is travel to cuba legal for us citizens

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? [2024 Legal Cuba Travel Guide]

I’m an American citizen who travels to Cuba all the time, so “can Americans travel to Cuba?” is one of the questions I’m most frequently asked related to Cuba travel. While many Americans believe that Cuba is still “off-limits” to American citizens, this couldn’t be further from the truth; there are many ways to legally travel to Cuba for American citizens.

Want to travel to Cuba from the United States – as a U.S. citizen or otherwise? Our ultimate guide to Cuba travel for Americans will show you how, answering some of the most common questions about Cuba travel safety , Support for the Cuban People travel , and more.

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American Travel to Cuba

The short answer to the question “can Americans travel to Cuba” is YES, American citizens can travel to Cuba.

Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba via the United States as well. American citizens can fly from the United States directly to Cuba, travel independently (no need for a group trip or guided trip here!), and enjoy Cuba just as they would any other travel destination.

The longer answer to the question “can Americans travel to Cuba” is that while legal travel to Cuba is entirely possible and even quite easy, there are some important regulations around American travel to Cuba that travelers should be aware of.

U.S.-Cuba Policy Changes

For years, U.S.-Cuba travel by citizens of the United States has been restricted in many ways. In 2014, President Obama announced a new way forward in the relationship between the United States and Cuba, including lifting many of the travel restrictions that made it quite challenging for U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba.

While the subsequent Trump and Biden administrations have made slight changes to Obama’s new policies, Obama’s new Cuba policies remain mostly intact. Americans can still travel to Cuba more easily than they’ve been able to in decades .

Cuba Travel 101

Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
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Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Here’s why so many travelers ask us, “can Americans travel to Cuba?” – because Americans are still not able to legally travel to Cuba purely as “tourists.” Americans must still have a “reason” for traveling to Cuba.

Currently, the U.S. government doesn’t allow American citizens to Cuba as tourists. However, the U.S. government allows American citizens to travel to Cuba so long as they support local, non-government-owned businesses while in Cuba.

Essentially, yes, you can visit Cuba and travel exactly as you would anywhere else. Just avoid government-run hotels, restaurants, and tours while you’re there. This is actually incredibly easy, as all the best things to do in Cuba and the best places to visit in Cuba are local anyway!

So why might it feel like Americans can’t travel to Cuba (when it’s actually quite easy to travel to Cuba)? Americans must give a “reason” for traveling to Cuba – usually when purchasing an airline ticket or booking a hotel room.

How Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

You’ll probably need to check a box when purchasing your airline ticket asking for your “reason” for traveling to Cuba. No need to get nervous; this is easy – by stating that your trip to Cuba is in “ Support for the Cuban People ,” you’re simply acknowledging that while in Cuba, you won’t be staying at government-run hotels and the like.

It’s really that easy. Check a box on a form, and travel to Cuba.

Former President Obama’s policy changes towards travel to Cuba made this possible by creating 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba , travel that is permitted by the U.S. government for American citizens looking to travel to Cuba. Now it’s as easy as checking a box and booking your airline ticket!

Best Places To Stay in Havana

Casa Giraldilla ($)
Casa Flamboyan ($ – $$)
Residencia Santa Clara ($$)
El Candil Boutique Hotel ($$ – $$$)
La Reserva Vedado ($$$)

12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Now when traveling to Cuba, you simply choose one of these twelve categories of authorized travel to Cuba that applies to your trip. Most travelers’ trips fall under the Support for the Cuban People category of authorized travel, which allows for travel to Cuba so long as it supports local businesses.

These are the Twelve Authorized Categories of travel to Cuba:

Family visits
Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and international organizations;
Journalistic activity;
Professional research and professional meetings;
Educational activities;
Religious activities;
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions;
Support for the Cuban People ;
Humanitarian projects;
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes;
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials;
Certain export transactions.

When you book your airline ticket to Cuba or book your accommodations in Cuba in advance, you may be asked your “reason” for traveling to Cuba. It’s as simple as stating “Support for the Cuban People.”

Read More: Support for the Cuban People Travel Guide

Support for the Cuban People

Most travelers looking to experience Cuba need to only offer “ Support for the Cuban People ” as their “reason” for traveling to Cuba. When you do this, it means you’re saying to the U.S. government that you acknowledge that you’re planning to spend your travel dollars with local, non-government-run businesses while you’re in Cuba – that’s it!

This is stuff that you’d be doing on a trip to Cuba anyway – which is what makes it so easy to travel normally this way.

Stay at a casa particular (room for rent or apartment for rent owned by a Cuban, Airbnb style) or a small boutique hotel, meet up with local guides, eat at any of the innovative new restaurants around the island , or experience Cuba from a local’s eyes. This is all permitted and encouraged on a “Support for the Cuban People” trip.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

Regulations on American Travel to Cuba

While many continue to ask, “ can Americans travel to Cuba ?” – one of our most frequently asked questions on this website! – the answer is yes, and with these new regulations, it’s easier than ever.

However, keep in mind that some travel regulations put in place by the U.S. government still apply to American travelers visiting Cuba. These include:

American citizens are no longer able to bring rum or cigars back from Cuba ;
American citizens are now prohibited (by the U.S. government – not the Cuban government) from staying at a variety of hotels in Cuba ;
Some methods of traveling to Cuba, such as “ people to people Cuba ” travel organized tours and the ability to travel to Cuba by cruise, have been scaled back or eliminated.

Read on for some of the regulations on travel to Cuba that Americans should be aware of during their trip.

Restricted Hotels in Cuba

One of the newer travel restrictions for Americans traveling to Cuba relates to places where American citizens are not allowed to stay while visiting Cuba. The Trump Administration developed a list of specific hotels and guesthouses that are either partially or entirely owned by the Cuban government and declared them off-limits to American travelers.

Check out the full list here before you book your accommodations in Cuba.

Some newspapers and websites have been incorrectly reporting that Americans are not allowed to stay in any hotel in Cuba, but this is not actually the case. Americans are just prohibited from staying in certain hotels that are owned entirely or partially by the Cuban government.

There are many boutique hotels with private ownership where Americans are still able to stay, plus private rentals called “casas particulares” or private home rentals like Airbnbs. In fact, some of our favorite hotels in Havana and around the country are still open and ready for business for American travelers ( La Reserva Vedado , La Rosa de Ortega , El Candil Boutique Hotel , and plenty of other Old Havana hotels are among our favorites in the capital).

Financial Restrictions in Cuba

It’s very important that American travelers to Cuba be aware of the financial and banking restrictions they will experience while traveling in Cuba. Because of the decades-long U.S. embargo against Cuba, American debit cards and credit cards will not work on the island as they do for those traveling from any other country .

That means that while American citizens can travel to Cuba, they can’t access their money from Cuba. This is quite important, as it means that if plan to travel to Cuba, you need to plan ahead and bring the money you’ll need for your trip with you in cash .

You can bring American dollars and convert them into Cuban pesos once you arrive in Cuba. Please read our complete Cuban currency guide before doing this – you’ll see why it’s not wise to exchange your money for Cuban pesos at the airport, for example, and learn how much money to bring with you on your trip to Cuba.

Internet Restrictions in Cuba

There are no internet restrictions in Cuba that are specific to American travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of some important internet-related challenges in Cuba.

We get a lot of questions about whether there is internet access in Cuba , and if there is, if it’s safe to use or restricted by the government.

While the internet in Cuba is slower than you may be used to, it is now quite widespread and is pretty easy to use in most places in Cuba. Some websites are blocked in Cuba , and there have even been widespread internet outages during times of social unrest, though these blockages have mostly been of news websites that have been critical of the Cuban government.

