Everything you wanted to know about VIVA LA LENGUA: HAVANA!

From July 15 – 19, VIVA LA LENGUA: HAVANA headed to Havana, Cuba following 4 weeks of online study with the VIVA LA LENGUA: 4 weeks to conversationally fluent Spanish course!

On Monday, July 15 we touched down in Havana and were greeted by the best guide, Orlando (or Orly) at the airport. After exchanging money, we headed straight to our luxe lodging in the neighborhood of Varadero. 

We took a moment to get settled, then headed out to our first destination, a tour of a centuries old fabulous mansion in Vedado, owned by Josie. We spent over an hour touring her stunning home that has appeared in TV, movies, magazines such as Vogue and more! After that, we headed over to AltaMira Art Loft for a tour and wine reception.

The next day after an amazing breakfast prepared by the house staff we headed out on foot to tour Havana Vieja (Old Havana). We got a behind-the-scenes look at some of Cuba’s hottest up-and-coming entrepreneurs including Clandestina and Dador! 

After a stop in the Cathedral, we headed to lunch at the famous Doña Eutimia. Needless to say, the food and mojitos were amazing!

At the halfway point of our trip, we woke up early and headed to the Valley of Viñales, approximately 2.5 hours outside of Havana. It was beyond worth it! We had a private tour of the farm of Pancho, who walked us through the tobacco growing process, how to select the proper leaves for a cigar, and how to roll a Cuban cigar. We definitely enjoyed sampling the final product!

Before heading back to Havana we had lunch in a family owned restaurant and visited the famous Mural de la prehistoria!

That night, we switched up plans and had an amazing and relaxing dinner at the world famous, La Guarida paladar!

On our last day, we took it easy and headed to Santa María Beach in Habana del este about 15 mins from Havana by car. Accompanied by the camera of Amberly Alene, we enjoyed the incomparable beaches of Havana and also got to do private and group photoshoots. 

After washing off and taking advantage of free time to grab souvenirs, we headed to the popular Tierra restaurant in Fábrica del Arte Cubano for our rooftop farewell dinner, where we shared our overall impressions of the trip, enjoyed another night of amazing food, with the pairing of art, live music, and great company!

Did you follow the journey of VIVA LA LENGUA: HAVANA in the Instagram stories of @heydrcort?

Ready to be a part of the next tour?

VIVA LA LENGUA is heading back to Havana in December 2019 and I want to see you there! Registration is open until November 15, with special pricing available now! Head to https://bit.ly/3463J4D for early access!

Viva la lengua, 

Dr. Cort