Cuba: An Interdisciplinary Journey to Havana
Havana—fresh off its 500th anniversary—is a jewel of architectural preservation and a living laboratory of five centuries of urban planning. Its rich history, vibrant culture and complex real estate environment make it unlike anywhere else in the world.
This three-week course begins at UMD, where students are introduced to Havana through four key disciplines, explore course themes, and prepare for the journey. Week two takes place on-site in Havana, with walking tours, neighborhood explorations, and conversations with local experts, students and residents. Alongside studying plazas, landmarks and historic architecture, students will examine the city’s regulatory environment, political landscape, and real estate realities. The final week returns to UMD for debriefing, analysis and reflection.
Travel logistics are coordinated by CityMouse, LLC, led by retired Georgetown linguistics professor Manela Diez, who has deep experience organizing cultural journeys to Cuba and helping participants connect with its people through art, history, and community.
Location: Havana, Cuba
Accommodations: Stay in hostels and a hotel in Cuba.
Eligibility: Open to all MAPP students in good academic and judicial standing. Check the UMD Education Abroad page for specific requirements.
Trip Length: 3 weeks
Term: Winter
Contact: Reemberto Rodriguez, rrodrig8@umd.edu.
