In Support of the Cuban People
My family and I visited Havana a few years ago. The Hotel Saratoga where we stayed would have been considered luxe by many. The food in the family-run restaurants, or paladares, was delish, exceeding my expectations, much to the delight of this emerging pescatarian. Lounging on Playa Santa Maria del Mar, however, was not an option. As Americans, our visas came with rules regarding what we could do and where we could go. Our itinerary was packed tight with activities centered around education and cultural exchange. We discussed art at the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes de Cuba, learned to salsa, toured a cigar factory, attended a jazz concert and caught a live theatre performance featuring percussion and dance.
Today, Americans can visit to Cuba with one of 12 visa types. If you’re a bold solo traveler, couple, or family, visiting Cuba “in support of the Cuban people” can be easy and fun, albeit with a little planning. Here are five steps to help you get started:
1. Book accommodations in Casas Particulares. One way to support the Cuban people is by staying in Casas Particulares, privately owned homes and guest houses run by the Cuban people. Staying in these will give you an authentic Cuban experience, place pesos in the hands of the people, and help elevate the local economy.
2. Book a flight with travel health insurance. Several carriers fly directly to Havana. Included in the ticket price for flights originating within the U.S. is the travel health insurance required for Americans traveling to Cuba. If you will be starting your trip from outside the U.S., purchase travel health insurance separately from a carrier with policies that are valid in Cuba.
3. Plan your itinerary. To ensure that your trip is in support of the Cuban people, activities that support the Cuban people should take up most of your time. Consider
Participating in art exhibits, music performances, dance workshops or other cultural exchange programs with Cuban artists, musicians or performers
Taking tours offered by privately owned businesses
Shopping at privately owned stores that are run by self-employed Cuban citizens (cuentapropista)
Dining at paladares. These small, privately-owned and family-operated restaurants serve fresh Cuban cuisine in a welcoming environment. By patronizing paladares, travelers directly support the Cuban people.
Volunteering with local community organizations. Consider bringing extra toiletries, medical supplies and over-the-counter medications to leave behind.
In case you are asked, keep a copy of your itinerary with you while you are traveling, and maintain your records when you return. A travel journal can be helpful and a great way to store the memories you will create.
4. Bring cash. Unfortunately, credit and debit cards that affiliated with U.S. banks will not work in Cuba. Though USD can be exchanged, bring Euros (if you have them) to get the better exchange rate, and be sure to exchange the pesos back to euros or dollars prior to departure. The Cuban government asks travelers to declare if they are bringing currency greater than the equivalent of 5000 USD.
5. Watch “5 Medical Tips for Traveling to Cuba”. Expert advice is broken down into five easy-to-understand tips that cover everything from recommended vaccines to handling medical emergencies in Cuba, so that you gain the peace of mind which comes from knowing you’re taking the right precautions to keep yourself healthy while exploring all Cuba has to offer. Here’s the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CidFKwbAkc
Cuba is an amazing place, and with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, follow the guidelines, and enjoy. Safe travels.
Additional Resources
The U.S. Department of State maintains a list of places where Americans are not allowed to stay. You can find the Prohibited Accommodations List here:
https://www.state.gov/cuba-sanctions/cuba-prohibited-accommodations-list/cuba-prohibited-accommodations-list-initial-publication/
