A Passion for Travel: Crafting Unique Journeys

Do you ever have a passion so deep that when you dive into it, time simply disappears? That’s exactly how we feel when planning trips for our clients at Vidita Travel. We aren’t just putting together itineraries; we’re crafting experiences that speak to the soul. Every trip we design is about more than just places—it’s about people, stories, and moments that stay with you long after you return home.

It takes us hours upon hours to plan these trips. We pour our hearts into every detail—blood, sweat, and tears—constantly tweaking and refining to create the most unique experiences possible. No two trips are the same because no two travelers are the same. We listen, we anticipate, and we craft journeys that go beyond expectations.

Of course, we can plan a classic trip. There’s so much to see in Cuba—Revolution Square, Old Havana, the iconic landmarks that hold deep significance to the Cuban people. And they are absolutely worth visiting! But is the United States just the Statue of Liberty and the White House? Not at all. What makes a journey truly unforgettable are the people we meet and the connections we forge. That’s where Vidita Travel stands apart. We create opportunities for authentic interactions—whether through fashion, food, cars, music, art, or even business. And because Juan Carlos is in Cuba, he has forged connections throughout his lifetime, allowing us to provide access to experiences that most travelers would never find on their own. These relationships aren’t transactional; they are built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared love for Cuba’s vibrant culture. We take pride in introducing our travelers to the people who make this island so special—storytellers, visionaries, and artisans who bring Cuba to life in ways no guidebook ever could.

Take one of our favorite travelers, Susannah Siger, owner of Ma Petite Shoe in Baltimore. If you have never visited, you must go—it’s more than just a store; it’s an experience. Susannah is a true visionary—an artist with an incredible eye, a business owner with an insatiable curiosity, and someone who wants to see, feel, and taste everything Cuba has to offer. She doesn’t just want to observe; she wants to collaborate, exchange ideas, inspire, and be inspired. And we make it happen. On her last trip, we arranged an extraordinary photoshoot—her merchandise, our Cuban model friends, and a talented local photographer. The result? Pure magic. Beyond the stunning images, friendships were formed, creativity flourished, and the experience became a story she’ll tell forever.

So, what is your passion? Who would you love to connect with?

Whether it’s architects, designers, musicians, classic car aficionados—we know someone in Cuba who shares that passion and would love to meet you too. Let’s make it happen. That’s what we do at Vidita Travel—because travel isn’t just about places. It’s about people, moments, and the connections that change us forever.

Why We Do What We Do: A New Year’s Reflection from Vidita Travel

As we step into 2025, I can’t help but marvel at how much has happened this past year. December flew by in the blink of an eye, and it feels like I haven’t fully absorbed everything Juan Carlos (JC) and I have accomplished. We’ve grown in so many ways—meeting incredible people, collaborating with fantastic partners, and continually learning not just about travel, but about ourselves.

JC and I have poured our hearts into making Vidita Travel the best it can be. This past year, we took videography and business courses, read books, connected with other travel professionals, and—most importantly—deepened our knowledge of Cuban culture, history, art, and food. As Cubans, this connection to our roots is profoundly personal, yet there is always more to discover.

One recurring theme throughout our learning journey has been the importance of sharing who we are and why we care so deeply about what we do. Trust is at the heart of any travel experience, and we want you to know why you can trust us to create a trip that’s not just enjoyable, but transformative.

How It All Started

JC and I met in 2022 when I was planning a school trip to Cuba. As the daughter of Cuban immigrants, organizing this trip was more than just another assignment—it was deeply personal. Over the years, I’ve planned countless student trips, believing that the best way to learn is to live the experience. But this trip was different. It was about taking my students to my family’s homeland and helping them see Cuba through my eyes.

Planning a trip to Cuba is never simple. There are countless moving parts, and it takes a deep understanding of the country’s unique rhythm to bring everything together seamlessly. That’s where JC came in. His planning process wasn’t just about logistics; it was about vision.

We asked ourselves:

  • What do these students need to gain from this trip?
  • How can we help them grow through this experience?

Together, we imagined ourselves in their shoes—over 60 students, aged 16–18, and 10 adults, each with their own expectations and needs. We crafted an itinerary that blended learning with immersion, ensuring that every experience left a lasting impact.

