ADDO Institute: CUBA Trek packet

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CUBA 1 Rendezvous with History “With ADDO there is inspiring leadership, unmatched adventures, cultural growth, and meaningful interaction.” – Jason Hafford Rendezvous with History “With ADDO there is inspiring leadership, unmatched adventures, cultural growth, and meaningful interaction.” – Jason Hafford Unprecedented Access “Traveling with ADDO is a roller coaster ride of thrilling, eye-opening, jaw dropping food for the hungry traveler’s soul.” – Jade Morey Unprecedented Access “Traveling with ADDO is a roller coaster ride of thrilling, eye-opening, jaw dropping food for the hungry traveler’s soul.” – Jade Morey

description

Inspiring Leadership. ADDO (v): Latin for Inspire. ADDO is a social enterprise that inspires individuals of all ages and interests through leadership development and cultural travel. Mission We exist to inspire individuals today to make impact tomorrow.

Transcript of ADDO Institute: CUBA Trek packet

Page 1: ADDO Institute: CUBA Trek packet

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Rendezvous with History“With ADDO there is inspiring leadership, unmatched adventures, cultural growth, and meaningful interaction.” – Jason Hafford

Rendezvous with History“With ADDO there is inspiring leadership, unmatched adventures, cultural growth, and meaningful interaction.” – Jason Hafford

Unprecedented Access“Traveling with ADDO is a roller coaster ride of thrilling, eye-opening, jaw dropping foodfor the hungry traveler’s soul.” – Jade Morey

Unprecedented Access“Traveling with ADDO is a roller coaster ride of thrilling, eye-opening, jaw dropping foodfor the hungry traveler’s soul.” – Jade Morey

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Enjoy the sudden splash of color from classic cars as they race by

About ADDOWelcome, Experts in Travel, Leadership

Traveling to CubaTours, dates, itinerary

ADDO SocietyBecome an Ambassador

“ADDO creates the perfect cross-cultural experience. Their programs educate and challenge you, awe you and inspire you.“ --Josh Paradis

“ADDO creates the perfect cross-cultural experience. Their programs educate and challenge you, awe you and inspire you.“ --Josh Paradis

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WelcomeIt happens in a moment.

It always does.

In ancient times it was referred to as “ADDO”. Today we simply call it, “Inspiration”. Our goal at the ADDO Institute is to provide inspiring jour-neys. Led by expert ADDO Trek Leaders and on the ground hosts, each ADDO experience com-bines a local knowledge of each destination with the professional experience you have come to expect.

Traveling to a new destination brings a thrill of excitement and a wonder of possibility. We shape each itinerary to expose all of our patrons to the unique local flavor and rich culture that the desti-nation has to offer. A world awaits with fascinat-ing places and tantalizing experiences. We seek to share destinations that boast spectacular land-scapes and colonial charm, while highlighting experiences that bring together the rush of ex-citement with the awe of discovering a place for the very first time.

Cuba, its people, and its culture, transform these fantasies into a reality.

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Soak in the Caribbean’s largest and most vivacious city – Havana, Cuba

“Traveling with ADDO is relaxing but exciting, safe but adventurous, comfortable yet impulsive, familiar yet eye opening - a true contrast of perspective throughout!” –Ross Glasser

“Traveling with ADDO is relaxing but exciting, safe but adventurous, comfortable yet impulsive, familiar yet eye opening - a true contrast of perspective throughout!” –Ross Glasser

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Experts in TravelADDO, Latin for inspire, is a social enterprise that engages individuals of all ages and interests in leadership and cultural understanding through travel, service, and adventure. The founders of ADDO have traveled to all seven continents, spoken to individuals from over �00 countries, and engaged more than �0,000 next-generation leaders in service through programs in the United States, Africa, and Europe.

As a �0� (c)(�) not-for-profit organization, we are committed to fostering better mutual understanding and appreciation between the peoples of the United States and Cuba.

As featured by

Garrett Gravesen is a social entrepreneur that has traveled to all seven continents. As a global goodwill ambassador, Gravesen has served all over the world. He has done Investment Banking in Hong Kong, volunteered at an orphanage in Africa and has founded a successful charity in the United States. Recently, Garrett was named one of the “Ten Outstanding Young People of the World” in India and is now bringing his international expertise to create cultural programs in Cuba.

