explore Cuba with queen city!
Reignite your spark. Reawaken your sense of wonder. Renew your passion for life.
Havana & Viñales | April 4-11, 2025
Has it been a minute since you’ve been on an awesome adventure?
…this retreat is for YOU!
Are you ready to feel inspired and excited again?
…this retreat is for YOU!
Do you crave sunny, fun-filled days spent with joyful, like-minded people?
…this retreat is for YOU!
Have you been dreaming of rich & diverse culturally-immersive experiences that widen your lens and help expand your worldview?
…this retreat is for YOU!
Join us on a retreat designed to reignite your spark, reawaken your sense of wonder, and renew your love of life!
Let’s take a walk through old havana...
Step into the vibrant tapestry that is Old Havana, where every cobblestone whispers tales of centuries past. Here you are at the Plaza de la Catedral, where the imposing beauty of the Cathedral of Havana looms overhead, a testament to Cuba's rich colonial history. As we meander through the narrow streets, the rhythmic beats of salsa music fill the air, inviting us to sway our hips to the pulse of Cuban culture.
Amidst the colorful facades and intricately adorned balconies, we'll encounter local artisans showcasing their craft in bustling markets, offering a glimpse into Cuba's thriving art scene. Admire the intricate murals adorning the walls, each stroke telling a story of resilience and revolution.
Our journey continues to the historic Plaza Vieja, a picturesque square adorned with elegant Baroque architecture and lined with charming cafes serving up Cuba's famed mojitos.
As we delve deeper into the heart of Old Havana, we'll uncover the spiritual soul of the city, with visits to sacred sites like the San Francisco de Asis Church and the revered Afro-Cuban temples, where ancient traditions intertwine with modern faith.
You’ll finish your walk and watch the sun going down over the Malecón, where the sea breeze meets old and new friends over music and laughter.
At Queen City Yoga & Fitness, our mission is to help as many people as possible feel better.
Our vision is an authentic community of compassionate people who feel content with themselves.
We created this retreat to help you:
Enjoy a well-deserved break from your regular (and kinda stale?) day-to-day grind.
Remember what’s truly important and let go of the trivialities that weigh you down.
Give yourself the gift of your own precious time to live fully and savor each moment.
Experience joy and cultivate peace of mind.
Art. Joy. Music. Fun. Yoga. Salsa. Adventure. Sun. Beauty. Connection.
The Venue
We’ve picked some lovely “Casa Particulares” (private individually owned) villas, La Reserva & Casa Brava. Adjacent to each other, we’ll be the only group staying there. We’ve got the place to ourselves!
Both casas have wonderful terrace space, common dining & lounge areas, and each room has a private en-suite bathroom. They are located in the central Vedado area, a very peaceful & tranquil neighborhood just minutes away from all of the action.
Our hotel has free high speed internet, a bar and restaurant, air conditioning, daily housekeeping, a safe, walk-in shower, complimentary toiletries, an iron, and a hair dryer.
The Cuisine
We’re certain you’re going to love the vibrant flavors of Havana during our retreat. Throughout your stay, you'll be treated to a gastronomic journey that captures the essence of Cuban cuisine, fused with contemporary culinary trends. With influences from Spain, Africa, and the Caribbean, each dish is a celebration of Cuba's rich cultural heritage and culinary creativity.
Private chef-prepared breakfasts. Start your day with nourishing and delicious breakfasts meticulously crafted by our private chef. Enjoy a selection of fresh fruits, locally sourced ingredients, and wholesome dishes tailored to fuel your body and mind for a day of yoga and exploration.
Cuban Traditional Dishes and Fusion Cuisine. Experience the rich tapestry of Cuban flavors as we delve into the heart of Havana's culinary scene. From iconic dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef), to succulent lechón asado (roast pork), and flavorful black beans and rice, you'll savor the authentic tastes of Cuba. Additionally, delight in innovative fusion meals that showcase the creative flair and diversity of Havana's emerging culinary landscape.
Join us on a culinary adventure through Havana, where every bite tells a story and every meal is a celebration of flavor, culture, and community.
We are also able to accommodate Vegetarian and Vegan needs throughout this trip as well as most allergies and dietary requirements. Not all Items are available in Cuba, so we can help you figure out what you need before we go–so that you can pack some things to keep your tummy happy.
Come with us to vibrant and captivating Cuba!
This retreat is for you if you are ready to...
Slow down and savor the moment.
Renew your sense of wonder and your passion for life.
Embark on a journey full of new experiences and expand your worldview.
Rediscover life's rich tapestry of joy, beauty, connection, adventure, and FUN!
The Journey
Day One: Arrival
After a short flight to Havana, you will be picked up from the airport, check into your hotel, and then we will have dinner and a night out at an amazing art venue.