The Power of Connection

That trip was life-changing—not just for the students, but for us as well. The students danced with locals, tasted flavors they’d never imagined, and explored a world so different from their own. They returned home with a newfound appreciation for life’s simplest joys, realizing that happiness isn’t tied to material things but to meaningful connections.

Watching their transformation was magic. JC and I knew then that this approach—building thoughtful, immersive experiences that inspire growth and connection—would be the foundation of Vidita Travel.

Why Choose Us?

If you’re reading this, you might be wondering:

  • Why should I trust JC and Erica to plan my trip to Cuba?
  • What sets them apart?

Our story is the answer. We don’t just plan trips; we create experiences with heart and purpose. Every itinerary we design comes from a place of understanding and empathy, shaped by our own journeys and by the people we’ve been privileged to meet along the way.

We’ve been where you are—excited yet overwhelmed at the prospect of visiting Cuba. We’ve faced the challenges, learned the lessons, and mastered the art of crafting trips that resonate on a deeper level.

At Vidita Travel, we don’t just want you to see Cuba; we want you to feel it, to connect with its people, and to carry a piece of it with you long after your trip ends.

So as we begin 2025, we invite you to get to know us, trust us, and let us show you the Cuba we love.

Let’s Create Something Magical Together

If you’re ready to experience Cuba in a way that’s meaningful and unforgettable, reach out to us. We can’t wait to help you write your own Cuba story.

Finding Hope and Connection Through Travel in Challenging Times

Over the past few months, I’ve wrestled with a profound sense of disillusionment about the state of affairs in Cuba. Fear of what was to come consumed me. My mind was a whirlwind of questions: How could we help get the power back on? Could solar panels or generators make a difference? Where could people find the food and medicine they desperately needed? These worries kept me awake at night, leaving me anxious and overwhelmed.

But in the midst of this panic, I discovered a silver lining that I hadn’t expected. Through this crisis, I connected with some truly inspiring non-profits doing incredible work. These organizations—like Hope for Cuba and Give2Cuba—have been persistently supporting the Cuban people all along. They’ve shown me that Vidita Travel is not in this alone. For the first time, I realized that we are part of a much larger ecosystem—a network of people and organizations working in harmony toward the same goal: supporting the resilience and beauty of Cuba and its people. This revelation gave me the strength to move forward.

In the face of so many uncertainties, one thing became clear: standing still was not an option. We knew we had to move forward, even if the path ahead felt daunting. As the situation worsened, we had to make difficult decisions. Trips we had on the books were canceled because of hurricane damage, fuel shortages, and rolling blackouts. In November, the U.S. State Department raised the travel advisory for Cuba to Level 3—“Reconsider Travel” due to safety and security risks. It felt like one blow after another.

But despite the uncertainties, Scott and I decided to keep our tickets for our November trip. We needed to see the situation on the ground and determine whether Vidita Travel had a future. Could we still make an impact? Could we still inspire meaningful connections for travelers while helping the Cuban people?

I’m so happy to say: Yes, we can.

What we found in Cuba filled us with hope. The Cuban people’s resolve is unshakable, and amidst the chaos, we discovered even more incredible places to share, restaurants to savor, art to experience, and adventures to embrace.

Traveling through Cuba during this time only deepened our love for the island. There’s a unique rhythm here, one that thrives despite adversity. Yes, there are challenges, like fuel shortages and blackouts, but they are part of the story of Cuba. And within this story lies an unparalleled beauty and spirit that we can’t wait to share with you.

One of Vidita Travel’s core values is supporting the communities we travel to. This trip reminded us just how important that mission is. Thanks to the generosity of friends of Vidita and supporters like Lush, we were able to deliver donations and funds to our partners Luz de Vida and Corazón con Cuba.

These contributions go directly to hospitals, community members, elderly care, and activities for children. Imagine knowing that your travel dollars are not only enriching your own experiences but also helping to provide much-needed medical supplies, food, and educational opportunities to communities in need. It’s a powerful way to travel—with purpose and compassion.

Since our trip, conditions in Cuba have slowly started to improve. The travel advisory has moved back down to Level 2, and while fuel shortages remain, it’s just part of the adventure. This is Cuba, after all—a land of resilience, creativity, and unforgettable experiences.

