tours to cuba from miami

Get a taste of the real Cuba on a legal tour for Americans.

Legal Cuba Travel

We've the latest information you need as an American citizen on Cuba travel licenses, Cuba tourist visas, flights to Cuba, and advice to plan your Cuba trip, safely and legally.

Our Cuba Tours

Our Cuba tours are compliant with U.S. Government regulations. We offer 9, 11 & 15 day options, with groups limited to 12 travellers.      

Flights to Cuba

Choose your own flights to Cuba! All of our Cuba tours start and end in Havana. This gives you the freedom to choose the route to Cuba that is most convenient and economical for you

The Cuba Tourist Visa (or Tourist Card) is a document you need to enter Cuba. Read about what it is and how to obtain it!

" Our trip with Cuban Adventures exceeded all of our expectations. We normally do not travel on group tours but we are so glad we did. We learned so much from the guide about the history and the culture and the local hot spots to go to for food, drink and dancing. Thank you for making our trip to Cuba Amazing! We will definitely be back."

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Cuba: A Cultural Odyssey

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Five days of "Support For The Cuban People" educational exchange

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All hotel accommodations – 1 night in Miami at Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, Miami and 5 nights in Havana at GRAND ASTON La Habana

All day-to-day travel details taken care of for you 

Escorted travel from the moment your trip begins in Miami, accompanied by a professional Tauck Director and experienced local Cuban guides, all fluent in both English & Spanish

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Experiences of a lifetime

Meet face-to-face with local residents from different professions, share thoughts, gain knowledge, and connect with Cuba's cultural heritage as you discover the traditions of Cuban culture through music, sports and more!

Through cultural exchange activities built around key themes including Cuban culture and the arts, history, architecture, agriculture, cigars, vintage cars, baseball and more, you'll interact directly with the people of Cuba on Tauck's Havana-based People-to-People trip. Meet Cuban students, educators, entrepreneurs, architects, artists and artisans, dancers, musicians, technicians, baseball players and coaches and more. Explore Ernest Hemingway's life in Cuba at his preserved home. Discuss art and private enterprise with artists in their studios. Visit with agricultural workers to talk about agrarian reform, tobacco production and organic farming. Interact with members of Havana organizations about their work, from dance to historic preservation to baseball. Learn about Cuban cultural traditions… have meals at paladares (small, privately operated Cuban restaurants)… and connect with the people of Cuba, their passions and their culture in many ways through unique Tauck Experiences.

Connect with Locals

Connect, learn and discover.

Connect with locals of all ages in various outreach programs throughout the island. You'll visit various organizations that teach language and traditional music skills to youth, as well as sustainable farming productions that benefit the communities. Immerse in an incredible Afro-Cuban cultural experience with Project Beyond Roots, and feel the energy of the students at Havana Compas Dance. A trip to Cuba wouldn't be complete without the chance to dance along to cultural classics.

Learn about Cuba's agricultural products

Private tour of a tobacco farm.

Meet the owner of a private tobacco farm, Tabacco de Benito Camejo, and hear stories about his experience living in the countryside. He'll teach you about the process of growing tobacco and cigar rolling. As a fifth-generation cigar farmer he'll have lots to show you across his picturesque farm in the tobacco-region of the Viñales Valley.

Learn about Vintage American Cars

American vintage cars.

The glint of chrome from countless American vintage cars swathes the streets in Cuba. From taxis to vintage cars that are locally owned, you can find more than 60,000 pre-1959 American cars cruising the city streets of Havana. You'll have the chance to ride around town in one too!

Explore Ernest Hemingway's Home

Discover the inspiration for "the old man and the sea".

American novelist Ernest Hemingway loved Cuba and its people. He called Havana home for over twenty years from 1939 to 1960, and wrote some of his most well-known works here. You'll see his extensive library and beloved typewriter and learn more about his life amongst Cuban people and his hobbies along the coastline.

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Hyatt regency coral gables.

Coral Gables, Florida

GRAND ASTON La Habana

Havana, Cuba

Your Journey

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Includes On-Tour Air

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About Booking This Tour

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $499  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck trip for entry into Cuba. You will also need a visa to enter Cuba, the nature of which is somewhat different than what many other countries require. The Cuban government requires all foreign visitors to have a Cuban visa, sometimes referred to as a "Tourist Card," for which there is no official application process. Cuban immigration officials will collect one half of this two-part card upon your arrival in the country, and the other half upon your departure. Tauck will obtain your Cuban visa, which will be given to you in Miami, along with the documents for your included charter flight from Miami to Havana.

In addition, other special documentation will be needed to complete the requirements for travel to Cuba; more details about this required documentation will be sent to you with your booking confirmation. Please review the details in the Instruction Sheet and  Travel Affidavit . You must retain these documents for a period of at least five years.

Please Note: Because many of you are traveling as a U.S. citizen with Tauck on a People-to-People educational exchange travel itinerary operated under a license granted to Tauck by the United States Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), you are legally licensed and authorized to travel to Cuba.  Before departing on your trip, we will give you a Letter of Authorization from Tauck stating that you have permission to travel under that license, to keep as part of your travel documents.

If you are a citizen of another country but legally reside in the U.S., you may travel on Tauck's People-to-People trip to Cuba as long as you have a valid passport from your country of citizenship, as well as a residency card or alien card (or "green card") to establish your legal U.S. residency when returning to the U.S. from Cuba upon your arrival in Miami.

If you are a Cuban-born U.S. citizen, your travel document requirements depend on when you originally departed Cuba. If you departed Cuba prior to December 31, 1970, you will require either a PE-11 visa (which can take from six to eight weeks to process, is valid for a one-time entry for 30 days, and expires within 90 days of issue) or a Cuban passport; the choice is yours. If you left Cuba after January 1, 1971, you will require a Cuban passport, which can take from three to four months to obtain. If you will need help in obtaining one of these documents, please let us know at the time of booking.

If you are a citizen of another country and do not legally reside in the U.S., you may travel on Tauck's People-to-People trip to Cuba as long as you have the proper documentation that allows you to enter the U.S. for the start of the trip and return to the U.S. at the end of the trip. A multi-entry U.S. visa is required.

A travel affidavit is also required for all travelers to Cuba, regardless of nationality. Please use this link to apply for your travel affidavit at least 75 days prior to your trip: https://cubatravelservices.com/tauck-travel-affidavit/ 

Because all guests on this tour (U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens alike) will be arriving into Cuba from the U.S., a Cuban visa is required of all travelers. Tauck will obtain your Cuban visa for you during your tour.

Please note that you will not be traveling to Cuba as a tourist. You will be traveling as part of the People-to-People educational exchange.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen. You must retain these documents for a period of at least five years.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

Health Safety and Mobility

Our People-to-People cultural exchange activities in Cuba include visits to rural areas, agricultural facilities and small villages, as well as to various sections of Havana with centuries-old streets and buildings with limited access. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over unpaved and uneven terrain. Both the Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove and the Meliá Habana are equipped with elevators.  The road conditions in Cuba are improving; however, paved roads, especially in rural areas, are often in poor condition. Some roads to rural locations are not paved and some out-of-the-way destinations are accessible only by these roads; other roads may be unpaved and bumpy. Our People-to-People cultural exchange itinerary includes several early morning starts and leaves little scheduled free time.

AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN AND MOBILITY ISSUES:  This Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate oxygen tanks, wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Oxygen tanks are strictly prohibited in many foreign countries on regional flights aboard small aircraft, such as those intra-tour flights featured on this Tauck journey.  Likewise, the very limited cargo capacity on such flights prohibits the transport of wheelchairs or motorized scooters.

Travelers should also bear in mind that the infrastructure in many foreign countries, particularly in developing countries, often presents severe and even insurmountable challenges for those with walking difficulties or other mobility issues.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one traveler.  Travelers requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at the hotels on the journey, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on your motor coach.

The only hotel on this trip that allows smoking is the Meliá Habana in Havana.

Airline Disinsection

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a guidance letter that requires airlines and travel agents to disclose to consumers countries that require the use of insecticides by airlines. Please click  here for more information.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

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Cuba Tours & Vacations

Behind the hum of vintage cars, pastel hues of 16th-century buildings and wafts of cigar smoke, the real Cuba shines bright.

A country caught in a cultural time warp,   Cuba   is a bright snapshot of the mid-20th century; a true feast for the senses. Watch as Cadillacs roll down the coastal boulevards, walk through traditional tobacco plantations in Vinales and see cigar production in full swing, laze on the shores of the   Caribbean   on some of the world’s whitest sands, and feel the sultry and spicy vibes of salsa as you dance the night away in Havana. With all of this on offer in one of the world’s best climates, what’s stopping you from checking out Cuba’s kaleidoscope of color and charisma?

Our Cuba trips

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Cuba at a glance

Capital city.

Havana (population 2.1 million)

11.3 million

(GMT-05:00) Bogota, Lima, Quito, Rio Branco

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Cuba

Culture and customs.

With   Spanish ,   African   , and Creole influences, modern Cuba is home to so many cultural components – some of which don’t feel super ‘modern’ at all!

You won’t be surprised that Cubans love music and dancing – with everything from Afro-Cuban rhythms to classic melodies filling the air in clubs, bars, restaurants, and on street corners. The modern arts are also alive here, with ballet, contemporary dance, and film rising in popularity – so much so, Havana is now home to internationally recognized film, literature, and music festivals.

Living in a Communist country means Cubans sometimes go without the luxury items that many Westerners take for granted, with certain foods and consumer goods not available. Despite this, events like birthdays, holidays, and marriages are celebrated with gusto, with special meals, music, and dance featuring. This love of life is also evident in the street parties, festivals, and fiestas that are celebrated throughout the year. Coffee, cigars, and rum flow freely, and people dance to the sound of trumpets and guitars in city streets.

Life in the cities and life in rural areas can be quite different, but the pace of living is consistently Cuban – you’re on local time now, so go with the flow. Experience Cuban culture on our 8 day Beautiful Cuba trip.

History and government

Ancient history.

Before the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, Cuba was home to Mesoamerican cultures, including the indigenous Guanajatabey and Taino people. The Guanajatabey were hunter-gatherers and fishers, and Taino communities also harvested yuca, cotton, and tobacco. Spanish colonialist Bartolome de las Casas estimated that Taino populations in Cuba had reached 350,000 by the end of the 15th century.

By then, Christopher Columbus had landed in Cuba and claimed the land for   Spain, naming it Isla Juana. In 1511, Diego Velazquez de Cuellar founded Baracoa, the first Spanish settlement in Cuba, and three years later what’s now known as Havana was built.

20th century

In 1902, after periods under Spanish, British, and United States rule and involvement in the Spanish–American war, Cuba got its independence. Despite the economy booming, leaders at this time ruled through corruption and control. This was until revolutionary Fidel Castro led a 9000-strong guerrilla army into Havana in 1959, forcing military dictator Fulgencio Batista to flee. Castro became the leader and his brother, Raul, his deputy. What followed was an attempt by the United States to overthrow Castro’s communist rule at the Bay of Pigs, and tension and trade embargoes following the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Standing alongside Castro as an equally prominent political figure, Che Guevara (although Argentinean) holds a very important place in Cuban history. A revolutionary, author, doctor, and military leader, Guevara played a pivotal role in the guerrilla campaign leading up to the Cuban Revolution and the defense of the Bay of Pigs, as well as in diplomatic relations, up until his death in 1967. It’s impossible not to notice the reverence for Guevara when visiting Cuba, with street art, statues, and museums dedicated to the man Cubans simply call ‘El Che’ found all over the country.

