Join Michael in Cuba for a ONE OF A KIND
Cuba Mob Experience
and immerse yourself in historical mob storytelling at the iconic Havana locations with renowned speaker Michael Franzese. This is THE event you don’t want to miss!
December 8 - 11, 2023
4 Days/3Nights
Experience the Thrills and Intrigue of 1950's Havana with the Ultimate Cuba Mob Trip
You are invited to step into a time machine, as we transport you back to the sultry and seductive 1950’s of Havana, Cuba. A land where the mob ruled, casinos thrived, and luxurious hotels lined the Malecón and the stunning coastline. Get ready to embark on a journey like no other, immersing yourself in tantalizing tales from this infamous era, set against the backdrop of iconic Cuban locations.
Join Mr. Michael Franzese for the VIP Cuba Mob Experience, an electrifying journey that will immerse you in thrilling mob stories of this once infamous city where every street corner tells a tale. With the guidance of this renowned speaker, your senses will be heightened as he leads you through fascinating stories, sights, and sounds, engulfing you in the glamour and danger of Havana's swinging heyday.
“Prepare to immerse yourself into thrilling mob stories set in the most iconic landmarks in historic Havana!”
-Michael Franzese
You can rest easy knowing that this extraordinary trip, managed by Cuba travel experts Experience Cuban Culture (ECC), operates under the strict guidelines of the US government, ensuring its legality and compliance for our US guests. So immerse yourself in the rich history and untamed allure of Cuba's mob scene, all while enjoying peace of mind and the utmost comfort during your adventure. This trip will support the Cuban People through our patronage of private enterprises and stimulating conversations with local Cubans.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to be transported back in time to 1950's Havana, where you’ll savor the irresistible mix of thrills, mysteries, and captivating narratives brought to life in iconic Cuban locations. Get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime with the ultimate Cuba Mob Experience where forbidden adventures await. Get your fedora hats and cocktail dresses ready, because this is one trip you won't want to miss!
The Itinerary
* Itinerary events and locations subject to change
DATES: Friday December 8 to Monday December 11, 2023
4 days & 3 nights
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
Staff from Experience Cuban Culture Team will meet incoming Mob Experience travelers in the Miami Airport to personally facilitate their flight into Havana.
Once you arrive in beautiful Havana, you will be comfortably escorted via a private tour coach to your lodgings at the historic Hotel Nacional to settle in and freshen up.
That evening, Michael and team will host the arrival dinner at the hotel’s prestigious restaurant.
You will enjoy fine dining, a cocktail, and be entertained with stories of this 1930’s historic hotel including the infamous “Mob Conference” that convened here in 1946 and provided the inspiration for the Cuba scenes from “The Godfather Part II”.
After a long travel day, we will retire for either a much deserved rest or enjoy cigars and drinks on the luxurious outdoor patio overlooking Havana’s Malecon.
DAY 2: HISTORY, CULTURE, & CONTEXT
Your day will begin with a traditional Cuban breakfast at the hotel.
We will load up our comfortable tour buses and head out to historic Havana to start your Mob Experience adventure.
Your senses will be delighted as you tour and get treated to the stories about the legendary hotels and casinos built by the Mob including Meyer Lansky’s Riviera and The Hotel Sevilla.
A mid afternoon break will allow you to have lunch and conversation with Mr. Franzese, and your tour guides about what you have experienced so far.
Lunch will be enjoyed at the world renowned El Alijibe, a restaurant with “all you can eat” traditional Cuban cuisine.
Our tour will reconvene at what was once the “notorious” casino within Hotel Nacional for a presentation and Q&A from Mr. Franzese and ECC’s founder Colin Ganley highlighting the history and key events of the Mob in Cuba.
Take some time to freshen up and relax before our dinner even to be held at Havana’s most famous private restaurant, La Guarida, where we will dine like the 1950’s mob elite.
