Itinerary

Day 1

You will be met on arrival at Jose Marti Airport, Havana, by the Paint Cuba tour guide, and transferred to your Hotel in Old Havana where you will stay for the next three nights on a B&B basis.
Later the group will get to know each other over drinks in the Baroque splendour of Plaza de la Catedral, followed by an al fresco dinner at a nearby restaurant; a perfect introduction to the atmosphere and music of Habana Vieja.

Day 2

The morning will be spent visiting the Cuban section of the National Museum of Fine Art (Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes), followed by lunch at the pool-side terrace of the Hotel Sevilla, an architectural gem.
The afternoon to be spent at leisure to just soak up the atmosphere in this bustling part of the city or visit the regular Friday street-market beside the fort.
In the evening the group will visit the highly-rated jazz club, La Zorra y el Cuervo ( The Fox and the Crow).

Day 3

This is a free day and a perfect opportunity to explore Havana with a sketch book and camera.
Alternatively, we can arrange a city tour in the morning and there is the option of visiting some of the commercial galleries in the afternoon.
Dinner will be taken in a local restaurant.

Day 4

Departure for Vinales, stopping at Las Terrazas community in the province of Pinar del Rio, for a tour of this ecotourism centre, followed by lunch in a local vegetarian restaurant.
Following arrival at Los Jazmines Hotel in Vinales, the group will be introduced to the Artist who will provide an overview of the weeks programme.
Dinner will be taken in the Hotel.

Day 5

PAINTING ACTIVITIES.
The Cuban artists with whom we work reflect a range of figurative styles. They will encourage and support all participants in developing their individuality. Less experinced members of the group will be guided and encouraged to experiment with a variety of approaches. Some classes will take pace in the grounds of the hotel, surrounded as it is by stunning views of the landscape. Others will take place in any one of the numerous places of scenic beauty and interest in the surrounding area. Tuition takes place in a small group and generally our classes begin early, finishing in time for a late lunch and allowing participants to engage in a range of optional activities in the afternoon, or take a siesta.
In the evenings there will opportunities to sample Cuban music and dancing at local bars, in the town of Vinales.

Day 6

Painting activities.

Day 7

Painting activities.

Day 8

Painting activities.

Day 9

Painting activities.

Day 10

Depart for Havana.
Following arrival at the Hotel in Old Havana, the afternoon will be free to spend as you wish.
For the final evening there will be an option of visiting the world famous Hotel National, with its beautiful terrace and gardens overlooking the Malecon.

Day 11

The morning to be spent at leisure followed by final lunch at the roof-terrace restaurant of the Ambos Mundos Hotel, once the home of Ernest Hemingway, followed by departure for the airport.

Extra Information

Extras -

INCLUDED
Return flight to Havana with Virgin Atlantic from Gatwick
10 nights accomodation in 3 and 4 star Hotels
5 day Painting course
Use of easels and folding stools
All transfers in charter bus
10 breakfasts
7 dinners
Pre-dinner drinks Day 1
Welcome drinks Day 4
Entrance fees

NOT INCLUDED
Art Materials
Holiday Insurance (we require evidence of a policy in place prior to travel)
Cuban Departure Tax (25 CUC, about £12.50)
Lunches
3 dinners (Days 2, 3 and 10)
Drinks
Optional Tours
Tips