In April 2011 Fidel Castro was succeeded as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba by his brother Raul Castro. Cuba’s political relationship with other countries, including its close neighbors, is ever-evolving, with the US recently beginning to ease restrictions on trade, tourism, and other industries. But a snapshot of 50 years of isolation remains in the cars, architecture, and culture that is a contemporary Cuban street. Learn about Cuba's fascinating past on our 15 day Best of Cuba adventure.

Eating and drinking

Cuba may not have culinary fame compared to some of its neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be missing out on some great food during your time here. Cuba typically doesn’t have access to a wide range of ingredients, so your dining experience may not be as varied as you’d expect from some other   nearby destinations. Regardless, there are some Central American favorites that are definitely worth trying. Try out the local cuisine on our 8 day Cuba Highlights tour.

What to eat in Cuba

Pastelitos These small pastries can be either sweet or savory. Cream cheese, guava, and beef are the most popular fillings and make for a cheap, tasty meal on the run. Think empanadas, Cuban style.

Cuban sandwich Otherwise known as a mixto, this sandwich is a simple snack that has made its way north into Florida and has become one of the quintessential images of Cuban food beyond its borders. Ham, pork, cheese, mustard, and sometimes salami layered between bread and grilled – what’s not to like?

Ropa vieja Not only is this one of the national dishes of Cuba, but it’s also found all over the Caribbean, in Spain, and even the Philippines! It may literally translate to ‘old clothes’, but that’s definitely not what it tastes like – slow-cooked pulled beef with vegetables, usually served with maduros (fried plantains), black beans, and rice.

Fritura de maiz These deep-fried cheese and cornmeal fritters are popular street food snacks in Cuba. A great choice for vegetarians; throw a couple of these back and you’ll be feeling the Cuban spirit.

Moros y cristianos

Rice and beans is ot just rice and beans. Black beans and white rice are added to a base of peppers, garlic, and onion and simmered with herbs, creating a flavorful addition to any meal and served up at virtually every Cuban restaurant you'll come across.

If you're a little bit peckish and are on the go, seek out some tostones. These twice-fried plantain chips are very popular in a lot of Latin America countries and are an easy (and often cheap) snack.

Although flan is known all around Central and South America as an essential dessert, Cuban flan has a slightly different spin. It's made with evaporated and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a thicker and creamier caramel custard finish than fresh milk varities. Get ready for a seriously delicious sugar high.

Coppelia ice cream Line up with locals to savor a sweet scoop from Coppelia ice cream parlor. This Cuban institution serves tried and true flavors like chocolate and vanilla as well as exotic favorites like mango and coconut.

What to drink in Cuba

Rum The tipple of choice in Cuba is rum, obviously. Savour some Havana Club straight up, have it mixed in a minty mojito, or sip on a Cuba Libre – rum, cola, and lime.

Coffee Cuban coffee is of legendary quality, so be sure to get your caffeine hit with a small but rich cup of liquid gold. Drink it like the locals do, as a cafecito or Cafe Cubano. This type of espresso-style coffee is usually sweetened with raw cane sugar and stirred in with the first drips of espresso to get the best result.

Geography and environment

This island nation sitting in the Caribbean Sea is home to a diverse range of environments: rolling hills to tobacco plantations, beaches, and coral reefs to tropical rainforests. With more than 20% of the island covered with natural parks, there's incredible biodiversity, making it a great place for eco-adventures, hiking, snorkeling, and diving.

Large cities like Havana evoke a time gone by. Grand buildings dating back to the 1950s exude a fading beauty, which makes for great photographs but can also make daily life quite difficult. Due to a lack of building materials, new housing, and infrastructure are rare, making living conditions quite cramped for Cuban city dwellers. Rural life offers more space and a quieter pace, but reduced access to services. Regardless of where you holiday in Cuba, the people are generally kind and hospitable in both the big cities and small towns. Wander the magnificent landscapes, both natural and manmade, on our 8 day One Week in Cuba adventure.

Cuba may not be known for its shopping, but look closely and you’ll find lots of unique souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your holiday. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import some items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws. The United States also has restrictions on the amount of tobacco and alcohol that can be brought back from Cuba.

What to buy

Art Cuba has a keen appreciation of the fine arts, so it’s not hard to find unique artworks by up-and-coming local artists being sold at galleries and markets. It also makes for a meaningful memento of your time away.

Cigars The cliche is unsurprisingly true – cigars are everywhere in Cuba. Be sure to buy cigars from authorized sellers, as fakes are common. Purchasing straight from the factory is usually best.

Coffee Cuban coffee is top quality, so stock up before you leave to enjoy a taste of Cuba in the comfort of your own home. Do check, however, if your country of origin allows plant-based materials to pass through quarantine.

Music With such a rich musical heritage, Cuba is a great place to pick up a hand-crafted instrument or, if traveling light, a CD or a local artist’s info to add to your playlist.

Do some serious souvenir shopping on our 8 day Premium Cuba tour.

Festivals and events

Havana international jazz festival.

Local and international artists head to Havana every January to become a part of the happening jazz scene. From the impressive Teatro Nacional de Cuba to the city streets, the sweet sounds of jazz fill the air of Havana for the duration of the festival.

Habanos Cigar Festival

In February, cigar connoisseurs gather to celebrate their love of the best cigar in the world – the Habano. With tastings, visits to plantations and factories, master classes, and cigar-rolling contests on offer, this festival will intrigue curious travelers and delight cigar enthusiasts.

Santiago de Cuba Carnival

Watch this historic city come alive in July with street parades full of vibrant costumes, drums, and dancing. This epic public celebrations date back to at least the 17th century and are held all around the country, but Santiago de Cuba hosts the biggest, brightest, and most traditional of them all.

Similar destinations

Thinking about a trip to Cuba but still browsing other destinations? Or, maybe you've already traveled to Central America and you're looking for somewhere similar? Check out tours to neighboring locations:

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your holiday in Cuba, check out these books:

• Our Man in Havana   – Graham Greene
• Before Night Falls   – Reinaldo Arenas
• Broken Paradise   – Cecilia Samartin
• Take Me with You   – Carlos Frias
• Adios, Havana   – Andrew J Rodriguez
• Blessed by Thunder: Memoir of a Cuban Girlhood   – Flor Fernandez Barrios
• Conversations with Cuba   – C Peter Ripley
• Havana Fever   – Leonardo Padura
• The Mambo Kings Play Songs of Love   – Oscar Hijuelos

Cuba travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Cuba?

Cuba's subtropical climate is ideal for exploration, with most places catching the cool trade winds that blow in from the coast, providing pleasant year-round temperatures. June, July and August are usually the hottest months – the dry season runs from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Even in the rainy season, downpours are short and shouldn't impede travel plans. Tropical storms and hurricanes are more prevalent in September and October but rarely cause problems for travelers.

Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

Tourists of most nationalities require a 'Tourist Card' which is similar to a tourist visa. These can be obtained through travel agents in your home country, or directly from Cuban embassies and consulates. Depending on the airline you are traveling with to Cuba, you may also be able to purchase the tourist card at the airport from the airline on the day of your departure – please check with your airline for more information. 

If you are a US citizen, American permanent resident, or hold any type of American Visa and are considering traveling to Cuba, please refer to the US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website –  travel.state.gov  – for the latest advice.  

We recommend traveling to Cuba via Canada, Europe, and South or Central America. Travelers who have been to Cuba are ineligible to participate in the ESTA Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a tourist visa to enter or transit via the United States.  

Remember to check the entry requirements for any destinations you will travel or transit through both to and from Cuba. 

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 14/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Cuba?

As most Cubans live modest lifestyles, leaving a tip for good service is a great idea and welcomed.

There is almost always free entertainment in bars and restaurants; the musicians and singers are usually not paid by the venue, so we encourage you to tip when you have enjoyed the performance. Tour leaders, restaurant workers, hotel porters, cleaning staff and taxi drivers will appreciate a small sum – but be sure to tip in Cuban pesos as foreign currency isn’t easily exchanged in Cuba.

It’s important to carry around small denominations of currency to leave tips during your holiday, so you can tip an amount you feel comfortable with.

What is the internet access like in Cuba?

Internet access isn't widespread throughout Cuba, but availability is improving. The internet can sometimes be accessed from government departments and larger hotels, and main squares in many cities now have wi-fi accessibility. You will need to purchase an internet card from certain hotels and outlets to gain access in any location, including in public areas.

Please note that although connectivity is improving, the connection may still be slow, some websites may be censored, and the cost is typically quite high.

Can I use my cell phone while in Cuba?

Your cell phone may or may not work while in Cuba, depending on what type of phone you have. Before leaving your home country, ensure roaming is activated with your provider, but be aware that your phone may not get reception due to Cuba having the lowest cell phone network penetration in Latin America.

If you intend to activate global roaming while in Cuba, be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur when using this option, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Cuba?

Public toilets are rare in Cuba, but western-style flushable toilets are available in hotels, bars, and restaurants. Bringing your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer is recommended as often these are not provided. Due to import restrictions, toilet seats can be considered a luxury and may be missing from some facilities.

Can I drink the water in Cuba?

It's not advisable to drink water from the tap in Cuba. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water if you can – your group leader will provide larger and less disposable water containers for refills on private transport days when they have the resources available. It's also best to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Cuba?

Some credit cards are accepted in Cuba (Visa and Mastercard are usually more widely accepted), although some cards linked to US banking institutions won't be accepted. Debit cards (even Visa debit) generally have problems working. We recommend you bring multiple cards from different banks to be sure you have access to funds. Ensure you also have enough cash and other forms of payment, as credit card facilities may not always be available.

What is ATM access like in Cuba?

ATMs are accessible in large cities like Havana and Santiago de Cuba but are rare and almost non-existent in other parts of Cuba. Ensure you have other payment options available in case you cannot access an ATM while traveling.

What is the weather like in Cuba?

Cuba enjoys Caribbean vibes all year round, and sits below the Tropic of Cancer, so you’ll enjoy a tropical climate with north-easterly trade winds that blow year-round.

May to October is usually considered the wet season, with higher maximum temperatures each day (around 90°F) and more sunlight each day, averaging 10 hours. September and October is hurricane season in the region, and this time of year is usually hot and overcast, with a higher chance of rainfall.

November to April is usually the drier season in Cuba, with maximum temperatures sitting around 79°F and an average of 8 hours of sunlight each day. The winter months are clearer, slightly more humid, and more comfortable than summer.

What public holidays are celebrated in Cuba ?

• 1 Jan:   Liberation Day
• 2 Jan:   Victory of the Armed Forces
• 1 May:   Labour Day (International Workers' Day/May Day)
• 25–27 Jul:   National Revolutionary Festival
• 10 Oct:   Independence Day
• 25 Dec:   Christmas Day
• 31 Dec:   Year End Celebration

Other dates to look out for:

• 28 Jan:   Anniversary of Jose Marti’s birth
• 19 Apr:   Bay of Pigs Victory
• 8 Oct: Anniversary of Che Guevara’s death
• 28 Oct:   Anniversary of Camila Cienfuegos’s death
• 7 Dec:   Anniversary of Antonio Maceo’s death

Please note,   Cuba public holidays may vary.

Is Cuba safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Cuba has made some significant steps in recent years to ensure LGBTQIA+ rights in the country. Homosexuality is legal and accepted in Cuba, and there are some anti-discrimination laws in place for employment, service provisions, and gender identity. However, same-sex marriage recognition is still pending, and stigma still remains in some parts of society, especially in rural areas.

