We get
this question a lot. Cuba has always been costly for international
travelers; in fact, it is the most expensive Latin American country to visit.
The average per diem in Cuba (published by US Govt) is $350+USD,
much higher than all other developed countries in Latin America.
The
demand for Cuba tourism has grown significantly and the current infrastructure simply
cannot support the increasing demand.
Charter
flights are currently the only way to go to Cuba. The US government has
not authorized any US carriers (other than charter flights) to fly into Havana.
Hotel
Availability is frequently sold out a year or more in advance and we are
fortunate that our partner, Yalla Tours, has a long established successful
history with People-to-People travel; they have been offering Cuba since 2003.
This is why we can guarantee our group the best hotels in both Havana, Melia
Cohiba, and Trinadad, Iberostar Grand. It is estimated
it will be years before additional good hotel accommodations will be available.
Why Go Now?
The
question should be “Why Not Go Now”? Cuba is in transition
for Americans to visit. The culture is not in transition. Cuba is a
country where time has literally stopped. Beautiful and historic
architecture, wonderful and colorful cars, pristine waters, and the most
beautiful people. The Cuban cultured is filled with lively music,
delicious foods and friendly, family-oriented people. The
government is still run by the Castro family and is communist. That has
not changed. You still need to travel to Cuba with a OFAC License.
Why Join Our Cuba Experience
Many of
you have traveled extensively with us, via land and/or cruise. You know
how we are committed to providing our clients the best travel experience and
the best overall travel value.
We design
our trips to be as inclusive as possible, so you are not “nickeled and dimed”
during our trips. We specify the details in advance, so you are
comfortable and confident on what is included.
You know
you are getting the best guides, hotels and exclusive touring available in the
destination.
Are there
other choices out there? Absolutely? Are they as comprehensive as
ours? Not a chance. Most other options we considered did not meet
our requirements. Yes, there is a new cruise option available, but again,
for almost the same price, you get so much less time in Cuba and you do not get
the true Cuba cultural experience.
We are
Travelers NOT Tourists!
Traveler or Tourist
Kathryn
Walsh says this very well in her USA Today Article. What are you?
Tourists
It's usually easy for locals to spot a tourist
among them. A tourist may carry a camera, guidebook and map at all times and
wear the same clothing he'd wear at home. Tourists tend to stay in their
comfort zones a bit; they may speak only English instead of trying to learn
phrases in the local language; stick to major cities instead of venturing to
smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path locales; and stay in areas where the
amenities are similar to what they have at home.
Travelers
Generally speaking, someone who considers
himself a traveler will try to immerse himself in the local culture rather than
standing out. If you're a traveler, you may try to explore the less-traveled
areas and explore locations where tourism doesn't drive the economy. You'll
interact with locals. Your goals for a trip will be to learn and experience new
things, rather than to take a relaxing break from everyday life. A traveler may
consider a trip a journey rather than a vacation.
Remember…We are Travelers! Join us this February 2017
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