Learn Spanish, Dance & Adventure Habana & Vinales

location
4 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Good response rate

Highlights

  • Live in the heart of Old Habana & Viñales and enjoy a full immersion into Cuban life – city and country / past and present
  • Busy program including accommodation, breakfast & lunch and Spanish lessons, transfers to/from Viñales, dance lessons and cultural activities in Habana and daily adventure activities in Viñales
  • Starts first Sunday of EVERY month and includes 28 nights (21 nights Havana, 7 nights Viñales) but you are welcome to arrive early and/or extend for extra nights... we are open 365 days a year!

Highlights

  • Live in the heart of Old Habana & Viñales and enjoy a full immersion into Cuban life – city and country / past and present
  • Busy program including accommodation, breakfast & lunch and Spanish lessons, transfers to/from Viñales, dance lessons and cultural activities in Habana and daily adventure activities in Viñales
  • Starts first Sunday of EVERY month and includes 28 nights (21 nights Havana, 7 nights Viñales) but you are welcome to arrive early and/or extend for extra nights... we are open 365 days a year!
  • 18+ program with no upper age limit (minors welcome if accompanied by an adult - this program is family friendly also!). We welcome all nationalities!
  • All Cuban crew and Program Managers will help you feel at home providing 24/7 support


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Four week full cultural immersion based in Old Havana & Viñales. Spanish classes are supplemented with dance classes, cultural tours and adventure activities.

    Four week full cultural immersion based in Old Havana & Viñales. Spanish classes are supplemented with dance classes, cultural tours and adventure activities to explore, enjoy and experience this amazing country!

    Three weeks – 1st, 2nd & 4th week – are based in Old Havana. Spanish language ...

    About the program

    Four week full cultural immersion based in Old Havana & Viñales. Spanish classes are supplemented with dance classes, cultural tours and adventure activities to explore, enjoy and experience this amazing country!

    Three weeks – 1st, 2nd & 4th week – are based in Old Havana. Spanish language lessons take place Monday to Friday in the mornings, and in the afternoons you receive dance classes and ‘Discover Cuba’ cultural excursions. Two weekends feature a trip to the beach while during the third week we change the setting and pace with an adventure in Viñales.

    In Havana accommodation in is a licensed Casa Particulare in the atmospheric heart of Old Havana; shared single sex dorm rooms with other program participants (couples or friends booking together automatically upgraded to private room with en suite/private bathroom) OR upon payment of a single room supplement you have the option to stay in another nearby Casa with your own room and private en suite bathroom. Either way breakfast and lunch are served at our main Casa and this is the hub of program activities. This is also where Spanish lessons are taken as well as group discussions, planning meetings and impromptu social gatherings.

    In Viñales we also stay in centrally located Casa Particulares where breakfast and lunch are also provided.

    This is a busy program and offers the possibility of a full immersion into Cuban life – city and country / past and present – and an opportunity to really understand what makes this amazing country so special.



    Typical day

    Our ‘Learn Spanish, Dance & Adventure’ 4 week program has been crafted to maximize your time in Old Havana and Viñales (both UNESCO World Heritage destinations). 

    Upon arrival Havana International Airport you are picked up for a transfer to our hostel and language school, or Casa Particulares. ..

    Typical day

    Our ‘Learn Spanish, Dance & Adventure’ 4 week program has been crafted to maximize your time in Old Havana and Viñales (both UNESCO World Heritage destinations). 

    Upon arrival Havana International Airport you are picked up for a transfer to our hostel and language school, or Casa Particulares. Opened at the end of 2015 our hostel features shared single sex bedrooms (with air con), separate shower and toilet facilities, dining rooms and lots of comfortable indoor and outdoor space (inc spacious roof terraces). Here you can enjoy hanging out with new friends or chilling on your own to enjoy the cool breezes and great views of the streets below. As with most of Havana you will enjoy taking in the atmosphere in this central location which is truly unique.

    Welcome Camino

    On your first day in Havana you are taken on a short walking tour – usually within 24 hours of your arrival – to familiarize you with your new surroundings, such as money change and internet services, and to give you a flavor of the opportunities to enjoy your free time in this exciting location. 

