, located right on the beach and a short distance from the centre of Playa del Carmen, is a tribute to the Mayan culture, combining tradition with luxury. The construction of the hotel has remained faithful to Mayan culture, from the architecture, which has maintained the traditional palm leaf roofs to the stone statues depicting different characters and magical stories.

There is a choice of no less than eight restaurants, including Japanese and Italian as well as local fare, and six bars including a pool bar with snacks. An enormous freeform swimming pool dominates the hotel gardens which are dotted with palm trees and "palapas" or traditional sisal-roofed huts. There is a wide range of water sports on offer as well as aerobics, cycling, beach volleyball, gymnastics, table tennis, tennis and a gym.

The hotel is situated a thirty minute beach walk or a 5 minute taxi ride (approx. $7) from the happening bars and nightlife of Playa del Carmen; a haven of peace but close enough to party every night.

All 350 rooms have balcony with garden/jungle/pool view, Air Conditioning, Mini bar, Ceiling fan, tea and coffee, telephone, Hairdryer, safe and satellite TV.

Nacional de Cuba***** (Bed & Breakfast) (Included) 

You will experience a 16 night twin-centre holiday of a lifetime is hosted by Robert and Jean White of Mambo City who bring their team of expert dancers and a unique brand of fun to ensure an unforgettable salsa break in the sun.

Enjoy a jam-packed fortnight with our most comprehensive salsa syllabus yet, including extra classes and workshops in Cuba as well as informal evening entertainment.

Some of the best beaches in the world: For the first seven days of the holiday you will  relax in Playa del Carmen, home to Mexico's most beautiful beaches. Soak up the rays and enjoy the fantastic facilities of your FIVE star hotel by day and sample the local nightlife by night.  

4 & 5 star accommodation: Enjoy the luxury of the 5 star All Inclusive Iberostar Quetzal in Playa del Carmen, the 5 star Hotel Nacional de Cuba, Havana as well as the 4 star Comodoro Hotel,Havana.

A team of professional Cuban dancers: Our Cuban Salsa trips are different to the rest of our Salsa programmes because in Cuba our team of Cuban dancers join us on nights out to dance venues in Havana! Not only does this mean that there are more dance partners to go round, but it also enables you to dance with Cuban trained dancers.
 

'We are not normally given to writing thank you letters, or using superlatives, but we have just returned from your Salsa dancing holiday in Cuba, and feel compelled to write and say that this was just an amazing experience, and one of the very best holidays ever!'

"The holiday was absolutely smashing - I expecially enjoyed the Havana parts of the holiday - the hotel was wonderful, the dance troupe absolutely super (gold stars all around) and Ramon, our guide, exceeded all expectations being informative, friendly and looking out for us at busy social functions"

This holiday is for anyone with a passion for fun, glorious weather, stunning beaches and amazing nightlife as well as a taste for luxury, with 5 star accommodation in Mexico and 4 and 5 star in Cuba.

All dance abilities are catered for, from complete beginners to advanced Salseros - if you like the idea of spending two weeks meeting new people, enjoying nightly social events, learning new skills and experiencing a new culture, all in the heat of the Caribbean, then this is the holiday for you!

Sample Itinerary
This is a provisional itinerary aiming to give you an idea of what your holiday will look like. There will be some elements which will change: (OP) indicates an optional extra for which a charge will be made in advance.  

 DAY 1
Arrival and transfer the Hotel Iberostar Quetzal for a seven-night stay
Evening - Welcome drink and snacks followed by salsa night out

DAY 2
After breakfast, a Salsa class (two hours) followed by time to relax by the pool, on the beach or join us on an excursion to the world-famous Chichen Itza (OP).
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 3
After breakfast, time to relax by the pool, on the beach or join us on an excursion to Tulum (OP)
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 4
After breakfast, a Salsa class (two hours) followed by time to relax by the pool, on the beach or join us on an excursion to Xcaret (OP)
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 5
After breakfast, time to relax by the pool, on the beach or join us on an excursion to Ek Balam (OP)
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 6
After breakfast, a Salsa class (two hours) followed by time to relax by the pool, on the beach or join us on an excursion to Coba (OP)
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 7
After breakfast, time to relax by the pool, on the beach or stock up on souvenirs to take home!
In the evening we accompany you to Playa del Carmen's best nightclubs for a real flavour of the local dance scene

