CSC Solidarity Brigades - volunteering in Cuba

Brigade Reports

Brigade Photo Gallery on Flickr

• Draft Programme for Summer Brigade 2009
• Draft Programme for Winter Brigade 2009
• Recent newspaper article on the Brigade

For details of Summer and Winter brigades to Cuba coming up please visit our Tours section or contact finance@cuba-solidarity.org.uk for details.

Planning your gap year or a holiday to Cuba? Be more than a tourist on an island of incredible beauty, immense cultural diversity and unique social history.

The Solidarity Brigade consists of groups from the solidarity organisations of several European countries. Members of the Brigade spend their time near Havana on the Julio Antonio Mella camp as a ‘Brigadista’, working, learning and socialising with Cubans and people from all across Europe.

It is a unique opportunity to experience the Cuban Revolution firsthand and show that Cuba is not alone.

• See the real Cuba
• Learn to salsa
• Try authentic Cuban rum

Brigadistas take part in a full programme of educational and political activities plus visits to hospitals and schools to see for yourself the successes of the Revolution. Entertainment is provided at the camp with live bands and dance lessons, whilst excursions to some of Cuba’s fantastic beaches and places of interest are organised.

• Learn Spanish
• Visit museums, galleries and beaches
• Get involved in a range of cultural activities
• See and discuss the Cuban political system

The cost of the upcoming brigades is usually from £995-£1500. All costs to be confirmed and include return flights from London, UK departure tax, Cuban visa, transfer from Havana International Airport, accommodation, food, and most visits whilst at the camp.

CSC organises two Brigades a year, one in the Summer (usually July) and one in the Winter (usually December-January). A preparation day takes place before you leave, this gives you the opportunity to meet Brigadistas, both old and new, to share experiences of Brigade life and ask any questions you may have.

What to do next
If you wish to apply for a place on the next brigade, please complete the Brigade Application Form making clear any special requests. Then return it to CSC, enclosing 2 passport size photos and £100 deposit. The deposit is used to secure airline seats, once booked we are unable to return your deposit. Cheques should be made payable to CSC. Brigadistas must also be members of CSC, please therefore also send a completed membership form to the CSC office. (please also complete a Direct Debit form if you would like to pay by this method).

Cuba Solidarity Campaign
c/o Unite Woodberry
218 Green Lanes
London
N4 2HB

If you have questions please email finance@cuba-solidarity.org.uk.