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Cuba Travel - Possibility for Americans?

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Julia Rosien | 04/16/2009 - 20:47 | 2 comments

Hands up if you want to visit Cuba?

If the CNN poll this week is a true barometer reading, 71% of Americans are itching for Obama to give the word. And his flirting this week with allowing American telecommunications firms on the island is a good sign.

Cuba Travel for Americans?Cuba Travel for Americans?Cuba's doors have been shut to the US for more than 50 years - that's a long time to hold a grudge. For some, the lure of going to Cuba because you can't is almost too much, and both Republicans and Democrats seem to agree it's time.

But will the doors open? According to CNN:

"The Obama administration has signaled that new rules on family travel and remittances to Cuba may be announced before President Obama goes to the Summit of the Americas on April 17."

But wiping the slate clean won't immediately open the country.

Havana, the country's capital is only 200 miles from Miami. Royal Caribbean and Carnival will likely begin cruising to ports used previously by European companies. Trouble is, Cuba lacks variety in hotels, resorts and restaurants that more built-up Caribbean islands enjoy. For some, this could be a reason to not be excited.

For me, it's the very reason to start packing. The Caribbean is a cornucopia of unique and beautiful flavors. Visiting a place when it's still untouched by outside cultures is an incredible opportunity - and a chance that doesn't happen twice.

My advice? If you're Canadian get yourself there now to see it before it changes too much. If you're American, get on the first boat over so you'll have something to compare your experience to 10 years from now.

My friend, Robert Curely, wrote a thoughtful post about the issue: Robert's Caribbean Travel Blog

What do you think of Cuba? Are you eager to visit or are you happy with islands already well-populated with the luxuries of travel?

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Comments

My Grandfather went to Cuba

Submitted by Lisa (not verified) on Thu, 04/16/2009 - 21:14.
My Grandfather went to Cuba in his teens. I have always heard how beautiful it was, and have always wanted to go. Everyone else in the world can vacation there. I told my Father just today "If they open it up, I'm going to Cuba." He said "Why would you want to go to a third world country?" I said "We ALWAYS go to a third world country."

Cuba is a wonderful place -

Submitted by Corinne (not verified) on Thu, 04/16/2009 - 21:11.
Cuba is a wonderful place - especially Havana. I totally agree with your recommendation to get there quickly, as that intangible something that makes it feel so special might disappear once their tourism industry and infrastructure kicks into overdrive to serve the new influx of visitors.

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