DAY 8
Morning - Breakfast and a final dip in the sea before transferring to Cancun airport for your flight to Cuba
Transfer to the 4 star Hotel Comodoro for a five-night stay
Night out at one of Havana's salsa clubs

DAY 9
Morning – This is where your Cuban dance experience begins: Overview of the week and Cuban Dance Course: Salsa (two hours) plus workshop in Mambo / Rumba (one hour)
Afternoon - Visit the Callejon de Hammel and see Cubans dancing Street Rumba, African Rhythms bands and Guaguanco dancers. (OP) Lunch in a picturesque Cuban restaurant in Old Havana followed by free time to explore the city
Evening - Salsa-ing in the open air with Robert and Jean by Havana's famous fortress, overlooking the Malecon (promenade)

DAY 10
Morning – Cuban Dance Course: Salsa (two hours) plus Templeke & Reggaeton workshop (one hour) - learn to move like a Cuban!
Afternoon and evening at La Casa de la Musica - Salsa your way through the afternoon and evening at this hot matinee salsa club

DAY 11
Morning - Cuban Dance Course: Salsa (two hours) plus workshop in Afro Cuban (one hour). The history and rhythms of Cuban Dance – including Rumba, with Alexis & Daylin Part 1
Evening - Salsa-ing in another of the most famous and lively dance venues in Havana, accompanied by Robert and Jean

DAY 12
Morning - Cuban Dance Course: Salsa (two hours) plus workshop in Son (one hour) before transferring to the 5* Hotel Nacional for a three-night stay
Afternoon - Chill out and sleep off your hangover around the pool enjoying the salsa music and sun
Evening - Salsa-ing with your teachers in a popular nightclub in Havana's upmarket Marina Hemingway neighbourhood

DAY 13
Morning - Cuban Dance Course: Salsa (two hours) plus workshop in Cha Cha Cha (one hour)
Afternoon – Transfer to the Hotel Nacional for a 4-night stay
Evening - (OP) Dinner at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood. Later - Salsa-ing all night with your Salsa teachers and friends

DAY 14
Morning – Additional salsa classes

Transfer to the Hotel Nacional for a four-night stay
Evening  - Salsa-ing all night with your Salsa teachers and friends

DAY 15
Additional salsa classes
Evening: Visit one of Havana's hottest salsa clubs

DAY 16
Additional salsa classes
Evening: Visit one of Havana's hottest salsa clubs

DAY 17
Morning - Time for souvenir shopping in the city's market before transferring to Havana airport for the return flight

DAY 18
Arrive in the UK.
 

Classes and Teachers: Over the course of your holiday you will receive 15 hours of salsa tuition with our team of professional dancers in Cuba, as well as at least 6 hours of Salsa and related classes in Mexico, taught by Robert and Jean. The criteria by which we select our teachers extends way beyond mere technical ability or even teaching ability. We look for teachers who are charismatic, and entertaining and who will teach you to dance with flair. And as these are much more than just teachers, because they will be accompanying you at night, we also select them for their personality and, quite frankly, physical attractiveness. There will be 15 hours of salsa classes in Havana in a dance space within the Hotel Comodoro. In Mexico Robert and Jean will teach 2 hours per day for 5 days.

Dance Levels: There will be at least two levels of Salsa tuition so that the classes will cater for all abilities, from beginner through to advanced. The dance teachers will be able to advise you on the first day of classes and suggest the level that is most appropriate to your ability and experience.

Syllabus: The Salsa syllabus has been refreshed for 2014 in order to make it  more comprehensive. If this is your second trip to Cuba, we're confident that you'll find a lot of new material. If it´s your first time you will find this course entirely comprehensive! You will cover -

• Cuban music and how the rythms are constructed
• Rumba
• Son
• Mambo
• Cha Cha cha - slow mambo tempo
• Reggaeton (popular music from Puerto Rico - a blend of salsa, meregue and reggae and currently very fashionable
• How Cuban salsa differs from LA / New York style which you may have encountered in the UK.
• Tembleque and Cuban body movement
• Rueda (Cuban Wheel)
• Cha Cha Cha

The Teachers:  Robert and Jean White of Mambo City will be your hosts on this holiday and will teach classes in Mexico, whilst in Havana our  team of Cuban instructors, headed by Alexis González Valdés will be your dance instructors.