The Cuban National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX) works to support the LGBTQIA+ community in Cuba and hosts rallies to educate and advocate.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Last edited: 14/11/2023

Is Cuba accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

As Cuba has not had the same infrastructure development as other countries, you may find some mobility challenges when traveling. Havana’s streets are often crowded, and sidewalks can at times be rugged or even nonexistent. This is the same with other cities and towns around the country. Also, a lot of public transportation isn’t geared toward travelers who use a wheelchair, so private travel may be the only option to get around.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

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We've got you covered, marazul has led the industry in pursuit of the freedom of americans to travel & the right of cuban-americans to reconnect with their families. as the leading cuba travel provider, we have provided excellent service for clients & groups for almost 40 years. travel to cuba remains legal, and it has always been one of the safest destinations for us travelers in the world., join our theme specific programs and take an in-depth look at cuba; learn about its unique educational system, world leading healthcare, renowned disaster relief efforts, african roots, unique cuisine and its famous music and dance. explore its magical beaches and cayos, or take a trip to the mountains to enjoy enchanting waterfalls, cocoa farms, tobacco farms, and more want to visit colonial cities and unesco world heritage sites it’s never been a better time to travel to cuba–we’ve got you covered, hotels deals.

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Weekend In Havana Tour Overview

Daily Experiences

Arrival at  Jos é  Mart í  International Airport, Havana

Check-in 3:00PM

Tour Start Time: 6:00PM

Meals: Dinner

Welcome dinner at a local paladar (privately-owned restaurant)

PRIVATELY GUIDED-WALKING TOUR OF OLD HAVANA

Explore the oldest parts of Havana, as we walk back in time more than 500 years to the city’s founding.

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RUM & CIGAR PAIRING

Learn the secrets and steps behind the perfect pairing of Cuba’s signature products – cigars and rum.

CRUISING IN PRE-1959 CLASSIC AMERICAN CAR

Hop inside one of Cuba’s iconic vintage cars from 1950s America and cruise along the Malecón in style.

MEET THE MECHANICS THAT RESTORE CUBA’S CLASSIC CARS

It takes an army of mechanics to keep Cuba’s classic cars running. Join us for a meeting with these scrappy auto experts.

BEHIND THE SCENES - CIGAR HUMIDORS

Cuban Cigar boxes can be as masterful as the cigar itself. We’ll meet a group of renowned artists dedicated to handmade humidors. 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

FARMERS MARKET VISIT

Visit a local farmer’s market, where we’ll get a first-hand look at Cuba’s agricultural revolution.

RIERA STUDIO

Observe artists in action at this independent workshop for Cubans with mental health disorders.

D’BRUJAS PROJECT 

Meet a private business owner who’s gained attention locally and in the US for natural, handmade soaps.

SALSA LESSONS

Meet some of Cuba’s energetic salsa dancers, then learn the finer steps for yourself.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner

Flight Departure from   Jos é  Mart í  International Airport, Havana

Tour ends at 9:00AM (at airport)

Meals: Breakfast 

Each departure is custom-curated to provide the best experiences possible and from time-to-time specific experiences, and/or restaurants may not be available and will be replaced by an item of equal or greater value. A final list of daily experiences and dining options is provided roughly two weeks prior to departure. Each tour provides a full-time schedule of Support for the Cuban People activities and is fully compliant with U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control regulations regarding travel to Cuba. 

What's Included

Small group size, no more than 12 guests

3 nights at the  Hostal Buen Viaje

Expert Cuban  guide and private driver

Transportation and airport transfers

Exclusive-guided visits and experiences

Three breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners

Cuban visa Please note: each package includes one visa per person. Replacement visas are $75.

Certification of travel to Cuba under the U.S. Department of the Treasury general license

24 hour on-tour customer service

ALSO AVAILABLE:

• Travel Protection  by Travelex
• Room & suite upgrades

NOT INCLUDED:

Health insurance in Cuba, included in the cost of your airfare 

Customary gratuities are left to the guest’s discretion and should be based on your satisfaction with the level of service received. With your travel documents, which you will receive at approximately 21 days prior to departure, we will include a list of expected gratuities and suggestions of amounts to pay.

For full terms and conditions, click here .

Accommodations

Hostal Buen Viaje

Hostal Buen Viaje is nestled in heart of Old Havana, a few blocks away from the city center and architectural gems: Capitolio, Central Park and Gran Teatro of Havana Alicia Alonso. The central location is a perfect starting point to uncover the splendor of Old Havana, enjoy the finest restaurants, experience the lively bars or just stroll down Calle Obispo, the heart and soul of Old Havana.

Dates & Prices

NO MORE THAN 12 GUESTS ON ANY DEPARTURE

Want to experience this tour privately? Have specific travel dates in mind? We’ve got you covered! Call a travel specialist at 800-450-2822 to learn more!

See all dates & prices

Flights to Cuba

This tour does not include flights, but our flight specialists are happy to help arrange them! When you book, tell us which city you're coming from, and we'll get back to you with a quote and a proposed flight schedule within 5 business days. If you accept our quote, we'll add the price to your balance due including a $35 per person ticketing fee. Should you decide to book your own flights, please send us your flight details no later than 45 days prior to departure so that we can arrange your transfers accordingly.

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* Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon options you select during the booking process. Prices and availability subject to change.

† The Carefree Booking policy is not travel insurance. With our Carefree Booking policy, if you book one of our scheduled departures and decide later not to travel for any reason, you can transfer all payments you've made excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets, towards another available departure date or package, with no change fees or penalties. Alternately, you can choose to receive a future travel credit for all payments made, excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets; or you can choose to receive a refund for that same amount, minus the deposit, per person future travel credit. You may use these credits anytime, however they must be used or transferred within 5 years of your bookings, and some restrictions apply. Travel protection premiums may be credited to your new tour provided: no claim is filed; (no vendor penalties such as Air, sea or rail etc have been incurred); and your new trip departs within 1 year of the cancellation of your original tour. Valid for bookings made on or after August 2, 2022. Changes or cancellations requested after final payment due date are subject to our regular change and cancellation fees & policies. For more information and some additional restrictions, see our terms & conditions .

†† $199 deposit available on select packages. Valid for new bookings only. Changes to your package, departure date, or flights may require an increased deposit. See additional terms & conditions .

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Authentic Havana

Take in the heart & soul of this colorful & cultural island: havana, cojimar, guanabacoa & lawton, check prices & book now, get updates about this package.

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Our Authentic Havana tour brings you into the heart of a typical Cuban neighborhood with a four-night stay at a privately owned, colonial-style Cuban bed and breakfast. This lovingly restored and furnished B&B is managed by a small team of dedicated men and women who will be like a family away from home. Our centrally located bed and breakfast, just a ten-minute walk to Old Havana and even closer to shops, restaurants, and nightlife, offers a more authentic and intimate experience yet provides all the amenities and comforts you want and deserve. 

Thanks to reduced flights via more convenient scheduled air and great pricing at our "casa," we've managed to lower prices while maintaining our high standard of creative, culturally-focused itineraries. On Authentic Havana, you'll dive deep into the daily life of everyday Cubans, including a visit to a private studio of one of Cuba's budding artists.

Package includes

• Non-stop round-trip flights from Miami to Havana, including taxes & fees
• Health insurance in Cuba, included in the cost of your airfare
• U.S. Treasury Department, OFAC License Certification
• Cuban Tourist Visa
• All land transportation & transfers in Cuba
• 4 nights accommodations in Cuba at a well-located & completely renovated 'casa particular' (Cuban bed and breakfast)
• 9 meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners
• Comprehensive support for the Cuban people program, including entrance fees
• Professional, English-speaking guide

Optional add-ons

• Pre-Night or Post-Night stay in Miami is available on request. Call us for availability.
• Casa Suite Upgrade in Havana (Very Limited: Call us for availability)

Why you'll love it

• Enjoy 4 comfortable nights at a casa particular located in a typical Cuban neighborhood.
• Feel the history of Cuba come to life as an expert guide introduces you to the vibrant streets of Old Havana.
• Learn about different art forms from innovative Cuban artists in their private studios.
• Participate in a traditional Cuban cooking class experience.
• Interact with locals at the used booksellers market.
• Visit Muraleando, a community project dedicated to uplifting young people through art and music.
• Learn about Afro-Cuban culture with private enterprise Beyond Roots in Guanabacoa.

Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Miami/Havana
• 2 Old Havana
• 3 Havana & Cojimar
• 5 Havana/Miami

Dates & Prices

Unfortunately, we don't offer late returns on this package. However, if you select the Land Only option, you're welcome to make your own arrangements to arrive early or stay later. Want to extend your trip?

Options & Fees

1. There is limited inventory of more spacious rooms at our casa in Havana for an additional $95 per person, double occupancy. Please call us to request.

1. Baggage fees must be paid at airport for each flight. In Cuba, this must be paid in cash. Price is subject to the airline and can change at any time.

So that we can offer you the best deals, our packages are, like most hotels and cruises, priced based on double occupancy rooms or cabins. We charge solo travelers an extra fee to cover the extra costs of single occupancy rooms or cabins. (Consider: if you booked a $200/night hotel room solo, you would pay the $200 yourself; but if a couple booked the same room, each one would pay only $100.) But you only pay extra for the rooms or cabins, nothing else, including meals, sightseeing, tips, etc. Why are single rooms more?

Flights & Departure Cities

This package includes round-trip flights from the city listed above. Please review the flight schedule , especially if you're booking connecting flights.

Want to fly from another city? We can arrange flights from most major cities. Ask us for a quote for flights from your preferred city when (or after) you book, and we'll get back to you with the price and availability within 3 business days. Of course, you can also book your own flights. More information

