Cuba travel

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Travel to Cuba is now permitted! 

 

Whoo hoo! My foreign relatives already enjoy the island so now we can too!

 

Okay….but what does that mean exactly? 

 Can you book your flights to Havana from any airport and hail a cab to a local hotel, check out the restaurants and beaches on your own and make it your new Caribbean vacation spot?  Well, mostly no, you can't just head over there by yourself. 

BUT!

What you CAN do:  

Generally speaking,  tourist travel to Cuba is still not permitted, however travel is permitted under these 12 rules : 

Per the US Department of the Treasury and per OFAC: https://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Documents/cuba_faqs_new.pdf

 What are the travel authorizations in the Cuba program?

 OFAC has issued general licenses within the 12 categories of authorized travel for many travel related transactions to, from, or within Cuba that previously required a specific license (i.e., an application and a case-by-case determination). Travel-related transactions are permitted by general license for certain travel related to the following activities, subject to criteria and conditions in each general license: family visits; official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations; journalistic activity; professional research and professional meetings; educational activities; religious activities; public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions; support for the Cuban people; humanitarian projects; activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes; exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials; and certain authorized export transactions.

What does that mean?

Some tour operators have created customer itineraries designed to fit the “People to People” category that is permitted—and each one approved by Cuban authorities.  Currently I work with 3-4 professional partners that offer 7-9 nights itineraries that span the island and as well Fathom cruises ( Part of the Carnival Corp), a small unique and high quality 700 passenger ship which is starting their 7 night cruise itineraries in May 2016. Princess and other cruise lines are  pending approval from Cuban authorities as well,  I’m keeping an eye on new operators every day.

 So in a nutshell, you can go and will love Cuba, and its people,(can’t wait to go myself!)  but must be through a Guided Tour option with an approved operator and one you can trust.  You’ll love your contact with locals (the “people to people part) on land, or through the floating resort option on a cruise.  The choice is yours!

 If you are indeed interested in Cuba, trips sell out fast, so sooner is certainly better than later as you’re alone in your interest!

 Call me to help plan your trip:  

908-752-4976  or email at marybeth.sullivan@cruiseplanners.com  or just hit the “chat” icon on this website!  www.worldtravelervacations.com

 #travel #cubavacation #fathom #worldtravelervacations  Worldtraveler @mbsulli5