Alexis was born in Havana and graduated from the Escuela Nacional de Arte in Havana specializing in Show dance. He has toured Europe performing with different Cuban dance troupes and is an active member of UNEAC – the Cuban Association of Artists and Writers and performs with the Cuban Television Ballet. He's been teaching Cuban dance (salsa, son, cha cha cha, mambo, rumba, danzon and afrocuban) for over 10 years and is currently director of the Havana dance troupe ‘Salsalexis’. Alexis has been an active member of the Club Dance Holidays Cuban team over the last eight years and has an excellent teaching technique which can be enjoyed by beginners through to advanced. He and his Cuban team (who have professional dance training) will introduce you to Cuban salsa and thus introduce you to life in Cuba – a life which pulsates with energy, wildness and sensuality. The classes will cover partner salsa, Rueda Cubana and individual body and Cuban styling technique, and are non-stop fun and laughter. This is a dance experience you will never forget!

Mexican Food is extremely popular in many parts of the western world. More often than not, it is a derivation of a style normally called Tex-Mex. We recommend making the most of your stay by trying some real Mexican food:

Comida Corrida
Most Mexicans eat a large lunch at about 2pm. This is called Comida Corrida ('fast' food is a common translation, but it doesn't do this great tradition justice, and is probably not the correct etymology, as 'full run' of a meal is closer) and is served at little non-fancy restaurants off 5th Avenue. It's usually very good value for money; for 30-40 pesos you'll get soup, a plate of food with rice and beans, tortillas and all the fruit water you can drink. For the main dish there's usually a small menu of standard dishes to choose from, such as chicken with some sauce, beef tips in tomato and onion, puntas a la mexicana, or meatballs in a chipotle sauce (dried and smoked jalapeño chiles). This is all good wholesome Mexican food, and can be highly recommended. An excellent place in Playa del Carmen for a comida corrida is La Casa de Piedra on Avenida 35 and Calle 32, but there are plenty of other good comida corrida places in town. Some taquerias are open in the day, but traditionally that's more of a nighttime thing.

Antojitos - Little Whims
Antojitos (literally, little cravings or whims) are the true Mexican Fast Food. Available from street booths and carts, by wandering vendors, and restaurants, these little gems are never far away. Authentic antojitos can be so tasty it makes us wonder why anyone bothered to formulate the fake tacos and burritos that most tourists recognize from home. A great place to eat antojitos is at a taqueria, where there is usually a good variety of different dishes. Antojitos are fun to eat; not only are they tasty, you can also order them one at a time and find your favorite.

The Tostada and Friends
Many antojitos are based on the CD-sized corn tortilla, but differ slightly in execution. We have tostadas, sopes, salbutes, papadzules and panuchos. One is hard fried, one is stuffed with beans. One comes with lettuce, another with grated cheese. They are all good! Shredded chicken or pork is a usual topping. Just throw a little hot salsa on it and try them all. The taco is also a friend of these guys, but you can make the taco yourself. For example, get a plate of alambre (meat with melted cheese) or grilled pork chops and put it in the tortilla together with some salsa, onion and fresh cilantro - there's your taco!

The Antojito's Big Brother
In the taqueria you can also get more full sized dishes. The ubiquitous quesadilla is a must if you never tried it before. The juicy gringa is a couple of flour tortillas with the al pastor meat in between. And yes, gringa means a woman from The United States. Flautas, Spanish for flute, is a real favorite made of corn tortillas filled with chicken or meat, rolled up to a tube and fried hard. It's usually served with shredded lettuce and some cream on top. If you're into weird meats, do try the tasty longaniza de Valladolid, a somewhat different sausage than you might be accustomed to.
 

