Rickshaw Travel

ABTAATOL Protected

  • Destinations
  • Family holidays
  • Travel guides
  • About us
  • Blog
My Travel Plan
Loading...

Your travel plan is empty!

Add your favourite trips or an itinerary to your travel plan. Click on 'My Travel Plan' to see what you've added and send it to us. Our travel specialists will piece your holiday together (including transport & accommodation) and send you a quote within one working day.

Get started!

Added so far...

We'll create your dream holiday

    Next, review & send us your travel plan for your quote

    Request your quote

    Or view/email a copy of your travel plan

    View your travel plan
     Your next steps

    1. Add your favourite trips or an itinerary to your travel plan
    2. Click the Request your quote button to send it over to us
    3. Our travel specialists will piece your holiday together (including transport & accommodation) and send you a quote within one working day

     Your next steps

    1. Add your favourite trips or an itinerary to your travel plan
    2. Click the Request your quote button to send it over to us
    3. Our travel specialists will piece your holiday together (including transport & accommodation) and send you a quote within one working day

    • Destinations
      • Asia
        • Bhutan
        • China
        • India
        • Japan
        • Nepal
        • Sri Lanka
        • Tibet
      • South East Asia
        • Borneo
        • Cambodia
        • Indonesia
        • Laos
        • Malaysia
        • Myanmar
        • Thailand
        • Vietnam
      • North America
        • Canada
        • USA
      • Central America
        • Belize
        • Costa Rica
        • Cuba
        • Guatemala
        • Mexico
        • Nicaragua
        • Panama
      • South America
        • Argentina & Antarctica
        • Bolivia
        • Brazil
        • Chile
        • Colombia
        • Ecuador & Galapagos
        • Peru
      • Europe
        • Greece
        • Iceland
        • Italy
        • Lapland
        • Portugal
      • View all destinations
    • Family holidays
      • Asia
        • India
        • Sri Lanka
      • South East Asia
        • Borneo
        • Cambodia
        • Indonesia
        • Thailand
        • Vietnam
      • North America
        • Canada
        • USA
      • Central America
        • Costa Rica
        • Cuba
      • South America
        • Peru
      • Europe
        • Iceland
        • Italy
        • Lapland
        • Portugal
    • Travel guides
      • Travel guides by destination
        • Borneo
        • Canada
        • Costa Rica
        • Cuba
        • Ecuador
        • Galapagos
        • India
        • Indonesia
        • Japan
        • Peru
        • Sri Lanka
        • Vietnam
      • Family Holiday Guides
        • Borneo
        • Canada
        • Costa Rica
        • Cuba
        • India
        • Indonesia
        • Malaysia
        • Peru
        • Sri Lanka
        • Thailand
        • USA
        • Vietnam
      • Inspiration
        • Beaches
        • City stopovers
        • Diving and snorkelling
        • Food & drink
        • Honeymoons
        • Self drive
        • Trekking
        • Unique experiences
        • Wildlife & safari
      • Where to Go When
        • January
        • February
        • March
        • April
        • May
        • June
        • July
        • August
        • September
        • October
        • November
        • December
    • About us
      • Discover more
        • Our values
        • Meet the team
        • How we work
        • Work with us
        • Customer reviews
        • In the news
        • Contact us
      • Responsible travel
        • Responsible travel
        • Animal welfare
        • Population Matters
        • Our Meaningful Travel Policy
        • How to be a responsible traveller
      • Travel Advice
        • Accommodation
        • Covid-19
        • Flexible booking
        • Flights
        • LGBTQ+ travellers
        • Refer a Friend
        • Travel insurance
        • Visas & passports
    • Blog
    AsiaSouth East AsiaNorth AmericaCentral AmericaSouth AmericaEuropeView all destinations
    BhutanChinaIndiaJapanNepalSri LankaTibet
    BorneoCambodiaIndonesiaLaosMalaysiaMyanmarThailandVietnam
    CanadaUSA
    BelizeCosta RicaCubaGuatemalaMexicoNicaraguaPanama
    Argentina & AntarcticaBoliviaBrazilChileColombiaEcuador & GalapagosPeru
    GreeceIcelandItalyLaplandPortugal
     
     
    AsiaSouth East AsiaNorth AmericaCentral AmericaSouth AmericaEurope
    IndiaSri Lanka
     
