Absolutely Cuba

16/07/2024

Join Absolutely Cuba for an exclusive preview of our upcoming cultural familiarization trip to Cuba, scheduled for May 2025. We're hosting two one-hour informational sessions designed for travel professionals who want to expand their expertise and learn about Cuba so they can sell the destination knowledgeably and effectively.

Join the May 2025 FAM Informational Webinar here: https://calendly.com/absolutelycuba/absolutely-cuba-may-2025-fam-informational-webinar

Discover the inclusions, pricing, and invaluable benefits of participating in this limited-capacity FAM trip. This webinar is ideal for travel advisors who:

• Sell culture-focused travel
• Specialize in the Caribbean and Mexico
• Serve luxury clients
• Specialize in culinary, wellness or off-the-beaten-path travel experiences
• Have clients looking for unique, bucket list destinations
• Want to understand and sell Cuba to their clients
• Create group trips for their discerning clientele

Learn how Cuba can become a signature destination in your travel portfolio, setting you apart in the competitive luxury travel market. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your expertise and offer your clients an unforgettable Cuban experience.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your Cuba knowledge and potentially secure one of the 8 available spots on our exclusive FAM trip. Reserve your place in one of our informational sessions now and take the first step towards becoming a knowledgeable Cuba travel specialist.

Join the May 2025 FAM Informational Webinar here: https://calendly.com/absolutelycuba/absolutely-cuba-may-2025-fam-informational-webinar

28/06/2024

Hello Luxury Travel Advisors!

I have a quick favor to ask. I'm conducting a survey and I'm talking to you!

IF YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF A LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR AND YOUR BUSINESS ALIGNS WITH THE LUXURY TRAVEL SPHERE, I'd greatly appreciate your input. The survey should take no more than 9 minutes to complete.

This survey is completely anonymous. None of your personal details (your name, email, phone number) will be collected or recorded.

Your participation would be an immense help. Thank you!

Complete the survey here:

25/05/2024

🥭🇨🇺😋🥰

08/05/2024

Hello All!

I have an exciting announcement to share! Remember those amazing culture trips I used to put together years ago for all my globetrotting ladies? It was that passion project that originally brought this fantastic group together. Well, get ready - starting next year, I'll be returning to my roots and reviving those unforgettable journeys are making a comeback starting next year - and the first one is going to be extra special.

Interested? Sign up here: https://forms.gle/A2pA56u5BbRnFscS9

The first offering? A Mystery Culture Trip! That's right, an incredible adventure where the culturally rich destination stays top secret until the moment we jet off. Just let your imagination run wild with the possibilities! The anticipation of being whisked away to an unknown, flavor-filled corner of the world to soak up the sights, sounds, and traditions first-hand. If that tantalizing idea has you bubbling with excitement to discover new cultures, then get your name on the interest list ASAP!

Fill out the form below and you'll be the first to get all the must-know details the second this Mystery Culture Trip drops. Who wants to join me on what's sure to be an awesomely spontaneous escape? Let’s explore the world together!

Interested? Sign up here: https://forms.gle/A2pA56u5BbRnFscS9

05/05/2024

This is very good news!

Effective May 6, 2024, you will be able to purchase your visa ONLINE prior to departure. And here is tbe best part: the evisa CURRENTLY costs only $25USD.

Here is what we know so far:

Havana, May 2, 2024.- During the month of May, our country will begin to implement a modern electronic tourist visa management system, called Evisa, which will allow the country to offer a more efficient and agile service to users who request it from through the Cuban consular offices abroad.

With Evisa, applicants will be able to start their visa process virtually, from any device connected to the Internet. This platform simplifies the visa application and management process, eliminating the need for additional physical documents. In addition to its ease of use, Evisa also stands out for its friendliness and contribution to environmental protection.

This initiative seeks to strengthen security and efficiency in all stages of the tourist visa process, from the initial application to border control. With Evisa, Cuba moves towards the implementation of a more modern consular system adapted to current needs.

I tested out the process for my upcoming trip and this is what you need to have on hand if you decide to go this route:

• Name and birthday
• Personal photo (gif, jpg, jpeg, png)
• Passport number, date of issuance (expedition date) and expiration date (due date)
• Home address, phone number and email address
• Workplace information (optional)
• Flight information: date of departure, airline, boarding point of flight into Cuba, date of arrival in Cuba
• Length of stay
• City and province where you will be staying
• You are applying for a tourist visa
• Photo of the picture page of tour passport
• Photo of your flight information
• Photo of your accommodations information

The process is very quick, BUT you have to wait for a response and QR code from the Cuban consulate. How long this will take is anyone’s guess. I’ll keep you posted.

Where to pay the visa fee is also unknown. Once you have the QR code, do you pay online or in Cuba? For now, your guess is as good as mine. 🤷🏽‍♀️

Something else to consider: as of 5/5/24 most airlines have no idea about this development. Will they scan the QR code at the gate? Will you be issued a paper visa with the QR code (doubtful)? I called Delta and no one knew anything. So, if you decide to give this way a go, make sure check with your air carrier to be sure that everything is in order BEFORE you arrive at the airport. I would hate for you to be denied boarding because you were not prepared.