Although there is a limited selection of dishes by European standards, we think that you will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of the food you get. We do our very best to ensure that the restaurants we choose serve good quality food. The food is wholesome, with lots of rice and beans, fried fish and plantains. A typical Cuban menu might include Frijoles (a kind of stew with beans and ham), rice and black beans (moros y cristianos), cucumbers and tomatoes, cassava or malanga (local root vegetables), roast pork, fried chicken, plantains, corn fritters, bread, fried fish, pizza, followed by coconut pudding or ice cream.

Vegetarianism is not understood in Cuba, where meat is a rare treat. So please be patient with locals who do not understand your needs. Please be aware that vegetarian choices can sometimes be very limited. On the other hand the staple diet of Cubans includes a lot of beans, rice and plantains, all suitable for vegetarians.

What are optional extras?  In addition to your holiday we also offer you a variety of optional extras to make your holiday even richer and add some local colour.  You can buy your optional extras at the welcome meeting at the beginning of your holiday.  We will ask you to pay in cash and fill out a form.  These are the optional extras that we anticipate running – actual details and prices will be confirmed on arrival. Some may require minimum numbers. 
 
* Lunch in an Art Deco restaurant in Havana with live music and peacocks (approx 12GBP).
* Lunch on the last day at one of Cuba's top restaurants in sought after Residential area of Miramar in Havana(15GBP)
* Dinner at elegant restaurant in Havana with option to have lobster (approx 15GBP).
* Visit to the Rum museum and Tobacco Factory with guided tours around both (approx 16GBP includig trasnfers) in Havana.
* Tembleke Class with your Salsa Teachers. Learn how to move as the Cubans do! (aprox. 8GBP)

 In Mexico there are various daily trips from which to choose. These trips can be pre-booked or booked locally. Please note that prices may fluctuate due to the exchange rate. 

FULL DAY

Chichen Itza
£56 GBP when pre-booked / $89.00 USD locally, operates daily
• ONE OF THE NEW 7 WONDERS IN THE WORLD. Chichén Itzá (Located 125 miles west of Cancun) is easily the most famous site on the Yucatan Peninsula and the massive site takes at least a day to explore. Chichén Itzá was founded in 445 AD. In 1204 AD was mysteriously abandoned. The city is divided into two areas. Old Chichén Itzá, built between AD 600 and 900; and New Chichén, constructed in the 10th century.
• Includes: Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish-English), Visit to the Colonial city of Valladolid ( on board coach), Entrance fee to the Eco-archaeological park Ik-kil, Entrance fee to Archeological Zone of Chichen Itza, Buffet lunch at Xaybe'h Hacienda. Departs hotel 0815, returns 1830.

Tulum
£31 GBP when pre-booked / $49.00 USD locally, operates on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays
• Tulúm is one of the most-visited Mayan ruins in Mexico. Eighty-two miles south of Cancun, it has the distinction of being one of the only known cliff-side structures overlooking the effervescent and an almost impossibly blue Caribbean. Ancient murals are quite visible, in some cases vivid enough to make the viewer wonder how recently the Maya actually left the grounds.
• Includes: Transportation with Air Conditioning, Bilingual guide, Tickets to Tulum Archaeological Zone. Departs hotel at 0930, returns 1400.
•

Xcaret Regular Tour
£62 GBP when pre-booked, $99.00 locally, operates daily
• Xcaret Eco Park boasts Flora and Fauna, Archaeological Tours, Water Attractions and has a great Swim With Dolphins.Located in Playa del Carmen. Among its main attractions are the underground rivers, a butterfly garden, a beach, several creeks and celebration "Xcaret Mexico Espectacular".
• Includes: Transportation, Entrance Fee to Xcaret Park, Night Show. Park opens at 0900 and closes at 2130.

Xcaret Plus Tour
£80 GBP when pre-booked, $129 booked locally, operates daily
• Includes: Entrance Fees, Buffet Lunch at Restaurants “La Laguna, La Cocina, Dos Playas, La Caleta or La Peninsula”, Interchangeable coupons for two Soft drinks or one beer or Fried potatoes at stores, drinking Carts and restaurants, Full Snorkel Gear in Area, Towel and Family Locker at Area Plus, 10% Discount coupon for water activities at The Reservation Center (Does not apply for Dolphins and Sea trek), Night Show. Park opens at 0900 and closes at 2130.