Kevin Scott has traveled the United States and the world speaking to audiences about servant leadership. From his work with a local charity, serving on a Presiden-tial campaign, and representing a U.S. Congressman, Kevin was recognized named one of Georgia Trend’s top �0 under �0. Kevin delivers leadership and service lessons internationally to University students from America, most recently in Africa and Europe. This will be Kevin’s fourth trip to Cuba.

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Experience the splendor of sprawling plazas and cobbled streets

“ADDO provided amazing events and opportunities for our group and inspired us to truly become immersed in the local culture of Cuba.” –Kim Wong

“ADDO provided amazing events and opportunities for our group and inspired us to truly become immersed in the local culture of Cuba.” –Kim Wong

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The ADDO AdvantageWhat sets ADDO apart?

ADDO inspires.

It’s who we are. It’s what we do.

ADDO breathes life into any itinerary making your overseas adventure an inspiring journey.

A passion for uncompromising service coupled with an itinerary curated from extensive hours spent on the ground, ADDO provides both exper-tise and exclusive access to travel and activities. We refuse to cut corners on your trip of a lifetime. We make “WOW” experiences come alive.

ADDO consistently surpasses and redefines what you have come to expect— and no ADDO experience is complete without the extra, unexpected “WOW” that makes your experience unique and unforgettable.

Our ADDO Trek Leaders lead each group departure from beginning to end, greeting you at the airport and at your service until you land safely back at home, providing unmatched on-the-ground assistance. In addition, guest directors contribute to the experience at each step along the way.

ADDO Trek Leaders are experts at combining culture and history with magical moments that provide an unmatched overseas experience. You are not an observer. You are a participant.

This authentic Cuban experience is simply not possible with any other travel company.

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Get lost in the romantic atmosphere and infectious energy

“With ADDO, you experience a country in a unique way that is difficult to find in any other type of program” – Kristin Bain

“With ADDO, you experience a country in a unique way that is difficult to find in any other type of program” – Kristin Bain

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Is Cuba right for you?Maybe.Sooner or later a moment will come when you have seen the world, experienced the wonder of it all, and are looking for a truly original journey: This is Cuba. Feeling the rush of a different kind of air, the country boasts of a local scenery that was lost in time but still remains utterly seductive. Sudden splashes of color scream by from 1950’s classic cars and history un-folds with each passing step through a sprawling plaza.

This is an experience like no other – it is not America – which is precisely why you should experience it. If you are looking for an all inclusive resort or typical island vacation, this is not the country for you. Cuba is a country with customs and traditions far different from anywhere else on the globe. Exact timing and perfect scheduling is often lost in favor of a conversa-tion over coffee with a local about life on the island. Everything works, but it works in a way far different from what most travelers expect. And certainly not in the manner and timing that most are used to. And that is perfectly ok.

Cuba is an adventure. If you want easy, we suggest Europe. If you want fascinating, unexpected, and unique experiences from a land frozen in time, we know Cuba is right for you. It’s not for everyone, but it is for those with an open mind and a hunger to immerse yourself in a world full of wonder.

Is Cuba right for you? Only you truly know.

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In order to cater to all budgets and tastes, we have organized our tours into 3 different categories:

STUDENT TREK This trek is ideal for students and travelers on a bud-get. You will stay in a 3* hotel and follow a standard itinerary.

STANDARD TREK You will stay in a 4* deluxe hotel and there are more itinerary options and add-ons available to ensure you have an in depth experience of Cuba.

EXCLUSIVE TREK This is for those of you who want to experience Cuba in the most comfortable way possible. Accommodation is in the best rooms in the best hotels that Cuba has to offer, and the itinerary will allow you to have the most intimate and in-depth experience of Cuba.

STUDENT & STANDARD TREKS Most people travel to Cuba only once, therefore we strongly believe you should get the most out of your trip and our group tours are the best way of doing this. We offer visits that are unique to ADDO and are also accompanied by an English speaking local Cuba guide and one of our ADDO staff – which ensures you have access to those opportunities that cannot be pre-arranged. These tours will get you closer to the authentic Cuba.

EXCLUSIVE TREKS These tours offer the same in-depth visits that are unique to ADDO but EXCLUSIVE tour travelers can experience the country in the most luxurious way available - we stay in the best boutique hotel and eat at the best restaurants. The tour will be accompanied by a local Cuba guide, an ADDO representative, and itinerary that includes additional opportunities to visit cities outside of Havana.

