HAVANA, CUBA

Old Havana, the original walled nucleus of the city, was declared ‘Heritage of Mankind’ by UNESCO in 1982. The city of Havana was founded in 1514 by Diego Velazquez; it was moved twice before occupying its current position on Cuba’s northern coast

Old Havana, the original walled nucleus of the city, was declared ‘Heritage of Mankind’ by UNESCO in 1982. The city of Havana was founded in 1514 by Diego Velazquez; it was moved twice before occupying its current position on Cuba’s northern coast. 40 years after its founding, Havana was declared the capital of Cuba.Its harbour became a safe haven from pirates and corsairs for ships laden with gold and silver on their way to Spain.We will be taken to the old quarter of the town, to the Parade Square, where we will begin our walking tour. Around us we will see the Castillo de la Real Fuerza, built in 1577 and displaying her tower known as La Giraldilla (outside view); the General Captains’ Palace, also known as the Museum of the City (internal visit); and El Palacio del Segundo Cabo (outside view). We are then taken by our guide to Cathedral Square, which is surrounded by opulent mansions and buildings. Back on our coach we shall stop at the military fortress Castillo de los Tres Santos Reyes del Morro, to admire a panoramic view of the city.Our next stop will be at the National Capital Building (external visit), one of the most remarkable palaces of its kind, displaying an impressive dome that can be admired from all parts of the city. As will drive around the outskirts of Havana, other sights will include the Jose Marti Memorial in Revolution Square (outside view) and the Bocoy Rum Factory (where we will make a short visit). This tour involves a lot of walking, approximately 1 ½ hours, most of which is over cobblestone streets. There are many steps to encounter around the Parade Square, Museum of the City, Cathedral Square and the Rum Factory. We do not recommend this tour for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchairs. On all tours in Havana, passengers must walk approximately 50 metres (165 feet) from the ship to Immigration Control inside the terminal building, up 50 steps (although a lift is available), then a further 30 metres (100 feet) to the tour coaches. Please note that the order of the itinerary may vary.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2007 CARIBBEAN SEASON