However, the United States embargo of Cuba and the related financial and economic restrictions on U.S. companies doing business in Cuba means that some companies can’t offer their services to internet users in Cuba (notably, PayPal and many other banking apps, but the list changes) . You will not be able to access these websites from Cuba.

You can easily get around this if you want by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) in Cuba . We recommend NordVPN – it’s by far the best VPN to use in Cuba But, even without a VPN, you can still use the internet in Cuba without too much of a hassle.

Read More: How To Use the Internet in Cuba: A Local’s Guide For Travelers

Packing Restrictions in Cuba

There are some limitations worth noting about what you can bring into Cuba. While most are quite obvious – the usual dangerous substances and the like – there are a few rules for packing for Cuba , both for travelers from the United States and elsewhere :

Travelers can not bring drones to Cuba
Travelers can not bring devices like walkie-talkies, satellite phones, or GPS devices. Any personal computers, cell phones, cameras, or any other devices you normally travel with are absolutely fine – no worries here.
Avoid bringing any literature to Cuba that may be seen as critical of the Cuban government. My brother was once held up in customs for bringing a university textbook with Donald Trump on the cover.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our Ultimate Cuba Packing List to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

American Travel to Cuba – Frequently Asked Questions

Can americans fly to cuba.

Yes – Americans can fly to Cuba! American citizens can fly to Cuba either from the United States directly or from other countries. Flights to Cuba leave regularly from many of America’s largest cities like Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, and New York.

We frequently get the “can Americans fly to Cuba?” question because when travel to Cuba was more restricted, many Americans used to fly to Cuba through Canada or Mexico as a way to skirt travel restrictions .

However, flying to Cuba via another country like Mexico or Canada is no longer a necessity. Obama’s Cuba policy changes allowed many more American citizens to travel to Cuba much more easily, kicking off many more flights to Cuba from the United States.

Do Americans Have to Travel to Cuba With A Group?

One of the most popular ways to travel to Cuba prior to the Cuba travel policy changes of former President Obama was with a “people-to-people” group or as part of an educational tour. However, with the ease of traveling to Cuba from the United States now, these group travel to Cuba experiences are no longer a necessity to visit the island.

While there are groups that travel to Cuba and tout the ease of traveling to Cuba by purchasing a spot on a group trip doing so, it isn’t necessary to travel to Cuba with a group . Feel free to travel to Cuba with a group if this is your preferred style of travel – or plan your trip to Cuba independently, too!

Looking for some engaging tours in Cuba, ways to meet up with local guides, or fun activities and excursions in Cuba? We recommend Civitatis , a fantastic company we’ve used countless times before that runs tours with local guides all around Cuba.

Is Cuba Safe for Americans?

While Cuba isn’t crime free, Cuba is a safe travel destination for all travelers, including American travelers. Statistics prove Cuba is quite a safe destination for travelers, and my own experience exploring Cuba, even as a solo female traveler, confirms it.

In all my years of visiting Cuba, I’ve never been met with anything other than curiosity when people leave I’m from the United States. While many Cubans disapprove of the government of the United States, I’ve never met a single Cuban who holds this against the average American citizen.

Overall, Cuba is safe for Americans , and as a traveler, you have absolutely nothing to fear while visiting.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers. We’ve used NordVPN for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba.

American Embassy in Cuba

Part of the policy changes of former President Obama in 2014 paved the way for reopening the United States Embassy in Cuba after nearly 60 years of closure. The American Embassy in Cuba offers emergency services to American citizens traveling in Cuba, including assistance with lost passports, registering births abroad, and more.

Located prominently along the Malecón sea wall in central Havana, the American Embassy in Cuba is currently providing services to American citizens and has just started providing limited services to Cuban citizens seeking visas to the United States.

As a U.S. traveler to Cuba, you should save the address and contact information for the embassy just in case you need it:

U.S. Embassy Havana Malecón, Calzada between L & M, Vedado Havana, Cuba Phone: (53)(7) 839-4100

Travel to Cuba

There are so many things to do in Cuba – much more than laying on the beach and riding in old, classic American cars.

Anything from taking a guided tour of Havana to eating at a restaurant operated as a small business or taking salsa classes are ways to enjoy Cuba. And guess what – all of these things are perfectly legal – and welcome! – when you travel to Cuba as part of a Support for the Cuban People trip.

For more travel ideas, we put together a guide to the top ten activities in Cuba for a Support for the Cuban People trip with our favorite ideas for a fantastic trip! Go ahead – get started planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Cuba! As always, we’ll be here to help you get started.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Yes, Americans Can Still Travel to Cuba. Here’s How

Is it legal for u.s. citizens to travel to cuba what types of travel can they take and what are cuba tourist cards here’s what you need to know about visiting cuba..

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A classic 1950s car outside row of two- and three-story pastel-colored buildings

Havana, Cuba’s capital city, is known for its vintage cars and historic architecture.

Courtesy of Spencer Everett/Unsplash

Cuba is a beautiful Caribbean island with a complex history and rich culture. But for decades, it’s been just beyond the reach of many Americans. In addition to several difficult years involving devastating hurricanes, pandemic-era travel restrictions, ever-changing U.S. State Department travel advisories, and frequently updated trade and tourism regulations , it’s not surprising that many Americans may be confused about whether and how U.S. travelers can legally visit Cuba .

As of early 2024, the short answer is: Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a U.S. citizen. There are, however, some hoops you’ll need to jump through, because (technically speaking) travel to Cuba for pure vacationing isn’t allowed. For U.S. citizens interested in planning a trip to Cuba, here’s what you need to know before you go.

Can you travel to Cuba?

The relationship between the United States and Cuba has been tumultuous, to say the least. Following the Cuban Revolution during the 1950s and the subsequent rise of Fidel Castro’s regime, diplomatic ties between the two nations deteriorated rapidly. In 1960, the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuba, effectively severing most economic and political connections.

In the time since, travel between the two countries has been heavily restricted by the U.S. government, which has implemented various policies to discourage or prohibit its citizens from visiting Cuba. Making matters more complex, those policies often changed with each presidential administration. The island nation was more accessible during the Carter, Clinton, and Obama years and more closed off during the G.W. Bush and Trump years.

In 2014, it became significantly easier for Americans to visit Cuba after President Obama announced a series of measures aimed at normalizing diplomatic ties and loosening travel restrictions to allow Americans to visit for certain purposes (more on that later). Additionally, in 2016, commercial flights between the United States and Cuba resumed for the first time in more than half a century.

However, the Trump administration made it significantly harder to visit Cuba. During his time in office, President Trump enacted more than 200 measures against Cuba , which included limiting what Cuban airports flights from the U.S. could fly into, banning cruises from stopping in Cuba, and eliminating the most common visa category under which U.S. citizens planned legal visits to Cuba (known as “people-to-people” travel).

Then in May 2022, President Biden’s administration announced it would undo many of the Cuba-related restrictions enacted under Trump and would work on expanding authorized travel. Under the new order, regular passenger and charter airplanes are again allowed to fly to any Cuban airport (and airlines announced new flight paths ). And officials said that the “people-to-people” category of travel, under which many tours and organized travel companies bring U.S. travelers to Cuba, will ultimately return, though there is no timeline on when that will happen.

Several musicians on the street in Cuba in front of a turquoise building

Cuba’s music scene is also a big draw.

Photo by Shutterstock

How to travel to Cuba as an American citizen

U.S. law states that those who want to go to Cuba need to qualify for a “general license” based on one of 12 approved categories.