    While in Havana during weeks 1, 2 & 4 your time will feature the following activities;

    Spanish Lessons

    Monday to Friday’s intensive Spanish lessons take place shortly after breakfast. Your teacher is licensed and on day one you receive a short test to establish your level and objectives. Lessons take the format of 3 x 45 minute lessons each morning, with 15 minute breaks to refresh, making approximately 3 hours of Spanish lessons each day – 15 hours per week. Lessons are held from 09:00 sharp, Monday to Friday.

    * The Discover Cuba content features additional Spanish language tuition, oral comprehension and dialogue (approx. 4 hours per week).

    Dance Classes

    There are 2 dance classes per week, usually Tuesday and Thursday from 14:00-15:00. You are taken through your paces – lessons feature Salsa but depending your progress you may also be introduced to Son, Rueda de Casino, Mambo, Cha Cha Cha, and Rumba and perhaps a few moves you haven’t heard of! The lessons are delivered a short walk from your Casa by a licensed dance instructor, and in the evenings there are MANY free live music venues where you can do your homework!

    Discover Cuba

    Three times weekly (usually Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons 14:00-17:00 approx.) we take you on an adventure to help you understand and enjoy the history of Cuba and Habana. Understand the source of her amazing wealth, the rich cultural mix, marvel at the faded patina of Habana’s famous gorgeous neo classical architecture, the rumble of classic American cars, curious soviet era high rise buildings, ubiquitous live music on every street, dance, exotic religions etc etc the list is endless.

    You will quickly feel at home, gain the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the city during your own time, with new found traveller and Cuban friends. You have been immersed into the Cuban culture - enjoy!

    Weekend Excursions

    Two weekends will be in Havana and we go on a daytrip to the beaches directly east of Havana. Journey time is 30 minutes by bus and you can enjoy the exhilarating rollers that break on these pristine sandy beaches.

    Week 3 - Viñales

    At the end of your second week, on Sunday we head west on a three hour drive to the central western region of Cuba. Viñales is a beautiful agricultural town utilising horse power to cultivate plantations including the best tobacco fields in the country. The perfect contrast to your time in Havana here we enjoy the fresh air and natural world including stunning UNESCO heritage status limestone mountains and tobacco drying houses. 

    Spanish lessons continue Monday to Friday but after lunch we explore*; hiking, horse-riding and cycling through some of the most wonderful landscapes in Cuba. Accommodation, breakfast & lunch, Spanish lessons each morning and an adventure activity every day Monday to Friday help you maximise your time in this special place. The following Sunday we head back to Havana for our final week in Cuba.

    * adventure activities in Viñales include horseback exploration Viñales valley including a traditional tobacco drying house to learn more about growing, curing & drying and rolling cigars, trek through plantations to learn about other crops including a sunrise trek to learn about some of the history – and mythology – of this beautiful area. We also take bicycles heading out of town to explore distinctive limestone caves. If you don’t like horses – or bikes! – alternative arrangements can be made to enjoy the countryside.

    Free-time activities

    Habana is one big arts school - bursting with creativity in the form of art and music. Our neighbourhood is also home to many sights of historical interest and museums so lots of stuff for cultural heads/history buffs!


    Viñales is beautiful and exciting in a different way... here the emphasis is the ...

    Free-time activities

    Habana is one big arts school - bursting with creativity in the form of art and music. Our neighbourhood is also home to many sights of historical interest and museums so lots of stuff for cultural heads/history buffs!


    Viñales is beautiful and exciting in a different way... here the emphasis is the natural world... beautiful limestone mountains giving way to caves and lagoons... the rich and fertile soil playing host to Cuba's finest quality tobacco and other crops that make this place delightful to explore on horse, foot, bike or horse drawn buggy as your fancy takes you.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    Open mind and sense of adventure!

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Corazon Cuba

    Price includes accommodation (28 nights), breakfast & lunch, 60 hours intensive Spanish lessons, twice weekly dance lessons, three times weekly cultural excursions/activities, two escorted trips to the beach and an adventure week to Viñales including daily activities described.


    Airport Pickup at Jose Marti International Airport

    Advise your flight details - dates, times & flight numbers - and we will arrange your airport transfer ($40 each way).

    Accommodation

    In Havana accommodation in is a licensed Casa Particulare in the atmospheric heart of Old Havana; shared single sex dorm rooms with other program participants (couples or friends booking together automatically upgraded to private room with en suite/private bathroom) OR upon payment of a single room supplement you have the option to stay in another nearby Casa with your own room and private en suite bathroom. Either way breakfast and lunch are served at our main Casa and this is the hub of program activities. This is also where Spanish lessons are taken as well as group discussions, planning meetings and impromptu social gatherings.