Day Two: Tour of Old Havana
Our first day will begin with yoga and breakfast, and we will have a tour of Old Havana, complete with vintage 50’s convertibles, walking around the art district, and seeing major landmarks. We finish with yoga with Eduardo and Dinner.
Day Three: Salsa and Pool or Beach time
Today we will have a salsa class, and have some beach or pool time. Following our relaxation, we will go to a boxing gym to be led through a QCYF H.E.A.T. style class Cuban Style.
Day Four: Fusterland Excursion
After a second practice with Eduardo, we will take a trip to the enchanting and whimsical mosaic tiled neighborhood of artist Jose Fuster. We will have a fresh sushi lunch and time to explore.
Day Five: Viñales Trip
We will travel to the countryside of Viñales today and have lunch at an organic farm to table restaurant, and then go on horseback for a ride through tobacco fields and see cigars being made.
Day Six: Sunrise Hike and Beach Day/Biking-Caves
Today we wake before the sun to hike a mogote (tall rounded hill) to we can see an incredible sunrise over the valleys of Viñales. Then you choose a beach day at a hidden beach or a day exploring the countryside on bikes and seeing the famous caves of the region.
Day Seven: Back to Havana
Today we travel back to Havana to have some free time, a last lunch and dinner and prepare to depart for the airport the following day.
Day Eight: Departure
If you…
Know time is precious… and are excited to prioritize what really matters
Want to… rediscover your sense of adventure
Are ready to give yourself… the gift of your own precious time
Crave… authentic connection with like-minded people
Deeply desire to… experience fun and joy
Have been look for something to help… reignite your passion for life
…this retreat is for YOU!
Savoring the richness of life and reigniting your spark begins here, among friends, on retreat with Queen City Yoga & Fitness.
The Location
Our retreat takes us to both the vibrant streets of Havana, and the country landscape of Viñales…
In famous Havana, history dances with culture in every corner. Lose yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa echoing from lively plazas, and immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of colonial architecture and vintage cars that adorn the cityscape. Indulge in the rich flavors of Cuban cuisine, savoring the fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. From the iconic Malecón to the historic streets of Old Havana, every step unveils a new story waiting to be discovered.
After 4 days in Havana exploring the old colonial architecture, cool clubs and art galleries, moving our hips to the salsa music, and in general soaking up the lively and vibrant Cuban melting pot—we will venture into the picturesque landscapes of Viñales, where lush tobacco fields stretch to the horizon beneath dramatic limestone cliffs called Mogotes. This is a chance to see the rural side of Cuba that most people don’t take the time to explore. You will experience the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you hike through mogotes and explore hidden beaches and caves. We will stay in Vińales for 2 nights.
In Vińales you will engage with the warm hospitality of local farmers, and artisans—we will ride on horseback to a tobacco farm and learn the art of cigar rolling as well as tasting the world-renowned Cuban cigars, if that’s your jam. Viñales offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of Cuba's natural wonders, and is a great way for us to unplug and really slow down a bit. We will close out our retreat with one last night in Havana before we head home from the Havana Airport the following day.
AT QCYF, we stand on six core values.
EQUALITY, COMMUNITY, LOVE, HONESTY, VULNERABILITY, DISCIPLINE
We know you share our values–that’s why you’re here, reading about this incredible trip and making plans to join us. When you choose to travel with us on any of our carefully-curated QCYF retreats, we deepen and fortify our shared values. By thoughtfully immersing ourselves in culturally-rich and diverse experiences, we widen our lens and expand our worldview. We travel to connect our community with other communities. We travel to offer and receive love through our shared humanity. We travel to bear out our authenticity through our willingness to be vulnerable, open, and curious. We travel with the honesty required to gain knowledge of ourselves, and of each other. We travel with the discipline of global citizens who understand that respect is the foundation upon which equality is built.
What’s Included:
Accommodations for 7 nights
Transfer from Airport (Havana) to Hotel, and back to airport
Breakfast & lunch each day, 6 dinners
1 Full beach day or pool day with lunch included
1 Salsa class
A full day Havana walking tour with an expert guide
Visit to Boxing Gym with a HIIT Workout
Retreat concierge for our every need
2 night trip to Viñales: with a horseback ride to a tobacco farm, a cigar rolling workshop
Fusterland Excursion (famous artist residence filled with mosaic)
Cocinero/FAC dinner and outing
General transport to all excursions
What’s NOT Included:
Airfare
Ground Transportation for any added trips during free time
Visa fees
Medical health Insurance (mandatory)
Additional hotel nights
Personal, medical, or trip cancellation insurance–Health Insurance Purchase is MANDATORY
Any Alcohol, libations & affiliated gratuities (on or off site)
Off-site meals
Additional services or lessons (ex: spanish lessons, salsa lessons)
Immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture. Widen your lens. Experience new people and places. Revel in the beauty of life. Feel alive!
