Alison Coelho

Director of Cuba Operations

Alison grew up in Southern California and graduated with a history of Latin America degree from U.C. San Diego. Fluent in Spanish, she moved to Costa Rica, where she taught English in public schools and coached senior managers working for major U.S. corporations. She went on to lead nonprofit programs focused on international education and environmental awareness.

In 2001, Alison found herself living in Cuba, where she designed and directed programs for U.S.-based nonprofit organizations, including insightCuba. She has traveled to every part of Cuba and is considered one of the leading experts on the island's life and culture. After living in Latin America for 11 years, she moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where she managed international state department-authorized programs and work travel programs, for which she recruited and placed international students from more than 30 countries.

Alison rejoined insightCuba when travel regulations changed in 2011. As director of Cuba operations, she is responsible for our widely acclaimed programming, and all logistics on the ground. She is also a member of insightCuba’s OFAC compliance committee, which oversees all matters regarding legal travel to Cuba.

Alison charges each tour and departure with creative energy and enthusiasm. Her favorite Cuban experiences include enjoying Cuban coffee with friends, strolling along the Malecón, and dining on El Aljibe's famous chicken. She enjoys helping others experience Cuba’s magic.