Catamaran Excursion
£55 GBP when pre-booked / $88.00 USD booked locally, operates daily
• Sail a catamaran and visit the beautiful coralline reefs enjoying an incredible snorkeling experience. Swim on the most splendid sites that form part of the Mesoamerican coral reef system, the second largest coral reef wall in the world, surrounded by all the beauty of nature.
• Includes: Round trip transportation, Use of snorkelling equipment (life vest, mask, fins and snorkel), Bilingual guide, Refreshments, Bottled Water, Snack (refried beans and chips), Lunch Buffet, Domestic Open Bar. Departs at 0800 OR 1200. Returns 1430 OR 1830.

Cenote Swimming (includes Ek Balam tour)
£80 when pre-booked, $129.00 USD locally, operates daily
• Visit the archaeological site of Ek-Balam. Ek Balam means "Bright Star Jaguar" in Maya, it is an ancient Maya city that had its glory before Chichen Itza. This archaeological site is one of the latest attractions because of its most recent restoration. Swim in the Cenote Maya: Descend into the region’s most impressive cenote through a large wooden staircase made with the ancient maya technique. Enjoy its beautiful formations and swim in this large natural pool. Maya Buffet: Includes different traditional dishes including, lime soup, cheese and chaya tamales, beans, vegetables rice, mole, chicken, hand -made tortillas, fruits, dessert, flavoured water and coffee.
• Includes: Transportation, Traditional lunch and beverages, Entrance fee to Ek-Balam, Archaeological and multilingual guide, Equipment for activities, Hammocks, Towels, Lockers. Departs 0700/0800, returns 1700/1800.

Coba
£62 GBP when pre-booked, $99.00 locally, operates Tuesday and Thursdays.
• Cobá is one of the most important archaeological sites in the area. Built between two lakes during the Classic Period (600-900 A.D.) The restored structures are in 5 groups connected by shady, well groomed trails under the jungle canopy. You may see or hear monkeys and an incredible variety of jungle birds. Walking can be hot and the air is humid so wear comfortable shoes and carry some water if you really want to see all the major areas. The Nohoch Mul Group, Conjunto Pinturas and Macanxoc Group can all be seen in about 2.5 hours at a leisurely pace.
• Includes: Air Conditioned Bus or Van, Professional Bilingual Tour Guide (Spanish – English), Entrance Fee to Archaeological Site of Coba, Visit to Mayan Village, Buffet at “El Bocadito”. Departs 0800, returns 1800.

HALF DAY

Swimming with Dolphins
£49 when pre-booked, $79 booked locally, operates daily
Puerto Aventuras, located in the Mexican Caribbean, is a tourism project strategically planned to show respect over nature and offers visitors all the attractions and amenities of a small city in the middle of the beautiful and exuberant Riviera Maya jungle. Dolphin Discovery facilities are located in the centre of this complex and were built inside a tropical green island with a lagoon: home of our dolphins.
You can choose from four programs to make your experience unforgettable!
Royal Swim (Swim Real): 1 hr (15 min. orientation and 45 min. in the water)
Dolphin Encounter (Encounter with Dolphins): 30 min. interactive experience
Swim Adventure (Swim Adventure): 45min (15 min 30 min orientation in the water)
Sea Life Discovery package (Dolphin and Sea Lions): 3 hours
Includes: 15 min Briefing and 40 min in the water, Round trip Hotel – Dolphin centre - Hotel, Use of all facilities and visit of Puerto Aventuras
Departs at 0900, 1100, 1300 OR 1500

ATV and Speed Boats
£39 when pre-booked, $63 locally. Departs daily.
Combine a perfect afternoon of fun on land and water. A activity on the beautiful beach of Maroma in the Mayan Riviera. Drive your four wheel ATV for 45 minutes and feel the rush of riding your speed boat for another 45 minutes on the beautiful Mexican Caribbean.
Includes: Round trip transportation, Single or shared ATV and Speed Boats, Sodas, Bottled water, Snacks (fried beans and tortilla chips), Taxes, Local medical insurance. Departs 1330, returns 1815.