Vidita Travel is open for business, and we’re ready to help you plan your next Cuban vacation. Whether you’re looking for vibrant art scenes, exquisite cuisine, or meaningful cultural exchanges, we can craft a trip that’s as enriching as it is exciting.

When you travel with Vidita, you’re not just a visitor—you’re part of a community. Your journey supports the Cuban people, preserves their rich culture, and builds lasting connections.

So let’s make it happen. Let’s plan your next adventure to Cuba and be part of something bigger.

Contact us today to start planning your trip, and let’s rediscover the magic of travel—together.

October Reflections: A Tribute to My Grandmother and the Gift of Travel

October has always been a difficult time of year for me. The days grow shorter, the air turns colder, and everything seems to slow down. For someone like me, whose mind is constantly racing, that sense of slowing down is hard to embrace. Balancing the many moving parts of my life—my day job, teaching extra Zumba classes, and running Vidita Travel—keeps me on my toes. I often find it difficult to follow the advice of making time for self-care. What does it even mean to “make time for yourself” when you have so many things that bring you joy and purpose? The idea of letting go feels almost impossible.

But this October has been especially challenging, as I recently lost my beloved grandmother, Berta. Yes, this 51-year-old woman was lucky enough to have her grandmother her whole life. She lived to be 102—sharp as a tack and full of life until the very end. May we all be so lucky.

Bertica, as we lovingly called her, was a force of nature. She was always so proud of JC and me for starting Vidita Travel. She saw it as a beautiful new chapter in our lives, one that was aligned with our values of adventure, community, and love for Cuba. Every time I visited her, she would ask if I needed anything for our next trip. Even as her body began to slow, her heart remained focused on giving—she’d say, “Whatever medicine is in here, you better bring it to Cuba.” Her generosity was boundless.

As I reflect on her passing and the void it leaves, I can’t help but think about how much she embodied what we at Vidita Travel strive to bring to our clients. Our vision is to provide stress-free, joyful travel experiences that leave lasting memories and positively impact the communities we visit. My grandmother lived to 102 because she knew how to live fully—she balanced work with play, and always made time for others. She loved deeply, cared for herself, and never lost her sense of fun.

Travel, in many ways, is about that same balance. It’s about stepping away from the busyness of everyday life to take care of ourselves—whether it’s through adventure, relaxation, or connection with others. It’s about creating moments of joy and wonder, while also giving back to the places and people that welcome us.

This blog post is dedicated to my grandmother’s memory. It’s also a reminder of why we do what we do at Vidita Travel. We believe in travel that enriches not only our lives but also the lives of those we meet along the way. We want our clients to leave Cuba feeling refreshed, inspired, and connected to something bigger. That’s what Berta would have wanted, and that’s what we work toward every day.

As we enter this reflective season, let’s all take a moment to slow down, embrace self-care, and remember the importance of community—whether at home or abroad. In the spirit of my grandmother, may we live with joy, curiosity, and a heart full of love for others.

All my best,
Erica

Cuba Strong

I was all set to post a blog on November 1st, and perhaps I still will, but everything changed on October 17th. That evening, during my usual check-in with JC, he shared some unsettling news. The Ministry of Energy was preparing to make a public announcement about Cuba’s worsening energy crisis. While energy shortages and rolling blackouts have been an unfortunate reality for Cubans, JC warned me that this time was different—more serious.

Hearing the concern in his voice made my heart sink. JC is always the calm and steady one, so I knew this was something big. When the minister finally spoke, the message was stark: there was no longer enough energy to sustain the power grid. He urged the people to become more energy independent and called on families outside of Cuba to send solar panels. The next day, the island went dark. For many, especially in the eastern regions, power still hasn’t been restored.

Given the severity of the situation, we’ve made the difficult decision to pause our travel plans to Cuba until things stabilize. But this doesn’t mean Vidita Travel has stopped working. Our mission has always been to support the Cuban people, and now, they need us more than ever.

I’m working closely with our trusted partners to figure out the best way forward. I’m incredibly grateful for Chateau Blanc, our closest and most reliable partner, as we explore solutions together. My dear friend Angie, whose background in non-profits and global health has been invaluable, is also helping us craft an action plan.

