WASHINGTON (Dec. 19, 2012)—National Geographic Expeditions is delighted to announce the renewal of its people-to-people license to travel to Cuba and new departure dates of its “Cuba: Discovering Its People and Culture” program for 2013.
Originally launched in November 2011, thanks to a special license issued to National Geographic by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, National Geographic’s Cuba program offers travelers the opportunity to meet and engage with Cubans in diverse settings and learn about this fast-changing nation through Cubans’ eyes. Drawing on its mission to create innovative, dynamic and thought-provoking travel experiences, National Geographic Expeditions has arranged for meetings and exchanges with Cuban historians, teachers, musicians, naturalists and others. Among the highlights, travelers will learn about the restoration of Old Havana from a local preservationist, meet young students learning Cuban music and dance in Cienfuegos, and talk with artists who are reshaping the cultural landscape.
“National Geographic has a long history of providing a window on Cuba through our magazines, books and grant programs. We consulted with many of our experts to develop this unique program and provide our travelers an unparalleled insider perspective,” said Lynn Cutter, executive vice president, Travel, for National Geographic.
On each departure, a National Geographic expert will share insights and knowledge and facilitate discussions between travelers and the Cubans they meet throughout the journey. Upcoming trips will include Robert Hernandez, former senior vice president at National Geographic, who was raised in Spain and Cuba and has explored the island extensively on behalf of National Geographic, and award-winning travel journalist Christopher Baker, author of two acclaimed books on Cuba.
Cuba: Discovering Its People and Culture is a nine-day program. The five new departures recently added for next spring include two in April and three in May. To learn more about this program and see all departure dates, and to sign up to be alerted about new trip dates, please visit: www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/cuba.
About National Geographic Expeditions
National Geographic Expeditions is the travel program of the National Geographic Society, with expeditions to more than 60 destinations across all seven continents. The trips are often accompanied by a National Geographic expert — a, writer, biologist, anthropologist or photographer whose insights and knowledge enrich the travel experience. National Geographic Expeditions offers land journeys, family programs, small-ship expeditions, active adventure trips, private jet trips, photography workshops and expeditions and student programs. All proceeds from National Geographic’s travel programs support the Society’s aim of increasing global understanding through exploration, education and scientific research. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com.
About the National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society’s mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 400 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; live events; interactive media; merchandise; and travel programs. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy.
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