-- T. Kindell, Etobicoke
A: Cuba is a photographer's dream. The magnificent crumbling facades and ancient calles (streets) of Old Havana don't disappoint photographers or sightseers.
Near the Capalito you can still see Cuban photographers using vintage cameras and selling one-of-a-kind pictures of tourists posing on the steps of the Capital Building. From Jan. 10-24, Cuba Si Tours (cubasitours.com ) is offering a two-week digital photography workshop called "Cuba Then and Now?"
Led by instructor Jerome Shaw and suitable for hobbyists or pros, the program combines a photo workshop and island tours of Cienfuegos, Trinidad de Cuba and Santa Clara. The price is $2,699 and includes roundtrip airfare (plus taxes), workshop, transfers, bus, accommodations, tour guide, some meals and beverages, and sightseeing. Contact Cuba Si Tours at 416-644-6543 for details.
Manitoba-based RealCuba (realcubaonline.com, 306-205-0977) has an eight-day photography workshop available year-round in Santiago de Cuba led by Cuban photographer Rene Silviera. The price is $1,750 for the workshop, transfers, bus, accommodation and some meals. Airfare is not included.
Q: I'm interested in taking a rock music history tour during a visit in London. Who should I contact?
-- B. Blackstein, Richmond Hill
A: Check out LondonRockTour.com. Managing director Bruce Cherry of Access All Areas -- a tour company specializing in London Rock 'n' Roll landmarks and a longtime music aficionado -- has several group itineraries that focus on some of London's most acclaimed music landmarks as well as some off-the-beaten path gems.
In 2010, there are many tours highlighting famous rock anniversaries. For example, there's the 50th anniversary of the death of Eddie Cochrane (famous for C'mon Everybody and Ain't no cure for the Summertime Blues). Cochrane died in a car crash on the A4 near Chippenham on April 17, 1960. On Sept. 18, 1970, Jimi Hendrix died. For the 40th anniversary of his death, Access All Areas will have special commemorative weekend tours and other events during September.
ilona@mycompass.ca
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