What airline do we travel with?
A Toronto/Cuba hassle free, Direct Charter flight on Transit Air, starts the party rolling way before we get to Cuba, with free alcoholic drinks, food, headphone and movies. No costs here!
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Usually we have a early departure 6:00 -7:00 a.m. on the travel day and arrive in Varadero before 11:00 a.m. and transfer to the hotel to continue the festivities. After we establish our rooms, there will be a local orientation and turn you loose for the rest of the day and night. The Sunday morning meeting may come early for many of you! A complete agenda is available upon request.

Is there any possibility of a last minute cost increase?
Once you have paid in full, there will be no increase. This is a particularly important point this year since the cost of fuel is rising so quickly that fuel surcharges are a real possibility.
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If the character does not go, do we get all our money back (including the resort portion)?
You would get all your money back, but the plane has to go! This is regularly scheduled airline and has many passengers other than our Tournament.
The airline has 2 jobs, pickup and delivery. Even if the plane was empty it still has to go to pick up last weeks guest from the resort. Their obligation is to pick up passengers in Toronto and take them to the resort. Once at the resort they pick up last week's guess and bring them back to Toronto.

We always used major Canadian charter with many aircraft. They adjust the size of the plane to suit the number of passengers being picked up or delivered. There was a small scheduling problem recently, when Ross was in Cuba. To solve this, Canada 3000 simply put on a bigger aircraft to cover for them. Of course there can be delays in the winter but the airline is more desperate than to keep their Cuba schedule than you are.
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How many stars is the hotel?
The accommodation, which is nice but not spectacular, is 3.5 rated. The resort's food, facilities and service definitely deserve a 4+ rating. To find out more, check out the website at www.superclubs.com

Is there a travel contract or agreement to be signed?
I don't know of any travel or ball contract (the Blue Jays maybe, not us). There is a roster form for those signing as teams and this will be given to you, when you make your deposit. You pay your money and near travel time you get an itinerary of the travel schedule. That all! If I missed the point on this contact me to clear it up.

On the application and itinerary form there is a liability clause, which travelers subscribe to once the trip deposit is made. Since this is not a professional tournament (amateur), they will be covered under their insurance policy with us (the Travel Edge)

Can Americans travel to Cuba?

Yes, but they can not make a direct departure from USA soil. They can depart from Canada, Mexico or other places outside of the USA. The Cubans are pleased to have American visitors. Cuban customs DO NOT stamp the US travelers passport, but gives them a special Visa permit to get around this problem. This situation is beginning to ease up by the USA government and changes are soon expected to make it easier for Americans to travel to Cuba.

Do I need a Passport?

A passport is required. Application can be obtain from the Post Office and some other government agencies. You need to passport professional pictures and a signature from a professional verifying you are who you claim you are. Your doctor, lawyer, banker or Notary public are all good sources to sign.

Resort Questions

Is there horse back riding in Cuba?

Yes, the cost is $15 US one hour along the beach and includes the transfer to & from?

Softball Question
Slo-Pitch information

What level are the teams that we are playing (roughly)?
From the Canadian side, this is uncertain until enough teams sign up to give us the picture. I expect this to happen by the end of October or beginning of November. Once signed, we will match the teams or players as best we can. However, we do it, it will be a fun time!
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There are three Cuban teams from various hotels who feel up to the Challenge. These fellows are hotel employees and play in a regular Cuban league, much the way we do here. The Cuban hotel teams are about a D+ level. If they are too good, we may have to pick an All-star team from our Canadian group to take them down. Don't get too serious and keep in mind a Fun Holiday, rather than trying to beat them. You will get more from your holiday by integrating with the Cubans. It is not them and us - It is the opportunity to share and learn from each other through a Mutually Shared Sport.
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Canadian divisions are difficult to pick just yet, because the number of Travel teams will be much less than a local tournament of 50 to 200 teams. I suspect we will be in the range of 2 to 4 Canadian teams of varying skill levels and we will blend our package to suit.

Don't be concerned about the level of Cuban play. It is a great holiday with fun recreational ball thrown in..

Our games are open; anyone can play. The Canadian teams may be Co-ed and play against each other, but the Cuban teams are mens and the Co-ed play them also. Sometimes, on the last games we mix the Canadians and the Cuban teams together, so some Canadians (including women) get to play on a Cuban mens team (very exciting for them) it is one big party.