We’re also in constant communication with Carolina from Corazón con Cuba, a nonprofit that continues to provide critical medical supplies and healthcare support on the island. I want to give a special thanks to Rita from Coco Blue, who has offered excellent advice on sending relief, which we’re actively working on.

Along with these efforts, we’ve connected with organizations like the Federation, Catholic Charities, Give2Cuba, Jewish World Services, and Hope for Cuba. Everyone is rallying to help.

Please keep Cuba in your thoughts and prayers. After all this darkness, we are hopeful for light.

We need your help now more than ever. Please share this message with your friends, family, and networks. The more people who know, the stronger we become. By spreading the word, you can help us rally the support and resources that Cuba desperately needs.

We will keep you updated on our relief efforts and how you can get involved. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, stay connected through our newsletter, and reach out if you’d like to contribute to the relief initiatives.

Thank you for your ongoing support. Together, we can make a real difference.

The Magic of Saying Yes – In Life and Travel

This fall, I entered my 28th year of teaching Spanish to students with learning deficits. Language learning is tough for most people, but for my students, it can be a source of stress and anxiety. Many are often exempt from language courses because it’s seen as too difficult. But I believe the exact opposite. There’s overwhelming evidence that learning a second language enhances so many areas of life—opening doors to new opportunities, expanding cultural awareness, and even improving one’s native language. I’ve spent years fighting for my students to have this opportunity. It just needs to be taught in a way that works for them.

One of the biggest barriers to learning is stress. It doesn’t matter what kind of learner you are—if you’re anxious, your brain shuts down and says, “No, I can’t do this.” That’s why my job is to change that narrative and help them realize, “Yes, you can.”

So, why bring this up in a travel blog? Because I hear a lot of “no” when it comes to Cuba. “No, it’s too difficult.” “No, I don’t want to support the Cuban regime.” These are the same roadblocks we encounter in life when fear or doubt gets in the way.

As women, we’ve been taught to say “no” to protect ourselves, to set boundaries, or to feel in control. And while there’s value in knowing when to say “no,” I believe there’s even more magic in saying “yes.” Saying “yes” leads to growth, discovery, and joy. Yes, I want to learn a new language. Yes, I want to experience a different culture. Yes, I want to see the world.

For me, “yes” has been transformative, especially when it comes to Vidita Travel. Juan Carlos is the heart of this organization, and he is my “yes man.” He’s the one who constantly reassures me, “Yes, it can be done.” His energy and optimism fuel this business. We dream big, and we trust in each other’s ability to make things happen. Together, we’ve built Vidita Travel with a spirit of adventure and an eagerness to keep learning.

Recently, Instagram has become one of our favorite ways to share that “yes” with the world. We want to show people the magic of Cuba, the adventure that’s waiting, and how travel can change lives. So please, follow us, share our content with your friends, and help us spread the word about Cuba. Sharing is how we continue to grow this community of explorers, and your support means everything to us.

In the end, it’s about embracing the magic of “yes.” It’s about the joy of possibilities, the thrill of growth, and the excitement of experiencing something new. So say yes—to learning, to discovery, and to Cuba.

Dancing Through Life: The Joyful Magic of Travel

I just returned from a whirlwind vacation—18 days filled with family, friends, and unforgettable experiences. What began as a weekend celebration in the Czech Republic quickly evolved into a journey through three countries, five different lodgings, and countless joyful moments.

As I transition back to my role as a Spanish teacher at an independent school for kids with learning differences, I feel a profound shift within myself. I’m lighter, happier, and more creative than I’ve been in years, and I attribute this renewed energy to the power of travel.

Starting Vidita Travel has always been about crafting journeys that bring joy to others, discovering what makes people happy, and knowing that when they return, they’re changed for the better. But this trip was different—I was not just the planner; I was a participant. This change in perspective reminded me of how essential it is to keep things fresh and dynamic in life.

Here are some of my key takeaways from this adventure: I’ve always been passionate about learning, and visiting museums and art galleries truly touches my soul. But what brings me real joy is music—singing, dancing, and simply moving through life, feeling every moment. Sharing a delicious meal with good wine after a day of exploring, while reflecting with others on our experiences, is something I deeply cherish.