The 12 categories currently authorized by U.S. government, for travel to Cuba are:

Family visits
Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Journalistic activity
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
Support for the Cuban people
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
Certain authorized export transactions

Licenses are self-qualifying, meaning that when you purchase your airline ticket, you’ll be asked to state your category in a signed affidavit before checkout.

When former President Obama first eased travel restrictions to Cuba , the move allowed leisure travelers to pursue self-led trips under the “people-to-people” educational activities category. Today, the “support for the Cuban people” category is the most popular because it’s the broadest.

What the “support for the Cuban people” license entails

To adhere to the requirements for independent travel under “support for the Cuban people,” travelers must first declare the category (when prompted) while booking flights and lodging. As part of the license, travelers are also expected to prepare an itinerary outlining how their trip will fulfill the category’s terms and contribute to Cuba’s local economy. (This itinerary could be—but isn’t always—requested on arrival to the country.)

An appropriate “support for the Cuban people” itinerary could including staying in casa particulares (locally run guesthouses), visiting Cuban-owned businesses, going on tours (like classic car rides or architecture walking tours) run by Cubans, visiting independent museums and galleries, partaking in cultural dance and music classes, and eating at locally owned restaurants and markets. (For specific recommendations and local resources, check out AFAR’s Cuba Travel Guide .)

Travelers can visit independently under that category, though it’s important you keep a record of your itinerary and your receipts: The U.S. government can ask for them up to five years after the trip.

Can you still travel to Cuba with organized tour operators?

Even though the Trump administration’s tightened restrictions on travel to Cuba prohibited organized “people-to-people” tours entirely, many tour companies have switched their approach to adhere to the “support for the Cuban people” license, according to Tom Popper, president of U.S.-based tour operator InsightCuba . Other tour providers that offer “people-to-people” trips, such as GeoEx Adventure Travel , Flash Pack , Intrepid Travel, and G Adventures, have similarly transitioned their program itineraries in order to offer legal trips to Cuba that comply with the regulations.

Challenges and considerations for travel to Cuba

Despite the easing of restrictions, traveling to Cuba as an American still presents some challenges. For example, there are limited banking services available to U.S. visitors, and American credit and debit cards are not typically accepted (as noted on the website for the U.S. embassy in Cuba ), so it’s important to bring plenty of cash. Similarly, internet access in Cuba is limited —expect connections to be patchy .

How to get a Cuba Tourist Card

The terms Cuba Tourist Cards and Cuban visas are sometimes used interchangeably.

Courtesy of Easy Tourist Card

Regardless of the license under which you travel to Cuba, you’ll still need to organize a few important documents before you go.

The Cuban government requires that all travelers entering the country provide a valid passport and proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation by air. In addition, all U.S. travelers—adults, children, and infants—must purchase a Cuba Tourist Card , which grants visitors a maximum stay of 30 days on the island. Tourist Cards are valid for 180 days after purchase, which means you will need to travel within six months of obtaining the document. Note that the terms Cuba Tourist Card and Cuban visa are sometimes used interchangeably; they’re the same thing.

There are several ways to buy a Cuba Tourist Card: Many U.S. airlines with direct service to Havana—among them United Airlines , JetBlue , American Airlines , Delta , and Southwest —offer Tourist Cards either online or at the gate; prices and purchase locations vary among carriers, so it’s important to check in advance.

Websites like Easy Tourist Card allow travelers to apply for and purchase Tourist Cards online with two-day international shipping. Those who plan to fly to Havana directly from the United States will need to purchase a pink Tourist Card at a rate of $100, while those departing from non-U.S. airports can purchase a green Tourist Card for $37, even with a U.S. passport.

“U.S. travelers should note that travel to Cuba has been regulated since 1963 and has changed under each presidential administration since that time,” states Popper of InsightCuba. “Cuba travel has always been a hot political topic, and you never know when the rules are going to change. I always tell people to go now—while you can.”

This article was originally published in 2018. It was most recently updated on March 21, 2024, to include current information.

The marsh and water at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in Alabama

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism.

If you are a US citizen, you can still visit Cuba in 2024. However, unlike your neighbors traveling from Canada , you will be subject to specific regulations from the US government.

For example, doing “tourism,” like staying at a resort on a Cuban beach , isn’t allowed. Your trip must fall into one of 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba. You must also comply with certain financial restrictions while on the island.

This article offers our first-hand experience organizing trips from the US to Cuba for over seven years. We will answer all your questions about going to Cuba as an American, including the entry requirements, the 12 categories of authorized travel, People-to-People travel, the Support for the Cuban People license, and much more.

In this guide, we cover all of it.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024?

How to travel to Cuba - Cuban giving thumbs up from balcony (1)

The simple answer is yes. It’s perfectly legal for Americans to travel to Cuba, except for explicit tourism purposes.

Americans can’t go to Cuba for tourism thanks to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of July 8, 1963, which imposed a trade embargo on the island.

However, you can travel legally to Cuba if you comply with certain Cuban and US government regulations.

Specifically, the Cuban government asks you to bring the following documentation:

The Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Visa).
Health travel insurance.
Customs and health declaration forms.

On the other hand, the US government requires you to:

Self-certify under one of the 12 travel categories of authorized travel to Cuba
Avoid spending money at certain restricted businesses.
Keep your travel receipts and records for five years.

Does that sound like a lot? In the sections below, we explain how to meet these requirements so you can travel legally to Cuba from the US.

The Cuban Tourist Card

The Cuban Tourist Card is a tourist visa that almost everyone traveling to Cuba for tourism must bring. They come in two colors: pink and green.

In most cases, US citizens must get the pink Cuban Tourist Card because they fly directly from a US airport to Cuba. However, if you plan on leaving from a non-US airport, you will need the green version.

In any case, we suggest you purchase the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline or on EasyTouristCard.com .

Buy it From Your Airline

The cost of the Cuban tourist visa is usually bundled into the ticket price. However, in some cases, you will need to purchase the visa separately. Prices range from 50 to 80 US dollars, depending on the airline.

Please note that only a few US airlines fly to Cuba. Check out Skyscanner to find all available flights from the US to Cuba.

Purchase it on EasyTouristCard.com

If you can’t get the Cuban Tourist Card through your airline, the best alternative is to purchase it online from Easy Tourist Card , a widely trusted provider.

The pink version costs about 100 US dollars, while the green version sells for roughly 35 US dollars.

Mandatory Travel Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is an entry requirement to Cuba.

Your policy must cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation. The Cuban government won’t allow you to leave the country with outstanding medical bills!

Based on our assessment of the most popular travel health insurance providers for Cuba , we recommend Insubuy .

On Insubuy , coverage for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation starts at 8 USD per week per person and is pretty comprehensive.

Customs and Health Declaration Forms

Cuba requires all travelers to bring a Sanitary Statement and a Customs Declaration form.

You can complete the documentation at D’Viajeros , the government’s website. It will save you time and annoyance at the Havana Airport !

The 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Selection of 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

A “category of authorized travel to Cuba” is also known as a “travel license” or “general license.”

Confusingly, even though it’s called a license, it is not a physical or digital document. It’s a self-certification you need to do when travel providers, such as airlines and hotels, ask you about it. In most cases, it’s just about ticking a box.

Obviously, before you tick that box, you should review whether you meet the criteria for traveling to Cuba under your chosen category.

There are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba , as defined by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC):

Family visits
Official business for the US government, foreign government, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
Support for the Cuban People
Exportation, importation or transmission of information or informational materials
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Certain export transactions

In 90% of the cases, a US citizen will travel to Cuba under either the Education Activities or the Support for the Cuban People categories.

Educational Activities (People-to-People Travel)

People-to-people travel falls under the Educational Activities category. This license aims to promote people-to-people contact, support civil society in Cuba, and encourage the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities.