Save your spot
Queen City Yoga & Fitness Cuba Retreat
Havana & Viñales
April 4-11th, 2025
PAYMENT INFO:
A non-refundable deposit of $750 is needed to hold your spot. Early Bird pricing lasts until May 31st and is a savings of $500 OFF Regular Pricing.
ONE SPACE IN DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ROOM EARLY BIRD
Standard Room: $3499.00
Junior Room: $3699.00
Deluxe Room: $3799.00
ONE SPACE IN SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOM EARLY BIRD
Standard Room: $4299.00
Deluxe Room: $4599.00
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
Deposits are non-refundable.
Cancel before 10/04/2024 for full refund of payments less deposit.
Cancel after 10/04/2024 for 50% refund of payments less deposit.
Cancellations made after 01/04/2025 will result in total loss of funds paid.
Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended if there is a possibility that you might have to cancel your trip. All cancellations must be made to Queen City Yoga & Fitness via email. Please send cancellation requests to: events@qcyfitness.com you must recieve reciept of cancellation to confirm this request via email.
Trip Leaders
Beth Kruger
Beth has led many international retreats and joined the QCYF Fam as our Retreat & Events Coordinator at the start of 2024. We’re thrilled to have her expertise, sense of adventure, steady presence, and depth of experience on our retreats. This is Beth’s fifth retreat to Cuba, and you can count on her for pretty awful salsa moves, quick laughter, ability to go with the flow, and always being able to look at the bright side.
Autumn Spencer
Autumn began her Hot Yoga practice after her dad died and her mom entered hospice care over 12 years ago. Yoga helped Autumn grieve, heal, and thrive. With a Master’s Degree in Education, and additional certifications in Hot Yoga, Weight Training, and HIIT, Autumn brings her passion for teaching to all of her classes. As a stand-up comic and storyteller, Autumn’s compassion and humor puts people at ease while motivating them to give it all they’ve got.
Your Hosts: Marla & Deshawn Thomas
Prior to knowing one another, Marla and Deshawn shared the same dream of helping people feel better. In their separate lives, they each sought exercise as a medium for healing – Marla as a dedicated yoga practitioner and Deshawn as a semi-pro athlete and personal trainer. After they met, Marla shared with Deshawn her dream of owning a yoga and fitness studio. With his unwavering support and encouragement, Marla opened QCYF in March of 2016.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Traveling to Cuba under the People-to-People License
Q: What is the People-to-People license, and how does it affect my travel to Cuba as an American?
A: The People-to-People license is a specific category under which Americans can travel to Cuba legally. This license allows for educational and cultural exchange activities between Americans and Cubans, fostering better understanding and dialogue between the two nations.
Q: Do I need to apply for the People-to-People license before traveling to Cuba?
A: No, you do not need to apply for the license individually. Our trip complies with the regulations outlined by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and our trip organizer will ensure an approved itinerary.
Q: What activities are permitted under the People-to-People license?
A: The People-to-People license mandates that your trip to Cuba primarily involves educational and cultural exchange activities. These activities may include interactions with local artists, musicians, educators, entrepreneurs, and community members, as well as visits to cultural sites, museums, and historic landmarks.
Q: Can I engage in leisure activities while in Cuba under the People-to-People license?
A: While the People-to-People license emphasizes educational and cultural exchange, leisure activities are not explicitly prohibited. However, it's crucial to ensure that the primary focus of your trip remains on engaging in meaningful exchanges with the Cuban people and learning about their culture, history, and society.
Q: Are there any restrictions on spending money in Cuba under the People-to-People license?
A: Yes, there are limitations on the types of transactions and expenditures permitted while in Cuba. Generally, expenses related to accommodations, meals, transportation, and certain cultural activities are allowed. However, direct financial transactions with entities owned or controlled by the Cuban government may be subject to restrictions.
Q: What documents do I need to travel to Cuba under the People-to-People license?
A: As an American traveler, you will need a valid passport, a tourist visa (which you will need to purchase prior to your flight), and any additional documentation required by your airline or travel agency. It's essential to carry all necessary documents and comply with both U.S. and Cuban entry requirements.
Q: Can I bring back souvenirs or gifts from Cuba?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring back souvenirs and gifts from Cuba for personal use, as long as they comply with U.S. customs regulations. However, certain items, such as Cuban cigars and rum, may be subject to specific limitations and duties upon re-entering the United States.
Q: Where can I find more information about traveling to Cuba under the People-to-People license?
A: For additional information and guidance on traveling to Cuba under the People-to-People license, you can visit the official website of the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) or consult with your trip organizer or travel agency.