MIAMI, Dec. 22, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- David Morris International (DMI) a luxury provider of travel is working with Cuba Explorations to offer unique and authentic cultural programs in Cuba in 2015.
The people-to-people tours, one of the few legitimate ways for Americans to travel to Cuba, are led by expert guides, and allow travelers to become fully immersed in the Cuban culture and to make special connections with local people.
DMI programs utilize five-star properties wherever they are available, and gives groups averaging 15 to 20 travelers, an 'insider' look at this fascinating country. It offers several tours including in Havana, where guests tour the city in classic antique cars, and eat mostly at privately-owned Paladars, or restaurants that are usually in a family home, as well as the top government owned restaurants. "We source the very best restaurants," says David Morris.
"We travel to an organic farm where we see all the ingredients are locally grown and harvested and go literally farm to table so you see everything from the goat's milk, to the fish," said Mr. Morris. "Programs like this go above and beyond."
He said the people-to-people program, one of the few legal ways for Americans to travel to Cuba, showcase the country's incredible history and culture. "Now is the time to go, before outside influences inevitably change Havana and the Cuban people as they are today.
"Havana is unspoiled. Travelers on our program get to see a truthful, authentic experience. On many levels, it is a time capsule set in the 50s and 60s that only a few have seen."
Some of the programs on offer include visiting a Holocaust museum, House of Jewish Settlers & Synagogue and exploring Jewish culture and heritage, as well as seeing beautiful scenery of white sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts in that area.
The six night program that flies into Havana, and out of Santa Clara blends urban, Havana and quaint villages outside of Havana. "You see more countryside and can expand on the knowledge and interaction with locals." There are approximately 30 departures in 2015 with current prices starting at $3,811 for six nights, plus $650 air add on which includes a Cuban visa and medical insurance.
"Why now? Go before change. It's not quite the taking down of the Berlin Wall, but it's probably on a personal level, just as impactful to the local people. You can be part of history," he said.
Cuba Explorations managing director Renee Radabaugh believes it will be a while before Cuba changes. "But I believe you should go to experience the country in a pure state before commercialization takes over."
Cuba is thought to be by many as a country that time forgot. While the country does appear to be in a time warp, Radabaugh said the grace and charm of the past is alive and vibrant. "When I tell people of the culture and beauty of the country, that I have learned about I liken it to meeting a 'grand elder lady in a long ago once elegant dress that has seen better days.'"
"You can tell she was once beautiful and filled with grace tucked behind the worn years she wears on her face and body ...but the lines are elegant and full of rich stories and a vibrant past."
The tours focus on the country's incredible culture. A five day/four night tour in Havana might include dining at a contemporary Cuban restaurant while watching one of Cuba's most prestigious dance companies, Habana Compas Dance, visiting Callejon de Hamel on a tour led by the Cuban painter, sculptor and muralist Salvador Gonzalez and experiencing Arts Court, a cultural economic project that unites barbers, hairdressers and artists. Travelers may also visit a senior citizen project and see how communities are building children's projects.
"The people are proud of their rich culture and roots and of their ability to survive and thrive. They are proud to share their country," she said.
Our specific people-to-people license is being issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's, Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC). Pursuant to section 31 C.R.F. § 515.565(b)(2) of the Cuban Asset Control Regulations, this license allows U.S. Citizens who book a package with Cuba Explorations the ability to travel to Cuba legally.
CT-2013-305337-1
About David Morris International
David Morris International (DMI), founded in 2009, offers cost-effective, executive-level sales & marketing solutions for niche-market travel industry providers, helping to improve clients' profitability and market share by giving clients the flexibility to utilize services specific to their needs. Specializing in custom sales & marketing services, uniquely developed travel programs and charters & incentive agreements, DMI combines the experience, contacts, resources, and extraordinary talents of industry professionals. President David Morris brings 30+ years of experience to the table, having worked for Cunard, Crystal and Silversea Cruises, and is assisted by partners, Marilyn Conroy, EVP of Sales and Judy Parker, SVP of Marketing. DMI is headquartered in Newport Beach, California. For more information, visit www.davidmorrisintl.com or call (714) 619-3751.
HavanaAir staff has over 25 years experience in corporate travel and leisure travel planning. Their senior officers fully understand the needs and requirements of this sector of travel and have served some of the nation's largest companies. With this expertise, they can assist those companies now seeking to participate in travel to Cuba under new OFAC General License guidelines. They have a great deal of experience in serving both the pharmaceutical and telecommunications industries and would be pleased to assist your company with facilitating travel to Cuba under the appropriate OFAC guidelines. They also encourage those in the field of journalism or government organizations to allow us to assist them as well, as our organization has over a dozen years of experience in serving the U.S. Government travel.
Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141222/165840LOGO
To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/david-morris-international-through-cuba-explorations-sees-strong-demand-for-authentic-cultural-people-to-people-programs-in-cuba-in-2015-300013383.html
SOURCE David Morris International
Related Links
http://www.davidmorrisintl.com
WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM?
Newsrooms &
Influencers
Digital Media
Outlets
Journalists
Opted In
Share this article