These are small close knit tourneys, not big like the local Canadian events. Our package is tailored to your group's level. We always keep in mind - that this is a holiday with ball. As a holiday, we keep your individual comforts and needs in the foreground. The Puntarena SuperClub hotels are the co-sponsors of these games and work very hard hand-in-hand with us to guarantee your holiday success.... BUT

At the end of the day, this trip has far greater value than just playing ball; it is about learning & sharing cultures with others and developing new deep friendships, not possible as a tourist. It is the common bond of softball that transforms you from a mere tourist into being accepted as family by the Cubans.

Traditionally, Cuban women do not play ball, however, since we kept taking Co-ed to Cuba, the Cuban hotel league now, as of 2003, have a Co-ed team to play against us. This change in tradition can be credited to a lady name Shanda Shenger manager of the Alberta Co-ed team "Toons". Shanda's team has played Cuba in 2001, 2002 & 2003. Shanda proved to the Cubans that the ladies can be excellent fun ball players.

She is an excellent 2nd base player herself, understands the game, good glove and fine hitter. It was a very prideful moment for me on our 2002 trip as I watched her in the first game chase a Cuban player back to first. He kept expecting her to throw the ball so he could sneak pass to 2nd (he never got there) - she kept faking the throw, ran him into the ground and sat on his chest to make the unassisted tag out. Good one for Canada and the Co-ed!

Although, Slo-pitch Cuba is only 4 seasons old, our stories of fine times and great Cuban adventures are now getting to be many. I am more than happy to answer all your questions and give you the Cuban game details.

Further, I am willing to give contact info of those who have been there, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta. (New for 2004 is a Montreal entry.) I am sure these folks will share with you unsolicited views and trip insight.

I do this eagerly, as I have full faith in anyone who has been on this trip,
to freely act as our ambassador of Slo-pitch Cuba.

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The main objective is to provide a Winter Holiday away from the snow, to which we will add some ball and Slo-Pitch recognition as an add-on, to the many existing FUN opportunity the resort already provides. The Puntarena Super-Club resort is a large part of this event and our success is important to them.

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How do you divide up the players?
For instants, I play Men's B and play 1st Base. Will I be on a team of my own caliber and playing 1st?

Some people will sign up as teams or partial teams and some as individuals. Through, a questionnaire and phone conferencing we will attempt to match teams and players or build teams. If we have 3-4 strong teams then we have a competitive division and they would have their own divisional tournament. If most players are more recreational in nature then, it would make sense to balance the teams with some strong players and some less skilled or masters players.

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You are a strong player and although you play 1st-base on a competitive B team, you could probably play most or more positions on an E team. I'm not displacing you and will make every attempt to accommodate your first choice and position of play. (I wouldn't make a decision without you and your full consent.) I am just making this point.

On a recreational Co-ed team, I play Shortstop and they think I'm good. (Little do they know.) When I move to men's recreational Masters they send me to the field (short doesn't cut it anymore). If I move up a division in men's, they send me to catch and hope I can hit line drive singles (then when I make it to first, they get me a runner). So, going up the ladder drops off and narrows quickly. Dropping down in levels expands the opportunity to comfortably play more positions.
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How many players make a Roster
A complete roaster would be 10 or more players (You can field a team with 9 minimum). Don't get bogged down on this issue because we can help! There will be individuals signing on for the trip and you can pickup players from the player pool to make up the team or we will give you Cuban players to balance out the team. (A roster form will be sent to if you register as a team.)

Deadline
This resort sells out early and February is the peek travel time. We can only guarantee resort vacancy until mid November. It is crucial to get names and deposits in before Mid November (now). We don't want to miss this opportunity. So if you have a partial roster get it in and add to as we go.

Will some people play on more than one team if necessary?
Normally, a person can play on more than one team if they wish to, but cannot be on 2 teams in the same division. The second team has to be in another division. For instance, they can play in a Masters division and also play on a Co-ed or a men's team. These are all different divisions.
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How many of the seven days will we be playing baseball? (Roughly)
A minimum of 3 morning games are needed and usually are on 3 days. This leaves time for people to enjoy other resort activities or spend time with spouses and friends. We will try to avoid mid day heat by having morning games. Sometime we also get a practice day.