Lastly, be sure to build in enough time to get a response from the consulate so you’ll have plenty of time to handle any issues that might arise with Minrex.

This is a great new development. Once the kinks are worked out this will process be amazing!

Read more here and in thee link attached below:

https://misiones.cubaminrex.cu/en/articulo/cuba-launches-evisa-new-platform-management-electronic-tourist-visas-1

Como se anunció en la inauguración de la Feria del Turismo, durante el mes de mayo Cuba comenzará a implementar un moderno sistema de gestión de visas de turismo electrónicas, denominado Evisa, que permitirá ofrecer un servicio más eficiente y ágil a los usuarios que lo soliciten a través d...

22/04/2024

Who doesn't LOVE a client who returns for more travel love? Woot woot!!!

In December, a Luxury Travel Advisor reached out for a last minute trip to Cuba for a young couple looking to spend New Year's Eve in Havana. Not only did her clients have a blast in Cuba, but our team did such a great job that she's back.

Schedule your consultation for your client's custom travel experience today: https://absolutelycuba.as.me/AgentAppointment

This time around, she has a couple in their 50's looking for a beach vacation in Cuba. Now, if you know anything about Cuba you know this is a HUGE no-no, so I had to put on my thinking cap to see how we could create a beach getaway while still staying compliant to the rules governing travel to Cuba.

I crafted three proposals that modeled a slower paced, yet legally compliant experience. Proposal #2 was the winner! The clients will spend 8 days in Cuba, splitting their time between Havana and Trinidad. They will have legally compliant beach days, explore the rain forest of Topes de Collantes and enjoy the art, energy and culture of the capital city. The clients will be chauffeured by private driver for the duration of their stay. The pace of the trip is a 2 out of 5. In the sum of things, this is exactly what the clients wanted.

The agent is elated. The clients are happy. We are thrilled to have been able to make this trip happen for this couple with a custom travel experience that met every request they had. This trip is going to be amazing.

Schedule your consultation for your client's custom travel experience today: https://absolutelycuba.as.me/AgentAppointment

21/04/2024

If you know someone, sharing is caring. Danielle needs a Danielle for Danielle.

Check out the posting on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/3904424880/

Email cover letter and resume to: [email protected]

11/04/2024

Congrats to our CEO & founder, Danielle Linares! 🎉🎉🎉

She's been accepted into the 12-week Milestone Circles program at the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center.

To bigger and better heights! ✨🇨🇺✨

10/04/2024

Every custom itinerary that we create for our clients requires research. When we research, we come across gems like this. Enjoy.

Once known for its music, art and architecture, Matanzas had succumbed to neglect and disrepair. Decades later, however, it's being returned to its former glory.

04/03/2024

I just finished opening 30 more boxes of donations on TikTok Live. Thank you ALL for your donations to the kids at Escuela Simon Rodriguez. You are all AMAZING.

Last minute donations can be made here: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

Thank you! 🙏🏾 🥰🇨🇺

03/03/2024

You have all been AMAZING!

DONATE TODAY: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/25B6DHVLWARW8/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex

The school supplies donations list is now down to just under $500 in items from nearly $4000. I'm honestly not sure how I'm going to get it all down to Havana, but where there's a will, there's a way.

I leave in a couple of days, so if you want to help clear this list, please do. Whatever you can donate is a million percent appreciated!

DONATE HERE: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/25B6DHVLWARW8/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex

Thank you!!!!

03/03/2024

GRAB OUR LIST OF THE TOP AIRBNBs IN OLD HAVANA!

Guess who totally forgot that she created a list of the awesome airbnbs at all price points in Old Havana? This girl, that’s who! 🤦🏽‍♀️

The list has apartments for all group sizes. One to four plus bedrooms.

Vedado, Centro Habana and Miramar are up next. Happy booking! ✨🇨🇺🏠

16/02/2024

If you are on the list for the 2025 Jazz Festival trip: Email in 15 minutes!

10/02/2024

La Guarida is the worst restaurant in Cuba.

I said what I said…and I meant what I said. 🤢

Check out Dani | Cuba Travel Expert✨🇨🇺's video.

08/02/2024

The Perfect (Totally Customizable) One Week Cuba Itinerary

Follow https://www.tiktok.com/ for more Cuba Travel Tips & Insider Information ✨🇨🇺✨

Check out Dani | Cuba Travel Expert✨🇨🇺's video.

08/02/2024

Dear travel agents! If you’ll be in Las Vegas in March, come check out our CEO, Danielle Linares. She’ll be presenting on a panel about working with Destination Management Coordinators to create unique experiences for your clients. This will be her second year on stage and her third year presenting Absolutely Cuba to the travel agent community and she couldn’t be more excited.

We’ll also be organizing an agents-only brunch in our travel agents group: Cuba FAM Trips & Travel Events for Travel Pros. So if you’re a travel professional and want to join us, come on over! We can’t wait to meet you!

04/02/2024

UNBOXING LIVE TONIGHT: https://www.tiktok.com/live/event/7331805654388047918?enter_from=share_link

One week ago, I posted a list of items that the kids at a small primary school in Old Havana need to make their learning days brighter.

