Attention, attention! Despite what you may have heard in the news recently, Americans can still travel to Cuba. You heard us correctly, experiencing the vibrant beauty and culture of the island nation is still within reach.
Though President Trump has made it significantly more difficult to visit the Caribbean island – including revoking the once popular People to People travel option – Americans can still go under the ‘support for the Cuban people’ visa category. In fact, many tour companies are still operating group trips under the category, and many American-based airlines like Jetblue, Delta, and United continue to offer scheduled flights to Cuba.
Basically, start planning your trip! Since we have no idea how much longer the doors of Cuba will be open to us, now is the time to go on this bucket list adventure. One jetsetter, @pinkdreamsz, recently journeyed to Cuba and took her followers on a tour to the past as she explored the timeless city of Havana. Check out more photos from her trip and take notes from our exclusive guide so that you too can visit too before it’s too late.
01
Welcome to Cuba
Located just south of Florida, nestled between the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, the island of Cuba is a country where time seems to almost stand still. From classic automobiles and retro architecture, to the island’s love for its favorite pastime, baseball, Cuba’s old-school feel has fascinated travelers for years. In recent times, decades of sanctions and isolation placed on the nation while it was under Fidel Castro’s communist regime have been slowly softening in the U.S., allowing Americans to finally have a chance to experience Cuba’s magic. But be sure you carry all the cash you’ll need for your trip to Cuba since Americans are still not fully allowed to use debit or credit cards in the country.
Photo Credit: @pinkdreamsz
02
City Vibes
With tourism booming, new accommodation offers are popping up all over the island. Currently staying with local Cuban families via Airbnb is the popular choice for visitors, however, luxury hotels like the new Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski have arrived to offer travelers more modern touches and amenities.
Photo Credit: Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski
03
Timeless Flavors
Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and other Caribbean cuisines, and it shows in some of the country’s most popular dishes. Though the Cubano sandwich might be popular stateside, make sure you try some of Cuba’s flavorful classics like its national dish, ropa vieja, comida criolla and pernil asado con mojo – all served with rice and beans of course!
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04
Light it Up
Beautiful beaches, intoxicating music, and masterful street artists are just a handful of experiences that await you when you arrive in Cuba. But of course, your trip to the island wouldn’t be complete without getting your hands on a classic Cuban cigar. Though Cohiba is the brand that most Americans know, you will find local men making cigars by hand throughout the island. And don’t worry, even if you’re not a smoker, you can bring a few back as souvenirs.
