Your personalized Cuban adventure
At Evoke Cuba, we curate bespoke journeys for those who seek genuine connections with the modern Cuba of today. Partnering with private sector creatives, culinary artisans, entrepreneurs, conservationists, historians, and more, we ensure each encounter is rich in culture and authenticity. Whether you're planning a family getaway or a milestone celebration, we'll expertly navigate the complexities of travel regulations to create an itinerary that complies with all US-Cuba travel regulations.
With over 25 years of combined expertise in event and trip planning, we take pride in harnessing our natural talents to create vacations, parties, and life experiences that are truly unforgettable. Our dedication to exceptional client service is unrivaled, and we thoughtfully collaborate with private industry to guarantee meaningful interactions and support for the Cuban people. Delight in the details and immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled memories with Evoke Cuba.
Meet Marla and Zoe: united by passion and purpose
Discover the story of Marla and Zoe, who transformed their shared passion for Cuba and event planning into a thriving business partnership. It all began when Zoe hired Marla to organize an event in Havana featuring Herbie Hancock, Quincy Jones, and over 100 jazz musicians. As their professional relationship flourished, they became friends, organizing memorable trips to Cuba for friends and family before deciding to go into business together.
Marla…
Born and raised in Cuba, Marla Recio has dedicated her entire professional life to event and travel planning. After pursuing her graduate studies in the US at the University of California, San Diego, Marla returned home to Cuba and translated her passion for the beauty of her island and its people into curating meaningful events and trip programs for purpose-led travelers and companies. She specializes in multi-day events and has curated experiences for companies like Spotify, Associated Press, Akin Gump and Cannonball Run. She is an advocate for Cuban entrepreneurs and has spoken on their behalf and in favor of improved US-Cuban relations at the White House, Capitol Hill and other events in the US.
Outside of work, Marla loves spending time with her dog London and dancing Cuban salsa. She’s interested in supporting causes related to children’s education and women’s empowerment.
…and Zoe
Zoe Garmendia, a Cuban-American, has an impressive background with over two decades of experience in large-scale, high-profile event management and production, including music festivals, galas, national party conventions, presidential inaugurations, and the Olympics, showcasing her exceptional talents in operations and logistics to curate incredible travel experiences. Her work has even reached the Obama White House.
Born in Havana and raised in the US, Zoe has always maintained strong family and friend ties to Cuba. Throughout the years, she spent vacations with her extensive family on the island, forging a deep connection with her 28 first cousins. Zoe's love for Cuba was nurtured through countless trips around the island, enjoying the beach, diving, tasting new foods, sipping Cuban rum, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. As a dedicated mom, wife, and community volunteer, Zoe is passionate about combating food insecurity in her community and believes in "Building Bridges not Walls," as expressed by Martin Luther King Jr.
A mission to connect
Marla and Zoe are committed to inspiring Americans to see Cuba in a new and meaningful way. Through education and collaboration, they aim to help eliminate US barriers preventing Americans from interacting and doing business in Cuba, ultimately creating new economic opportunities for the Cuban people. Their purposeful travel experiences demonstrate that there is more that unites us than divides us, bridging cultures and fostering understanding.