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On Arrival: You will receive a detailed itinerary and any other important information, including an overview of the local sights, recommended restaurants and other helpful tips.

Club Dance Holidays Host:   Your holiday tour host is there to make your holiday as enjoyable as possible. Club Dance Holidays Tour Hosts are a cut above your typical Holiday Rep with a lightness of touch that enables you to get the best out of your holiday without being in the least bit interfering. We make sure you get the best out of the destination even though you are there for a relatively short time and we do this through our local knowledge and our knowledge of dance. Club Dance Holidays Tour Hosts normally offer much more of themselves than you would expect including making sure your nights are sociable and fun often well into the small hours if that is your whim. During the daytime the level of participation and presence of Club Dance Holidays tour hosts varies according to the nature of each holiday and its destination.

Overview of the Week and Welcome Drink: At the beginning of your holiday there is an Overview of the Week where your tour host will tell you about all details of your holiday and answer any questions you might have. At the Overview of the Week you can buy your optional extras and Dance Holidays will invite you to be our guest to a drink.

Getting Around: You are responsible for making your own way to the dance classes and meeting points on the itinerary. We give you a detailed, annotated map and itinerary which make this easy. Nearly all of the activities we plan are within walking distance of the hotel. On one or two occasions it may be wise to get a taxi, and we will let you know when and how.

Playa del Carmen Travel Tips

1. The rainy season in Playa del Carmen is from May to November, with possible hurricanes in the months of August and September. When traveling to Playa del Carmen, it is best to avoid the rainy season.
2. The official language in Playa del Carmen is Spanish, but Mayan languages are spoken all over the area. It is a good idea to at least learn a little Spanish when going to Playa del Carmen, although foreign languages such as English and French are also spoken widely throughout the city.
3. Most shops and ATMs in Playa del Carmen are located in Quinta Avenida. Stores and other businesses are typically open from 10 in the morning to 10 at night. Information centers for tourists are also available in Quinta Avenida.
4. All products and services in Playa del Carmen have a value-added tax of 10%. However, most tourists also leave additional tips for service, approximately 10%.
5. Numerous activities and itineraries are offered in Playa del Carmen. You can plan these itineraries ahead of time by booking early. This is recommended for big groups, especially when traveling during the peak or the vacation season. On the other hand, if you are just an individual or belong to a small group, you can opt to arrange your tours once you get there. This can help you arrange your schedule day by day and pick the cheapest tours available.
6. Most activities in Playa del Carmen involve the water, so wear appropriate beach clothing. If you plan to go scuba diving or snorkelling, you can opt to bring your own gear or rent from diving centres in the area.

Keeping your valuables safe: Although crime rates in Playa del Carmen are relatively low, it is sensible to take the usual precautions you would take in any large resort. Our advice is to leave expensive jewellery and unnecessary valuables at home. It is best not to put temptation in peoples’ way. Do not leave your luggage unattended at any time and ensure that there is some way of locking or padlocking your suitcase or travel bag on the occasions where the luggage needs to be left in the bus or in the reception of the hotel. It is not unheard of for unlocked bags to be tampered with. When travelling we suggest that you keep your passport, travellers cheques, dollars and other important valuables about your person, in secure money belts or pockets. Although your possessions should be reasonably safe in your hotel rooms please ensure that your traveller’s cheques, dollars and other important valuables are always locked in your suitcase or in your safe when you go out.
 

The Cuba Factor: Be aware that Cuba is a place where things do not always go according to plan. Sometimes the most carefully constructed plans just don’t happen. At other times new and exciting opportunities arise to, for instance, see a famous Cuban band playing live, or to experience some exciting aspect of life in Cuba that no one could have possibly predicted. Turn every problem into an opportunity and you will experience the best of Cuba.

Making friends with the locals and people not on the holiday: Cuba is a great place to make friends with the locals, and should you do so and would like them to come along to the activities organised by us, then just ask your Tour Host and except for the dance classes and provided you pay their way there should not be a problem. However, we discourage Non-Cubans who have not paid for the holiday from coming out with us more than once or from joining in activities arranged specially for the group. We would be grateful for your assistance and cooperation is this respect.