What about uniforms?
There is no uniform rule and if you have your own, that is fine. Also, it is OK to enter your team under the existing name.
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Will spectators have to pay to watch the game? (My wife that is!)
Absolutely not! They will get the same transportation and privileges as the rest of us. If not actually watching the games, your friends may enjoy walking through the two towns we play at, Varadero and Cardenes.

What are the Prizes?
The prizes are simple in nature and only go to the Cubans. We have a trip end banquette attended by the Canadians, the Cubans and friends of the Cuban players. This is a night of dining, one-to-one chatting with the Cuban players, showing computer photos taken during the week and bidding goodbye to our new friends. We give the attending Cubans tickets and the Canadians draw numbers from a hat to give out the prizes. Many of us have things that we have never used. These simple things make great Cuban gifts. If you have anything to give away or sponsor we would be happy to add these to the Cuban prizes. All participants usual receive a Slo-Pitch Cuba hat.

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Cost Questions

My wife might go with me & she doesn't play slow pitch. What is her price?
The price is the same for everyone and is a good value regardless, if you play ball or not. If you check, you will find the cost of this trip to be less, than if you booked the same resort (without softball) through Sun Quest.

I know we are use to paying extra for our ball games. However, the ball portion is sponsored by the Puntarena Super-Club (& some volunteers) and is a free inclusion in the package. Their objective is to attract people to the resort by offering something the others do not. That is where I come in - and hopefully you too.
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We continue to look for programs & events to accommodate the non-players. The resort has a ton of things to do, including a tour of Veradero. However, we are evaluating other ideas to add to these and at present are investigating the possibility of a Cruise for non-participants. Again, trying to provide a little something the others don't have.

What is the single occupancy price?
The resort will guarantee you a roommate of the same sex, but if you wish to have your own room, add $350 to the cost. It has been our experience that signing on as a single willing to share, you got a room to yourself without any extra cost or roommate. No guarantee, but so far, so good.
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Does this price include travel to & from the airport and the hotel?
Absolutely! Also, to the ball stadiums or other places we may go.

Does this price include taxes?
YES - and gratuities as well! The only cost missing is 25.00 $US Cuban departure tax (for all visitors). This is not included, as the agency is not allowed to prepay this levy. This is the same situation, everywhere for all travelers.
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Does this price include the alcoholic bar drinks?
Yes, it is true! All local alcoholic drinks are included with 6 bars at your beckon call. On this trip, you can eat and drink for free until you throw up!

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Golf Questions

The FREE Golf is it limited?
This varies from year to year. Usually 3 games of golf per person is included in your package. More golf time can be purchased, but a better way is get the Green fee tickets from those on the trip who do not golf.
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How far is the golf course from the hotel?
About 10 minutes by cab at a shared cost of 10.00 $US per cab (each way).

Is the caddy and cart mandatory?
The Caddie is Optional and available at a 10.00 $US cost, if you choose to use one.

Carts are mandatory up until 1-PM only. After this time, it is an Option. If you elect to use a cart the cost is 22.00 $US for a two person cart. If not using a cart book afternoon tee off times.

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What extra facilities are available at the Golf Course?
The old Dupont mansion in Cuba is worth a visit. Golf Clubs storage and a locker is included. The opportunity to play with Cuban members may be possible, driving range, putting green and chipping practice
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I want to take my own Clubs - What is the travel arrangement?
When Traveling by air you are allow 2 bags (about 66 lbs) plus one carry on. Golf clubs count as one of two bags. If you only need one other bag you are fine. If you need more, the way to do this and avoid extra fright costs, is to check in as a group or at least with someone who has less than 2 bags. We have such a large group going this should be no problem at all. Just be sure to make us aware of the situation so we can plan.

Since this is a charter flight their may be some extra fright allowance and we will look into this as the time gets closer.

Golf shoes:

Any kind of golf shoes are OK. I know shoes with spikes are gradually being prohibited, but it is not a serious restriction right now.

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Insurance Questions

The medical insurance (additional $83), this is medical insurance right?
This is a deluxe insurance package that includes much more: medical, cancellation, baggage, supplier default and it is the most comprehensive we can find.
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What do you mean it will include, additional resort stay? Taxi? Etc.....
If for some reason (due to illness or accident) you cannot return home on your scheduled flight, the cost of an extended stay becomes your responsibility.

