CDH Alumni Travel to Cuba 

By Bridgette Cook Startz ’77
July 18, 2018

Reflection from 2018 Cuba Trip Traveler

The word “commencement” means a beginning or start. Back when you took part in your commencement ceremony, it signified the beginning of real-world learning. What better way to continue your lifelong learning journey than through travel? The CDH Alumni Association partnered with a leading travel agency, The Educational Adventures Company, LLC, to offer a unique and educational excursion to Cuba.

Imagine 14 alumni, spouses, friends, and teachers—representing four states—who for the most part did not know each other, gathering together at the Atlanta airport to begin their Cuba experience on the first CDH alumni educational travel adventure. For many of us, Cuba had been a “bucket list” trip and CDH made this iconic, historical, and cultural trip possible.  

Our eight-day Cuban adventure began in Havana, then we traveled to Valle of Vinales, Santa Clara, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus – a blessing as it was very hot and humid during our visit.

The trip focused on learning and understanding the historical relevance of the Cuban lifestyle and culture, food, dance, music, and politics. Our personal growth throughout the week was incredibly enhanced with salsa dance lessons, mojito mixology, Cuban cooking, sugar cane farms, an organic tobacco farm where we watched a demonstration on rolling cigars, breathtaking views of the Valley of Vinales, hiking to waterfalls/caves, and the Bay of Pigs. We were fortunate to have ample opportunity to visit and interact with local residents and artisans and learn about their daily lives. Our educational enhancement was further heightened by visiting the Che Guevara Mausoleum, historic plazas, orchid gardens, and Ernest Hemingway’s favorite pub – Floridita. We also enjoyed a tour of Havana from the upholstered seats of classic cars.

Our Cuban guide, Carlos, had extensive encyclopedic knowledge of the military, social, and political history of the island that contributed to a much fuller understanding of the nation and his people. It was rewarding to converse with Carlos as he had so much to share with our group; he was an interesting, enjoyable, and personable companion and guide. Carlos’s ability to work with local guides, bus drivers, and restaurateurs was excellent – especially when we were running late and would need to change our reservation. We appreciated his flexibility when schedules needed to slow down or changes were made.

Our sincere “gracias” to CDH Spanish instructor Becki Medellin ’88. Becki was the main interpreter for those of us who are not well versed in Spanish. Her knowledge of Cuba and her prior experience visiting the island helped keep us running smoothly and stress-free throughout the week. Our group was especially blessed with several other participants who also spoke fluent Spanish.

While we thirst for understanding the historical events that shape our humanity, our travels left us informed, enlightened, and yet challenged. We experienced a bit of history, what transpired around it, and what resulted afterward. Thank you to all our fellow CDH alumni travelers to Cuba—it was a true joy.

Watch your email for information on the 2019 CDH Alumni Trip - a new travel destination will be announced soon!