Save some energy, because after dinner you will be treated to a fantastic Cuban Cabaret show at the Tropicana, the locale made famous in Havana in the 1950’s and visited by the biggest names in Hollywood. Enjoy music, dancing, and feel what Mob guests would have experienced when they were “wined and dined” by our mafioso.
DAY 3: THE MOB & “OLD TOWN” HAVANA
After a hearty Cuban breakfast you will be escorted to Old Havana to see the Presidential Palace, now the Museum of the Revolution where we will learn about President Batista’s role with the Mob in Cuba as well as learn about the Revolution’s attempt on his life.
From the Palace, you will venture to China Town - home of the Shanghai Theater. There you will hear the sultry stories about “Superman” and the sex shows that the mob used to entice dignitaries and politicians.
Then it will be an afternoon break and you will enjoy a casual and fulfilling lunch at a paladar in Chinatown before moving on to our next stop.
Then, your senses are in for a treat! You will arrive at a private location where our group will be treated to a special tasting and experience with Havana Club Rum. You will enjoy a flight of the finest Cuban rums while learning about the role of this libation during the Mob era of prohibition and how it lured tourism from the US to Cuba.
Next, you will return back to the hotel where you will have a chance to freshen up and grab some time to yourself.
Then our group will travel to our “farewell” dinner at one of the best kept restaurant selections in Havana to have your palette delighted with the best of Cuban cuisine.
After dinner you can attend a “casino night” social attended by Michael Franzese where you will get to enjoy the night like its New Years 1959, before the the crumble of the Batista regime and Mob influence over Havana.
DAY 4: DEPARTURE
You will enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel with Mr. Franzese followed by a briefing by the ECC staff to ensure a relaxing and easy trip back to your final destination.
You will have a private coach transfer back to the airport accompanied by ECC staff so that all your questions and travel needs are handled and you can reflect on this amazing experience and the new friends you have made while in Cuba!
Buen viaje amigos!
The Value
Once you arrive in Miami, Michael & the ECC team will provide everything you require including:
Roundtrip Airfare from Miami to Havana
Lodging at the Hotel Nacional - 3 Nights
All meals described in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Transportation to events and lodgings on the itinerary
The cost of activities on the itinerary
Signed copy of book by Michael Franzese
Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leader and Guides
Required Visa
Required Treasury Department documentation and administration
And documentation that you will retain post-trip
Note: The only elements that people could pay for out of pocket include additional alcohol at meals, extra evening activities, art and souvenirs.
SINGLE OCCUPANCY ROOM PRICE = $3,950
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ROOM PRICE = $3,850
The Accomodations
DATES: Friday December 8 to Monday December 11, 2023
The Hotel Nacional - Havana, Cuba
The magnificent Hotel Nacional in Havana, Cuba is the epitome of grandeur and luxury in the Caribbean. Nestled in the heart of this historic city, the Hotel Nacional stands as a testament to Cuba's vibrant culture and rich history, offering an exceptional experience for those seeking a remarkable stay.
From the moment you step foot onto the property, Hotel Nacional emits an air of timeless elegance. The architecture, showcasing a blend of Neoclassical and Art Deco styles, transports guests to a bygone era. As you wander through the meticulously designed interiors, adorned with opulent furnishings and delicate Cuban art, you'll discover the intrigue and charm that resonates within the walls.
Situated on a privileged spot overlooking the shimmering waters of the Havana Malecón, Hotel Nacional boasts captivating views of the ocean and the sprawling city.
Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic promenade or unwind on the hotel's charming terrace, reveling in the enchanting sights that surround you. With its central location, the hotel offers easy access to the vibrant streets of Havana, where you can immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms of Cuban music and explore the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Hotel Nacional has been a cornerstone of Cuban history since its inception in 1930, welcoming an illustrious array of international celebrities, politicians, and cultural icons. Walking through its hallways, adorned with captivating photographs and memorabilia from its illustrious past, you'll feel a connection to the countless luminaries who have graced its halls. This storied hotel has played an instrumental role in shaping Cuba's cultural landscape.
