Cuba: Building Bridges >

Is This Trip Right for You?

Discover Corps wants our travelers to be as prepared as possible.  Please read the points below thoroughly to see if this trip is right for you. Reach out to the Travel Coordinator for any additional clarification or questions.

Accommodations: In Cuba, accommodations are typically "casas particulares," which are family-run guesthouses, similar to bed & breakfasts (like AirBnBs with a private breakfast). While these casas can be comfortable, they are often more basic than what you may be accustomed to. For example, water pressure can sometimes be weak, and hot water might not always be as hot or cold as cold as you'd like. Please note that the casas particulares where you'll stay for a couple of nights near the Muraleando project are located in a residential neighborhood, away from the nightlife and walkability of central Havana. While comfortable, these accommodations are more basic compared to those in Havana or other areas. Additionally, Wi-Fi is likely to be unavailable.

Volunteering: Muraleando is a community arts center where travelers will connect with local kids and volunteers to learn about the center’s mission and its impact on the community. The hands-on volunteering is light and unstructured, with travelers participating in activities like working on a collaborative art piece or helping with what’s needed. The experience will focus on building connections and understanding, spending time with local people, and supporting the center’s activities in a relaxed and meaningful way.

Power outages: Scheduled power outages are fairly common in Cuba, particularly outside of Havana. It's a good idea to be prepared for this by bringing a flashlight or other light source, just in case.

Meals: Despite the challenges posed by the embargo, which limits access to many food items and ingredients, Cuba still manages to create delicious meals using locally grown, organic produce. On this trip, you can expect family-style meals that typically include rice, beans, meat, chicken, vegetables, and salads. Fruit juices and the famous mojitos are also commonly available. While we do our best to offer variety, it's important to note that finding options like pizza, pasta, or hamburgers can be difficult.

Healthcare: Cuba’s healthcare system is quite different from most countries. Accessing certain services, such as pharmacies, can be challenging, as they may not be as readily available or as well-stocked as in the U.S. When traveling to Cuba, it’s important to ensure you’re in good physical condition to participate in the planned activities, as the itinerary often involves a lot of walking, sometimes over uneven terrain.