Most importantly, I’ve realized how much I value connecting with people. Whether they’re new acquaintances or old friends, sharing experiences with others enriches the journey for me.

Some of my favorite memories from this trip include our time in Tábor, Czech Republic, and visiting the ABBA Museum in Stockholm.

We traveled to Tábor to celebrate my cousins’ wedding anniversary. It was a large group—maybe 30-40 people—most of whom didn’t know each other at first. We started the festivities in Prague, bonding over our shared love for our cousins. After two days of eating, drinking, and sightseeing together, we became close friends. By the time we reached Tábor, the bond was strong, and my cousin had curated a trip that included magnificent food and a music festival in the city square that had us singing and dancing until dawn. Just thinking about those moments brings a huge smile to my face.

Then there was Stockholm, where the ABBA Museum left me feeling tingly with excitement. I’m a huge fan of their music, and I challenge anyone not to have an ABBA song stuck in their head, making them move to the beat and feel good. From the moment you enter, you’re immersed in the ultimate ABBA experience—from infectious music and recording studios to dazzling costumes and a virtual reality where you can become the fifth member of ABBA. It was the coolest experience, and it made me want to share it with my daughter, whom I woke up on her 17th birthday by blaring and singing “Dancing Queen.”

Now, back to reality. We often ask our clients, after they return from a trip, how it impacted them. Their answers give me valuable insights into how to tailor future journeys, ensuring they capture the magic of travel. I know everyone’s tastes and what brings them joy are diverse—what makes one person happy might not resonate with another.

Reflecting on my own whirlwind adventure, I’ve realized that travel isn’t just about the places we visit or the sights we see. It’s about the connections we make, the joy we find in shared experiences, and the memories that stay with us long after we return home. This trip reminded me of the transformative power of stepping out of our daily routines and immersing ourselves in new environments. It’s not just about planning the perfect trip for others; it’s about experiencing that magic firsthand, feeling lighter, happier, and more inspired when we return.

At Vidita Travel, we strive to create experiences that resonate deeply with each traveler. We’ve seen how a well-curated journey can bring people closer, ignite creativity, and leave a lasting impact. As I return to my routine, I carry these feelings of joy and connection with me, eager to help others find their own moments of magic through travel.

So, whether you’re drawn to the rhythm of a city’s music, the flavors of a shared meal, or the joy of exploring art and history, remember that the true essence of travel lies in how it makes you feel and the stories you bring back. Let’s continue to explore, connect, and create unforgettable memories—because at the heart of every trip is the simple desire to feel more alive.

What Makes You Happy?

I just got back from Cuba last weekend, and my head is still swimming with so many ideas. It’s hard to figure out where to start. Juan Carlos and I made countless great connections and partnerships during my stay! We also had an amazing brainstorming session, expanding our brand and discovering new ways to make our trips more memorable and impactful.

However, as soon as I returned to the States, life hit both of us hard. It almost felt like a derailment! Having to put Vidita Travel on the back burner for a week made me feel like we were losing momentum. In retrospect, I believe this is all part of the process. Sometimes, you need to step back, take a break, and return with fresh eyes and a new perspective.

During our reflections, Juan Carlos and I asked ourselves a simple yet profound question: “What makes you happy?” This question is incredibly relevant to developing any service business. You have to understand your own happiness before you can deliver it to others.

So why do people travel? Does it make them happy? What is it about adventure, learning, or relaxation that makes one yearn for more? Is it escape? Is it learning? Is it connecting? Is it experiencing? And why Cuba? Why with us? What makes us the perfect guides? These are the questions we keep asking ourselves, but more importantly, we want to find out about you! Understanding you helps us serve you better.

Every day, new ideas pop into our heads! We constantly think, “Would this make people happy?” Then, we find those who can bring these ideas to life. This is why our experiences are bespoke! We are always listening and tailoring our services to your desires.

Our calendar dates are ready. March 2025 is already full. Let’s talk about what makes you happy and see how we can make it happen for you.

Mark your calendars! On July 27, 2024, we will be hosting Havana Nights at Ma Petite Shoe in Hampden. Come by for a Mojito, shoe shopping, and great music. Let’s connect over the magic of Cuba. We can’t wait to see you there!

