Event

When travel restrictions were lifted last year, Art Guild travelers were among the first to cross the many “bridges” that link the Cuban and American art worlds. That trip got such rave reviews that this “encore” trip is planned to experience the heart and soul of Cuba’s vibrant culture, art, and people! While privileged access to artists is its focus, our itinerary also includes musicians, dancers, architectural tours, and connections with Cuba’s resilient people.

During our five-night stay in Havana, we’ll learn to appreciate the splendid 16th & 17th Spanish-style architecture or the Caribbean’s largest city. We’ll travel through Cuba’s rich agricultural countryside to spend two nights in Cienfuegos, a lively, prosperous port city and Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cuba is rapidly changing and old Havana’s renaissance is visual confirmation of its “quasi-capitalist” remake. Our itinerary in Havana includes a walk through Chinatown for insights into the history of Cuba’s Chinese settlements, and a briefing at the United States Interest Section which represents U.S. interests in Cuba; it functions as a “de facto embassy.”

We’ll leave the bustling city of Havana to spend two days in the port town of Cienfuegos. Located on a calm bay facing the Caribbean, it has excelled in the production of sugar, tobacco and coffee since the early 1800’s. Reflecting its picturesque beauty, it is popularly known as “The Pearl of the South.” Highlights of our two-night stay at the Hotel Jagua include a tour of magnificent 19th-century buildings on the main square and the Terry Thomas Theater. We'll take in a private performance by the Cienfuegos Choir and post-performance conversation with the singers and their director. We'll also visit Palacio de Valle, an architectural jewel built for a sugar merchant in 1917; it has been transformed into a lavish building with Moorish, Venetian and Byzantine influences and superb views of the bay.

In nearby Trinidad, we’ll explore the Valley of the Sugar Mills, a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site and a quaint 1800’s village hacienda on a sugar plantation. We'll make visits to the studios of two noted artists living in Trindad as well as the Museum of Decorative Arts. Join us for a trip that promises to create life-long memories, foster unique friendships and to exceed the highest of expectations!

Space is limited so please reserve early.

Need more info? Contact artguild@museumca.org

For more information about OMCA Guilds, including how to join and a list of upcoming trips, visit museumca.org/travel-guilds.