CUBAN HIGHLIGHTS RIDE
This is my 5th cycle trip (4th of which with Exodus). Done about 20 group trips such as this to dateCouple of points- Most people spent about 200 pounds (best to take GBP), generally easy to change along the way, incl in Hotels so don’t change too much up front. Everything is paid in CUC, so no option to pay in EUR/GBP (USD is not a good idea !)- Bikes were all in excellent condition, many in the group took gel saddle covers, the roads are quite bumpy !- There are 2 good (scuba) dive sites where I stopped to dive , Caleta Buena and Guajimico (day 1 and 2 on land only itinary) , although the guide didn’t seem to know much about them. Diving was generally 25 CUC (40 CUC for the cave dive near Calenta Buena), if you book thru a hotel, add 40%, so best book direct. (take your dive card !)- Most companies are moving to local guides to contain costs, they often don’t understand what westerners are interested in, so do some reading up, make it clear what you interested in, early start, see more, etc. – I generally take my own bike on trips such as these, I didn’t however on this trip and would recommend others to use the hire bikes, they’re good quality and reasonable.- The cycling is very easy, if you can cycle round Richmond Park twice in a few hours, you will sail thru this trip.- It is very hot, take plenty suncream, possibly a wide brim hat that fits under your helmet- Some Exodus trips have operators print day route maps (very useful), unfortunately this is not done here so you need to stick with the group- This trip is very short, I would recommend an extra day at the end in Havanna(Exodus do whatever flight booking you need, no issues there), I wouldn’t stay in group accommodation for extra nights tho, the group hotel is way out of town (and no character). Some stayed in Town before the trip started , and seemed to find some far more interesting/central alternatives. The group City tour is too short (and doesn’t go into any sights), and extra day following a LP walking route (or similar) should do the trickNot my best trip to date, but very enjoyable nevertheless. These cycling trips do tend to attract and interesting and fun group (from my experience), which certainly helps !
