From traveler to resident of Cuba

Hi! I’m Francisca, Dutch by birth, but I’ve been at home in Cuba for years now.

Once upon a time, I came here as a traveler, looking for adventure, new experiences and special encounters. What I didn’t know at the time was that this island would change my life forever.

I fell in love with Cuba. Not only with the beautiful nature, the music and the colorful streets, but especially with the people. Their warmth, hospitality, humor and the special way they try to enjoy life despite everything.

I now live with my Cuban husband Osmel and our two daughters, Olivia and Lauren, in beautiful Viñales, in the west of Cuba.

Cuba has become my home

Life here is special, but certainly not always easy.

Power outages, shortages of food and medicine, problems with transport and the daily search for solutions are part of our lives.

Yet there is also so much beauty. The togetherness, the spontaneous meetings, the music and the people who open their doors to you even in difficult times.

I got to know Cuba in a way that you won’t easily experience as an ordinary vacationer. And it is precisely those experiences that I would like to share.

Discovering the real Cuba

Over the years, I have built up a large network of local families, drivers, casa owners and other people who put their heart and soul into their work.

Through Francisca Travel, I help travelers to discover Cuba in a personal and authentic way.

Whether you are looking for a cozy casa particular, reliable transport, a special excursion or help with putting together your tour: I am happy to think along with you.

Not a standard trip from a travel brochure, but an experience that suits your needs.

And because I live in Cuba myself, I can also honestly tell you what you can expect at the moment.

More than just travel

In addition to my work with travelers, I am committed to Cuban families who are struggling.

With the help of lovely people from different countries, I try to arrange food, medicine, clothing, school supplies and other necessary things wherever possible.

Sometimes it’s about something big, but often it’s the small gestures that make a world of difference.

This work has shown me even more how special the people here are, but also how hard life has become for many.

For me, these two sides of Cuba belong together: the beauty and the difficulties, the happiness and the worries.

That’s the Cuba that I know. And that’s the Cuba that I’d like to share with you.

Welcome to my Cuba!

I hope that my website inspires you, helps you prepare for your trip, and gives you a better understanding of why this special island has such a big place in my heart.

Do you have any questions, do you want to discover Cuba or can I help you with something?

Feel free to contact me!

Hasta pronto!

Francisca ❤️