Indulge in a gastronomic adventure as Hotel Nacional features a range of outstanding restaurants and bars, each offering exquisite Cuban cuisine and refreshing beverages. Savor the flavors of Cuba while being serenaded by live music, or unwind with a cocktail in hand, soaking in the hotel's vibrant ambiance. The attentive and friendly staff at Hotel Nacional is dedicated to ensuring your every need is met, making your stay an experience of unparalleled luxury and warm hospitality.
With its lush gardens, sparkling swimming pool, and serene atmosphere, Hotel Nacional is the perfect oasis for our Cuba Mob Experience!
The 1946 Mob Conference…
The year is 1946. The sultry air of Havana, Cuba is tinged with a sense of anticipation and danger. The Hotel Nacional, a grand establishment that has witnessed its fair share of secrets and scandals, is abuzz with whispers of an imminent gathering. Rumor has it that the infamous mobsters Meyer Lansky and Lucky Luciano are about to descend upon Havana, their presence cloaked in a shroud of intrigue and mystery.
The streets of Havana buzz with a mix of anxiety and excitement. Powerful men, known for their illicit dealings and shadowy associations, arrive in sleek cars with tinted windows. Under the cover of darkness, they slip into the opulent lobby of the Hotel Nacional, like nocturnal creatures drawn to the scent of power and fortune. The air inside crackles with an unspoken tension, as every guest holds their breath, their senses heightened by the aura of impending danger. Hidden alliances and deadly rivalries lurk beneath every exchanged glance, the echoes of whispered conversations reverberating through the marble hallways.
The stage is set for a mobster conference that will shape the course of history, leaving Havana forever marked by the choice it makes at this critical junction…
Meyer Lansky
“Lucky” Luciano
Do you want the rest of the story?
You are invited to a unique experience to delve into the captivating stories of the 1950’s mob, shared by none other than Michael Franzese, a former high-ranking member of the infamous mob, and ECC Founder Colin Ganley, a connoisseur of Cuban culture. Brace yourself for an immersion into the depths of Havana's captivating past as these two remarkable storytellers transport you to the heyday of mob-run casinos and opulent hotel
Michael Franzese
Colin Ganley - ECC Founder
Imagine standing in the very locations that once housed the mob's most exclusive gambling dens, surrounded by the echoes of whispered secrets and clandestine affairs. Feel the energy that once pulsed through these establishments, as Michael Franzese masterfully recounts the tales of power, love, and betrayal that unfolded within their gilded walls.
Colin Ganley will weave a spellbinding narrative, ensuring that every detail is carefully brought to life, leaving you breathless with wonder. As the stories unfold, you will find yourself stepping into the shoes of locals who reveled in the thrill of Havana's nightlife, swept up in a world where danger teetered on the edge of romance.
Together, Michael and Colin will heighten your senses, inviting you to experience what it truly felt like to witness the mob's golden age firsthand, as if you had traveled back in time to a Havana that still flourished under their grip. Prepare to be captivated by their unparalleled storytelling as they transport you to an era where glamour, intrigue, and passion intertwined to create an electric atmosphere that has endured throughout the years.
So, take a leap into the pages of history, and join us for…
THE CUBA MOB EXPERIENCE
Michael Franzese
The Unlikely Journey: From Mafia Prince to Engaging Storyteller
Imagine a life immersed in secrets, shadows, and danger, where loyalty was a currency far more valuable than gold. Now picture a man who broke free from this treacherous web, shedding his past like a chameleon shedding its skin, to emerge as a captivating author and podcaster. This is the incredible story of Michael Franzese.
Once known as the "Mafia Prince," Michael Franzese was no ordinary character. Born into the notorious Colombo crime family, he seemed destined to follow a dangerous path paved in blood and power. With a father as underboss, and countless notorious mobsters as his closest associates, Franzese carried the burden of a storied lineage. He embraced the life of organized crime and climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a caporegime—a captain—within the fearsome Cosa Nostra.