This unplanned expense can quickly get out of hand, especially medical & hotel costs: Other costs are food, transportation to the airport or elsewhere (Taxi). Then there is the inescapable day-to-day general out of pocket expenses. It doesn't take much imagination to see how this can add up. The insurance would cover most or all of these things. Back to Top

Last year a Scuba Diver burst an eardrum, which caused a 10-day delayed departure. He got the 10-day vacation for $83.00 Canadian dollars. I'm not recommending this vacation approach, but in life, things do happen.

( I am a Scuba Diver myself and look forward to a few dives on this trip)

Payment Questions

Payment Method?
Payments can be credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Amex) or cheque. If using a card, the charge will appear on your statement as, "Signature Tours". If paying by phone with a card, Please, ask them to mark your payment to the attention of Wayne Crowley Slo-Pitch Tournament.

A Payment program can be arranged and an example is on the webpage click here

Where do I send my checks?
Attention: Slo-pitch Cuba -Wayne Crowley
The Travel Edge
93 Tecumseth St.,

Orillia, ON, L3V 1Y3

Policy

CANCELLATION
Until December 1 the deposit including insurance is forfeited. Until Dec 31, 50% of total payment is refundable. After January 1 there is no refund but if a replacement can be found you can transfer the package for a $100 fee.

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Agency's Responsibility:
The Travel Edge acts solely as agents for transportation, hotel and other services. We are not liable for injury, damage, loss, accident, or delay due to any act, negligence or default of any person or company providing any service or carrying out any of the arrangements of this tour. The Travel Edge is licensed under the Ontario Travel Act #4142303.

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Contact Numbers

Information numbers

Wayne Crowley

(Slo-Pitch) 416 694-9284 pH & fax 416 518-0542 cell

SloPitchFun@rogers.com e-mail

Cuban Softball Convener and Trip promoter.

Wayne is the connection / sponsors that allows us get the Water Sports Equipment at wholesale pricing (including Scuba Equip.). Wayne also, is the guy who repairs Bases and manufactures the Bat covers, looks after this website, promotes the Stanley Park and other local pickup games and ..... Is the General Manager of the "Slammin' 45s" team at the Etobicoke CSPL- men's Masters & coach of the "Bistro 422" team in Toronto Queen Street league. Back to Top

Ross Greenwood

rossgree@enoreo.on.ca e-mail

866-277-1887 (toll free) 705 834-7677 cell - fax 705-325-0919

Resort liaison. Ross is the Travel Rep who did all the Cuba legwork on this package and will be going with us to Cuba to make sure all goes well. A respect long time establish travel agent of great depth and experience.

Travel Edge Agency in Toronto 416 923-4047 800 862-7057

Respected, well known, long establish with many offices throughout the country.

Can't find your Question?

I have been bombarded with many CUBAN questions and have compiled a list with the answers. If your question is not here or not clear, call me at - 416 694-9284 or 416 518-0542 cell, Wayne Crowley - e-mail to: SloPitchFun@rogers.com

Frequently Asked Questions by Slo-Pitch Players

Travel Questions

Softball Question
Slo-Pitch information

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Cost Questions

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Golf Questions

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Insurance Questions

Payment Questions

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Contact Numbers

Information numbers

Wayne Crowley

(Slo-Pitch) 416 694-9284 pH & fax 416 518-0542 cell

SloPitchFun@rogers.com e-mail

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Wayne Crowley - Slo-Pitch Cuba
Copyright © 1999 [Slo-PitchFun.com]. All rights reserved.
Revised: May 18, 2007 .

Can't find your Question?

I have been bombarded with many CUBAN questions and have compiled a list with the answers. If your question is not here or not clear, call me at - 416 694-9284 or 416 518-0542 cell, Wayne Crowley - e-mail to: SloPitchFun@rogers.com

Softball Question Slo-Pitch information

Cost Questions

Golf Questions

Insurance Questions

Information numbers

Wayne Crowley

(Slo-Pitch) 416 694-9284 pH & fax 416 518-0542 cell

SloPitchFun@rogers.com e-mail

Wayne Crowley - Slo-Pitch Cuba Copyright © 1999 [Slo-PitchFun.com]. All rights reserved. Revised: May 18, 2007 .

Softball Question
Slo-Pitch information

Wayne Crowley - Slo-Pitch Cuba
Copyright © 1999 [Slo-PitchFun.com]. All rights reserved.
Revised: May 18, 2007 .