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Miami/Havana Depart the USA on your flight for Havana, Cuba Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local paladar El Encanto de Perseverancia or similar Dinner Full Day Itinerary ¡Bienvenidos a La Habana! Upon arrival to Cuba's capital city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, our representative welcomes you with a Friendly Planet sign outside the arrivals terminal at the Havana Airport. Board your air-conditioned vehicle and transfer to the casa. Check into the casa and enjoy a welcome drink. You'll meet your tour manager and have some time to rest a little or take a stroll to the nearby Malecon before dinner. This evening, enjoy your welcome dinner at a local paladar (privately-owned restaurant). Day 2 Old Havana Walk through Old Havana and engage with and support Cuba's growing private business sector Meet with staff at Clandestina, Cuba’s first online clothing retailer and renowned design shop Enjoy lunch at a local paladar Visit an artist’s private studio Step into Cuba’s world of dance with a private demonstration and lesson El Encanto de Perseverancia or similar Breakfast & lunch Full Day Itinerary After breakfast, your expert guide will lead you on a leisurely walk through the labyrinthian streets of Old Havana. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of Cuba while walking along the cobblestone streets and explore the four beautiful plazas of the Old City – Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Francisco, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de la Catedral - each a historic and architectural gem. Among the private businesses you'll discover during your walk, Clandestina is one shop that is making plenty of waves both in Cuba and abroad. This shop was founded by Idania del Río and Leire Fernández, two creative, entrepreneurial women who believe in a sustainable, fair, and ethical fashion industry. Clandestina is the country's first online clothing retailer and has even appeared as a pop-up store in New York. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local paladar or private restaurant.   Then, visit the private studio of one of Cuba's talented independent artists. Step into Cuba's world of music and dance with a private dance class. First, experience Cuba's most traditional dances through a demonstration by your talented and personable teachers. Learn how important music and dancing are to life in Cuba. Then, learn the basic steps and try Cuban dancing for yourself. Return to the casa and enjoy dinner on your own. We recommend dining at a paladar for a delicious Cuban dinner. Please choose one from the list we provide or ask your guide for any additional recommendations.  Day 3 Havana & Cojimar Travel to Cojimar, the local fishing village that was the setting for Hemingway’s "The Old Man and the Sea" Participate in a traditional Cuban cooking experience, from gathering ingredients to putting them to use in the kitchen Visit an inspiring community project Stop at the independent Artisan’s Market Learn about Cuban cigars through a rolling demonstration El Encanto de Perseverancia or similar Breakfast & lunch Full Day Itinerary This morning, drive to the quaint fishing village of Cojimar, which served as the setting for Ernest Hemingway's masterpiece The Old Man and the Sea. Then, learn the secrets of the Cuban kitchen and participate in a traditional Cuban cooking class. Begin your experience by meeting the staff of the paladar, Café Ajiaco, who will guide you on your culinary journey. First, stop at the paladar’s “organopónico” (organic garden) to see where their products and ingredients grow. Pick some for yourself and bring them back to the restaurant to create your dishes. Then, the experienced chefs of Café Ajiaco will teach you the process of making some of Cuba’s most delicious traditional food and an authentic Cuban mojito, and how to pair rum with cigars. Enjoy lunch courtesy of your morning cooking activity. This afternoon visit Muraleando, where art, music, and community spirit have transformed a once-drab neighborhood into one of beauty and color. See garden sculptures, paintings, mosaics, and recycled materials transformed into stunning and colorful artwork. It is remarkable how the project's beautiful murals have resurrected the neighborhood's appearance and pride. The center also provides free workshops for the community, including voice lessons, drumming, dance classes, ceramic art, painting, cinematography, and much more. In addition, Muraleando helps to inspire and cultivate artistic skills in children from the entire neighborhood and has won awards in Cuba for being the most effective community project in the country. Stop at Havana's independent Artisans Market, where you will be able to engage with local private artisan stands and find plenty of souvenirs, including handicrafts, posters, and other collectibles. Afterward, learn about the history of Cuban cigars as you witness a cigar-rolling demonstration.  Day 4 Havana Explore Callejon de Hamel Walk Havana’s grand San Rafael Boulevard and visit with private business owners Stop by a local farmer’s market Have lunch at a local paladar Visit the famous community mosaic project known as “Fusterlandia” Visit a children's community project in Havana Take a ride in a classic American convertible to tour picturesque Havana in style Enjoy your farewell dinner at a local paladar El Encanto de Perseverancia or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner Full Day Itinerary After breakfast, visit Callejon de Hamel, the shortest street in Havana, decorated with fanciful objects referencing Santería, an Afro-Cuban religion fusing African beliefs and Christianity. Marvel at the murals by one of Cuba’s most famous artists, the late Salvador Gonzáles Escalona. A local guide will help you explore the area, introduce you to some of the artwork on display and explain Santería's beliefs, customs, and how it is part of Cuban culture. Later, walk along Havana's renovated San Rafael Boulevard, visiting with multiple private entrepreneurs along the way. The boulevard hosts some of Havana's most innovative projects and one-of-a-kind shops. Behind every private business is a progressive individual or co-op excited to share a bit about their journey in the Cuban private sector and their passion and enthusiasm for what they do. After, experience one of Cuba's typical farmer's markets ("agromercados"). Glimpse into the daily life of Cuban people shopping for fruits, vegetables, beans, and spices based on what is available to them that particular day. After lunch at a local paladar, take a walk in Jaimanitas, a neighborhood unlike any you have ever seen, where you'll discover a wonderland of mosaic art created by independent artist Jose Fuster. Known worldwide for his intricate works made of colorful tiles, Fuster has covered his house and an entire neighborhood in mosaic murals of cultural, historical, and whimsical designs. With a bit of luck, you might even encounter the often-barefoot artist on his house's glistening, multicolored patio, hard at work on his latest project. Visit a children's community project in Havana before returning to your casa to rest before dinner. Then, travel back in time by taking a tour in one of Havana’s classic American cars. You will get some picturesque views of Havana from your incredibly maintained automobile and arrive at dinner in style. Tonight, join your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner at one of our favorite paladars.  Day 5 Havana/Miami Transfer to the airport and board your flight back to Miami Breakfast

El Encanto de Perseverancia is ideally located in the Centro Havana neighborhood adjacent to Old Havana and just north of Chinatown. This non-touristy neighborhood delivers an authentic, friendly Cuban experience. The casa is located next to a primary school, and close to some of Havana’s best paladars, and only a short drive away from Havana's main attractions, including the Capitol Building, Cathedral Square, Gran Theater of Havana, Malecon, Central Park and museums.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

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Trip Details

More Common Questions

Other Packages

4 or 5 Day Cuba Tour - Havana Weekend

Itinerary Summary

Arrival day.

• This tour begins at 9.30am on Day 1, so we encourage you to arrive the night before the tour.
• We are happy to book pre-tour accommodations for you, or you may reserve them on your own.
• If you can’t arrive by 9.30am on Day 1, aim to arrive in time for the group dinner around 7pm.

Viñales Extension $205 / person

If you have time we recommend extending your trip from 4 days / 3 nights, to a 5 day / 4 night program to include a full-day trip to see the breathtaking vistas and organic farms of Viñales

Tour Description

If you only have a few days in Cuba but want to go beyond the usual tourist experience, this is the tour for you! It encompasses a little bit of all that makes Havana one of the most unique cosmopolitan cities in the world. In a short time, we cover several aspects of the culture and history of Cuba, from its mafia past, to its present blossoming private sector. You’ll learn about the societal impact of the revolution and the social challenges that Cuba currently faces. On this tour you won’t find museum visits, we want you to immerse yourself in Havana with discussion, exchange, and hands-on experiences sure to create lasting memories.

This tour encompasses three action packed days in Havana , and an optional one-day extension to include a visit to the rural village of Viñales . Each day is a full schedule of interactions with private business owners, community leaders, and artists and is designed to comply with US legal travel regulations. For that reason, you won’t see chill beach time instead you’ll find a fun and diverse selection of activities that we have cultivated to give you the most multidimensional understanding of Havana within a short time.

Feel free to stay as long as you want, there is so much more to do in Havana! Add on some extra days for museum visits, day tours , visit the beautiful beaches of Eastern Havana, or take classes in Spanish, Dance or Percussion.

Tour Summary

Day 1 - Havana: Start time 9.30am

We start our group tour in Havana at 9:30 am today with a friendly welcome meeting where you will meet your tour leader and fellow group participants. The morning activity is a classic but essential historic tour of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 2-hour walking tour encompasses the four principal plazas of Old Havana. Following the tour, we have lunch at our first paladar (a privately owned restaurant). Once fed and watered, we will have a walking tour of the less visited streets of Old Havana on the Off Beat Havana Tour . Here we encounter the residential community of Old Havana,  you will see the contrast between this area just around the corner from the touristic destination of the historical old centre, and meet the locals who live here. You’ll also learn about the ration system with a visit to a local bodega. Tonight we will start with a cocktail lesson where you will learn to prepare your own rum based drink to enjoy before our dinner at one of Havana's classic paladars.

• Included Activities: Historic tour of Old Havana, Offbeat Old Havana tour walk, Cocktail lesson, Meeting and discussion with local community members
• Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 - Havana

Today we will start our day with a visit to a local community project where they tackle issues on gender and race in Cuba and promote wellness, self-esteem and empowerment in the Afro-Cuban community. Later we board classic convertible cars for a panoramic tour of the less touristic neighborhoods of Havana. Following this we partake in a traditional Afro-Cuban meal for lunch After lunch we drive around Havana in classic cars on a special Mafia Tour - Learn about the fascinating history of the American Mafia and the role it played in pre-revolutionary Cuba. The tour ends at the place previously known as the notorious Mafia headquarters and the lodging of choice for ‘America’s royalty’. Tonight’s dinner is at a river-view restaurant, founded by an internationally recognised passionate local sailing enthusiast. The atmosphere is extremely unique and the fresh seafood is straight off the boat! A post dinner visit to the famous Fabrica de Arte Cubano ends our day. Named one of Time Magazine’s World’s 100 Greatest Places, you’ll see why as we tour the oil factory turned arts complex. Featuring five salons showcasing various types of art, from textiles, to architecture, music, dance, and eye-catching installations, plus bars and pop-up shops, you’ll marvel at the innovation and talent of ‘New Cuba’.

• Included Activities: Meeting and discussion with local community members, Afro-Cuban show, Panoramic city tour in Classic Car, Mafia History tour and Fabrica de Arte.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Havana

Today we visit a neighborhood that previously would not have stood out from any other suburb. One man’s dream and enthusiasm turned this suburb of Havana into a successful project involving the entire community and has even caught the notice of President Obama!  Today we’ll learn about how individuals used their talents to fuel positive change in their neighborhoods on this special tour - Don’t forget your camera, you’ll visit two of the most artistically remarkable neighborhoods in Havana. After lunch we cover the topic of ‘cuentapropistas’ entrepreneurship in Cuba. Beginning in 2011 the Cuban Government began opening the private sector and legalising private businesses not seen since the 1959 Revolution. We will illustrate this topic with a visit to two of Havana’s successful new businesses to hear their stories. We will have a special demonstration of local manufacturing processes and even partake in some delicious product samples. In the evening we will have our group dinner in one of Havana's private restaurants.

• Included Activities: ‘Murals and Mosaics’ local art communities tour with lunch, meet & greet at two local businesses.

Day 4 - Full day in Viñales (*5 day option) or Depart Havana

If this is the end of your 4 day tour   you can depart at any time today. There are no included activities. An airport departure transfer is not included in the tour package. You can hire your own taxi, otherwise please advise your tour leader in advance if you require assistance arranging this service. For the 5 day option we depart by 8am in the morning to head off towards the mountains and the province of Pinar del Rio. On our way into the town of Vinales we will stop at the Cuevas del Indio (Indian Caves) for a boat ride. You will also see the controversial Prehistoric Mural (Some say it is art, some say it is not!). Arriving in the town of Viñales we will meet with a specialist local guide who will take us through the tobacco fields to meet local farmers & visit a farm, learn about growing tobacco, how to roll cigars, taste some local coffee and experience real life in the small country town, After our light trek through the Viñales valley we visit an organic farm for a fantastic farm-to-fork lunch. We will have a light orientation tour around this small town and time permitting, maybe even end our day with a cocktail in a small local bar (perhaps with some local musicians) before heading back towards Havana for our final night and farewell meal.

• Included Activities: Day trip to Viñales - visit to tobacco farm, organic farm, Indian caves and Prehistoric Mural.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 5 - Departure Day

If you are on the 5 day tour you can depart at any time today. There are no included activities, however, your tour leader will be around at least until midday in case you have a few extra days planned in Havana and need some pointers or recommendations. An airport departure transfer is not included in the tour package. You can hire your own taxi, otherwise please advise your tour leader in advance if you require assistance arranging this service.

•   Included Meals: Breakfast

Budget for Additional Costs

• Spending money for meals, souvenirs, additional gratuities:  US$200-300
• Medical Insurance (Required by Cuban Government):  US$36 Note: Insurance is included in airfare for direct flights to Cuba from the U.S. 
• Round trip flights , eg from Miami to Havana (including medical insurance): US$300-450
• Cuban Tourist Visa (Tourist Card): US$50 - 100
• Travel insurance: Price Varies.  We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance in case of unforeseen circumstances that cause you to cancel or delay your trip.  We do not sell travel insurance but you can shop for insurance policies online at www.insuremytrip.com 

Not included in the Tour

• International airfare (Tour starts and ends in Havana)
• Cuban Tourist Visa
• Mandatory medical insurance (included in flights from USA)
• Gratuities for guide and optional activities
• Airport departure transfer (approx 25EUR in taxi)

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WELCOME TO MARAZUL TOURS

Cuba since 1979, celebrates 40 years in, cuba travel,  create your own program or, join an existing program to cuba, need visa or passport, we offer consular services processed directly with the cuban embassy located in washington d.c, book your flight to cuba from anywhere in the us, with marazul tours, happy 500th anniversary havana .

