Tauck reports that it will again be offering departures of its People-to-People cultural exchange journeys to Cuba, following the recent renewal of its license to operate tours to the island nation. The Connecticut-based company had been among several tour operators awaiting license renewals from OFAC, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, Tauck notes.
Tauck’s first departure to Cuba under its renewed license will begin on October 6, 2013, with additional trips scheduled throughout the remainder of the year.
Tauck’s return to Cuba follows the company’s initial launch there in 2012 – one of the most successful new itinerary launches in Tauck’s 88-year history, according to CEO Dan Mahar. “Interest in Cuba is incredibly high, and we were thrilled to help so many of our guests experience Cuban culture, art, music, food and more,” said Mahar. “Our Cuba trips earned rave reviews last year, and we’re looking forward to again providing the same enriching, engaging people-to-people experiences beginning in October.”
Tauck’s initial license to operate in Cuba expired at the end of 2012, and although the company had submitted its renewal application at the earliest oppsortunity to do so, more robust documentation requirements from OFAC coupled with staff shortages there resulted in delays.
Unlike its initial Cuba license (which expired after one year), Tauck notes its current license is valid for two full years so the company won’t require a renewed license until mid-2015. Tauck’s eight-day Cuba itinerary begins with an orientation and overnight in Miami, Florida, with guests embarking on a charter flight to Havana the following morning.
Included in Tauck’s pricing (from $5,490 per person, double-occupancy, plus round-trip airfare to Miami), are accommodations at the Hilton Miami Airport in Miami and the Meliá Habana in Havana, a round-trip charter flight from Miami to Havana, all ground transportation, all sightseeing and admission to all attractions, all entertainment, all meals and more.
Visit www.tauck.com