Cuba tops curious travellers list

Adventure travel companies are reporting an increase in enquiries for Cuba, with adventure travellers keen to discover the region before commercialisation sets in. Locked in a time capsule since the 1960s, travelling to Cuba today is like stepping into a time machine. But, as the country opens up and the Castro grip loosens, all is set to change. Intrepid’s Steve Wroe says the company has seen an increase in bookings to Central American destinations from travellers looking for untouched regions. “Central America has experienced growth across all of our brands year on year – up to 72% for Peregrine – because it still seems relatively untouched and exotic,” he said. “Cuba is extremely popular at the moment, particularly since the US changes to the embargo.” Adventure World MD Fiona Hunt says the company is also seeing a large increase in interest for Cuba as adventure travellers look to discover the region before the inevitable influx from the US changes Cuba’s charm. Intrepid’s 14-day Best of Cuba tour covers the historic streets of Havana to the shores of the Caribbean. Highlights include travel to Baracoa and Trinidad with prices starting from $1895 per person twin share. Adventure World’s 8-day Handpicked Cuba itinerary takes in the historic capital of Havana, the city of Cienfuegos, Trinidad and the tobacco region of Vinales. Prices lead in from $2526 per person twin share.