Luis Curbelo

Los Angeles, CA

Cuba Travel Agent Specialist

As a Cuban-America and native to the island, I will guide you to have a unique experience off the beaten path. See the island through the eyes of the friendly locals. I will show you the best tourist-free destinations that the island has to offer. Explore the Vibrant Charms of Cuba. A Captivating Caribbean Gem Discover the allure of Cuba, a captivating Caribbean destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa, explore historic Havana, relax on pristine beaches, and savor the flavors of Cuban cuisine.

Plan your Cuban adventure today and experience the magic of this enchanting island. Welcome to Cuba, a mesmerizing island paradise that beckons with its vibrant culture, fascinating history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the colorful streets of Havana to the pristine beaches of Varadero, Cuba offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and tropical allure. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the wonders of Cuba, highlighting its top attractions, cultural experiences, and essential travel tips. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms, warm hospitality, and timeless beauty of this Caribbean gem.Havana: A Timeless Capital: Start your Cuban adventure in Havana, the vibrant capital city that showcases the country's rich history and architectural splendor.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Havana, a treasure trove of colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas. Admire the grandeur of the Capitolio Nacional, stroll along the iconic Malecón, and visit the historic fortress of Castillo de la Real Fuerza. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city, where the sounds of salsa music spill out from vibrant bars and dance halls.Pristine Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters: Cuba is renowned for its stunning beaches, where turquoise waters and powdery white sands create a paradise for relaxation and water sports. Head to Varadero, a popular beach resort known for its idyllic shoreline and luxurious resorts. Dive into the crystalline waters of Cayo Coco, where vibrant coral reefs and marine life await. For a more secluded experience, visit the unspoiled beaches of Cayo Santa Maria or the pristine shores of Guardalavaca. Bask in the sun, swim in the warm waters, or partake in activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing.UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Cuba is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting its rich cultural and historical significance. Explore the enchanting Viñales Valley, a lush tobacco-growing region with stunning limestone formations and traditional farmhouses.

Visit the colonial town of Trinidad, frozen in time with its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and preserved colonial architecture. Discover the architectural wonders of Cienfuegos, known as the "Pearl of the South," with its French-inspired buildings and picturesque bay. These sites offer a glimpse into Cuba's storied past and cultural heritage.Cultural Experiences and Iconic Music: Cuba's vibrant culture is evident in its music, dance, and art. Immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythms of salsa and son, and witness the passionate performances of talented musicians and dancers. Visit the Buena Vista Social Club in Havana for an authentic Cuban music experience, or attend a live performance at the famous Tropicana Cabaret. Delve into the world of Afro-Cuban religion and visit the Santeria temples in Havana or Matanzas. Don't forget to sample the flavors of Cuban cuisine, with its blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.Essential Travel Tips for Cuba:Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements for your country of residence.Exchange currency to the local Cuban convertible peso (CUC) upon arrival.Be prepared for limited internet access and limited availability of certain amenities.Respect local customs and traditions, and engage with the warm and friendly Cuban people.

Cuba is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the vibrant streets of Havana, relax on pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of Cuban music. Discover the country's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, indulge in delectable cuisine, and create lasting memories in this enchanting Caribbean island. Plan your Cuban adventure today and embark on a journey filled with warmth, charm, and the magic of Cuba.

Email me Call Me

Japan Travel Agent Expert

Asakusa Toyko

Dive into an extraordinary adventure! Japan is a land where cutting-edge modernity meets time-honored traditions. I've had the honor of living in the Kanagawa-shi prefecture, in Japan's Kanto region on the island of Honshu. Therefore, I have first-hand experience about what you’ll expect on a trip to this awe-inspiring land.Whether you're organizing a trip for a small squad or a large ensemble, I will work diligently, as your Japan travel agent advisor - escorting you on one unforgettable journey.

Embark on a weekend getaway to Kyoto, indulge in Osaka's spirited dining and nightlife scene, marvel at Kamakura's colossal Buddha, explore the fashionable district of Shimokitazawa, or witness an epic Sumo showdown in Tokyo. Each escapade is personalized just for you! Embrace the island life while mingling with amiable locals and savoring off-the-beaten-path experiences. A thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime Japanese adventure awaits – let's plan it together! Once you land in Japan, you’ll be mesmerized by the country’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and uplifting culture - a place that offers an array of unforgettable destinations to explore. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a food lover, the Land of the Rising Sun has something to entice every traveler. Below are some destinations you’ll want to consider adding to your travel itinerary.

1. TokyoTokyo, Japan's bustling capital, delivers an exciting blend of ultramodern cityscapes and historic temples. Visit famous landmarks such as the iconic Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, and Senso-ji Temple. Don't forget to wander around the famous districts of Shinjuku and Shibuya for shopping, dining experiences, and vibrant nightlife.

2. KyotoAs the former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto boasts more than 1,000 years of history and tradition. Visit magnificent ancient temples like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of bamboo groves in Arashiyama or take a leisurely stroll down the historic streets of Gion where you can catch a glimpse of geishas.

3. OsakaOsaka is a city known for its fun-loving atmosphere and incredible food culture. Explore Dotonbori's neon-lit streets with mouth-watering dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (delectable pancakes). Also be sure to visit Osaka Castle which beautifully evokes the grandeur of Japan's history in its architecture.

4. HiroshimaHiroshima is a city full of powerful reminders of the effects of war while displaying remarkable resilience in rebuilding itself. A must-visit spot is the Peace Memorial Park and Museum dedicated to memorializing victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Be sure to experience the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on nearby Miyajima Island.

5. HakoneSituated near Mount Fuji, Hakone is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation - embracing all that nature has to offer. Experience the soothing hot springs at one of the many traditional ryokan inns or visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum which showcases outdoor sculptures - each sculpted piece of stone surrounded by scenic beauty.

6. NaraNara, another former capital of Japan, boasts impressive historical sites such as Todai-ji Temple, famous for housing the Great Buddha statue, and Kasuga-Taisha Shrine, adorned with a thousand stone and bronze lanterns. Don’t miss out on wandering through Nara Park to meet its friendly population of resident deer.

These are just a few of the fantastic destinations Japan has to offer. With its balance of historic architecture and modern buildings, natural beauty and awe-inspiring art Japan beckons travelers to set on a course like no other. So pack your bags and get ready to indulge in all this amazing country has in store! Let me serve as your travel agent professional for Japan. I look forward to helping you plan a one-of-a-kind trip. Call me now and let’s begin creating a travel plan.

My Travel Albums

Japan - Tokyo

Senso-ji, is an ancient Buddhist temple located in

View Album

Tokyo Nightlight 2013

View Album

My Travel Stories

A Timeless Adventure: Shirakawa-go, 2002

So, back in the fall of 2002, I found myself on this epic trip to Shirakawa-go, this super quaint village nestled in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Let me tell you, it was like stepping straight into a fairytale.The moment I rolled into Shirakawa-go, I was blown away. Picture this: houses...Read more.

My Reviews

4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Best travel advisor!

Luis is the best travel advisor! My family’s trip to Tokyo and Osaka has been incredible. We were able to find lots of activities that were kid-friendly and enjoyable for my wife and I as well. His knowledge of the area really helped us get around the area. With his help, we were able to experience so much more than if we had DIY’ed our vacation.

By David Berg from New York, NY
Traveled to Japan ~ East and Southeast Asia

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends