October 7-14, 2015

Those who know me know that I fell into an unlikely and unexpected relationship with the island nation 90 miles south of Miami, which is a mystery to most U.S. citizens. Due to my experience with digital publishing, I was invited by the Cuban Book Institute in late 2013 to share with publishers, editors and authors what is common in most of the rest of the world, and as yet largely inaccessible to them. I took the opportunity to spend 3 months there.

Although Cuba rightly boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, areas of stunning lakes and mountains, UNESCO-designated cities and a complicated hostory all its own, what sets it apart from other Caribbean Islands is not only its socialism and isolation from 21st century technology, but the highly-literate population of 11 million and the plethora of creative and genuinely welcoming individuals who celebrate life . As one author/cardiologist said to me, “Thank you taking an interest in us. We have nothing to offer you but our friendship.” Indeed, the friendships formed with some of Cuba’s top writers, senior professors and cultural center directors are among the most profound in my life.

In hearing my stories, several writer friends from North America asked if I would create a tour that offers similiar profound engagement with Cuba’s literati and so, after much planning and coordination, working with Altruvistas – a travel service with a long and well-respected reputation of organizing legal trips to Cuba for American associations, academic and other groups – I am delighted to offer the Writers’ Journey To Cuba. Please click the link to read about it.

It is the first delegation of its kind to Cuba, and offers two pricing options – including a charter from Miami or land-only (for those coming from Mexico, Europe or elsewhere).

Altruvistas also wrote a short piece about this unique Tour, which might give you more insight. I would greatly appreciate if you’d pass it along to your writer friends, bibliophiles and social networks… you never know to whose heart and mind this might speak. A huge thank you to those who have!

Prior articles I’ve posted on Cuba: Visiting Havana and Visit Cuba Resources.

Please contact me with any questions or concerns. Your comments, as always, welcome below.