Anthony Rubenstein
I believe that having the privilege of visiting other places and experiencing other cultures unites and enlightens humanity. I have traveled to over 60 countries, and lived outside my native country (USA) for years at a time. I have experienced being a native, a tourist, a traveler, and an immigrant, and try to bring the best qualities of each of those categories to my life, and to my work as a destination specialist for Cuba.
Together my wife Mayret and I run Havana VIP. Mayret is a Cuban Art Historian from the University of Havana. That's us dancing in our house in Havana in my profile photo.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Havana VIP is a leading high-end concierge-style English language tour operator to Cuba. We have been featured in Vogue, ELLE, NY Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, CNN, PBS NewsHour, and many others. We curate unique unforgettable voyages using our own exclusive portfolio of immersive experiences.
No big escorted tour groups, all of our trips are private VIP voyages specifically customized to suit our client’s interests. There are no groups or strangers, just our clients’ own traveling party. We host couples, friends, families and groups. We have offices in Philadelphia USA, and a full team in Havana Cuba, and all across the island. Havana VIP has created trips for English-speaking clients from all over the world. Of course, for U.S. Persons, all of our tours are 100% compliant with all U.S. regulations governing travel to Cuba. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"I ended-up as a travel specialist dedicated to Cuba accidentally. I discovered Cuba myself about 20 years ago. I began giving friends hints and tips for visiting Cuba. Soon those friends sent their friends whom I didn't know personally, so I started charging for my services. Now here I am... "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I hung-out with some Masai teenagers (Moraani) when our safari group had an emergency and they had to leave me behind for a few hours. Despite the vast differences in culture and environment they were just regular teenage boys, talking about sports (hunting and soccer) and asking about girls."
Featured trips & expertise
Best Beaches in Cuba
The island of Cuba is lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by turquoise Caribbean waters. But it takes a little effort — and some dedicated travel planning — to break away from the crowds and find your own slice of paradise. Follow this handy guide to the best beaches in Cuba and you'll be relaxing under a palm tree in no time.
Going Off the Beaten Path in Cuba
More than 4.5 million tourists visit Cuba each year, and the vast majority don’t get beyond the most popular destinations, such as Santa Clara, Trinidad, and Viñales. Escape the crowds with these suggestions and you’ll soon be biking, diving, hiking, and touring your way through Cuba like a local.
Ultimate Guide to Cuba’s Tobacco Country
Tobacco Country is one of Cuba’s most visited regions. It draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, all eager to enjoy adventure activities and admire the area’s spectacular scenery and culture. Get inspired by the following itineraries, along with your best options for lodging, dining, and entertainment.
Top 10 Boutique Hotels in Havana
Havana is brim-full of lodging options, from 1950s mobster-era hotels to simple room rentals. For the most rewarding experience, opt for one of the newer, chic boutique hotels or private B&Bs, some offering concierge service.
Family Travel in Cuba
Cuba has as much to captivate children as parents, from clowns strolling the streets of Havana to gorgeous beaches and mountains. Add in the country’s close-knit family culture and languid traffic-free streets, where local children play without supervision, and it’s hard to imagine a more kid-friendly place to visit.
2 Weeks in Cuba - 2 Unique Itinerary Ideas
With two weeks you can get a sense of all that Cuba has to offer. There’s time to travel the length of the island, from vibrant Havana to the revolutionary sites of eastern Oriente Province. Perhaps you'll want to indulge in nature excursions in Western Cuba. Whatever your personal passions, these two distinct itineraries promise a satisfying 14-day adventure.
Recent trip reviews for Anthony
Cuba!
Cuba
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Apr 25 - May 6, 2019
The best thing about the tour was the guides. Thy were all very knowledgeable, generous, fun to be with and willing to be flexible.
The organization was great and worked like clockwork - we got the mix of experiences we were looking for.
Hi Arun,
Thanks for the great review. The guides loved you guys too. In fact they all send their regards. Thanks for traveling with us!
Tour to havana
Cuba
|
Jul 2 - Jul 2, 2018
Cuba was amazing! Magalys our tour guide did an excellent job taking us to the best spots in Habana like La bodeguita del Medio ( live music and mojitos), delicious lunch at Chanchullero de Alamar and the highlight of the entire day was the ride on the classic car. A very unique, unforgettable and emotional experience.
We're glad you had a good time with us Nhora!