I asked you for your help. I asked you to give. I asked that you donate what you could.

You delivered and then some.

Check out the list: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

More than half of the list has been purchased. I am OVER the moon with gratitude. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

You’ve purchased 67% of this list. You’ve spent nearly $2000. You been more generous than I could have hoped.

With just 75 items left I’m coming to you again. If you have it in you, take a moment to donate for the kids.

From the bottom of my heart, every donation is appreciated.

❤️

04/02/2024

What do you use USD for and what do you use CUP for while in Cuba? Check out our latest video on TikTok!

Check out Dani | Cuba Travel Expert✨🇨🇺's video.

04/02/2024

In just seven days, you have cleared more than have the list of donations. I couldn’t be more grateful and honored. Thank you.

There’s still more. Donate here: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

Join us tonight on TikTok at 7 p.m. EST as we unbox the packages and answer some of your questions about Cuba: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT879NSq6/

Follow us on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/ 💕🇨🇺🫶🏾

Check out Dani | Cuba Travel Expert✨🇨🇺's video.

31/01/2024

We love and appreciate you all tremendously. 10% of the list we shared for the kids of Escuela Simon Rodriguez was fulfilled in 72 hours.

Donations can be made here: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

Thank you. Thank you to each and every one of you who donated...and everyone who will donate to these children.

You're all pretty awesome. ❤️

29/01/2024

Hola! On our recent trip to Cuba, Absolutely Cuba and I had the honor of visiting Escuela Simón Rodriguez, a small but vibrant school in Old Havana near Plaza de La Catedral.

Following the morning assembly, we had the great privilege of spending time with a focused first-grade class as they began their morning routine. The experience was touching and amazing.

Join us in supporting Escuela Simon Rodriguez: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

Though this school is small, 170 students, ages 4-11, the need is evident. That’s where the first graders and their infinite wisdom came in.

During our visit, I posed a simple question to the children: "What can I bring from the U.S. to help you learn better?"

Their responses were clear and direct, with not one frivolous request in sight. Now, I'm passing the list to you.

Join us in supporting Escuela Simon Rodriguez: https://a.co/4QO9Tsx

The list includes 50 essential items. With our vast community and reach, imagine the impact we could make by fulfilling this list within the week! If you prefer, you can also bring these items to a local school during your next visit. Every school has the same needs. The goal is clear – in our small way we can fulfill the educational needs of this class. The 'how' we accomplish this is flexible; what matters most is making a positive impact on these babies.

Enjoy more photos of Escuela Simon Rodriguez and the beautiful faces of these wonderful children.

📚✂️✏️🇨🇺📓📝🏫

25/01/2024

Today is already a great day.

As many of you know, I’ve been traveling to Cuba and living between this island and the U.S. for over ten years now. I love this place. For me, every trip is filled with exploration and understanding and joy and cultural connection. Today started out with an experience that combines all of those things.

Today, I spent the morning in a primary school here in Old Havana.

I’ve never done this before. I never wanted to disrupt the kids, so I’ve always looked from a distance. But yesterday this changed.

I was on the balcony of my apartment and I heard a song coming from the building next door. Kids were singling what sounded like an anthem. The anthem was coming from the school next door.

On my way out for the day, I stopped in to speak with the administrator. I asked if I could come by at a time that wouldn’t be too disruptive. She was very agreeable and invited me to return today. So I did…and it was an incredible experience.

I visited the classrooms and watched the children prepare for a performance this Saturday (apparently Jose Martí was an Aquarius). I spent time with the babies (ages 4-5) and joined them in their gym class. Most of the morning was spent with the 1st graders as they practiced sounds, words and, lo and behold, cursive.

I spoke with the teachers and students. I posed this question to the students: What do you need to help you learn better? Well, they gave me a good and solid list. I told them that I would post the list in my group and in as many places as I can. I told the teachers to please ask the other grades the same question. We all say we want to help and do. This is one of the best ways to do both.

As I was leaving, I thanked them for sharing a bit of their day with me. Then they started showing me their writing books and asked me to take some pictures. So I did. Of everyone. At once.

They were all so proud of their work. They should be. Some of their handwriting is better than mine.

List to be shared shortly. Like I said, today is already a good day.

[Pictured: the first grade class of Escuela Simón Rodríguez and their awesome penmanship]

08/01/2024

Hey ! We want you to be as prepared as possible as you can be when you travel to Cuba. One of the best items you can pack is the Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle. And....drumroll please! The insulated version is currently on sale on Amazon. This means that you can have ice cold filtered water on the go for your entire trip...for less.

Purchase your Lifestraw Water Filter bottle here: https://amzn.to/48JUBDZ

Happy travels! ✨🇨🇺✨

LifeStraw Go Series is the ultimate sidekick for safer, better-tasting water for travel and everyday use. The stainless steel BPA-free bottle filters out nasties, so you can fill up from airport bathrooms, a tap in Mexico, or a gas station while road-tripping. The advanced 2-stage filter improves...

08/01/2024

this is my take on what two weeks in Cuba can look like. Enjoy!

Check out Dani | Cuba Travel Expert✨🇨🇺's video.