Two Historic Travel Opportunities in One: Visit Cuba the Same Time as Pope Francis

(TRAVPR.COM) US - June 16th, 2015 - Pope Francis has been instrumental in helping restore relations between Cuba and the US, receiving praise and thanks from both President Obama and Cuban President Raúl Castro. As a result, since December 2014, not only have American travel restrictions been lifted but commercial and diplomatic relations have eased, with a US Embassy in Havana scheduled to open this July.

Now, through In Touch Travel Services, which organizes cultural and educational exchange trips to Cuba under the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s people-to-people program, you can experience firsthand Cuba’s cultural and educational activities, along with the thrill of a Papal visit.

The excursion, which runs from September 19-26, is offered during the days Pope Francis will be visiting Santiago de Cuba and Holguin – and includes a stop at the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, considered to be the “mother of the Cuban people.” Along with events related to the Pope’s visit, participants will explore Baracoa, the first village founded in Cuba in 1512. At Guantanamo, they will stop at the border of the US Naval base and meet members of Danza Libre, a dance company founded by Elfriede Mahler, the famous US choreographer. They will also get the rare opportunity to meet and mingle with local artists, dancers, painters and entrepreneurs, including the Classic Car Club members, and ride in pre-Fidel Castro era Chevys and Chryslers. Lodging in Santiago is at the premier Melia Hotel, part of the famous Spanish hotel chain. The tour also includes two nights at the El Castillo hotel in Baracoa. Travelers can extend their stay with a colonial heritage exploration of Trinidad and Havana. The complete itinerary and registration information can be found online at www.popefrancisincuba.com

Elme Castillo, tour director and owner of In Touch Travel, will be leading the group which is limited to 15 people. A native of Cuba, he has an in-depth knowledge of its people, background and economics. “This is a great opportunity for those who want to meet the Cuban people and learn more about the  history and culture of the island,” he observes.

About In Touch Travel:  Founded in September 2012, In Touch Travel Services LLC organizes cultural and educational exchange trips to Cuba under the people-to-people program authorized by a general license from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Tours include visits to Havana, Viñales, Trinidad, Santiago and Guantanamo. They also promote exchanges between American and Cuban artists, organizing exhibitions and performances involving US universities and cultural institutions.

For more information please contact info@intouchwithcuba.com or visit www.intouchwithcuba.com.

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