Accommodation

Skyros-in-Cuba uses the famous 5-star Habana Libre Hotel. Centrally located in the district of Vedado, the hotel – in earlier times called the Hilton – passed through the revolution relatively unscathed. Fidel Castro liked it so much that he initially relocated his headquarters there! The magnificent mosaic wall, designed by Amelia Pelaez, mercifully survived the hotel’s renovations made at a later stage.

The hotel offers breathtaking views of Havana, the sea and the Morro fortress. Conveniently located, it offers easy access to the eastern beaches. Its top floor has a open-air dance hall with live Cuban bands. There are also restaurants, a swimming pool, 24-hour room service, a hairdressers, a mini-mart and laundry services. All rooms are en-suite with air conditioning, cable television and a balcony.

Food

You can eat well on simply prepared wholesome food. Cuba was a pioneer in the use of ecologically sound farming - all food in Cuba is organically grown. Seafood, particularly lobster, prawns and fresh tuna are of excellent quality. Vegetarianism is in its infancy but restaurants respond to requests.

The holiday includes sumptuous buffet breakfasts and two evening meals.

Please note that Maestro cards are not accepted – only Visa and Mastercards on non-US banks. Credit cards and travellers cheques are generally not widely accepted but you can change sterling or Euros at the airport or hotel.

Daily Life

See the Cuba Programme page for a rough guide to what's on when during the holiday. You can expect optional early morning yoga classes, talks on Cuban history and culture, guided tours, partnered salsa classes and visits to local salsa clubs. The history and culture talks are particularly interesting as you'll hear first-hand what life is like living in Havana. There's also an optional trip to Varadero Beach with commentary en-route.