Marazul, as the oldest and largest continuously operating travel agency to Cuba, has been committed since 1979 to providing a bridge of understanding between the people of both countries by offering the entire range of travel services including air and visa arrangements, family reunification assistance, and the most specialized group programs in all areas of interest. Through our deep ties with our Cuban partners, educational institutions, ministries, mass organizations, and cultural and religious centers, we encourage and guarantee the highest levels of exchange between our two peoples. Marazul practices and promotes ethically and socially responsible travel to Cuba.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

Marazul has led the industry in pursuit of the freedom of Americans to travel & the right of Cuban-Americans to reconnect with their families. As the leading Cuba travel provider, we have provided excellent service for clients & groups for almost 40 years. Travel to Cuba remains legal, and it has always been one of the safest destinations for US travelers in the world.

Join our theme specific programs and take an in-depth look at Cuba; learn about its unique educational system, world leading healthcare, renowned disaster relief efforts, African roots, unique cuisine and its famous music and dance. Explore its magical beaches and cayos, or take a trip to the mountains to enjoy enchanting waterfalls, cocoa farms, tobacco farms, and more! Want to visit colonial cities and UNESCO world heritage sites? It’s never been a better time to travel to Cuba–We’ve got you covered!

Cuban Ambassador reacts to Trump’s embargo threat

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Travel to cuba with us, click here to see our trustpilot reviews, a taste of cuba culinary tour, custom tours of cuba, sicily, mexico & ireland, cuban music & art tour, city and countryside-havana & the famed cuban tobacco fields, blue note tour: cuba with award winning pianist jorge luis pacheco, international havana jazz festival tour, havana weekend, jet set havana getaway, havana marathon, ireland: discover the emerald isle with ebony, discover mexico city & san miguel de allende, magical mexico city & puebla tour, the white lotus sicily locations tour, taste of sicily-culinary tour.

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I want to thank you so much for making one of our dreams came true. Traveling with you to Cuba wasn’t just amazing it was a life changing experience. Your expertise and the way you mesh like a real local made our trip so meaningful. We are already looking forward to our next adventure with Cultural Island Travel and even making excuses up so we can go back to Cuba soon.We highly recommend you as a tour guide/director. Rest assured that all of our friends will know about your company. So get ready for some more clients! Gracias!

I have always consciously avoided any kind of organized tour — but Cultural Island Travel literally handed me the country of Cuba. Our guide, Patricia, designed an intimate week just for us that absolutely dazzled my family. I have been gushing about Cultural Island Travel’s tour of Havana since we returned two months ago. They showed me the Cuba I had only dreamt existed.

Kristen, I am still mentally not home yet. Very difficult to come right back to work after a 24 year old dream is realized. I have been to 15 countries for pleasure, business and cultural exploration, but Cuba has far surpassed them all. Our guide(s) were excellent. Our drivers were excellent. I have new friends and brothers for life. Every turn of the corner is rich with history and it would be so foolish to walk those streets without guidance. Cuba’s history is a story truly told through its artists. I felt like I was experiencing every decade. Your service is flawless!

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The Best Cruises from Miami to Cuba

Cuba sits a mere 90 miles from the coast of Florida, but for the past 50 years it may as well have been on the other side of the world, due to regulations that made it a forbidden land for American citizens to visit.

But in the last two years, the U.S. government lifted that ban, making it much easier for tour operators to bring Americans to this fascinating Caribbean island awash with sugar-white beaches, striking Spanish-colonial architecture, 1950s-era cars, pulsating salsa and cabaret clubs, and mouth-watering cuisine. Below we’ve picked out three of the best cruises to Cuba from Miami.

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When services begin, Cuba Ferries will provide the widest selection of ferry routes to Cuba, giving you flexibility and choice as well as access to the best ferry deals around.

When you travel by ferry you avoid the hassle of airports, baggage weight limits and the high costs of charter flights. You’ll be able to compare all suitable ferry crossings in a quick and easy search to find the lowest ferry fares at the time you want to sail!

With more and more ferry operators lining up, awaiting the imminent bilateral approval for the resumption of ferry services between the USA and Cuba, our provisional operator network would aim to service all major South Florida port sailings to Cuba.

Cuba Ferry News

Business Projects Continue to Sprout in Mariel Port

Date: 20 March 2017

Florida Business with Cuba Exceeded $65m in 2016

Date: 20 February 2017

Ferries Lie Waiting in the Wings, as Cruise Travel to Cuba Increases

Date: 09 February 2017

Cuba’s Most Momentous Year Since 1962

Date: 02 January 2017

When will ferries to Cuba start?

As of now, the bilateral agreement between both sides that would allow ferry sailings between the USA and Cuba has yet to be 100% agreed. Thus, unfortunately there are not any ferries sailing at the moment. However, political and Business analysts have forecasted that by summer 2017, ferry travel will be up and running between Florida and Cuba.

How long will it take to get to Cuba by ferry?

The inaugural sailings will be from Miami to Havana and/or Port Everglades to Havana. Departing around 8:00-9:00pm arriving at around 6:00-7:00Am. The 250 nautical mile journey will take the fast ferry about 10 hours to complete. From Key West, the sailing distance to Cuba is around 90 nautical miles, a mere 4 hours away.

Where will the Cuba ferries depart from?

The ferries initially will depart from a few key ports stateside: Miami, Port-Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), with Key West and Tampa as prospective additional ports to be added at a later date depending on the success of the initial ports.

Where will the ferries sail to?

The ferries initially will arrive solely at either the Port of Mariel about 40miles southwest of Havana, or the Port of Havana. Other possible arrival ports may be considered for renovation in the future, making them available to receive ferries.

Which ferry lines will sail to Cuba?

As of late 2016 there are numerous companies that have received the US Department of Treasury and Commerce’s approval to sail to Cuba. American Cruise Ferries, Baja Ferries, Baleària, CubaKat, Havana Express, FRS, Attica Group & United Caribbean Lines.

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Things to do in little havana: your guide for cuban miami.

By Jodi Mailander Farrell

Miami  neighborhoods are as different as the multicultural people who live in this subtropical metropolis, where waves of immigration and history leave their watermark street to street.

From South Beach, Wynwood and Coconut Grove to Little Haiti, Overtown and the Design District, Miami is an ethnic archipelago, with each island-like neighborhood possessing its own personality and pleasures.

But if you want to experience the Magic City’s syncopated heart then follow the aroma of fresh-brewed  café Cubano  and the rhythms of  pachanga  to  Little Havana .

“If you want to know the real Miami, you must go to Little Havana,” says Julio Cabrera, the classically-trained  cantinero , or bartender, who co-founded Café La Trova, a retro Cuban hot spot in the heart of Little Havana.

“When you come to Miami, if don’t have a guava  pastelito , a cigar and a mojito in Little Havana then you haven’t visited Miami.”

Long recognized as Miami’s welcome mat for immigrants, starting with Cuban exiles in the 1960s and ’70s, Little Havana is a storied working-class neighborhood just west of downtown Miami. Its low-rise homes and apartments, coffee windows, music clubs and open-air fruit markets stretch 27 blocks long and 24 blocks wide, with Southwest 8 th  Street – better known as Calle Ocho – as its hustling artery.

In recent decades, newcomers from Central and South America have settled in Little Havana, most notably Nicaraguans, who have established  fritangas  (cafeteria-style restaurants), and even named a street after Nicaraguan poet Ruben Dario. But the Cuban imprint remains strong – here and  throughout Miami-Dade County , where a quarter of the 2.7 million residents was born in Cuba and another 500,000 are of Cuban descent.

In the cigar-making, domino-playing, salsa-dancing hub of Little Havana, Spanish is the language of choice, roosters are pets, and the local McDonald’s serves  croquetas  and McCafecito. Declared a “national treasure” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Little Havana is known for its historical, political, culinary and artistic contributions, as well as its architecturally valuable collection of early 20th century homes and commercial buildings.

Want to explore Miami Cuban-ity? Incorporate at least a few of these experiences into a visit to Little Havana…

Drink a  Cafecito

Thimble-sized cups of Cuban coffee, sweet and strong, fuel Miami. Stop by one of Little Havana’s many walk-up windows, or  ventanitas,  to sip one from a small plastic cup or down it like a shot. Add a little milk by ordering a  colada  or go big with hot steamed milk in a  café con leche,  the Latin version of a  latte . Counter the caffeine buzz with warm  croquetas , Cuban bread or a classic guava-and-cheese  pastelito . The neighborhood’s most iconic coffee counter is at  Versailles Restaurant , a Cuban exile gathering spot since 1971. Exuberant crowds gathered outside here to bang pots and pans after Fidel Castro died in 2016. Other popular coffee stops include  Los Pinareños Fruteria , a family-run fruit market;  El Pub , where the statue of a six-foot rooster guards the entrance; and  La Carreta , a beloved local Cuban chain restaurant.

In Maximo Gomez Park, better known as Domino Park, watch older locals gather at tables to slap down dominoes all day.

- Patrick Farrell

Stroll Calle Ocho

Little Havana’s main drag is walkable. Start at the Little Havana Visitor Center, 1600 SW 8 th  St., where there are maps, a new self-guided tour and news about upcoming events. Look down between 12 th  and 17 th  avenues to see the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame, where more than 20 pink marble sidewalk stars recognize famous Latin figures with ties to South Florida, including Celia Cruz, Gloria Estefan, Thalia, Pablo Raúl Alarcón and Willy Chirino.  Cuban Memorial Plaza , at Southwest 13th Avenue, is home to a half-dozen monuments and an eternal flame for those who fought for Cuban independence. In Maximo Gomez Park, better known as  Domino Park , watch older locals gather at tables to slap down dominoes all day. Hire a local expert for insights via a Little Havana  cultural walking and food tour  or a HistoryMiami  Little Havana History & Culture Walk . Make sure you snag a selfie with one of the neighborhood’s fiberglass rooster statues, which started popping up in 2002 to celebrate Little Havana’s culture. Favorites include the one dressed as a bullfighter next to a hen in front of  Casa Juancho  restaurant, 2436 SW 8 th  St., and the one sporting a Cuban flag in front of  La Carreta , 3632 SW 8 th  St.

Calle Ocho is home to an array of family-owned cigar shops specializing in small batch, hand-rolled cigars, including El Titan de Bronze, Cuban Crafters, Cuba Tobacco Cigar Company and Little Havana Cigar Company.

Watch a cigar roller

Calle Ocho is home to an array of family-owned cigar shops specializing in small batch, hand-rolled cigars, including  El Titan de Bronze ,  Cuban Crafters ,  Cuba Tobacco Cigar Company  and  Little Havana Cigar Company . With the ongoing trade embargo with Cuba, the tobacco typically comes from Central America or elsewhere in the Caribbean, but the skilled, Cuban-trained rollers who sit and roll up to 125 cigars daily on site are the real deal. Cigar Aficionado magazine says every self-respecting cigar fan needs to make a pilgrimage to  El Credito Cigar Factory , where the non-Cuban La Gloria Cubana cigar was born. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Sr. first rolled it here in 1968, and since 1980 the brand has been shepherded by his son, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Jr. Most of the cigars are now made in the Dominican Republic, but La Gloria still has its original galleria here, where a dozen cigar-makers work in the main room, open to the public. Next to the rolling area is a posh cigar shop with a few chairs.

Slurp down a Cuban smoothie

Long before smoothie shops were the rage, Cubans and other islanders were turning mango, mamey, papaya and other tropical fruit into juices and shakes, or  batidos .  El Palacio de los Jugos , with 10 locations in Miami – including a Little Havana spot at 1545 SW 27 th  Ave. – is literally the city’s palace of juices. Bankers and politicians, migrant workers and moms, even culinary stars like Bobby Flay and Martha Stewart, have been known to sit elbow-to-elbow at the bustling market, enjoying shakes and meals from the Latin food stations. For the ultimate sugar rush, order the  guarapo  (sugar cane juice).