    BorneoCambodiaIndonesiaThailandVietnam
     
    CanadaUSA
     
    Costa RicaCuba
     
    Peru
     
    IcelandItalyLaplandPortugal
     
    Travel guides by destinationFamily Holiday GuidesInspirationWhere to Go When
    • Borneo
    • Canada
    • Costa Rica
    • Cuba
    • Ecuador
    • Galapagos
    • India
    • Indonesia
    • Japan
    • Peru
    • Sri Lanka
    • Vietnam
    • Borneo
    • Canada
    • Costa Rica
    • Cuba
    • India
    • Indonesia
    • Malaysia
    • Peru
    • Sri Lanka
    • Thailand
    • Vietnam
    • USA
    BeachesCity stopoversDiving and snorkellingFood & drinkHoneymoonsSelf driveTrekkingUnique experiencesWildlife & safari
    • January
    • February
    • March
    • April
    • May
    • June
    • July
    • August
    • September
    • October
    • November
    • December
    Discover moreResponsible travelTravel Advice
    Our valuesMeet the teamHow we workWork with usCustomer reviewsIn the newsContact us
    Responsible travelAnimal welfarePopulation MattersOur Meaningful Travel PolicyHow to be a responsible traveller
    AccommodationCovid-19Flexible bookingFlightsLGBTQ+ travellersRefer a FriendTravel insuranceVisas & passports

    Rickshaw Ramblings

    • Browse by Destination
    • Argentina & Antarctica
    • Bhutan
    • Bolivia
    • Borneo
    • Borneo for Families
    • Brazil
    • Brighton
    • Cambodia
    • Cambodia for Families
    • Canada
    • Canada for Families
    • Chile
    • China
    • Colombia
    • Costa Rica
    • Costa Rica for Families
    • Cuba
    • Ecuador & Galapagos
    • Family
    • Greece
    • Iceland
    • India
    • Indochina
    • Indonesia
    • Indonesia for Families
    • Italy
    • Japan
    • Laos
    • Lapland
    • Malaysia
    • Mexico
    • Myanmar
    • Nepal
    • Nicaragua
    • Panama
    • Peru
    • Portugal
    • Sri Lanka
    • Sri Lanka for Families
    • Thailand
    • Thailand for Families
    • Tibet
    • USA
    • USA for families
    • Vietnam
    • Vietnam for Families
    • Browse by Theme
    • 24 hours in...
    • Competition
    • Cultural
    • Customers stories
    • Family travel
    • Food and drink
    • Friends of Rickshaw
    • History
    • Responsible travel
    • Top tips
    • Wellness
    • Wildlife

    11th March 2020 • 10 min read

    The best bits from Joanna Lumley in Cuba

    Cultural, History, Top tips pin Cuba

    Share:

    Ross with penguin

    Speak to our Cuba specialist

    Enquire now

    Joanna Lumley’s hidden Caribbean

    Is there a finer way to become acquainted with Cuba than cruising through Havana’s streets in the back of a vintage car? Well, that’s just how Joanna Lumley rolls.

    She’s dipped her toes in Japan’s thermal springs, returned to the land of her birth in India, and in her latest escapade on ITV, Joanna Lumley falls under Cuba’s spell too. With a 1500 mile Caribbean adventure ahead, Cuba is her first stop, before neighbouring Haiti.

    Both countries have endured their share of colonisation, natural disasters, sanctions and isolation, yet they remain veiled in unmistakable charm, unspoilt beauty and rhythm. 

    Cuba has always held a special place in our hearts here at Rickshaw – after all, it was where we celebrated 10 years of Rickshaw Travel – all 30 of us! Watching Joanna Lumley experience our favourite parts of Cuba has only reminded us of everything we already loved about this Caribbean isle. From Hemingway’s favourite beaches to the faded grandeur of revolutionary cities.

    At the start of the trailer, Lumley invites us to join her: “I’m going on an adventure through two of the most intoxicating countries in the world. This unique journey will glimpse the hidden side of these fascinating places – why don’t you tag along?” 

    So, following Lumley’s footsteps, here’s a recap of some of our favourite places to visit and things to do in Cuba.