You can travel under this license provided that your trip is:

Organized by a US travel company (the “sponsoring organization”).
Escorted by an employee of the sponsoring organization.

People-to-people travel is the best option for Americans who want to go in a group and prefer to avoid the hassle of planning an itinerary in compliance with the US-Cuba travel regulations.

However, not everyone likes the crowds or having a chaperone around. Besides, traveling to Cuba independently is still legal, easy, and safe . For those, there is the Support for the Cuban People category.

The Support for the Cuban People Travel Category

The Support for the Cuban People category intends to promote US travel to Cuba to strengthen civil society on the island. It covers activities that:

Foster closer connections with the Cuban people,
Contribute to the development of Cuban civil society, or
Advocate for the independence of the Cuban people from the government; and
Involve meaningful engagement and interaction with individuals in Cuba.

American travelers love this category because it’s pretty vague. You have lots of wiggle room and can pretty much do many of the activities you would in any other country.

Here are examples of activities that can “strengthen Cuban society”:

Visiting museums and historical sites.
Eating at locally-owned restaurants (paladares).
Taking Cuban cooking classes.
Taking salsa dancing lessons.
Touring a tobacco farm and learning how to roll Cuban cigars.
Taking a tour through the best of Havana .
Volunteering with a local organization or non-profit.

How does it sound?

However, we must remind you that you still can’t do tourism in Cuba under the Support for the Cuban People license. In fact, you should spend about 6-8 hours on a schedule of activities actually supporting the Cuban people.

That said, it’s not like an American official will call you daily to verify your schedule, so don’t stress too much about it.

You can also support the Cuban people in less subtle ways by:

Bringing inexpensive items as gifts for locals . Most essential products you take for granted (toiletries, hygiene products, etc.) are hard to come by in Cuba. Bringing a thoughtful gift will show your appreciation and may meet your hosts’ vital needs.
Tipping . The base wage for workers in Cuba is the equivalent of a few US dollars a month. Therefore, locals expect and highly appreciate tipping.

Finally, considering that the Internet is limited in Cuba , you should arrange your activities before you land on the island.

Restricted Businesses and Accommodations

The US Treasury Department doesn’t like Americans spending money anywhere in Cuba.

The Treasury keeps a list of businesses to which Americans must refrain from giving money. Most of these businesses are owned by the Cuban military or security services, with which the US still has a frosty relationship. You can see the full, updated list here .

The US government also forbids Americans from staying at specific accommodations listed in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .

To be safe, we recommend renting a room from Cuban Airbnbs , also known as “casas particulares.” These privately owned and highly affordable accommodations can provide you with an authentic Cuban experience.

Check out Skyscanner for the latest listings of “casas particulares” and hotels in Cuba.

Travel Receipts and Records for Five Years

The US government can ask you for your travel records and receipts for up to five years after your Cuba trip.

This sounds spooky, although anecdotally, it doesn’t happen very often. But it’s better to be safe than sorry, so keep your records safe for five years if you’re questioned about your trip.

Bonus Tip for Americans Traveling to Cuba: Stick to Private

How to Travel to Cuba - African Cuban Woman

Generally, you should purchase most travel services and products from Cuban private businesses.

We know you can’t always stick to this principle because the Cuban government owns most of the travel facilities and services on the island, including hotels, car rental companies , tour agencies, and souvenir shops.

But whenever you can support Cuban entrepreneurs, please do so. You will strengthen the legality of your trip and genuinely help Cuban society.

Besides, if you want to cut your trip to Cuba costs , purchasing from locals will get you more bang for your buck. Not only is it more affordable, but you will likely pay in Cuban currency , the Cuban Peso, which is hugely devalued compared to the US dollar.

This includes:

Booking tours from local guides .
Staying in “casas particulares.”
Eating at “paladares” (check out our food safety guide for Cuba ).
Riding in private taxis, including “almendrones,” Cuba’s old classic cars .
Buying souvenirs directly from local sellers.

For more tips and tricks you can pull in your trip to the island, read our 58 travel tips for Cuba .

US Legal Travel to Cuba, Summarized

If you are an American traveling to Cuba, you can break down the process into five relatively simple steps:

Choose the best travel category to Cuba based on your travel purpose. If you are going in a group, it will likely be Educational Activities (People-to-People travel) or Support for the Cuban People if you travel independently.
Ensure your itinerary has a full schedule of activities covered by your chosen travel category.
Avoid booking an accommodation included in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodations List .
Do not spend money on the specific prohibited businesses in Cuba .
Keep your records and receipts for five years.

Once you overcome the legal (but easy!) challenges of traveling to Cuba, you will see that the effort was well worth it. If you feel ready but don’t know when, check out our guide to the best time to travel to Cuba .

Have you traveled to Cuba as a US citizen? We want to hear from you. Please share your experience in the comments below!

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

Cuban Tourist Card – If your Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa) isn’t bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through EasyTouristCard .

Travel Health Insurance – Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you can’t skip it. Travelers can get travel health insurance for Cuba via Insubuy . Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required.

Essential Items to Pack – Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba:

First aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Water bottle with filter
Mosquito repellent
Pin adapter (for Europeans)
Travel guide
Spanish-English phrasebook
Suggested Reading: The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times

Read our complete packing list for Cuba .

Find Accommodations – Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner , which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba.

Book Your Flight – Book cheap flights to Cuba on Skyscanner , our favorite flight search engine to find deals on flights to Cuba.

About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

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Cuban Currency: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers (2024 Update)

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Cuba Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 5, 2024, cuba - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to crime information.

Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to crime .

Country Summary: Petty crime is a threat for tourists in Cuba. Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.

Travel outside of the Havana area for U.S. Embassy employees requires a special notification process which may affect the Embassy’s ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Cuba.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cuba.

If you decide to travel to Cuba:

Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad:

Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Cuba.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Getting Around

Entry to Cuba: Visas & Travel Requirements

Traffic by the Capitol building, Havana

Photo: Shutterstock

Stay updated with the latest travel information for your trip to Cuba!

Embarking on a journey to Cuba? Here's your guide to the latest visa requirements and travel protocols. Whether you're coming from North America, Europe, or elsewhere, we've got you covered.

Cuba visa application form

What are the visa and entry requirements to Cuba?

US Citizens

Planning a trip to Cuba as a US citizen? There are special regulations you need to be aware of. While tourism trips to Cuba aren't yet authorized, general licenses have been issued for a variety of travel categories. If you meet the requirements of the general license under which they plan to travel, you won't need to apply for another permit from the OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Treasury Department) for your trip.

However, it's important to note that the US Embassy in Havana and the State Department in Washington D.C do not process visa applications for trips to Cuba. If you need to apply for a visa or have any questions regarding your specific case, you should contact the Cuban Embassy in Washington D.C.

And remember, certain activities may not be allowed, so it's best to check with the US embassy for information on organizations or businesses in Cuba that U.S. citizens are not allowed to engage with due to economic sanctions or other legal restrictions.

Canadian Citizens

As a Canadian citizen, you'll need a valid passport for the duration of your stay in Cuba. Make sure your passport's expiration date isn't near to avoid any travel hiccups. Depending on your trip's purpose, you may need different types of visas. If you're traveling as a tourist, you'll need a tourist visa, which can be obtained from tour operators, airlines, or a Cuban government office in Canada.

European Citizens

If you're a European citizen planning to travel to Cuba, remember that visa protocols can vary depending on your country of residence. For most European citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. Some countries, like Spain, require the passport to be valid for at least 6 months.