Watch a Marlins  béisbol  game

The  Miami Marlins  have landed two World Series championships since their inaugural season in 1993. The newly-named loanDepot park, 501 Marlins Way, is a retractable-roof ballpark in Little Havana where you can catch unobstructed views of Miami’s skyline – and the occasional foul ball, if you’re lucky. There’s a swimming pool in a South Beach-style nightclub in the outfield, and Cuban sandwiches and mojitos on the menu, among  other Miami-style features .

Eat at La Carreta, a beloved local Cuban chain restaurant.

Eat a classic Cuban lunch

Along with the legendary  Versailles , where waiters in white coats serve Cuban sandwiches,  palomilla  steaks,  maduros ,  ropa vieja  and other   gold standards of Cuban food on paper placemats in a mirrored hall,   check out  El Mago de Las Fritas  or  El Rey de Las Fritas  for slider-sized spicy Cuban burgers topped with matchstick potatoes. The  pan con   minuta  at  La Camaronera Seafood Joint & Fish Market  is a fresh boneless fried snapper sandwich on a Cuban bun. Or walk up to the window and order the  croqueta preparada , a croquette sandwich, at  Sanguich de Miami . Finish off lunch time with a sugar high at  Azucar! Ice Cream Company , an artisanal ice cream parlor with imaginative, Latin-inspired flavors, such as café con leche, sugarcane and pineapple, caramel flan, and fried plantain.

Catch a film at Tower Theater

Next to Domino Park, the  Tower Theater  is a historic, Art Deco movie theater built in 1926. It used to be a gathering spot where Cuban immigrants watched Spanish movies with English subtitles to learn English. Today, the Miami Dade College-owned art house hosts Cuban exhibitions and performances, free educational lectures by faculty, and Spanish- and English-language films.

Enjoy a Cuban cocktail

Find out why GQ magazine called  Café La Trova  co-owner Julio Cabrera “America’s most imaginative bartender.” Crowned American Bartender of the Year at the 2019 Spirited Awards, Cabrera and his team of Cantineros bring the café’s retro Cuba atmosphere to life with artisanal, handcrafted cocktails while James Beard Award Winning Chef Michelle Bernstein presides over a kitchen that turns out modern twists on Cuban dishes. Along with the classic Cuban mojito, the bar specializes in Cuba’s generous contribution to cocktail culture: the daiquiri.  Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina  is another spirited location that serves mojitos and daiquiris.

Spend a night exploring Cuban culture

Futurama 1637 Art Building  is a creative workspace that houses 12 artist studios and hosts monthly art openings, music productions and other events.  Cubaocho Museum & Performing Arts Center  is devoted to telling the story of Cuba through rotating art, a bar specializing in rum and music performances, from salsa bands to Latin jam sessions and Cuban jazz legends. It has a large collection of 19 th  century and early- to mid-20 th  century Cuban art. Café La Trova and other restaurants and clubs along Calle Ocho host live music starting around 7:30 p.m.

Time it right

Every third Friday of the month,   Viernes Culturales , or Cultural Fridays,   is an outdoor street party and gallery walk showcasing Little Havana’s arts scene between 13 th  and 17 th  avenues along Calle Ocho. A stage is set up in the street for live performances, and galleries keep their doors open until 11 p.m. In March, Calle Ocho – the massive street party that culminates the 10-day  Carnaval Miami  – winds its way down 23 blocks and attracts over 1 million people, with live Latin acts on eight stages, street performers, conga lines, salsa and Latin street food. It’s one of the largest Hispanic street festivals in the world.

More :  Things to do in Little Havana .

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FAQs - booking Cuba flights

How early should i arrive at miami international airport.

For international flights, we recommend you arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight to allow you enough time to park your car and make it through security checks in good time. This will also give you time to grab a bite and do some gift shopping around the airport. Alternatively, you can sign up for the Global Entry and TSA pre-check program to avoid the long lines.

Can I find parking at Miami International airport?

The Dolphin Garage is located at the north terminal, and the Flamingo Garage can be found at concourses E to J. Both garages offer great deals on parking services depending on whether you are parking for the long-term or short-term. There is a ‘tall vehicle’ surface parking area next to Dolphin Garage where high-rise vehicles can be parked. Vehicles with a disabled parking permit will be provided two hours of complimentary parking.

Where can I find a rental car at Jose Marti International airport?

If you want to rent a car while in Cuba, you will find a few car rental information desks in terminals 2 and 3, where you can get assistance during pick up. To be on the safe side, we recommend that you pre-book your rental car online, where you can look at and compare each company’s rates. Some rental car companies at the airport are Cuba car and REX, with desks in Terminals 2 and 3, and Havanautos and Via Transgaviota, with desks in terminal 3. Rental cars are quite expensive in Cuba, so you may also consider taking a taxi or the bus, which are cheaper alternatives.

Where can I sleep at Jose Marti International airport?

However, if the idea of sleeping on the floor does not seem inviting, there are nearby hotels you can sleep at. One such hotel is Hostal Aero Puerto, which is located about ten minutes from the airport and is the best option for late arrivals and early departures. You can enjoy showers, and mobile charging spots and take late night meal at the hotel before you check-out the next day.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Miami to Cuba?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Miami to Cuba.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Miami to Cuba?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Cuba from Miami is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Miami to Cuba?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Cuba with an airline and back to Miami with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Miami to Cuba?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Cuba from Miami up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Cuba

• You can access the lounges at Miami airport (MIA) using Priority Pass, Lounge Club, Lounge Key, Diners Club members, or purchase a day pass based on lounge capacity. One such lounge is the Turkish Airlines Lounge located on Level 2 of central Terminal E and midway between Concourses H and J, 3rd floor in Terminal H.
• Miami International airport has a kid's play area located at Terminal E near Gate E5. You can take your kids there to play as you clear with the necessary departure desks.
• Jose Marti International airport (HAV) has a children’s play area in terminal three where your children can play and unwind after a long flight as you wait to clear the required desks.
• You can only bring your pet into Cuba through HAV, where you will show some form of identification indicating ownership. Your pet will be examined for any infectious disease to humans; if they are not in good health, further examination will be conducted at your expense.
• Make it known to Miami International airport if you will need any form of assistance accessing the airport so that any services, discounts, and equipment may be made available to you. You may use the accessible parking areas on the third and ground levels of all garages.

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Miami, You in Danger, Gurl! Cuba has collapsed

Get ready for more migrants! No MSM reports yet.

That sucks. Most of the hot, light skinned ones have already left.

No mainstream news sources are reporting?

This has been coming for a while. Googled for this and there's been articles for months in Bloomberg, Reuters, AP news predicting a total economic collapse

[quote] THE FINANCIAL BANKING SYSTEM IN CUBA HAS COMPLETELY COLLAPSED, CUBANS WOKE TO LEARN THEIR BANK ACCOUNTS HAVE BEEN EMPTIED…THERE IS NO CASH AT ATM’S !

Margaret Thatcher — 'The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people's money.'

Well all the Floridians who want a dictator in Trump should make their way back there.

Quick, someone warn the Golden Girls!

What a shitty embargo, how many decades did it take to get here??

[quote] ATM’S

What does the ATM possess? Not cash apparently.

[quote]Quick, someone warn the Golden Girls!

Blanche is already getting dolled up to head out on the water and rescue attractive men. She will leave their wives and children to drown.

This plan might be abandoned once Dorothy reminds her that most of these men are penniless.

and it's a Trump in every thread in five replies. That's one below average. Kudos senorita.

So why is this happening?

Anyone have an easy explanation?

not enough money to go around

the cash printing machine broke down!

Communism always collapses.

R9 I read penisless for a moment. Blanche does not care about pennys.

miami will get what it deserves

r15, really?

If you think Vietnam and China are examples of communism......I just can't

Right, Vietnam today is communist mostly in name only. It is one of the fastest growing economies on Earth. Not due to communism, of course.

Progressives want the US to be Cuba.

Yeah, I was in Vietnam on holiday a few years back. Never had I seen so many Roll Royces, Maybachs, Mercedes, Bentleys, Ferraris Lambos etc or so much conspicuous consumption. Its a fiercely capitalist society with a very very thin communist veneer that is peeling off everywhere at least in the cities

Not sure if this report is true, but one of Cuba's main benefactors, Russia, is now a broke ass bitch. So that may be one sugar daddy gone

[quote] Right, Vietnam today is communist mostly in name only. It is one of the fastest growing economies on Earth. Not due to communism, of course.

[quote] Yeah, I was in Vietnam on holiday a few years back. Never had I seen so many Roll Royces, Maybachs, Mercedes, Bentleys, Ferraris Lambos etc or so much conspicuous consumption. Its a fiercely capitalist society with a very very thin communist veneer that is peeling off everywhere at least in the cities

And ripe for corruption.

Like that lady who stole over a billion dollars from banks, and got the death sentence.

Vietnam is still a shithole 3rd world backwards country, trying to find its way in the modern world.

And China is.... China. It will never be anything but a corrupt, authoritarian society full of thieves and scammers.

That tweet is literally just a photo of a traffic accident in Cuba. If someone is shouting "why isn't the MSM reporting this?!" on fucking Twitter, it's safe to immediately disregard their message.

But yes, those of us who have been following the Cuban meltdown are well aware of their situation. Don't wait to be spoon-fed international news by news outlets, maybe venture out and read stuff on your own now and then.

The Cuban economy is in no way affected by the most powerful nation in world history treating it as a pariah for decades. It’s just a 1:1 analogy to the Democrats here and proof that austerity is best.

Wouldn't be a thread about Cuba without the requisite socialism quote from that dead bitch cunt from hell.

Play it Sam. Play zRomy’s Theme.

This sounds like fake

[quote] Vietnam is still a shithole 3rd world backwards country, trying to find its way in the modern world.

I wouldn't call it third world, it's developing. Third world is reserved for countries like Haiti and Papua New Guinea. All countries have to start from somewhere and Vietnam is progressing much faster than others.

The Cuban Exile community in Miami is known for spreading nonsense like this, with zero proof or mainstream notice. They spent decades sharing the "breaking news" that The Beard was dead, and they were proven wrong every time.

It's rumors and gossip, nothing more.

Well to be honest their economic collapse happened at the fall of the Soviet Union. It's a 3rd world shit hole to be honest. As soon as the collapse of USSR we should have taken continual baby steps to bring them into our sphere. Why we didn't I don't know.

R32 Because Florida has a lot of electoral votes, and was a swing state in the 1990s and 2000s. And because the Cuban Exile community in Miami is potently - sometimes violently - opposed to ANY overtures of peace or normalization with even a post-Soviet and post-Castro Cuba.

We missed that opportunity because four presidents in a row were afraid of losing Florida in the next election.

[quote] The Beard was dead, and they were proven wrong every time.

Except the last.

This has to be fake. I think some US media would be reporting if an entire country just collapsed right outside our borders.

I’ll wait until Gloria Estefan comments.

The story could have merit.

Hmmm - why isn't the news covering?

It would be hysterical to see what Trump's response to Cuban refugees. Far from viewing it as a Humanitarian situation, he would have to follow suit with his Anti-Immigrant agenda, and completely oppose it- or lose serious standing. However the Conservative Cuban community ( and many other Hispanics) would read him to filth.

All the Cuban refugees with money already left. The ones still there are all broke and have lived under decades of socialism. It would be pretty easy to deny them access to the US. And the Hispanics here would be cheering that on.

Send them to Mar-a-Lago

Biden is the one opening up the borders and giving undocumented migrants prepaid VISA cards and shelter space.

I need to get to Cuba for some cheap Cuban pinga.

[quote]Don't wait to be spoon-fed international news by news outlets, maybe venture out and read stuff on your own now and then.

