However, we don't want to stay in tourist hotels the whole time. We would be keen to take an organised tour, but is there one available that would introduce us to the island and its people, and appeal to someone of my son's age?

M Williams A.Beautiful cities, stunning beaches, dramatic mountains and welcoming people . . . Cuba is an excellent holiday choice and is sure to make a profound impression on your son.

South American Experience (www. southamericanexperience. co. uk) offers an organised tour with the first three nights spent in Old Havana, at the historic Sevilla Hotel, one of the more comfortable places to stay in the city. On the first full day, your English-speaking guide will give you a detailed tour of the town. If your son is a fan of Ernesto 'Che' Guevara, then this is his chance to visit the Museum of the Revolution on the historic Plaza de Armas. This tour, like most, includes visits to the Partagas cigar factory and Havana Club rum distillery.

After a second day in Havana you then escape the city. Other days' highlights include a visit to the home (now a museum) of Ernest Hemingway, a boat trip through the mangroves of Guama, a stop-off at Cienfuegos and a drive to Santa Clara, the final resting place of Guevara. The final two days take you to the Vinales Valley, regarded as Cuba's most beautiful spot. The trip is around 1,000 each, including all excursions, accommodation and certain meals, but flight prices vary by season and they have to be booked separately.

If you'd like to base yourself in Havana, and organise tours yourself from there, then Sunway (www. sunway. ie) have a selection of hotels (including the Sevilla) in their Cuban programme.