It's also important to note that if you plan to travel to the United States after visiting Cuba, you'll need a visa. This is because the electronic system for travel authorization (ESTA) is not sufficient for those who have traveled to Cuba before. This visa must be obtained at the Consulate General of the US Embassy in your place of residence.

Given the varying requirements, it's a good idea to contact your tour operator or travel agency to understand the specific visa requirements for your travel.

Latin American Citizens

For Latin American citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. You'll also need to obtain a tourist visa or tourist card for your trip. This can be processed at tourism agencies or airlines, which usually handle its issuance.

The visa is generally issued for about 90 days and can then be extended. It's also important to note that you should have travel insurance with medical coverage.

Visa Costs: What to Expect

Visa costs can vary depending on where it's issued. Generally, prices range between $20 and $80. If you apply online, additional charges may apply, and prices can range from $110 to $150.

Jose Marti International Airport in Havana

What items can I bring to Cuba?

When packing for your trip to Cuba, you can bring personal effects, including personal phones and computers, free of charge. The range of objects you can bring to Cuba is quite wide, from musical instruments to televisions. However, some items may be subject to charges depending on Customs regulations.

Some items can be brought into the country without having to pay any import taxes. These include used personal objects, art and literature books, music discs, manufactured pharmaceutical products, and wheelchairs, among others.

However, it's crucial to be aware of prohibited items. While some of these, like explosives, drugs and narcotics, and blood derivatives, may seem obvious, others might surprise you. For instance, literature, articles or objects that are considered obscene, pornographic or that attack the general interests of the nation are also prohibited.

If you attempt to bring into the country articles that are not allowed for import, the General Customs of Cuba can exercise administrative sanctions. This means that Customs can seize those imported articles whose entry is prohibited in Cuba, as well as products that have been entered with a fraudulent declaration.

Travelers on a beach in Varadero

Photo: Unsplash

Health and Vaccinations

Before you embark on your journey to Cuba, it's important to ensure you're up to date with routine vaccines. This includes vaccines against chickenpox, tetanus, influenza, rubella, and polio. In the current climate, being vaccinated against COVID-19 is also essential.

Additionally, consider getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. If your trip to Cuba includes exploring nature or venturing into rural areas away from the city center for activities such as outdoor camping, the rabies vaccine is also recommended. Travelers are also advised to consider the typhus vaccine.

Can I bring my pet to Cuba?

If you're planning to bring your pet to Cuba, there are a few requirements you need to meet. Make sure your pet has the necessary vaccines and an official health certificate. You'll also need to request a travel certificate for your pet from the Consulate or Embassy of Cuba in your country.

Written by Teresita Padrón .

Published July 2023.

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Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

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Even in 2024, the question “can Americans travel to Cuba?” is still frequently asked among US travelers. Few destinations create such simultaneous longing and confusion as this crocodile-shaped island only 95 miles south of Key West . It has held a mythic status since the early 20th century for its vibrant mix of Latin and Caribbean cultures, its hundreds of miles of pristine beaches , its African-influenced music, and its vintage charm; today, Chevrolets and Buicks from the ’50s rattle down Spanish colonial streets in Old Havana that have hardly changed since Ernest Hemingway was knocking back mojitos there.

Yet Cuba has long been a metaphorical forbidden fruit due to political rifts. A web of travel restrictions imposed in the 1960s made it difficult for Americans to make the journey, an idea that still lingers today. And while the limits on tourism were largely lifted in 2016, many still find the prospect daunting.

For some insider knowledge, I spoke to Johnny Considine, founder of the travel agency Cuba Private Travel , a Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist , and a long-term resident of Havana. We discussed the steps American travelers need to take when visiting Cuba, as well as the best times to go, what to see, and more.

Tony Perrottet

The writer of this article, Tony Perrottet, is a travel journalist and the author of six books, among them Cuba Libre!: Che, Fidel, and the Improbable Revolution That Changed World History . He has visited Cuba about twenty times.

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Commercial flights run daily from Miami to Havana, a must-visit city “for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics,” says Considine.

Can Americans travel to Cuba in 2024?

Yes, travelers with US passports can travel to Cuba. Considine says that it’s perfectly legal for US individuals to visit Cuba for one of twelve specific purposes defined by the United States Treasury Department, and to travel on one of the many daily commercial flights to Havana, which mostly depart from Miami . All you need to do is tick one motive from an online list that pops up when you purchase your air ticket, of which “support of the Cuban people” is the most appropriate catch-all. (Others like “family visits” and “religious activities” technically have limited application.)

The other important US government condition is that US travelers must spend their dollars supporting private businesses in Cuba, not companies that are government-owned or operated. This has become increasingly easy, Considine says, as the private sector has expanded through the travel industry in recent years, with casas particulares (family-run homes), Airbnbs, and paladares (private restaurants) proliferating. These are the types of enterprises that savvy travelers are more likely to enjoy anyway; they offer better food , more intimate and stylish experiences, and direct encounters with everyday Cubans. You can book directly, of course, but a travel specialist can help identify appropriate businesses—Considine’s company can tailor a trip that is “one-hundred-percent private.”

Why has it been historically difficult for Americans to visit Cuba?

Hungry for foreign exchange, the Cuban government has always welcomed foreign tourists whether they are from the United States, Germany , Australia , or Argentina . The roadblock for Americans has been the US government, which effectively banned US tourists from legally visiting under the trade embargo put in place after the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. (If you’d like to learn more, my book Cuba Libre! recounts the parting of ways between the US and Cuba after Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution, and the ways relations soured as Cuba drifted into the Soviet sphere during the Cold War.)

These restrictions—first imposed in 1963 as part of the bluntly-named Trading with the Enemy Act—were loosened 53 years later by the Obama-Biden administration, allowing direct flights and travel from the US in 2016. To the disappointment of many Cubans, President Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric during his administration made many Americans believe that it had again become illegal to travel to the island, causing a drastic drop in US tourist numbers. However, Considine stresses that Trump only paused group and cruise ship travel , leaving intact the key allowances for individual trips that were put in place during the Obama years.

What kind of visas do Americans need to travel to Cuba?

The only document you need is a valid US passport . Cuban entry permits—in other words, a visa—can be purchased at the airport before boarding the flight for $85 ($50 plus $35 service fee; you can pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card). They can also be obtained online through private services, although often with hefty extra charges. Airline staff will also ask you to use your phone and scan the barcode for a passenger locator form, necessary to go through Cuban customs.

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Viñales is the place to go in Cuba for nature—the small town is lush and surrounded by limestone formations.

When is the best time to visit the most popular destinations in Cuba?

The traditional high season in Cuba has always been winter, December to February , when days are cool and clear, rather like southern Florida. But sun-lovers should consider November and the period from March to May , when it is warm enough for swimming. If you’re traveling to Cuba any time between June and October , be warned: The summer heat is oppressive and hurricanes can hit.

If I am visiting Cuba for the first time, what destinations should I visit and why?

“My holy trinity is: Havana , Trinidad, and Viñales,” Considine says. Havana is a must-see for its vibrant energy, beautiful harbor, Spanish colonial city center, and Art Deco relics. There’s also Trinidad is a perfectly-preserved colonial town at the foot of the rugged Escambray Mountains where, Considine says, “farmers live very simply, raising livestock and cooking with carbon—a way of life that may be gone in five years.” It is also by the south coast, which has diving spots worth checking out.

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Meanwhile, Viñales is a nature trip. This small town is surrounded by spectacular rounded limestone formations known as mogotes in the heart of Cuba’s verdant tobacco country. “You can do anything there: horse-riding, e-biking, yoga, hiking, and climbing,” Considine says. It’s located only a two-hour drive from the capital’s airport; US travelers can rent a car with dollars, but in practice I suggest booking a transfer to Viñales—and a place to overnight, if you’d like—through a travel specialist like Considine for a smooth trip.