People who say stuff like this spend a lot of time surfing the internet for their inside information.

R16 as long as they can sing and are gentleman

miami deserves it

Still not on CNN, ABC or BBC.

Idiots, Cuba doesn’t have a globally connected financial banking system to collapse.

This is the only news story I could find even remotely related to the twitter claim. It does talk about a shortage of banknotes, but does not say it's because the country has economically collapsed:

"Experts say there are several reasons behind the shortage, all somehow related to Cuba’s deep economic crisis, one of the worst in decades.

Omar Everleny Pérez, a Cuban economist and university professor, says the main culprits are the government’s growing fiscal deficit, the nonexistence of banknotes with a denomination greater than 1,000 Cuban pesos (about $3 in the parallel market), stubbornly high inflation and the nonreturn of cash to banks.

“There is money, yes, but not in the banks,” said Pérez, adding that most of the cash is being held not by salaried workers, but by entrepreneurs and owners of small- and medium-size business who are more likely to collect cash from commercial transactions but are reluctant to return the money to the banks."

Another article explaining Cuba's financial crisis—crisis, but not collapse.

The standard liberal position seems to be that if only Cuba would junk its system and instead install the kind of government that Washington likes to do business with, it would turn into a Switzerland on the Caribbean. Of course in order to hold this position you have to ignore all the actual real-life examples of countries in the region who have adopted the policies Washington wants them to adopt, like Haiti or Jamaica for example.

I thought communist countries comprised the Second World?

I visited Cuba and 2007 and loved it. It's a beautiful country and a fascinating people. There are good and bad aspects to life there. It has a thriving cultural scene and there is a solid basic social safety net, but of course there are also shortages, forms of rationing and restrictions on freedoms, as there are in different forms everywhere.

It is a pity that the US government and establishment has pursued such a psychotic vendetta against Cuba for so many decades. It seems that if you commit genocide, or ban all women from driving cars, or stamp out minority religions and cultures, you can still do business with Washington and get invited to address Congress and stay in the White House. But nationalise some oil company possessions and you are cancelled forever.

R52 The 'Second World' originally referred to the countries which signed the Warsaw Pact with the Soviet Union (vs the '1st world' being the US and its NATO allies, and the Third World being the unaligned countries). Cuba never signed the Pact though it was a Soviet-aligned country. The term 'third world' has changed a lot in meaning though, and today is generally regarded as outdated, unless of course it is being used as a term of abuse like by the poster above.

Have you ever met any of the Cubans in Miami, ConcernedEuropean?

I haven't ever been to Florida R55, but I've read reports on the Miami Cubans and encountered some of their views online, and they do seem to me to be among the worst people on earth. The 'Elian' episode seemed from a distance to be absolutely psychotic.

My line manager's line manager at the university which employs me is a Miami Cuban. It might not be a total coincidence that the School he runs has one of the worst records for exploitative contracts and employment conditions in the whole university.

Having met quite a few of the privileged Venezuelan exports, they are almost as bad.

[quote] The term 'third world' has changed a lot in meaning though, and today is generally regarded as outdated, unless of course it is being used as a term of abuse like by the poster above.

I believe that "Second World" and "Third World" has been replaced with the term "Developing Nation."

Not sure what they now call "First World," though.

SEEMS LEGIT. "FINANCIAL BANKING SYSTEM" DOES NOT SEEM LIKE A PHRASE UTTERED BY A CRAZY PERSON.

Whatever else is true of Cuba, there is no reason to keep clinging desperately to our idiotic boycott. It's been an inane, neurotic, and stupid policy for decades, and if ending it completely today can help, I at least hope we do that bare minimum.

The weird thing is that Cuba was an American playground for the rich and famous in the 1950's.

If not for the Castro revolution, I think it could have been one of our biggest allies in the region, especially since it's so close to the US.

It also would have been a huge tourist destination, with mega resorts and miles of beaches.

Our government should have tried to do something to fix that relationship.

Our government could easily fix that relationship by actually just saying fuck off to a few dying old cunts in Miami and start acting like a normal nation dealing with another nation.

One of Trump's last acts in office was to designate Cuba as a 'State Sponsor of Terrorism' on Jan. 12th 2021. One implication of this is that citizens of third countries who would normally enjoy the right to enter the US visa-free (like the UK or EU countries) lose this right if they visit Cuba after that date. This is especially dumb and vindictive if you consider some of the countries not on the list, like Saudi Arabia for instance.

Biden has mumbled something about reviewing this but hasn't fixed it yet. Maybe in the last week before he leaves office.

Ask Russher for the money. Ginya

Obama tried to open up diplomatic relations with Cuba, when he was in office.

What ever happened with that?

[quote]I visited Cuba and 2007 and loved it. It's a beautiful country and a fascinating people. There are good and bad aspects to life there. It has a thriving cultural scene and there is a solid basic social safety net, but of course there are also shortages, forms of rationing and restrictions on freedoms, as there are in different forms everywhere.It is a pity that the US government and establishment has pursued such a psychotic vendetta against Cuba for so many decades.

Well, ConcernedEuropean, how do you feel about Hungary?

[quote] Progressives want the US to be Cuba.

Progressives believe in capitalism with compassionate governance. No one should starve or be unhoused. However, Americans seem to want an oligarchy where the rich rule and dictate social policy and the poor suffer.

R66 I visited many years ago. Budapest has a really cool complex of spas and thermal baths constructed on a network of natural hot springs.

Did you have a more specific question? I don't like Victor Orban much if that's what you are getting at.

R68 I could take what you said about Cuba and relate it to Hungary. Especially the "psychotic vendetta against it".

R69 Huh? Who is mounting a blockade against Hungary? It's an EU member.

R70 Of course there's no blockade but there is a certain hostility, negativity, toward it.

the negativity toward Orban is justified. He's a fascist authoritarian at heart. What wouldn't be justified is some inane, decades long boycott out of stupid spite.

R72 My feelings toward Hungary: "There are good and bad aspects to life there. It has a thriving cultural scene and there is a solid basic social safety net...(...)....and restrictions on freedoms, as there are in different forms everywhere." "...and loved it. It's a beautiful country and a fascinating people. ".

Today: State Department removes Cuba from short list of countries deemed uncooperative on counterterrorism

Why can’t these people get their shit together?

which people? There's a whole lotta shit going on all over the world, including in God's Own Country, the good ole U.S. of A.

Hi R74, my understanding is that there are 2 lists, a list of countries deemed not to be 'co-operating against terrorism', which Cuba has indeed been removed from, and a list of 'State Sponsors of Terrorism, which it is still on. This doesn't make a great deal of sense to me.

[quote]Obama tried to open up diplomatic relations with Cuba, when he was in office. What ever happened with that?

The presidency of Donald J. Trump happened.

In any case R74, as you'll see if you check the last in this list of FAQs from US Customs and Border Protection, foreign nationals who have visited Cuba since 2021 are still denied visa-free entry to the US via the ESTA system.

R73 Ummm....ok? I liked Hungary when I visited. I'm sure I'll go again, even if Orban remains in power. If you offered me a free trip to Hungary or a free trip to Cuba though, I won't be choosing Hungary.

[quote]I liked Hungary when I visited. I'm sure I'll go again, even if Orban remains in power.

If I had to chose between Salvador Valdés Mesa or Orban. I'll take Orban.

[quote]My feelings toward Hungary:

It could have been so much more today had they not murdered all their Jews.

R81 Which of those two do you think are friendlier to the gay community, out of interest?

R83 I have gay Hungarian friends who are perfectly happy there (as I was in Italy).

As you said: there are "restrictions on freedoms, as there are in different forms everywhere."

[quote]Progressives want the US to be Cuba.

And Conservatives want the US to be Christian version of Iran.

Once you start losing freedoms you enjoy, I highly doubt that you will be peddling that right-wing bullshit here or anywhere else.

Cubans vs Haitians. Last one to Florida is a rotten egg!

Unfortunately for Haitians, r86, we decided as a nation Cubans are sacred beings, Haitians are of the devil.

[quote]the negativity toward Orban is justified. He's a fascist authoritarian at heart.

Among countries, Freedom House ranks Cuba as "not free" with a "freedom score" at 12 (out of 100). Hungary is ranked at 65.

[quote] Margaret Thatcher — 'The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people's money.'

Things that are Ironyproof, part 73

My guess is Hungary benefits enormously from still being an EU member, when it comes to overall freedoms. There is an actual restraint on it, and for its sake I hope it stays within the union. I don't think there is anything about Orban these days that makes him like or value freedom itself. He does see a value in not offending the EU to the point where they toss his ass out.

[Quote] THE FINANCIAL BANKING SYSTEM

The most critical banking system of them all — the financial one!

Well there is the sperm banking system.

R88 Washington-based think tank hates Cuba? Shocker!

[Quote] Progressives want the US to be Cuba.

Gaslighting in modern culture, a series

[quote]I don't think there is anything about Orban these days that makes him like or value freedom itself.

The Fascist is Salvador Mesa. But that of course is OK with you.

Orban is fascist r95. Salvador Mesa may be hardcore communist, or maybe not. I don't really trust what wingnuts say about Cuba. Regardless, I'm not okay with either, but in neither case do I think the answer is some endless, neurotic, and idiotic boycott based on some stupid fantasy about regime change from 1960.

[quote]I don't really trust what wingnuts say about Cuba.

Freedom House: "Cuba’s one-party communist state outlaws political pluralism, bans independent media, suppresses dissent, and severely restricts basic civil liberties."

Ranking: Political rights 1 out of 40. Civil liberties 11 out of 60.

"Salvador Mesa may be hardcore communist, or maybe not."

One thing for sure though: you're a total idiot.

OP still hasn’t shown any receipts, has she?

And one other thing is clear, r97. You are an Orban fanboy. Why?

R97 Like I said, Freedom House is an American organisation that operates within a particular political culture. It ranks Cuba below Russia in terms of political freedoms. Really?

That is not to say that Cuba is free - it isn't in many ways. Lifting the blockade would probably make it freer.

[quote]And one other thing is clear, [R97]. You are an Orban fanboy. Why?

The question here is why is ConcernedEuropean such an apologist for fascist Mesa and one of the least free countries in the world.

I don't think he is r101. He says it has a mix of good and bad, free and unfree, as some say Hungary is. That's fine. May be true, somewhat true, or whatever.

Regardless, whatever is happening in Cuba and whatever Mesa is like or believes, the Cuban Embargo remains a stupid neurotic mess that we in the U.S. should have abandoned as an idiotic waste of everyone's time and energy, decades ago.

It is the Biden administration that has toughened the embargo.

Take your meds R101. They'd be a lot cheaper if you lived in Cuba ;)

But if he lived in Cuba he’d have no money to buy them at any price

R105 Healthcare is free in Cuba man! It's the greatest achievement of the revolution!

Americans, your country is actually an outlier in quite a number of ways.

What country are you from, ConcernedEuropean?

Is it anything Cuba, where medicine is free man! but there isn’t any because, well, it’s free man!

[Quote] Still, the shortage of medicines and medical supplies continues today, with many people taking to social media to tell their stories of hunting down supplies such as anesthesia, suture thread, gauze and antibiotics to undergo surgery.

[quote]Last month, Cubans took to the streets again, this time in Santiago de Cuba, to protest their living conditions, which includes a shortage of medical care.

R107 I go back and forth between the UK and Ireland.

Unfortunately due to a paywall I was unable to read your Miami Herald article written by a 'Cuban activist': a pity as I know it would have given a wise, fair, and balanced overview.

There are lots of criticisms you can level at Cuba but given its income level and relative economic and political isolation the performance of its health care system has been remarkable. It achieves similar or better outcomes than the US on a range of indicators at a fraction of the cost.

I’m afraid your link is approaching a decade old, concernedeuropean.