Buying drinks and meals for Cubans: Often Cubans will ask you to buy them a drink or food. They are often unable to afford to buy their own. At your own discretion you may wish to occasionally buy drinks and or a meal for the Cuban friends that you make. This is usually only a matter of a few dollars and is another feature of the peculiar circumstances that prevail in Cuba.

Attention in public places: Visitors from the West should be aware that they are likely to get a much higher level of physical attention in Cuba than they are used to back home. This applies to men as well as women! In nightclubs, Cubans dance close and often in a very sensual way. Sometimes they may try to push their luck. This is always done with a smile, is usually just playful and can be great fun. You should exercise common sense and, if you find that you are feeling hassled you should be firm and disengage from your partner with a polite and friendly smile. One of the team will normally be on hand to provide moral support, or escape, should you need it!

Keeping your valuables safe: Although crime rates in Cuba are very low, it is a poor country and you represent to them a rich foreign tourist whose pockets are stuffed with unimaginable wealth. So please be careful. Our advice is to leave expensive jewellery and unnecessary valuables at home. It is best not to put temptation in peoples’ way.  Do not leave your luggage unattended at any time and ensure that there is some way of locking or padlocking your suitcase or travel bag on the occasions where the luggage needs to be left in the bus or in the reception of the hotel. It is not unheard of for unlocked bags to be tampered with. When travelling we suggest that you keep your passport, travellers cheques, dollars and other important valuables about your person, in secure money belts or pockets. Although your possessions should be reasonably safe in your hotel rooms please ensure that your traveller’s cheques, dollars and other important valuables are always locked in your suitcase or in your safe when you go out.

Playa del Carmen: After your day at the beach, head into town and take a stroll along the pedestrian Fifth Avenue strip, locally known as Quinta Avenida. La Quinta is the place to see and be seen in Playa del Carmen. By day it’s packed with people browsing the shops and boutiques; by night roving musicians entertain diners in the many restaurants and bars. As the evening progresses, La Quinta gyrates to the sounds of rock, salsa and reggae as people flock to the bars and nightclubs. The beach clubs get in on the action too, hosting dance parties that rage on until the early morning hours.

The Cuban dance scene: Dance and music penetrates much of Cuba life. Cubans are surrounded in their daily life by an eclectic mix music of Son, Rumba, Afrocuban, Danzon, Cha Cha Cha, Dancehall, Rap and Hip Hop. The dance scene is fantastic fun, playful and provocative. Partners dance close and the style is creative and fun.  The latest dance craze is 'Tembleke' which is a rapid, sassy body movement involving the shoulders, chest, torso and hips danced solo at your partner.
 
Clubs and venues in Havana: On the inside information of our Cuban teaching team, we will take you to the most happening venues. These may include concerts of world famous Salsa bands such as Los Van Van, Salsa-ing by the sea just across from the Malecon, a Salsa Matinee (hot Cuban salsa and lots of Rueda between 4.30pm and 10pm! - the cubans come here after work), traditional 'Casa de la Trovas' where you can dance on the balcony, smart clubs with drink-as-much-as-you-like bars, hot late night venues (from 2.30am onwards) where you will find the djs mixing Salsa with Hip Hop and rap. Most clubs cost between $6-20. You are expected to pay your own way into the nightclubs and the transport there and back unless it is included as part of an excursion. We may walk, take taxis or organise private coach transport (about $1) to the best clubs.

Club Entry
Casa de la Musica 10 to 20 CUCs
Hotel Florida 5 CUCs includes 2 cocktails
Club 1820 3 CUCs
La Gruta 5 CUCs

Drinks at Clubs vary in price depending on which club you go to and the time of day you attend. For example, Casa De La Musica bar prices are cheaper at Matinee shows and more expensive in the evening.