What else should Americans know before visiting Cuba?

“There has never been a better time to go to Cuba than right now,” Considine says. New laws passed in 2021 permit Cuban entrepreneurs to directly import foreign goods from Italian pasta to French soap, Chilean wine to Mexican designer furniture, which has transformed the country. Grocery stores have opened in peoples’ garages, do-it-yourself restaurants offer fine cuisine, and many small family-run casas and Airbnbs have expanded into boutique hotels, many of which are quite sumptuous. For travelers, this has also expanded opportunities to meet Cubans and learn about their lives; all over the island, people are warm, open. and eager to chat.

It’s also important to note that US credit and debit cards are still not valid in Cuba. Bring cash—more than you think you will need, so you don’t run out. These days, US dollars are accepted in most places in Cuba.

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Can Americans Travel to Cuba? 2024 Complete Guide

Last Updated: December 15, 2022 June 25, 2024

In short, yes, it is possible for Americans to visit Cuba. However, the country still remains off limits for tourist activities. This means U.S citizens currently cannot visit Cuba when the sole purpose of their trip is to sightsee, go to the beach, and explore.

In 2024, U.S. citizens that wish to travel to Cuba must fall into one of the 12 approved categories of travel, determined by the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) . Visiting Cuba is not as straightforward for Americans as it is for citizens of other nations, like Canada or the United Kingdom. U.S citizens can apply for a general license under one of the authorized categories, which can take anywhere from four to six months to process, according to regulation experts . The 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba include:

Family Visits
Journalistic Activity
Professional Research and Meetings
Educational activities
Religious Activities
Public Performances, Clinics, Workshops, Exhibitions, Athletic and Other Competitions
Support for the Cuban People
Humanitarian Projects
Activities of Private Foundations, or Research or Educational Institutes
Official Business of the U.S. Government, Foreign Governments, and Certain Intergovernmental Organizations
Exportation, Importation, or Transmission of Information
Authorized Export Transactions

To apply for a license, or to learn more about the different categories of approved travel, visit the official OFAC website .

Cuba Travel Restrictions & Requirements

The U.S Passport is welcome and accepted at the Cuban borders. Most of the policies in place that prohibit tourist travel to Cuba come from the United States. Below are some of the main travel restrictions and requirements to keep in mind when traveling to Cuba.

Cuba Entry Requirements

To gain entry to Cuba, American citizens are required to possess specific documents upon arrival. It’s important to start gathering these documents as early as possible to avoid issues at the border. Below is a simplified list of entry requirements, compiled by Cuba Unbound .

Return Travel Documents: Travelers must show proof of entry and departure dates in order to receive a valid visa.
Valid Cuban Tourist Card/Visa: U.S citizens traveling to Cuba must acquire a valid Visa, also known as a Cuban Tourist Card. These cards can be purchased online for $50-$100, are valid for 30 days, and take roughly 48 hours to process.
Certification of Travel Form: This document outlines the approved category in which U.S citizens are traveling to Cuba.
Valid Passport : Americans are required to have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay.
Proof of Travel Medical Insurance : Cuba requires all foreigners to purchase medical insurance prior to entry.

Cuba Travel Insurance Requirements

Since 2010, the Cuban government has required all visitors from abroad to provide proof of medical insurance when visiting the island. While there are no requirements on the amount of coverage travelers need, U.S citizens visiting Cuba must purchase a policy that includes Emergency Medical coverage, as well as Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth recommends travelers visiting Cuba consider a travel insurance policy with at least $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage, and at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation & Repatriation coverage. Squaremouth’s Cuba Travel Insurance page provides more information and specific policy recommendations for travelers planning to visit the country.

Typically, single trip travel insurance premiums will equate to 5-10% of a traveler’s total insured trip costs. According to Squaremouth data, the average Cuba travel insurance policy cost travelers roughly $200.

Visiting Cuba From the U.S.

For more than 60 years, U.S travel to Cuba has been a complex issue. With that said, there are plenty of reasons why Cuba, home to more than 400 white-sand beaches and over 3,500 miles of coastline, has remained a desirable destination for American travelers. In relation to neighboring Caribbean countries, many of which are consistently among the most popular destinations for Americans, Cuba has a relatively low crime rate. With that said, the U.S Department of State’s Cuba Travel Advisory recommends exercising increased caution when visiting the island due to petty crime, such as theft, sometimes targeted towards tourists.

What Airports Fly to Cuba From the U.S?

Regardless of the complexities of traveling to Cuba as a U.S citizen, there are still multiple airports and airlines that provide non-stop flights to Havana, the nation’s capital. According to Simple Flying , eligible U.S citizens traveling to Cuba can find non-stop service from the following airports:

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Texas
Tampa International Airport (TPA), Florida
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Florida
Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida

For those interested in which airlines fly directly to Cuba, SkyScanner shares that American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, jetBlue, and United all provide such services to eligible U.S citizens.

Travel Tips When Visiting Cuba

Currency: The currency used in Cuba is known as the Cuban Peso. One US dollar is equivalent to roughly 25 Cuban Pesos. Credit cards and debit cards are commonly accepted in major cities, but cash is typically preferred.

Language: Spanish is the official language of Cuba, but you may find most locals speaking a unique variety of Spanish known as Cuban Spanish. English is not commonly spoken throughout Cuba.

Accommodations: As of December 2020, US travelers are not permitted to stay in Cuba’s government-run hotels. Instead, most Americans that visit Cuba will stay in a casas particulares, a home-sharing program similar to Airbnb.

Embassy: There is a U.S. Embassy located in Havana. The embassy may be able to assist with issues with your Cuban visa or help arrange emergency transportation back to America.

Everything you need to know about traveling legally to Cuba

Sep 3, 2019 • 7 min read

Though it will require some extra work, Americans can still travel to Cuba © Getty Images

Despite a well-publicized announcement by the Trump administration in June 2019, it is still relatively easy for Americans to travel legally to Cuba . All that’s required is a little bit of background reading and some careful post-trip accounting.

Aerial view of the Old Havana skyline at sunset, Cuba

How to qualify for travel to Cuba?

Despite recent bans on cruise liners and ‘people-to-people’ trips, US citizens can still apply for a ‘general license’ to travel to Cuba under 11 different categories listed by the US Department of the Treasury. These range from public performances to athletic competitions to humanitarian projects. Independent travelers with no specific affiliations are best off qualifying under the ‘support for the Cuban people’ category, a relatively open classification which states prospective visitors should:

‘engage in a full-time schedule of activities that enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities and that result in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba.’

General licenses are self-qualifying and require no long-winded paperwork. To avoid any legal ramifications when returning to the US, you are advised to draw up a detailed trip itinerary before you go and to keep all receipts and addresses of places where you stayed and visited for five years after your return.

Essential bedtime reading for all aspiring Cuba travelers is the regularly updated Department of the Treasury Cuba fact sheet . Fair warning, the language may seem a little daunting, but it’s not nearly as scary as it sounds.

How did we get here?

Trump administration bans cruises to Cuba
Impact of newest Trump regulations on travel to Cuba

Getting there

With cruise ships no longer calling at Cuban ports, airplanes are the only option for Cuba-bound travelers. Scheduled flights from the US, reintroduced by the Obama administration in 2016, continue to run from a half a dozen US airports with Miami being the main gateway. Cooperating airlines include JetBlue, American, Delta, Southwest and United.

