TRAVEL NOTES
Cuba’s inside track
Travel company Esencia Experiences specialises in bespoke Cuban travel experiences led by its on-the-ground concierge team, and right now it’s offering travellers the company of a cigar sommelier to guide you through the country’s most famous product. Along with that, there are private catamaran rides to the flamingo-populated north coast, salsa dancing and cocktail making sessions, a trip to the Cuban National Ballet School to see dancers rehearse, and the chance to meet city historians in Havana. The inside track on one of the world’s most fascinating countries doesn’t get much more comprehensive. A seven night private bespoke tour starts from £4,999 per person, including Upper Class flights with Virgin Atlantic. www.esenciaexperiences.com
Late-summer Slovakia
If you’re looking for a late-summer getaway and have yet to book, travel company Mountain Paradise is offering £100 off its week long trips to Slovakia for departure on 21 or 28 August or 4 September. Both breaks take in Slovakia’s Tatra mountains. The Walk and Trek break includes five days of hiking – think lakes, alpine meadows, waterfalls and cliffs – while the Historical Day Trips visit castles, ruins and museums.
£699 including flights, (£599 for kids up to 12 years old). www.mountainparadise.co.uk