    In Viñales we also stay in centrally located Casa Particulares where breakfast and lunch are also provided.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast & lunch are included. Food preferences accommodated! There are many nearby options for dinner to suit all budgets. 

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana. We assist you to find cheap flights to Cuba. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Cuba provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Cuba you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Cuba. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Starts first Sunday of EVERY month and includes 28 nights but you are welcome to arrive early and/or extend for extra nights... we are open 365 days a year!


    Airport transfer is not included but can be arrange on request ($40 each way).

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    4 weeks 1,765€
    Average fees 442€/week

    Program fees

    442€ per week 4 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 4 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Corazon Cuba during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Corazon Cuba

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (26 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2014

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Good response rate

    Coordinated by

    Tim

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    A unique blend of learning Spanish, culture & dance, and volunteer projects. Amazing things are happening in Cuba right now - it starts in La Habana.

    Meet your organization

    Join one of our amazing life affirming travel experiences in Cuba or Guatemala

    Who we are?

    We are a small organisation who have worked together for 20 years delivering fun and life affirming travel experiences in a variety of countries. Our experienced leadership team, led by Leonel & Leandro in Cuba and Tim in the office, together with our local team love what we do - and our clients do too!

    What we do?

    Adventure travel, cultural immersion, gap year/life affirming travel to exciting Spanish speaking destinations. Outdoor adventure and cultural immersion - including volunteering and the legacy our clients leave - are what motivate us.

    Where we work?

    We currently have operations in Cuba (Habana, Viñales & Trinidad since 2014 ) and Guatemala (Antigua & Monterrico since 2017 - see Monterrico Adventure). Habana is one of the safest cities on the planet and Cubans super friendly and well educated.

    Our mission/vision

    Our job is to invigorate, excite and connect our clients to the amazing world we live in - and help set your inner compass for life!

    Our goals

    In Cuba our goal is to to help you connect with Cuban people, understand their culture and history and turbo charge your Spanish language tuition.

    Who are we looking for?

    Our programs are for over 18's but families or supervised younger persons - including groups - are most welcome (no upper age limit!). There are no fitness or other entry requirements. Our only criteria is an open mind and spirit of adventure! Our clients are a diverse mix of ages and nationalities which is great.

    Our programs comply with travel restrictions for US citizens - see SUPPORT THE CUBAN PEOPLE (contact us for more information about the rules).

    Why choose us?

    We offer amazing value and 24/7 program support to help maximise your time in Cuba. We love what we do - and our clients do too!

    26 reviews · rating4.7

    For two weeks me and my mom joined the Spanish and salsa program. The first week we stayed in Havana and the second in Trinidad. Both of the places have their own charm and we had an amazing time. The Spanish classes are a good and you can discuss with the teacher what you want to learn. The dance ...
    We had so much fun on this trip. I was really hoping to get under the skin of Cuba and the local staff were so great at offering that experience. Really wish I could have stayed longer! Leo and the team were really considerate and attentive whenever I had questions or needed help. There’s so much ...
    I went to Cuba and got the chance to meet such amazing people on this programme, some travelling alone or in groups up to 4 so there was never a shortage of interesting people to talk to or go out with. Everyone including the staff and teachers were all so welcoming and great fun. I learned so much ...
    Hospitality was fantastic. The course leader was efficient. Ensured we were picked up at the airport and had clear objectives for each day. Looked after us well. A Very good experience, the Spanish teachers were great. Dance classes were professional! People were friendly and staff are ...
    Lenka Kubesova rating5

    2024 at Learn Spanish & Support the Locals

    Just came back home from my two weeks Cuban experience / volunteering and learning Spanish and I’m still buzzing while feeling sad that it’s over. I thought two weeks is gonna be enough but unfortunately time went a way too fast so I’d definitely recommend coming for longer period of ...
    Patricia rating5

    2023 at Learn Spanish, Dance & Culture

    It was my first trip outside of Europe and by myself. I'm currently 28 years old and I never took a time off to travel and discover the world. This year I decided to travel to Cuba. My cousin went to Cuba three years ago and told me about the wonderful experience she had. I searched the internet for ...

    Location

    Americas > Caribbean > Cuba > La Habana

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