Airlines should provide you with the necessary Cuban tourist card before you embark (double-check when booking). Prices range from US$50 to US$100 depending on which airline you fly with.

Where to stay

The Trump admin restrictions prohibit Americans from staying at any hotel run by the Cuban government’s military arm, Gaviota (see a full list of banned places here ). Thankfully, this as a blessing in disguise. Cuba’s state-run hotels aren’t its best accommodation options.

You’re far better off staying in one of the country’s thousands of safe, homely casas particulares (private homestays). Here, you’ll not only get better food and service, but you’ll also receive a candid and uncensored view of Cuban life and, in doing so, be engaging in ‘meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba.’

You can book private accommodation in Cuba in advance with a credit card through Airbnb or Booking.com. Most casas particulares cost between US$25 to CUC$45 per night.

Getting around

The best way to get between major towns in Cuba is either with Viazul , the national bus company or by colectivo (shared) taxi. Safe albeit slow buses run regularly between all main Cuban towns, but colectivos are faster, friendlier and more adept at delivering you door-to-door. Casa particular owners can usually organize colectivo taxi service at relatively short notice. Most taxis are technically private, meaning you’ll also be giving all-important support to the Cuban people.

Despite optimistic political rhetoric, US credit cards still don’t work in Cuba. It is thus necessary to come armed with plenty of cash. US dollars can be readily exchanged in Cuban banks, albeit with a 13 percent commission. Cuban convertibles ($CUC) are pegged 1:1 with the US dollar.

Cuban musician with a beard, wearing a Panama hat and colorful shirt standing against a closed yellow store shutter, playing a trumpet outdoors; Cuba

Traveling throughout Cuba

To avoid interactions with Gaviota businesses, circumvent the state-run sector as much as possible and stick to the private sphere. Private enterprise has blossomed in Cuba since the easing of business restrictions in 2011, meaning there are plenty of attractive options to choose from.

Where to go

For a trip of two weeks or less, kick-off in the capital, Havana before branching out west to the green tobacco fields of Viñales and then looping back east via Cienfuegos to Trinidad . After basking for a day or two in Cuba’s famous stuck-in-time sugar town, head back to Havana with quick stops in the gritty city of Santa Clara and the emerging art nexus of Matanzas along the way.

Havana is celebrating its 500th anniversary in 2019 meaning its fabulously restored old town (a Unesco World Heritage Site) has never looked so beautiful. Check out the freshly restored Capitolio Nacional (a close copy of Washington’s Capitol building), along with the city’s growing stash of creative private restaurants and its deep well of cutting-edge art galleries. A visit to the Gaudi-inspired street art project of Fusterlandia is a must.

Fine places to stay include Casa 1932 in the congenial ‘hood’ of Centro Habana where your host, Luís Miguel, a connoisseur of art deco, runs superb architectural-themed city tours in old American cars. For the perfect marriage of music and art, head to the truly revolutionary Fȁbrica de Arte Cubano where for just US$2, you’ll get six hours of cultural education (and entertainment).

For back-to-the-roots Cuban food, look no further than Doña Eutimia near Havana’s baroque cathedral (the picadillo is highly recommended). For cool fusion and potent cocktails, hit the roof terrace at El del Frente .

A fog covers a rural valley in Vinales, Pinar del Rio, Cuba

In Viñales, private guides can take you by foot or on horse-back around verdant tobacco plantations and oxen-plowed eco-farms. At Vega Quemada de Rubi in nearby San Juan y Martínez, you can even undertake a few days of voluntary work nurturing the crops of Hector Luís Prieto , one of Cuba’s finest cigar producers.

Cuba beyond the capital

Ignored for nearly a century after its high watermark in the 1850s, Trinidad remains one of the best-preserved colonial towns in the Americas. Stay at the 200-year-old house of Julio Muñoz , a horse whisperer and published photographer who runs an equestrian center and often brings his beautiful horse, Luna de Miel, into his living room. Señor Muñoz has recently branched into gastronomy, opening a town center tapas bar where you can fuel up on everything from lobster to homemade tres leches cake.

Santa Clara is a city that pays homage to Che Guevara – his much-visited mausoleum sits on the outskirts of the city – but it’s primarily a university town with a unique nightlife full of spontaneous surprises. For the best action, head to Club Mejunje , a wonderfully diverse cultural venue hosted in a converted ruin where LGBTQ shows alternate with thrash metal gigs.

The town’s finest food can be procured on the palatial patio of Restaurant Florida Center where the lobster and prawns in a ‘secret’ tomato sauce can be enjoyed in an atmosphere of refined sophistication.

A statue of Jose Marti and Liberty stand in the middle of main square in Matanzas; legal travel Cuba

On the way back to Havana, divert your private taxi to Finca Coiincidencia near Matanzas where farmer turned ceramist, Hector Correa has turned his rustic domain into an eco-conscious sculpture gallery. Under the bottle-green mango trees, you can enjoy a cup of farm-grown coffee sweetened with honey from Hector’s bees and sipped from a mug that the owner made himself.

It’s a fitting end to a trip that will not only put you in touch with Cuba’s hard-working cuentapropistas (private businesspeople) but will also uncover the genius that this buoyant, sophisticated, eternally beautiful country can offer both America and the world.

Tours from the US

Although the Trump administration ended group people-to-people trips in 2019, several US companies have continued to offer licensed Cuba tours by re-registering under the 'support for the Cuba people' category.

These include:

Cuban Adventures : Australian-based company specializing in Cuba travel that also runs licensed trips for American travelers.

Cuba Travel Services : Great source of general travel information for US travelers. They also arrange flights, accommodation, car rental and travel packages.

Insight Cuba : A well-established registered Cuba operator serving American travelers. Insight's trips include a one-week jazz-themed excursion and a trip to run the Havana marathon in November.

GeoEx : Runs luxury people-to-people trips of six to eight days duration from the US, plus opportunities to build your own custom trip. Tours can include everything from meeting diplomats to delving into Cuba's complex religious rites.

Road Scholar : The largest non-profit provider of learning adventures in Cuba, with six trips including birdwatching, community art projects and organic farm visits.

Updated Sept. 2019

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Cuba Travel Restrictions and Warnings: What You Need to Know

Brent Winebrenner / Getty Images

The ability for Americans to travel freely to Cuba has been a hotly contested topic since the 1960s, with conservative administrations routinely placing embargos on American tourism and progressive administrations oftentimes lifting those restrictions and allowing forms of transit between the two countries.

In June 2017, the United States Department of State policy explicitly banned tourism to Cuba from the U.S., even on the "people-to-people" programs (licensed guided tours). A June 2019 announcement from the U.S. Department of State furthered restrictions, declaring that the U.S. additionally "no longer permits visits to Cuba via passenger and recreational vessels, including cruise ships and yachts, and private and corporate aircraft."

However, there are some exceptions to these laws that permit travel for families and students who book travel on commercial airlines. Knowing the history and current travel restrictions, advisories, and rules regarding travel to Cuba is ultimately essential to planning a trip to this Caribbean destination.

History of Travel Restrictions to Cuba

The U.S. government has limited travel to Cuba since 1960—after Fidel Castro came to power—and to this day, travel for tourist activities remains controlled largely due to a fear of communism in Cuba. Initially, the American government limited sanctioned travel to journalists, academics, government officials, those with immediate family members living on the island, and others licensed by the Treasury Department.

In 2011, these rules were amended to allow all Americans to visit Cuba as long as they were taking part in a "people-to-people" cultural exchange tour. The rules were amended again in 2015 and 2016 to effectively allow Americans to travel solo to Cuba for authorized reasons, without getting prior approval from the U.S. State Department. Travelers were still required to prove that they engaged in authorized activities if asked upon return.

