GUIDE FOR AMERICANS VISITING CUBA
Are you planning a trip to Cuba, either as a solo traveler or as part of a tour organized by an agency? Before embarking on this exciting journey, there are a few key things Americans should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. At Cubanisms, we understand the unique needs of American travelers and strive to provide exceptional services tailored to your needs.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
Prior to your trip to Cuba, it's essential to ensure you have the necessary travel documents in order. This typically includes, A VALID PASSPORT (with more than 6 months of validity remaining), A VISA (referred to as a CUBAN TOURIST CARD which can be purchased online HERE - keep in mind that if coming from the U.S. you need to travel under one of the 12 U.S. government-approved categories to purchase this visa, most popular category "Support for the Cuba people", more detailed information below) and HEALTH INSURANCE (it's worth noting that health insurance is often included in the airfare price for Americans, but it's wise to confirm this with your airline beforehand, if not included you will need to buy one). Additionally, you will need to complete a CUSTOM FORM to present at your arrival at the Cuban airport (it's essential to fill this out within 72 hours before departure. Once completed, you'll receive a PDF with a QR code and your visa number. We recommend printing it or downloading it on your phone since internet access might be limited upon arrival. Cuban custom's form HERE, how to fill the form HERE). Summarizing, to visit Cuba you will need, a valid passport, a visa (the most popular category to apply for is "Support for the Cuban people"), airfare with health insurance or purchase it separately and, the Cuban custom form.
THE U.S. GOVERNMENT APPROVED CATEGORIES FOR AMERICANS TO VISIT CUBA
SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE
The SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category is often recommended for travelers visiting Cuba from the USA. This category allows travelers to engage in activities that directly benefit the Cuban people and support independent businesses, thereby fostering positive interactions and exchanges between Americans and Cubans. Plus, it offers a flexible framework for travelers to explore Cuba's culture, history, and society while ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations.
TRAVELING TO CUBA UNDER THE SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE CATEGORY
SOLO TRAVELER EXPERIENCE: Traveling solo means exploring Cuba independently or with a small group of family or friends. To comply with the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category, you'll need an schedule of daily activities with private businesses, excluding Cuban government entities. This includes staying in “casas particulares” or Airbnbs instead of government-owned hotels, dining at “paladares” or private restaurants, and engaging in activities that support independent businesses. Recently, some airlines have started requesting, randomly, to see a detailed itinerary of activities before allowing passengers to board flights to Cuba. While the necessity of this requirement by the airline is a subject of debate, it is a current practice that travelers should be prepared for. As specialists in Cuban travel, we offer a tailored service of preparing customized itineraries specifically designed to enhance your visit to Cuba. Our itineraries help you take advantage of each minute, ensuring you have a rich and fulfilling experience. Additionally, our itineraries meet the criteria of the "Support for the Cuban People" category, making them suitable for solo travelers. Our recommendations cover lodging, dining, transportation, tour guides and more, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip to Cuba. Additionally, we can handle reservations on your behalf for added convenience.
AGENCY ORGANIZED TRIP: Joining an agency-organized trip, whether with your own group or an open group, means having your travel fully managed by us at Cubanisms or another reputable travel company. With Cubanisms, we'll provide a daily schedule of activities with private businesses as itinerary, aligned with the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category. Our team handles all arrangements in Cuba, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without worries. When choosing another agency, ensure they comply with U.S. regulations, provide a detailed daily schedule of activities with private businesses and avoid government-owned hotels. Opting for a Cuban-owned/managed agency, preferably with ties to the USA, enhances understanding of both Cuban culture and American needs while ensuring adherence to U.S. regulations. At Cubanisms, we're dedicated to facilitating meaningful and legally compliant travel experiences, regardless of your chosen travel style.
THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR TRIP?
SOLO TRAVELER EXPERIENCE: Embarking on a solo trip to Cuba, either alone or with a small group of family or friends, you'll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace, without being tied to a group schedule. In this scenario, it's essential to adhere to the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category, requiring a meticulously crafted daily schedule of activities with private businesses. As specialists in Cuban travel, we offer a tailored service of preparing customized itineraries specifically designed to enhance your visit to Cuba. Our itineraries help you take advantage of each minute, ensuring you have a rich and fulfilling experience. Our itineraries also meet the criteria of the "Support for the Cuban People" category, making them suitable for solo travelers. Additionally, our recommendations encompass all aspects of your journey, including lodging, dining, transportation, and guided tours. Notice that in Cuba, cash is king, as credit cards and ATMs are not widely accepted, so be sure to bring enough cash for all expenses. Ultimately, while solo travel to Cuba offers unparalleled freedom and opportunities for personal growth, it also requires careful planning, awareness, and self-reliance to ensure a fulfilling experience.
AGENCY ORGANIZED TRIP: Opting for an agency-led trip, especially with Cubanisms, streamlines the travel experience and ensures a hassle-free journey. Prior to your departure, we engage with the group to understand their interests and expectations, crafting a daily itinerary tailored to the SUPPORT FOR THE CUBAN PEOPLE category. Our pre-paid packages cover all essential services and activities, including lodging, transportation, meals, and guided tours. You pay for your trip in the USA, then simply jet off to Cuba to savor your vacation, needing only a bit of cash on hand for souvenirs, drinks, and snacks. Throughout the trip, a dedicated host ensures everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on enjoying Cuba's culture, history, and traditions. Traveling with Cubanisms guarantees meaningful interactions with locals and support for their businesses, as well as contributions to charitable initiatives. With a track record of organizing successful trips since 2016, including various interest-based groups, Cubanisms ensures a memorable and enriching Cuban experience. When choosing another agency, ensure they comply with U.S. regulations, provide a detailed daily itinerary, and offer transparent pricing to avoid unexpected expenses.
Regardless of your choice, solo or agency travel, prioritize adherence to U.S. regulations and thorough planning to maximize your enjoyment of Cuba.
ABOUT US
CUBANISMS is a US-based cultural organization dedicated to curating unforgettable experiences in Cuba and fostering connections between people from both countries through immersive trips and musical adventures. Established in 2016 by Dalida T. Pupo Barrios, a native Cuban, and Michael McClintock, hailing from the USA, our company is passionate about promoting cross-cultural exchange and creating lasting memories for our travelers. For more details about our founders, feel free to visit our homepage linked below.
If you have any additional questions about visiting Cuba or would like further details about our services, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to assist you every step of the way.
Category "Support for the Cuban people" (CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS website) HERE
FAQ, about traveling to Cuba (DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY website) HERE
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