    Soak in Havana’s faded glamour

    Havana has a pretty distinct personality which you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. Those who travel here – us included – are often left mesmerised by its hotchpotch architecture, lingering music, cutting-edge art scene and graffiti. Not to mention its variety of distinct neighbours, and we don’t just mean within Habana Vieja (Old Havana).

    classic car in havana with colourful streets

    Lumley kicked things off with a classic car tour – and that’s just the way we like to do it too. It’s the quintessential way to explore the city’s crumbling colonial beauty, peeling bygone glamour and forest-draped parks of greenery.

    glass of havana rum

    In the first episode, we watch as Lumley visits The National, a hotel that predates the revolution, where she’s enamoured by the lively cabaret performances. But you don’t have to go anywhere particularly special to feel Havana’s pulse. Take a wander through the maze of cobbled streets and you’ll usually be rewarded with Rumba beats and hole-in-the-wall mojito bars.

    Visit tobacco farms in Viñales

    Next up is Viñales, arguably the most famous tobacco-growing region in Cuba. Home to green valleys and striking, craggy hillocks, which were formed by ancient erosion in the Jurassic period, Viñales has an unmistakable laid-back, old-world charm. It’s the quintessential Cuba that you might imagine when you close your eyes. Here, life isn’t staged, it simply unfolds as it has done for decades; straw-capped farmers perch on wooden verandas, horse carts line dusty paths and red-tiled bungalows scorch in the midday sun.

    mountain scenery in vinales

    It’s here where Lumley visits a cigar factory, meeting the locals and honing her cigar-rolling skills. One of our travel specialists’ favourite things to do in Viñales is taking hikes through the tobacco hills, where you’re surrounded by jungle-topped hills and red-earth fields. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even saddle-up and do the trip on horseback!

    woman riding in vinales

    “I’ve met lots of people who’ve been [to Cuba], ‘Oh, the old-fashioned cars. Hurry, because it’s going to change, and you’ll lose that beauty of old Havana.’ Well, I don’t think that Cuba is moving fast enough for old Havana to change for a long time. They might put up a couple of new hotels but all the old splendour of the streets, and the beauty, it’s a stunning city.”

    – Joanna Lumley, The Irish Times

    Take time-out on the beach in Cayo Jutias

    Granted, this spot wasn’t featured on Joanna Lumley’s road trip, but it should’ve been! It’s one of our favourite beaches in Cuba, and within easy reach from Vinales – so it’s perfect if you’re up for a lazy beach day. 

    cayo jutias beach

    There aren’t any hotels here. This means it’s retained an untouched feel, and you’ll find white sands and crystal clear waters which rival any of the big resorts. There are a couple of small bars, as well as kayak rental and snorkeling trips…or you could just wander amongst the mangroves and find a quiet spot to relax.

    Viva la revolucion in Santa Clara

    Santa Clara is smack-bang in the centre of Cuba, making it the perfect pit-stop if you’re venturing further south to Trinidad. If you’re fascinated by tales of Cuba’s revolutionary history and leaders, then Santa Clara is an important place to visit. Like Joanna Lumley, you can pay a visit to the mausoleum of Che Guevara, a museum dedicated to the memory of Che and his 29 fellow guerrillas who died with him in Bolivia.

    che guevara monument in santa clara

    Plenty of people argue that Santa Clara steals Havana’s crown for Cuba’s most revolutionary city – and not just because of legendary Che. Santa Clara is a creative city with an edgy culture of student communities who often push the boundaries of Cuba’s censorship. Home to a bold art scene, popular rock festival, and Cuba’s only official drag show, this city has revolution and rebellion in its blood.

    Lap up the culture in Santiago de Cuba

    Fidel Castro’s home town of Santiago de Cuba is up next on Lumley’s off the beaten track itinerary. And she’s there just in time for the 60th anniversary of the Great Revolution.

    Sandwiched between the Sierra Maestra Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, Santiago is Cuba’s cultural capital, bursting with music and a very Afro-Caribbean vibe that sets it apart from other cities. It’s the beating heart of Cuban literature, architecture and culture too. 

    church in santiago de cuba

    If you’re a music lover, head to the Casa de la Trova in Tivoli, the city’s French Quarter. Top Cuban musicians, such as members of the Buena Vista Social Club, make pop-up appearances here. It’s a soulful Cuban institution that you simply can’t miss.

    While you’re here, you can also visit the Moncada barracks, where Castro was captured in 1953, and also visit his burial tomb. Visit the battlements of the UNESCO-protected Castillo el Morro, pop in to the Run & Cigar ‘Houses’ before taking a stroll through the Parque Cespedes.