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All prospective travelers must be members of the ADDO society to be eligible for legal travel to Cuba.

Apply to become a member of ADDO Society. Visit website under “ADDO Cuba” for information

Terms and ConditionsOnce a traveler is reviewed and accepted as a member of the ADDO Society, a deposit of $1500 should be made to reserve a spot. The remaining must be paid at least 14 days in advance.

Cancellation Policy0 – 14 days out: no refund14 – 30 days out: $250 refund, not held liable for final balanceUp to 30 days out: $1000 refund, not held liable for final balance

We realize that in many instances, cancelling a trip is due to circumstances beyond your control. If you do cancel but are able to make another trip at a later date we will do our best to offer you a dis-count. Note that with all refunds ADDO will not be held liable for any bank charges.

Please note that once we have confirmed receipt of your tour application form it be-comes a confirmed booking and from that moment all charges apply. If you do not intend to go ahead with the trip then you must inform us more than 30 days ahead of departure or you will be subject to relevant cancellation fees.

Answer the following: - Explain your interest in international travel (200 words or less): - ADDO is a leadership institute. Why does leadership matter to you? (200 words or less)

Check your passport is up to date and fill out the online application form.

Please send us via email the ID page plus signature page of passport ideally in .jpg or pdf format This must be a clear copy to ensure approval.

The visa will be issued to you upon your arrival at the Miami International Airport. We use the passport copy for this purpose only.

Bring your passport for identification purposes. Your passport will not be stamped while entering or departing Cuba.

It is necessary to receive all your application documents and deposit to reserve your spot as an ADDO Ambassador.

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Find a constant source of inspiration from the enduring spirit of the Cuban people

“ADDO provides a truly unique experience. The ADDO trek leaders are spontaneous and will keep you on the edge of your seat at all times. They do a fantastic job of making any situation that arises a memorable one.” – Jeff Croft

“ADDO provides a truly unique experience. The ADDO trek leaders are spontaneous and will keep you on the edge of your seat at all times. They do a fantastic job of making any situation that arises a memorable one.” – Jeff Croft

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Learn about the lost art of cigar making while standing in awe

ADDO lives up to its name inspiring me at every turn. The take-aways from my trip ended up broadening me and bettering my life outside of my adventures and into my everyday life. – Alex Oliver

ADDO lives up to its name inspiring me at every turn. The take-aways from my trip ended up broadening me and bettering my life outside of my adventures and into my everyday life. – Alex Oliver

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ItineraryDay 1 HavanaArrive in Havana and transfer to your hotel. Settle in and get situated as your Rendezvous with History is about to begin. ADDO will then provide a Cuba orientation and overview of the trip itinerary. The evening ends with an opportunity for a rooftop dinner overlooking the Havana skyline.

Day 2A Rendezvous with HistoryExplore Old Havana and the four historical plazas where cobbled streets and open plazas connect historical monuments and Spanish architecture. Visit the Observation tower for a 3D Havana tour and enjoy lunch in Plaza Vieja. Walk down Havana’s busiest street, Obispo Street. Meet local Cuban’s, visit a local market, and enjoy Heming-way’s favorite bar, all before reaching the National Capitol Building. ADDO will present the Power of Living leadership lesson and accompanying activity. Dinner and evening schedule open.

Day 3 Life outside HavanaGet outside the city for a day and enjoy the scenery and landscapes of the eco-community Las Terrazas in the region of Vinales. We will visit the local vil-lage (Rancho Curujey) and experience Cuba’s best coffee. An outdoor lunch is available surrounded by tropical landscapes and the afternoon provides an opportunity for outdoor adventures as well as meet-ing local artists and craft makers in their homes and studios. ADDO will present the Happiness Project in continuation of the ADDO Leadership framework. Dinner and evening schedule open.

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Day 4Back to the FutureEngage and converse with local artists during a tour of the “Picasso of the Caribbean”, Jose Fuster’s home, and a visit to the Callejon de Hamel. Depart for Modern Havana site visits which includeEllian Gonzalez Park and Revolutionary Square. The afternoon ends with a tour of the Museum of the Revolution and the ADDO Visionary Leadership lesson. The evening concludes with an opportunity to experience authentic Cuban cuisine at a private “paladar.”

