Why did you decide to enroll with Jakera in Cuba?
Josef: Before my friend and I started our traveling, Cuba was a hope and not in our serious plans.
However, when as program participants with Jakera Venezuela, we learned that there was a possibility to fly to Cuba and carry on our Spanish education. It would all be a lot cheaper than if we did it alone!
Our time with Venezuela Jakera had been one of the best times of our lives, so continuing with a similar program was a no-brainer. As soon as there was a flight available, we jumped at the chance to visit this amazing country.
The chance to learn more about the history of a country that had a revolution, was at the very center of one of the world's most dangerous periods, and learn about their opinions or points of view is what really drew me in.
And of course, the 1950's cars were a must see! If you are at all interested in history, you will love it!
Tell me about one person you met.
Josef: One of the best things about staying with Jakera Cuba was the very warm welcome my friend and I received. The two people who run the program are called Amy ('la jefa' - the boss) and Lionel, and they are two of the nicest people we met.
Both of them were warm, kind, and always happy to answer any questions or queries that we had, whether they were worries, questions about locations in Havana, or the history of Cuba! Both spoke very good English but also enjoyed it when we tried to practice our Spanish!
Amy welcomed us and as an accountant, was able to give us a detailed but easy to understand guide on how the two currency systems work in Cuba. She also taught us how to get the most out of it (which later proved to be incredibly useful)! She also made us meals on the weekend which were very tasty! Cuba is an amazing place but these two really made our stay brilliant!
If you could go back and do something different, what would it be?
Josef: Our traveling plans for Cuba only accounted our stay being 8 days. If I could do anything different, it would be to stay longer and therefore be able to see more of Havana and more of Cuba.
In particular, there was an excursion to the Viñales, which is in the west of Cuba. As a naturalist, I was disappointed I could not go to this beautiful region to see its amazing landscapes and numerous animals and plants.
If I had more time, I would definitely find out about more nightclubs to go to. In particular Casa de la Musica!
We missed this nightclub because of time restrictions and if I were to go back I would definitely make a trip here! We heard the place had a great Cuban live band and an atmosphere to match.
What was the best moment of the entire trip?
Josef: Going to see the 'Buena Vista Social Club' in the 'Hotel Nacional' was an incredible experience. These legends of jazz still performed as if they were in their teens (when they were actually closer to 70)!
The show and service from start to finish was top class with your ears being treated to amazingly skillful music, your eyes being constantly entertained by the antics on stage, and your glass never being empty!
On top of this, the two dancers that performed with the band were jaw-droppingly good and kept everyone watching involved in the show by picking at random men and women to come to floor and dance Cuban salsa!
Then for the final show piece everyone was invited to dance! Any lover of music from any background will absolutely love this and I highly recommend it!