Our Team
Stephen and Jenny created Viva Cuba because they recognized the need for Americans to be able to access Cuba legally despite the many barriers to travel due to the U. S. embargo.
In January 2015, Jenny traveled to Cuba through a People-to-People license with a group from Colorado and was astounded by the many contrasts of Cuba in comparison to other Latin American countries. Jenny’s bachelor degree is in Spanish/Latin American studies with a minor in Third World Development. Over the last twenty-five years she has lived in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, visited or volunteered in development projects in Colombia, Paraguay, Honduras, Mexico, Peru, and Puerto Rico. She has worked for Lufthansa and Mexicana Airlines. Jenny and her husband, Stephen, travel with many of the Viva Cuba groups because they love it!
Roger, our primary Cuban guide, has been leading tours for more than 20 years and is a master photographer and bird watcher. Prepare to be impressed by his talents, and in-depth knowledge of all things Cuba and its connection to the rest of the world. His English is excellent and he is a master storyteller.
In 2022, Rachel Desmond (Stephen and Jenny’s adult daughter) joined the team as the Customer Service Specialist. She has been to Cuba on two tours and has lived in Guatemala, Mexico, and Colombia. She has the answers to all your questions in preparation for Cuba.
Our tours are carefully curated so guests have meaningful interactions with Cubans in a way that still feels like a comfortable vacation. We are entrepreneurs supporting Cuban entrepreneurs and we pride ourselves in no hassle, unique cultural experiences.
Even if you don’t join us in Cuba, you can attend the Curious About Cuba classes and come to learn about Cuban history, economy, and culture tips before you take your own adventure.
We look forward to meeting you!
-Jenny, Stephen, Roger, and Rachel