Day 5Writers, Rebels, and the Revolution Head for the Hemingway Museum and home of the famous author. While living here, Hemingway wroteOld Man and the Sea, his most noted work of fiction for which he received the Pulitzer Prize in fiction in1952 and later the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954. The journey continues with drive through Cojimar – a popular Hemingway hangout and local fishing village. The day continues with a visit to Old Ha-vana to explore Hemingway’s favorite hotel “Los Ambos Mundos” and lunch options at Hemingway’s favorite spots “El Floridita” and “Bodeguita del Me-dio”. ADDO will present “Life in 6 Words Project” based on Hemingway’s greatest piece of prose. A family style dinner will be held at the world famous Hotel Nacional where Frank Sinatra once per-formed..

Day 6 Viva la CubaStart off the day by seeing the staple products that Cuba has become famous for. After an up close tour of the cigar making process at a factory in Havana, stroll over to the Havana Club museum -- where the world famous distillery comes to life. Lunch will take

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place in the Plaza Square before meeting locals in an open air market. Optional cultural activities are available throughout the afternoon including salsa dancing lessons. ADDO will present the Power of Now lesson. The final evening will conclude with dinner and an opportunity to showcase your new skills while enjoying the rhythm and sounds of local Cuban music.

Day 7Private transportation to the Havana Airport where you will depart for Miami.

Flights: Roundtrip charter flights from Atlanta to Havana are included in the price of any trip.

Itinerary NoteADDO will do its best to ensure the itinerary is as near as possible to the one we advertise, however, if on arrival it changes we cannot be held responsible. We advertise and promote our tours according to previous travel and working within the legal rights of US restrictions to Cuba. Per legal restrictions, our partner agencies reserve the right to adjust itineraries and their decision is final. We cannot offer refunds for tours once you are in Cuba.

Dates and CostADDO Society members have monthly opportunities for travel to Cuba. Please see website for upcoming travel dates and related costs for each student, stan-dard, and exclusive tour.

RegisterApply to become a member of the ADDO Society. Upon review and acceptance, a deposit of $1500 should be made to reserve a spot. The remaining must be paid 14 days prior to departure. See www.AddoInstitute.com for payment information.

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Immerse yourself in one of Latin America’s most electric and culturally unique societies

“ADDO has given me a means to, and an obligation to, continue experiencing the world in untraditional ways” --Matt Elliot

“ADDO has given me a means to, and an obligation to, continue experiencing the world in untraditional ways” --Matt Elliot

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What is Included:-Hotel accommodations-Charter flight ATL to HAV-Legal entry Cuba visa and Letter of Authorization-Travel health insurance -Air conditioned ground transportation and transfers-Tour of Old Havana and daily guided activities-Entrance to all scheduled activities included in program-Classic Car Tour through city-Breakfast daily-Cultural tours and lectures-Tour of Las Terrazas eco-reserve outside Havana-Artistic and Musical performances

What is Not Included: -Lunch and Dinner-Shopping/Souvenirs -Transportation to and from Miami

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FAQ’sIs Cuba Safe? Cuba is extremely safe by global stan-dards, and the average visitor has no reason to worry about personal safety on the streets, in the hotels, or any other place a traveler might visit. However, when traveling to any country, safety begins with awareness. ADDO takes every precaution possible, ensuring that all individuals are well oriented with the city, have access to safe transportation, and have detailed instructions about any areas to avoid. We also select upscale hotels in central, well-lit, safe locations.

Passports:1. Apply for a passport: a. Copies of passports are required to be submitted. b. Official applications and instructions can be found at: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html2. If you have a passport, confirm the following: a. You have two full blank pages in your passport (essential for international travel) b. Your passport will not expire within six weeks of your travel

Do they stamp my Passport, I heard it was illegal? No, they do not stamp your passport. You are traveling under an Official License issued from the United States. You will receive a Visa to enter Cuba. Upon entering Cuba, your Visa will be stamped. Upon exiting Cuba, your Visa will be stamped and taken. You must bring your passport; however, it will only be used for verification to go along with your issued Visa.

I don’t speak Spanish, is that ok? No problemo! Most individuals in tourism speak English. All events and tours will be conducted in English. Spanish is nice but not a requirement for this trip.

How is the weather and what should I wear? The local climate is tropical. The average high temperature will be in the low 80’s. As for Dress: Cubans wear the same clothes as most Europeans and Americans. Dress is casual, but classy-- especially for dinners and nightlife.

