How to Travel to Cuba

How to Travel to Cuba
STEPHEN LEWIS

Visiting the country legally is easier than even a decade ago, but the
process can still be complicated. There are laws that restrict you to a
set itinerary and limit how much you can spend per day. And if you
choose to travel independently, all arrangements must be made through an
agent located abroad since Americans are not allowed to transfer money
to Cuba. To add to the confusion, Cuba recently suspended the processing
of visas for arriving visitors while it looks for a new American bank to
handle its accounts. That aside, there are two ways to plan a trip to
the island.

Go on a Group Tour
Until Cuba resumes the processing of visas (at press time it had not),
it may be best to book through a travel company, such as GeoEx or
Abercrombie & Kent, that has its own stash of official visas. On these
trips, called people-to-people groups, all of the paperwork is done for
you. The downside is that while there are many trips to choose from, you
will be restricted to that itinerary and will not be free to roam the
country on your own.

Travel Independently (with a Purpose)
Visiting close relatives, participating in religious activities,
conducting research, and enrolling in an educational program are among
the eight designated "general licenses" allowing Americans entry to
Cuba. This method takes more time and effort than using a travel
specialist—and you will have to keep proper documentation of your
activities in the country—but it will give you much greater freedom on
the ground. Note that until Cuba resumes visa services for Americans,
only people traveling for humanitarian efforts will be permitted to make
the trip. For more comprehensive guidelines, visit
treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions.

Source: How to Travel to Cuba : Condé Nast Traveler -
http://www.cntraveler.com/daily-traveler/2014/05/how-to-travel-to-cuba