Post #167017 by BettyBleu on Mon, Jun 20, 2005 3:44 PM

I went to Cuba in Nov. 2003 and it was amazing! I did go legally on an educational visa so I was sure to get that passport stamped. It is a fantastic place to visit but I would be extremely careful if embarking on illegal travel - as I understand (heresay) there are people who monitor the flights and look for American tourists. Prior to the crakdown in '04, I knew of a few people who traveled to Cuba through other countries without incident (well, no govt issues but theft is a problem - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Traveling illegally can become a nasty problem when your passport is stolen) but the fines are stiff and who really wants to be the "example" to everyone else. Don't forget to hide the "contraband" from Cuba (cigars and Rum) before getting back to the US from Cancun or Canada.

Cuba is highly touristed by Europeans, etc. because of the beauty and affordability. Remember, your travelers checks, ATM, and credit cards don't work there (part of the thing where you can't spend your money there). Eurpean credit cards do work if you can manage to get one.

I recommend Cuba highly if you can get there. Its an artistic and architecural dream. On a side note, bring soap, toothpaste, basic hygiene items to give away. They are scarce there and are much appreciated by the people. I visited a rural medical clinic just before leaving Cuba and pretty much just emptied my suitcase - clothes and all to be distributed to the locals.

I don't remember a lot of tikis...I do have a foggy recollection of many palm trees and a itty bitty little bit of rum.

If you go, bring me a cigar!!