Do I need any shots? Cuba does not impose vaccine requirements for entering the country; however, the CDC recommends visiting your health care provider or

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a travel clinic before traveling outside of the United States. It is up to each individual as to what vaccina-tions they choose to get prior to this program.

Do I need adaptors? No. Cuba uses the same type of electrical plugs and voltage as the United States.

What is the time difference? Havana, Cuba is on Eastern Time.

Is tipping necessary? Many times at restaurants, there is a service fee already included in the bill. If a service fee is not included, a 10% tip is customary for good service. A 10% tip is also customary for taxi rides.

Scheduled activities? Remember, this is Cuba. This sample program (itinerary) provides insight into a typical Cuba experience on an ADDO program. Some of our visits and activities are not always available, therefore, this program should be considered as a sample only, and may not be the actual itinerary for your particular program.

Is it safe to eat the food and drink the water? The food is edible. It tastes Cuban. Bottled water is your best selection.

When are payments due? Upon review and accep-tance into the ADDO Society, a $1,500 deposit is due. The balance is due 14 days before departure.

Who may I talk to for more information? For more information please email: Garrett Gravesen – [email protected], or Kevin Scott – [email protected]

How are Americans received in Cuba? Cubans are friendly, fun, and respectful, and above all welcoming to foreign guests. As part of the ADDO program we ask that each participant try to return this courtesy by being open-minded and respectful towards their cul-ture and lifestyles. Cubans feel a kinship towards Americans and are excited to have the opportunity to meet you.

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May I use Credit or Debit cards in Cuba? Credit cards and debit cards issued by U.S. banks may not be used in Cuba. Please keep this in mind as you prepare for your program. Be sure to bring a sufficient amount of cash with you as you will not be able to access your funds.

May I use U.S. dollars to make purchases in Cuba? The currency for foreigners to use in Cuba is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). As of 2004, U.S. Dollars are no longer accepted and can’t be used during your visit. In March 2011, the CUC was re-valued to be equal to the U.S. Dollar at a 1:1 ratio.

How much money should I bring to Cuba? As travelers are unable to use credit cards or traveler’s checks, it will be necessary to bring enough cash for the duration of your stay in Cuba. How much to bring is dependent upon the individual traveler. As a general rule, you should plan to bring as much as you would normally spend on any trip out of the country or on vacation. Prices are similar to those in America, and it is extremely challenging to obtain more money if you run out.

May I use the internet in Cuba? Most tourist hotels have either an internet café or business center where you can pay for internet usage by the minute or hour. To access the internet from your hotel, you usually have to purchase a ticket in advance. This ticket will have a printed password that will allow you to connect to the internet for a specified period of time. Connection speed in Cuba may be slower than you are accustomed to. In tourist hotels, the charge is CUC $6-10 per hour.

May I bring electronics to Cuba? You are allowed to bring one camera and one (amateur) video recorder to Cuba. These items will be X-rayed upon your arrival at the Havana Airport. Do not bring your laptop computer.

What is the weather like in Cuba? Cuba has a tropical climate with temperatures in the summer months reaching into the mid 90’s during the day. The evenings are also warm with temperatures in the upper 70’s with a slight breeze.

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Do I need medical insurance to travel to Cuba? Since April 2010, the Cuban government requires that all travelers to Cuba must have medical insurance under an approved plan. As an ADDO Ambassador, this insurance will be provided for you.

What items should I pack for my trip to Cuba? Cuba’s climate is warm year round (sometimes very hot) and tropical, so dress accordingly. Lightweight, loose fitting cotton will probably be best. Bring a light jacket or sweater for layering. Bring good walking shoes (Havana and most cities and towns are great for walking) and a fold-up umbrella.

Medicines and toiletries are in short supply and can be very expensive. It is recommended that you bring the following items: • Sunglasses and sunscreen • A basic first aid kit containing aspirin, antihistamines, antacids, antiseptic lotions, fungal cream, and band aids • An extra pair of prescription eyeglasses • Insect repellant • Pocket packs of tissues (many of the public facilities are lacking in toilet paper) • All film and photographic equipment you may need (these items are very expensive) • Small flashlight • Light rain jacket • Extra batteries • Three prong to two prong adapter • Tylenol, Aspirin, Bayer, etc.

Travel Insurance: ADDO does not include travel insurance in the program fee. Travel insurance is valuable in case you have any items lost or stolen while you are abroad. You can purchase travel insurance through a number of online vendors.

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ADDO