But destiny, as it often does, had other plans for Franzese. Through an astonishing turn of events, he found himself facing a crossroad where he had to choose between a life in the shadows or a new path illuminated by truth and redemption. Opting for the latter, he made a bold decision to leave behind the confines of the mob and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Today, Michael Franzese stands proudly as an acclaimed author, podcaster, and motivational speaker. He has become a beacon of hope for countless individuals seeking inspiration and transformation in their own lives. What sets Franzese apart as a masterful storyteller is his uncanny ability to weave together the threads of his tumultuous past with the lessons learned throughout his journey.
Born into a world defined by secrecy, betrayal, and violence, Franzese possesses a keen insight into the human condition. With his enchanting narratives, he effortlessly transports his audience into the riveting world of organized crime, painting vivid pictures of the challenges, sacrifices, and the murky allure that kept him entrapped.
It is his unwavering dedication to truth-telling that captivates listeners and readers alike. Franzese fearlessly peels back the layers of his former life to expose the raw emotions and unfathomable choices he had to make. He showcases the transformation that can unfold when one realizes the true power of choices and the potential for redemption.
THE CUBA MOB EXPERIENCE
Join Michael in Havana for
and hear his thrilling stories, see unbelievable sites, all while enjoying the best of CUBA!
Fully Licensed and Legal Travel for Americans
The Cuba Mob Experience is organized and run by Experience Cuban Culture (ECC). ECC is licensed by the United States Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to organize and conduct authorized group travel to Cuba.
The Mob Experience will engage our guests in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba.
So, rest assured, when you travel with Experience Cuban Culture, you are traveling under our auspices. Meaning you are fully licensed through the United States Department of the Treasury and can legally visit Cuba.
Your custom itinerary while in Cuba is completely assured by the team at Experience Cuban Culture and we provide you with all the official documents that will ensure the legality of your trip.
The team at ECC works to keep track of changes in both US and Cuban laws to ensure that we are always current and so are you!
So relax. Let the experienced team at ECC take care of the logistics and licensing so you can focus on having the Cuban Mob Experience of a lifetime!
Join me in Cuba for the Ultimate Mob Experience!
Hey there, fellow mob aficionados!
Michael Franzese here, and I've got an offer you won't want to refuse. You see, I have something truly special planned for all of you who have a passion for the mob tales of yesteryear.
From December 8th through December 11th, 2023, I'll be hosting the unforgettable Cuba Mob Experience in Havana. Trust me, folks, this is the ultimate opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of organized crime like never before.
What can you expect from this extraordinary adventure? Well, picture this: sitting down with me as I share incredible stories from the 1950s mob scene in Cuba. You'll hang on every word as I reveal tales that will send shivers down your spine.
But here's the best part: it's not just about the stories. It's about experiencing the vibrant culture and rich history of Havana firsthand. We'll explore breathtaking historic sites that have witnessed the rise and fall of infamous mob figures. Together, we'll walk the streets that were once the playground of the most notorious gangsters.
And that's not all. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor because we'll be indulging in the best food Havana has to offer. From savory Cuban cuisine to delectable delicacies, your culinary journey will be second to none. As for accommodations, get ready to rest your head at an iconic mob hotel. You'll be surrounded by the nostalgia and intrigue of a bygone era, making it a truly unforgettable stay.
Now, here's the important part – this one-of-a-kind trip is available NOW, but there are just 100 spots and they are filling up fast. Join me, Michael Franzese, on this incredible journey into the heart of the mob's Cuban legacy. Together, let's uncover the secrets and relive the glory days of organized crime. I can't wait to meet you and share this experience with you.
So don't miss out on your chance to make history and create memories that will last a lifetime. Reserve your spot for the Cuba Mob Experience in Havana, December 8th through December 11th, 2023, by clicking the link below. You won't regret it!
Yours in mob history,
Michael Franzese
Have Questions About the Mob Experience?
Michael and team would love to have YOU join us on the Cuba Mob Experience. We understand you may have specific questions about the trip. Our team would be delighted to follow up with you via email or a phone call so we can answer your questions. Provide us your contact information and question and we will get in touch.