Average club drink prices
Cocktails 3 - 4 CUCs
Soft drinks and beer 1 - 3 CUCs
Bottle of rum 12 - 20 CUCs

Evening meals
Budget restaurant 8 - 12 CUC
More upmarket restaurant 12 - 20 CUC

Tipping per day 3 - 4 CUCs

Airport tax on leaving Cuba 25 CUC 

There will be at least two levels of salsa tuition so that the classes will cater for all abilities, from beginners through to the advanced. To ensure you get the most from the classes, the dance teachers will advise you on the first day of classes and suggest the level that is most appropriate to your ability and experience.

Flights: Almost all our published prices include return flights from selected UK airports. If you are travelling from outside the UK we can offer you a holiday price without a flight included. Please ringus to find out which UK departure flights are offered on each holiday.Our client care team are happy to price you a flight from any UK airport. Supplements may apply for certain regional UK airports or if you are buying close to the time of departure. If you buy well in advance you will be able to take advantage of our Early Bird Discounts and promotions which apply on many holidays.

Transfers: We offer airport transfers at our chosen arrival destination airports to meet flights from a variety of selected UK airports. In addition, if you are on a different flight which coincides with our arrival times at our chosen airport, we can also offer you a place on the transfer. Our client care team can advise you on selected flights for your chosen holiday. Sometimes you may have to wait a short while at the airport to connect with our transfer. If you are not coming from our selected UK airports or are flying to a different arrival airport, we can happily arrange a transfer for you at an extra cost - please ask us for details. You may wish to make your own way to your hotel. To do this we will give you easy to follow instructions.

Making your own way there: For those whose flights don't coincide with our Airport coach transfer, you can make your own way to the Hotel in Playa de Carmen. We recommend a registered taxi which will cost around US$100 or a shuttle bus which runs a regular service between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Journey time: about one hour 30 minutes.

In Havana the distance between the José Martí International Airport and the city of La Habana (Havana) is approximately 20 km (12 miles). There are no public buses that pass by the airport en route to La Habana, so you must either take a personal taxi or tourist bus. The taxi charges approximately $30-40 dollars, and the tourist bus charges approximately $10-15 dollars. Journey time: about 30 minutes.

Books on Mexico: We recommend the “Rough Guide to Mexico" as well as Mornings in Mexico by DH Lawrence.

The climate on Mexico's Mayan Riviera is tropical, with hot and humid weather, although inland regions have a more temperate climate.

The Cuban climate is mild subtropical. East to west oriented it receives plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures and refreshing sea breezes. No wonder that Columbus thought that he had discovered the earthly paradise! 

Don't forget that humidity in both destinations is relatively high..

Average Temperatures Cuba and on the Mayan Riviera:     

Jan         16/25            April      19/29                 July        22/31               Oct        17/27
Feb        16/26             May       21/30                 Aug       22/31                Nov       17/27
March   17/27             June       22/31                Sept       22/30               Dec        17/27

Useful Things to Bring: Whilst Playa del Carmen is teeming with international chains, it's worth remembering that due to the US embargo you will not find as much availability in the shops in Cuba (especially chemists and clothes shops) so its a good idea to come well prepared:

Shoes suitable for walking around the streets
Broad brimmed sun hat/sunglasses
High factor sun cream
Insect repellent/anti-mosquito spray
Antiseptic cream in case of bites
Elastoplasts for sore feet
Aspirin/Nurofen for hangovers!
Immodium for stomach upsets
Shampoo, soap, toothpaste and other toiletries (hard to obtain and expensive in Cuba)
Condoms (local condoms are of low quality)
Travel washing powder (although the hotel may provide a laundry service)
Paper tissues/toilet paper
Swimming costume essential/beach towel
Money belt
Money, plane ticket, full valid passport, visa
This fact sheet

What to wear for dancing: It is probable that you may get through quite a few clothes in the classes and dancing at night (you can get quite hot!) so bring a variety of outfits. In the clubs, the local dress code is quite casual and 'streety' as opposed to elegant and smart. Cuban women tend to wear jeans/tight trousers or mini skirts with sassy little tops whilst men tend to wear trousers with tshirts. Trainers are allowed at most venues. Shorts are not permitted. A useful tip for women is in that some salsa clubs you have to leave your handbag in the cloakroom. Therefore its a good idea to bring a wrist/ankle purse or a purse that clips on to your trousers/skirt.