Destination information
If you're looking for a Caribbean experience that's really not like anywhere
else in these turquoise seas, it has to be Cuba. The Caribbean's biggest island
offers all the pleasures we associate with this part of the world: sun, sea,
sand and a laid-back vibe but with a difference. For Cuba's extraordinary
history, its years of self-sufficiency and its unique Afro-Latin culture make
for a holiday that's like nowhere else on earth.
The capital, Havana, is a place of beautiful colonial buildings and romantically
faded grandeur. The island's top beach destination is Varadero, famous for its
unspoiled white sands and crystal-clear waters. Because the island is largely
self-sufficient, you can sample truly local food and drink, rather than the
international brands we're so used to.
Come and immerse yourself in the spirit of Cuba - drink the rum, smoke the
cigars, dance the salsa and live la vida dulce!
Star attractions
- Historic Havana
- Imposing Fortresses
- Rum and Cigar Factories
- Stunning Beaches
- Water Sports
- Unspoiled Diving
- Swim with Dolphins
Additional info
Cuban Culture
The cigar and rum factories in Havana and Pinar del Rio are well worth a visit with Cuba's Viazul bus, a terrific way to travel round. Hemingways Villa Finca Vigia, a few miles southeast of Havana, is also recommended.
Salsa
Music and dance are very important to the Cubans, so make like the natives and learn to salsa! After a few lessons join the locals in one of the many lively venues in Havana and Varadero.
White Sands and Sealife
Varadero is Cuba's premier beach destination, whilst Jibacoa lies between Varadero and Havana and is a quieter, more secluded beach resort. Dive amongst exquisite coral reefs, swim with the dolphins or take a glass-bottom boat ride!
FREE Excursion
Varadero guests can enjoy a FREE excursion to Cardenas City, where the Cuban national flag was flown for the first time in 1850 atop the La Dominica Hotel. Sights include museums, a rum factory and picturesque cathedral.
Different destinations have different magic touches so make sure to check out the "Rockstar Service" to see what makes your holiday with us so special.
Getting there
Flight Details You fly direct twice weekly
from Gatwick to Havana on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service. Local departure tax
is currently Cuban Peso 25 per person (approx £15) and payable in local currency
at the airport.
Local departure tax is currently Cuban Peso 25 per person (approx £15) and payable in local currency at the airport.
Flight Time 9 hours 40 min
Flights
Virgin Atlantic flights leave from London
Gatwick and Havana Airport on Thursdays
and Sundays.
Handy stuff
Time Difference GMT 5 hours
Language Spanish
Currency Convertible Peso (CUC).
PLEASE NOTE: Credit cards issued by US banks and US Dollar currency is not accepted in Cuba.
UK passport holders currently require a Tourist Visa (15) - these can be obtained from Virgin Holidays at the time of booking. Non-UK passport holders should contact the consulate for entry requirements: Cuban Consulate, 167 High Holburn, London, WC1V 6PA. Tel: 020 7240 2488.
You need to exchange Sterling for Cuban Pesos locally and these cannot be converted back into Sterling.