Austin-Lehman Adventures Launches Cuba Program

Austin-Lehman Adventures Launches Cuba Program
By Gay Nagle Myers

Tour operator Austin-Lehman Adventures will launch guided tours in Cuba early 2012. The Billings, Mont.-based company obtained approval from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Control to operate cultural and educational tours in which participants interact with Cuban people.

A 10-day tour itinerary with an undetermined number of scheduled departures will launch in early 2012.

“Excitement about a tour program in Cuba has been running high among staff and past trip alumni,” said company founder Dan Austin. “There’s already a wait list with enough interest to fill the first two departures.”

Austin said the formal application process began early in 2011 after nearly three years of research into the possibilities of conducting guided adventure tours in Cuba.

“Because most Americans have been prevented from visiting Cuba since the U.S. embargo in the 1960s, we are extremely curious about our neighbor 90 miles south of Key West. Our license will allow us to lift the veil and rediscover this destination that’s been off-limits to Americans the past 50 years,” said Austin.

He noted that Cuba is an untapped market that “fits well with our core goals of exotic/desirable destinations, easy access from the U.S., lots of activities, a distinct and colorful culture, a friendly and welcoming host population and opportunities to immerse travelers in authentic Cuban life, including world-renowned music, cuisine, art and dance.”

Christopher Baker, author of six books on Cuba, worked with Austin to create an itinerary exclusive to Austin-Lehman. Baker will lead many of the tours as will other experts in Cuban lifestyle and culture. Baker also is leading several Cuba tours offered by National Geographic Expeditions.