Strengthening Partnerships to Support the Cuban People

As I prepare for my next trip to Cuba to meet with my partner, I can’t help but think about why we are doing this. It might seem a bit crazy considering the state of affairs in the world to want to open a travel agency. Starting any business is risky, but right now, everything feels right.

Juan Carlos has been in the tourism industry for almost 10 years as a tour operator. He has served groups from all over the world and has received generous gifts that he has been able to share with his community. Since he started, he has dreamed of doing community outreach that would directly support the people in his community.

I’ve been teaching for over 28 years, and one of the most rewarding parts of my job is planning trips. I have taken students to all different parts of the world. These experiences have not only given my students a deeper sense of knowledge but also a broader understanding of how cultural exchanges can make a positive social impact on communities.

I met JC in the winter of 2022 when I was helping coordinate a trip to Cuba for my school. We immediately clicked. Our objectives were the same! We wanted our clients and students to learn and grow, to see the world, to enjoy life, and to take pleasure in where we go. Because in doing this, the world becomes a little bit better and kinder.

The US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) oversees travel to Cuba. There are twelve categories under which Americans can legally visit Cuba. Most Americans travel under the category of “Support for the Cuban People.” What does that really mean? For us, it is very clear and it’s the reason why I am traveling to Cuba this month.

Our goal with Vidita Travel is to make a genuine impact on Cuban communities through meaningful travel experiences. We aim to bring tangible support to Cuban communities, including delivering essential aid such as clothing, food, and medicine—items that are often in short supply.

Our approach is not just about tourism; it’s about creating a bridge between travelers and the local Cuban people. We work closely with local businesses, families, and organizations to ensure that our tours benefit the community directly. By staying in privately-owned accommodations (casa particulares), dining at family-run restaurants (paladares), and engaging with local artisans and entrepreneurs, our travelers contribute to the local economy and foster genuine connections.

Each trip to Cuba is an opportunity for our clients to not only explore a beautiful country but also to leave a positive, lasting impact.

At Vidita Travel, we believe in the power of travel to change lives—not just for the travelers but for the communities they visit. Come and have an amazing time, but also leave knowing you made a difference in the lives of others. Join us on this journey. Support its people, and leave a lasting impact.

Bridging Baltimore and Havana: A Fusion of Creativity

Baltimore and Havana, despite their geographical and linguistic distance, share a profound similarity—they are both hubs of creativity and resilience. In these cities, diversity thrives, and amidst the challenges of daily life, art flourishes as a beacon of hope.

The essence of our cities can be found in the most unexpected places—the crumbling facades of buildings, the resilience etched into the faces of our people. It’s within these struggles that creativity blossoms, illuminating our communities with a sense of possibility and renewal.

Yet, to nurture creativity, we must venture beyond our familiar surroundings. Travel becomes a catalyst for inspiration, shaking us from complacency and offering fresh perspectives. Through my experiences leading tours, I’ve witnessed firsthand how exposure to new environments ignites creativity in others.

A recent trip to Cuba exemplified this transformative power. Joined by a group of fellow creatives from Baltimore, including the remarkable Reagan, we embarked on a journey that sparked a symphony of ideas. Reagan, a scientist turned artist, exemplified the fusion of innovation and vibrancy found in both our cities.

Our travels took us to Pinar del Rio, where we immersed ourselves in the lush landscapes and vibrant culture. Witnessing the dedication of farmers toiling in the fields, their weathered faces telling stories of resilience, left an indelible mark on us all.

As our journey drew to a close, we found ourselves profoundly changed. Greg, another member of our group, encapsulated the sentiment shared by many—Cuba had reignited our passion for life. We pledged to carry this newfound spirit with us, drawing upon our experiences to fuel our creative endeavors back home.

Months later, at a reunion inspired by our shared adventure, Reagan unveiled a striking collage merging images of Baltimore and Cuba. In this artwork, she captured the essence of our two cities, weaving together narratives of resilience and creativity.

Through art, we transcend language and cultural barriers, forging connections that bridge continents. May our partnership between Baltimore and Havana continue to flourish, fueled by the boundless creativity that unites us all.

Art by Reagan Lake @reaganlakeart