Meanwhile you went straight ad hominem on the link I posted despite not having read it. No need for the scare quotes on “Cuban activist” — she’s CUBAN, not a Cuban-American, from Vedado.

R109 I'm speaking about the performance of the Cuban system since 1959. It has done remarkably well over that time period.

As for your link, I really did want to read it. I don't think it is massively unfair of me however to point out that any Cuban published by a Miami-based newspaper might be writing with some kind of agenda. Do they tell us what kind of activism she does? If not, why not?

Come on, shake your body, baby, do the conga; I know you can't control yourself any longer!

The rhythm got them.

[quote] [R109] I'm speaking about the performance of the Cuban system since 1959. It has done remarkably well over that time period

Oh my god, ha ha ha ha! No, no we are not. We are talking about NOW. Everything in the discussion has been in the present tense. Including your own language.

It’s never been a discussion of historical trends or “developments since 1959” you’ve been “speaking of.”

[quote] . I don't think it is massively unfair of me however to point out that any Cuban published by a Miami-based newspaper might be writing with some kind of agenda. Do they tell us what kind of activism she does? If not, why not?

Funny how you don’t go ad hom like this on links that support your position (from seven years ago).

If Fidel Castro had published an opinion piece in a Miami paper, would his motives be suspect. I mean, do they tell us what kind of communist revolutionary he is? If not, why not?

ConcernedEuropean has no problem with "restrictions on freedom" if it's a "brown country". If it's a white country, "restrictions of freedom" means the government is "fascist". Typical white lefty hypocrite.

R113 Okey dokey, here's a newspaper article from 2024 with some more opinions.

R117 I don't really think you can go 'ad hom' on a link.

If Fidel Castro had published a piece telling us what the Cuban healthcare system is like, would I present it here to you as reliable and objective evidence without checking with other sources? Of course not.

But there it is, not much more I can say unless you want to copy-paste your Miami Herald piece into the comments box.

Cuba is known to have good health care.

It's also known to be one of the world's most repressive societies.

^That is one impossibly tall order

Cuba economy is so messed up it can't even grow its own sugar anymore

HAVANA, May 9 (Reuters) - The Cuban sugar harvest is winding down at the lowest tonnage since 1900, forcing the government to import and putting more pressure on its domestic rum, soft drink and pharmaceutical industries, according to official reports, two economists and a rum industry source.

President Miguel Diaz-Canel said at the end of April that the state-run industry had produced 71% of the 412,000 metric tons planned, or just shy of 300,000 metric tons, and would mill into May. Cuba produced 350,000 metric tons in the last harvest and while some sugar mills remain open, yields drop sharply in May as hot, humid weather sets in, accompanied by summer rains.

“This means we will have to import and, of course, less sugar means there is less syrup and alcohol for various industries and, of course, rum,” said Cuban economist Omar Everleny.

For the rum industry, domestic alcohol prices are up 46%, a well-placed industry source said, requesting anonymity.

The communist-run Caribbean island nation was once the world’s top sugar exporter, and produced 8 million metric tons of raw sugar in 1989, before the collapse of its former benefactor, the Soviet Union, sparked a steady decline.

[quote]Like I said, Freedom House is an American organisation that operates within a particular political culture.

Here's "Reporters sans frontières" headquartered in Paris

"Cuba remains, year in and year out, the worst country for press freedom in Latin America."

"Televisions, radios, and newspapers are all closely monitored by the government. The constitution prohibits privately owned media. "

"Access to the Internet is still mostly controlled by the state. Bloggers and journalists can express themselves online but do so at their own risk. They are often subjected to harassment that may range from being held for questioning to being placed under house arrest to prevent them from covering major events. "

"Arrests, arbitrary detentions, threats of imprisonment, persecution and harassment, illegal raids on homes, confiscation and destruction of equipment – all this awaits journalists who do not toe the Cuban Communist Party line. "

"The authorities also control foreign journalists’ coverage by granting accreditation selectively, and by expelling those considered “too negative” about the government."

For it's overall score of indicators: political, economic, legislative, security, Cuba ranks 168 out of 180 countries.

R121 Cool. I've accepted many times Cuba has problems. So lift the blockade! It'll make it far more difficult to keep unwelcome ideas out.

R122 You think its fascist government would suddenly begin to relinquish power and control and be more open? What do you base that assumption on?

R122 And why do you keep pointing fingers at the US?

Cuba–European Union relations

R125 Hmm, I clicked on the link and read this:

[quote] The EU is Cuba's second most important trading partner (accounting for 20% of total Cuban trade). The EU is the second biggest source of Cuban imports (20%) and was the third most important destination for Cuban exports (21%). The EU is Cuba's biggest external investor. Approximately one third of all tourists visiting the island every year come from the European Union.[7]

Was that what you meant for me to find?

[quote]The EU is Cuba's second most important trading partner (accounting for 20% of total Cuban trade). The EU is the second biggest source of Cuban imports (20%) and was the third most important destination for Cuban exports (21%). The EU is Cuba's biggest external investor. Approximately one third of all tourists visiting the island every year come from the European Union.[7]

R126 Has that exchange between the EU and Cuba made Cuba's government more open to "unwelcome ideas"? See post R121

Saint JFK established the Cuban embargo. It would be sacrilegious to remove it.

Good! The last radical marxist communists in the world left are Joe Biden, his gaspacho administration and his crime family (here look at that dick!) and the libs (what's left of them) who get us out of bed so that we can own them.

R127 it has facillitated a lot of European visitors to the island in any case.

I was in Cuba in February for a combination of business and pleasure.

Wonderful people, proud and realistic, victims of a government that is incompetent (and always has been) but supportive of the importance of self-rule and avoiding a return to the colonialism of the past and the corporate colonialism of the present.

Havana is decaying with three building collapses a day, the water is undrinkable, the communist ideal broken with impossible currency issues, the tardiness of food deliveries, and near-universal poverty among all groups. But there is hope and resilience.

I have never felt safer in any city, day and night. The begging is direct and understanding and polite. Americans are appreciated for more than their cash, and they have more sense if detaching the American people from US policy. Trump fucked them over after Obama worked towards normalization. It's impossible for family members to send cash from the US now. The Russian oil imports are slow - lines for 4 liters of petrol extend over a mile on the days when a rumored shipment is arriving.

But of any place I've ever been, including my own family reunions, I've never been treated so kindly by acquaintances and family alike.

Pity Cuba. Work for better policies. The US still stands on Cuba's throat while granting favored-nation status on many countries whose governments are just as totalitarian, duplicitous, cruel and incompetent.

And gay rights are fully accepted in Cuba, just so we all know.

[quoteTrump fucked them over after Obama worked towards normalization.

Trump? Trump hasn't been President for a few years now.

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What You Need To Be Aware Of As A Tourist Visiting Cuba

B eaches with white sand as fine as sugar, vintage American cars cruising down streets lined by colorful aging buildings, and the chance to puff on a fine cigar while watching people dance the salsa in the warm night air: It's not hard to understand the picture-postcard allure of Cuba. It's a country in the throes of rapid change as it emerges back onto the world stage after decades of stagnation following the 1959 revolution. So now is a wonderful time to pack your dancing shoes and visit the Caribbean's largest island.

However, Cuba isn't an uncomplicated tropical paradise and there are several things you need to be aware of before you visit as a tourist. Like, as an American, is it even legal for you to visit Cuba as a tourist? What's with the money situation? And can you access the internet or are you going back to the Stone Age (also known as the early 1990s)?

Can Americans Visit Cuba?

Cuba is just 103 miles from the tip of Florida making it the ideal winter getaway for sun-seeking Americans. However, the U.S. imposed restrictions on travel to Cuba in 1963 and while the level of restrictions has varied over the years, as of July 2023, Americans can't visit Cuba purely for tourism purposes.

That said, there are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba, and the one that most Americans visiting the island use is the "support for the Cuban people" category. You'll need a passport with six months validity at the time of entry and two blank pages. You also need a Cuban Tourist Card, which you can usually get from your airline for as little as $50.

Speaking of airlines, you can fly direct to Cuba from several U.S. cities, including Miami, Tampa, New York City , and Houston. Most direct flights from the U.S. land in the Cuban capital of Havana, though there are several nonstop flights from Miami to other destinations in the country, including Santiago de Cuba and the popular beach resort of Varadero.

Cuban Currency

There's good news and, let's say, tricky news when it comes to paying for things in Cuba. The good news is that there is now one currency used by residents and visitors alike in the country: the Cuban peso (CUP). The Cuban convertible peso (CUC), which used to be the currency used by tourists, was eliminated in 2021.

The only official place you can exchange currency in Cuba is at Cadeca exchange houses. You cannot get CUP outside of Cuba, nor should you take the currency home with you. Spend or exchange anything you have left over before you go to the airport (after security, you should pay in foreign currency).

What about credit cards? U.S. credit and debit cards won't work in Cuba. Credit cards from major financial institutions like Visa and Mastercard from other countries should be accepted by certain businesses and ATMs. However, cash is king in the country and it's always a good idea to keep some with you for tips to service workers.

The Internet In Cuba

Cuba is the perfect place to go on a digital detox. We're going to be honest: Getting online isn't as easy as in the U.S. and internet speeds can be sluggish. However, if you need to connect to the internet, you can. The most common way to access the internet in Cuba is via hotspots in places like public parks and on the Malécon in Havana. (They are also perfect for people-watching, so embrace the experience!) Many hotels and some other businesses also have Wi-Fi.

To access the internet in most places you're going to need a NAUTA card, which you can purchase from ETECSA offices around Cuba. Be prepared to stand in line to buy the card and take your passport along with you. Our advice? Be patient and make the most of your offline moments to fully immerse yourself in the Cuban experience. And plan to latergram your posts on Insta.

Sleeping And Eating

When it comes to accommodation in Cuba, you'll find a range of options. From all-inclusive beach resorts to cozy casas particulares, you'll find somewhere to suit your preferences and budget. Our pick for independent travelers is a casa particular, a privately owned guesthouse which offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality firsthand. Many places offer breakfast and an evening meal, so you can taste home-cooked Cuban food. It's also an excellent way to support the Cuban people (this is likely the stated purpose of your visit, after all) as the money you pay goes directly to the guesthouse owners. In contrast, the Cuban government holds at least a 51% share in all hotels in Cuba. Hotel star ratings are often on the generous side, so be discerning.

As far as food goes in Cuba, your best bet is to go to a paladar, a privately run restaurant that serves excellent versions of classic Cuban dishes like roast pork, shredded beef, and suckling pig (the cuisine is pretty meat-forward). A note on cultural sensitivity: Many products that are widely available in the U.S. might not be in Cuba and even basic products often disappear from Cuban shops at short notice. Savor what's put on your plate and enjoy the often simple but tasty food.

How To Support And Respect The Cuban People

Staying in casas particulares and eating at paladares are just two ways that you can support the Cuban people on your trip. Consider taking a salsa class run by a local, buying locally made handicrafts, and whiling away the steamy nights sipping rum and listening to musicians put on a fabulous show. By patronizing local businesses, not only are you financially supporting the Cuban people, but you're also going to have an authentic Cuban experience.

We touched on the unavailability of some food items earlier, but shortages extend to many consumer products in Cuba. Bring everything you think you'll need for your trip, including medications. You may also want to bring a roll of toilet paper (glamorous, we know), as public bathrooms often don't have it. Power cuts are common; while they might be frustrating, remember that you're only there for a short time and, for Cubans, power cuts are infuriating, so keep your complaints to yourself. This goes for everything, really; if you're not prepared for some minor inconveniences, don't visit Cuba. If you want to take a memorable trip to a country steeped in history with a vibrant culture, stunning urban architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, it'll all be worth it.

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