    “I loved Santiago de Cuba, which is where the revolution started, where Fidel came from the hills with this idea of overthrowing the top-heavy, over-rich government. Because most of Cuba was settled by the Spanish, it was built in a Spanish way around squares. Every square had a cathedral, a grand hotel, maybe something like a huge library, possibly a university. It’s terribly grand.”

    – Joanna Lumley, The Irish News

    Psst… If you missed the show, you can catch up on the ITV hub.

    View of tall trees and lake

    Think Cuba sounds absolutely fabulous?

    Our Cuba trips are packed with experiences that give you a genuine flavour of what this unique country is all about. Our dedicated Cuba travel specialists will tailor-make your holiday so it’s perfect for you.

    See our ready-made Cuba holidays

    Like this? Sign up to our newsletter!

    If you enjoyed this then why not sign up to our newsletter for more travel inspiration, tips, and advice from our travel specialists.

    !

    By signing up, you’ve opted in to receive our newsletters – don’t worry, you can unsubscribe at any time, via the link at the bottom of our emails. We genuinely care about you and treat your data securely and with respect. We tell you all about it in our Privacy Policy.

    Thanks for signing up!

    You're now signed up to our newsletter. It won't be long until you get your first dose of inspiration, so keep an eye on your inbox.

    Central americaCubaHavanaJoanna lumleyLumleySanta claraSantiago de cubaTv

    Comments

    Next Article

    Experience the world from your sofa | Part 1

    Previous Article

    5 experiences that support women around the world

    Other articles you may like

    Top tips

    Cuba Travel | Why go now?

    31st July 2015 by Zoe

    As rumours circulate about Cuba lifting the ban on travel for Americans, our Travel Specialist Zoe, explains why you should visit Cuba sooner rather than later.

    4 min read

    Read More - Cuba Travel | Why go now?

    Responsible travel

    Unique experiences in Cuba’s Casas Particulares

    7th October 2014 by Ceri

    Being hosted by locals in Cuba's Casas Particulares was one of the (many) highlights of my Cuba trip. It's just like staying in a super friendly B&B!

    2 min read

    Read More - Unique experiences in Cuba’s Casas Particulares

    Responsible travel

    How You Can help Save Endangered Species In The Rainforest

    27th April 2021

    Rainforests are being eliminated at an alarming rate, here are some of the things that we can do to help save endangered species that call these places home.

    6 min read

    Read More - How You Can help Save Endangered Species In The Rainforest
    Back up

    As featured in

    • the guardian logo
    • wanderlust logo red
    • Lonely Planet
    • National Geographic Traveler
    • Psychologies
    • The Daily Telegraph

    Information

    • Contact us
    • Booking conditions
    • Financial protection
    • Health and safety
    • Your Package Holiday
    • FCDO travel advice
    • Blog
    • Coronavirus travel advice

    Get in touch

    We're a friendly bunch and always ready for a chat so feel free to get in touch.

    Call us: 01273 322 398

    Email us: hello@rickshawtravel.co.uk

    Contact us

    Connect with us

    FacebookInstagramTwitterYouTubePinterest
    ATOL Protected ABTA Travelife

    © 2008 - 2022 | Rickshaw Travel

    Privacy Policy  |  Cookie Policy  |  Sitemap

    Call us Phone us

    Please give us your consent to use cookies

    We use cookies to ensure our website works, to give you an enhanced experience while browsing, and to enable us to use 3rd party tools that are connected to us. Read our Cookie Policy for more information.

    What are your holiday plans?

    • Our travel specialists know everything there is to know about your chosen destination. Please tell us what you're looking for below and we’ll get back to you very soon (usually within 24 hours).

    • Hidden
      This field is only shown to Rickshaw Admins, and is used for routing the form to the correct destination inbox
    • Hidden
      This field is only shown to Rickshaw Admins, and is used for routing the form to the correct destination inbox
    • If you'd prefer us to call you, please enter your phone number here
    • If you can, please share with us how many people are travelling, when you’d like to go, what you’d really like to experience, what you love doing on holidays, your rough budget, and when's best to contact you.
    • Hidden
      By signing up to the email newsletter you consent to receive promotional emails from us. You can unsubscribe at any time. We genuinely care about you and treat your data securely and respectfully. We tell you all about it in our Privacy Policy.
    • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.