Accessing Cuba with Cazenove+Loyd

A trip to Cuba will transport you back to a bygone era that is yet to be compromised. This culturally fascinating and unspoiled island has an abundance of gems to visit and explore. My little black book of contacts means that we at cazenove+loyd can open doors for you that are completely off the tourist trail allowing you to experience the real Cuba. Art, culture and music, in particular, are at the heart and soul of the country. Our exclusive access and contacts on the ground, mean we can arrange private dinners with Cuba’s most exciting artists; along with lunches in the beautiful homes of local art collectors whilst meeting some of the best musicians and dancers in both Havana and Trinidad.

“IF YOU WANT TO SEE THE REAL, RAW AND UNTOUCHED CUBA AS IT IS TODAY, NOW IS THE TIME TO GO, AND THIS IS THE WAY TO DO IT” – HENRIETTA LOYD

VINTAGE CARS

To experience the real Havana, you have to travel around town in a vintage car. It is an absolute must and the coolest way to cruise the colourful streets and feel totally immersed in Cuba’s unique and vibrant culture. We have put our cazenove+loyd twist on this quintessential journey by stopping off en route at all of our favourite Hemingway haunts for a few daiquiris, allowing you to see the city through the eyes of this celebrated literary hero who made Cuba his home.

THE CUBAN NATIONAL BALLET

cazenove+loyd’s private access into the Cuba National Ballet rehearsals gives our clients an exclusive behind the scenes experience. The opportunity to sit in on classes and watch the performers in preparation for a show is a very special and unique way to spend a morning in Havana. Follow this one-off experience with a wander around the Cuban National Ballet’s home: the stunning neo-baroque Gran Teatro, which is a real treat for dance, music and architecture lovers.

ART GALLERIES AND PRIVATE COLLECTIONS

Cuba (and Havana first and foremost) is a hot-pot of creativity Private Guiding in Cuba and the booming art world is fascinating for an outsider. Seeing the works of artists of every decade expressing their views on the country’s social, political and cultural characteristics, is a rare opportunity and a real eye-opener into this enigmatic and introverted country. Our little black book of contacts allows us to host private dinners in some of the most intriguing galleries in the capital with the chance of viewing and appreciating the spectacular pieces of art at a slow pace and in real privacy. We have got to know a number of artists and experts in their fields, who love sharing their local insight and knowledge with our clients.

CUBAN CIGARS

Our substantial contact list in Havana means we know Art and culture holiday to Cuba and have access to the man with the largest cigar collection in Cuba allowing our clients to visit him in his private home. The tobacco industry is incredibly important in Cuba and famous throughout the world. Meeting someone with an immense knowledge and passion for this symbol of Cuba allows you to get under the skin of the country in a unique and memorable way.

SALSA

We always recommend starting a holiday to Havana with a salsa lesson to get into the rhythm of Cuban culture.You will immediately notice that the sound of music oozes from every building and the streets are full of life and soul. What we think adds so much to experience the music and dance of Cuba is following your salsa lesson with an evening out at one of the fantastic music clubs, but with your salsa teacher joining you. This way you will see the city as the locals do whilst being able to carry on the learning experience in a fun and vibrant atmosphere