In the past, authorized travel to Cuba typically took place via charter flights from Miami as scheduled flights by U.S. airlines had long been illegal. However, President Barack Obama's Cuba travel rules opened up direct flights from the U.S. to Havana and other major Cuban cities beginning in the fall of 2016. Additionally, cruise ships once again started calling on Cuban ports.

Some U.S. citizens—tens of thousands, by some estimates—skirted the U.S. travel regulations by entering from the Cayman Islands, Cancun , Nassau, or Toronto, Canada. In the past, these travelers would request that Cuban immigration officials not stamp their passports to avoid problems with U.S. Customs upon returning to the U.S. However, violators faced fines or more severe penalties.

2017 Travel Restrictions to Cuba

On June 16, 2017, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a return to the strict policies surrounding American travel to Cuba that existed before President Obama softened the country's stance in 2014. This edict restricted Americans from visiting the country as individuals under the "people-to-people" program, and most travel would be done by guided tours run by licensed providers.

Visitors were also required to avoid financial transactions with military-controlled businesses within the country, including certain hotels and restaurants. With these changes, some airlines stopped flying to Havana, while others continued to do so; cruise ships continued to take passengers to Cuba and offer group tours from the ships.

Under the 2017 rules, Americans could still travel to Cuba independently under some of the 11 categories of allowed travel, including travel for humanitarian purposes and in "support of the Cuban people." Tourists could also still conduct transactions while visiting local restaurants and shops as long as they are not affiliated with the dis-allowed government entities. In fact, in doing so they were "supporting the Cuban people."

2019 Restrictions for Travel to Cuba

On June 4, 2019, the U.S. Department of State announced new travel restrictions on United States citizens traveling to Cuba:

"Going forward, the United States will prohibit U.S. travelers from going to Cuba under the previous ‘group people-to-people educational’ travel authorization. In addition, the United States will no longer permit visits to Cuba via passenger and recreational vessels, including cruise ships and yachts, and private and corporate aircraft."

These regulations only permitted travel from the United States aboard commercial airlines, largely for Cuban families, military service members, and other licensed and authorized travelers.

State Department Advisory for Cuba

In addition to the 2019 travel restrictions, the United States Department of State issued a Level 2 Advisory on August 23, 2018:

"Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to attacks targeting U.S. Embassy Havana employees resulting in the drawdown of embassy staff. Numerous U.S. Embassy Havana employees appear to have been targeted in specific attacks. Affected individuals have exhibited a range of physical symptoms including ear complaints and hearing loss, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, cognitive issues, visual problems, and difficulty sleeping. Attacks have occurred in U.S. diplomatic residences (including a long-term apartment at the Atlantic) and at Hotel Nacional and Hotel Capri in Havana."

In response, the U.S. Embassy in Havana reduced its staff, and restricted family members from accompanying U.S. government employees who work in Cuba. Only U.S. diplomatic staff were affected by the attacks. No tourists were involved.

Spending Money in Cuba

If you are allowed to visit Cuba, it's still not easy to spend American dollars there. U.S credit cards generally don't work in Cuba, and exchanging dollars for convertible Cuban pesos (CUC) includes an extra fee that's not charged to any other international currency.

As a result, many savvy travelers take Euros, British pounds, or Canadian dollars to Cuba, which get a fair exchange rate. Ultimately, though, you'll still need to bring enough cash for your entire trip if you're traveling from the U.S. since American credit cards and bank cards likely won't work where you're going.

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

The Best Time to Visit Cuba

Licensed Cuba Travel Providers

A Guide to Public Transport in Cuba

What Americans Traveling to Cuba Need to Know

Weather in Cuba: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Top Cuba Tour Operators for Americans

Cubas Capital City of Havana

Cuba Guide: Planning Your Trip

Top Travel Destinations and Attractions in Cuba

Top 9 Things to Do in Cuba

One Perfect Week in Cuba

8 Museums to Visit in Cuba

10 Foods You Must Try in Cuba

The Top 17 Things to Do in Cuba

Is It Safe in the Caribbean?

Can Americans travel to Cuba? I did. Here’s how. [2024 Update]

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Can Americans travel to Cuba? They can, because I’m American and I’m here. I’m nervous in the waiting line at Cuban immigration, but I know I shouldn’t be. I did everything right.

Still, this is Cuba. I’m visiting Cuba as an American. Can Americans even visit Cuba? Yeah, we can. This country has been off-limits to us since 1959 — though that hasn’t stopped lots of Americans from visiting Cuba both legally and quasi-legally.

The agent calls me forward. I hand him my navy blue passport and half-smile, half-cringe. Yes, I’m here, and I’m American, and I’m sorry our country has cut you off, and I disagree with it — but hey, I’m here, and I want to get to know you. It’s an expression that will color my face for days, until a cooking class in central Havana sets me straight.

“Stamp?” he asks, holding up the stamp. Cuba is like Israel; they won’t stamp your passport if you don’t want them to.

Do I get a Cuba stamp? Will American immigration care? Will it get me hassled at the border for years to come? I only just got this new passport in April.

But I want it.

“Sí,” I tell him.

He brings the stamp down on my passport. “Welcome to Cuba.”

Want to know where to go? Check out my post on the best places to visit in Cuba !

This post was last updated in April 2024.

Table of Contents

Kate wears a bright pink romper and stands in front of a bright pink classic car in Havana.

Can Americans travel to Cuba?

Yes, Americans can travel to Cuba. Americans can easily get a Cuban travel visa, and you can even fly to Cuba from the United States. The process is a lot easier than you might think .

No, Americans cannot use credit cards or even ATMs in Cuba. Your bank will freeze your account if you attempt to do so. Here is how Americans are allowed to use money in Cuba.

There is internet in Cuba, but it’s very limited — most of the time, you need to buy a one-hour wifi card and visit an access point in order to use it. Find out how here.

Yes, there are nonstop flights to Havana from cities like Miami, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and more. In order to take these flights to Cuba, you must have a visa to Cuba .

Trump removed the “people-to-people” category for visas to Cuba, but you can get a similar visa under the “support for the Cuban people” category, and it’s still as easy to visit Cuba as it was when Obama was president. Biden has not made any major changes since taking office in January 2021.

Yes, Americans can travel to Cuba — there are multiple ways to do so. You can visit Cuba in a completely legal way, obtaining a visa in advance, or you can do what many Americans do — simply book a flight from another country, like Mexico.

Read on for the ways to visit Cuba legally when you hold a US passport.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? (COVID Entry Requirements)

COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, led to travel restrictions around the world, including Americans traveling to Cuba.

April 2024 update: There are no longer COVID-related entry requirements for entering Cuba.

A negative test is no longer a requirement for foreigners entering Cuba, and it’s no longer a requirement to be fully vaccinated against COVID. There is no longer a quarantine requirement, either.

Face masks and hand sanitizer are in short supply in Cuba, and it’s a good idea to bring your own.

You can find more specific information from the US State Department here .

Do NOT travel if were exposed to COVID-19, if you are sick, if you test positive for COVID-19, or if you are waiting for results of a COVID-19 test. Learn when it is safe for you to travel. Don’t travel with someone who is sick.

For more information on Cuba and why American citizens aren’t allowed to visit Cuba in most circumstances, and what changed, read on!

A view of the lighthouse on the ocean in Havana underneath a blue sky.

How to Get a Visa to Cuba as an American

If you want to visit Cuba as an American and do it legally, you will need to obtain a Cuban visa in advance. This is also called a “general license” and the Cuban government requires it to travel to Cuba. It can be a bit confusing, but calling it the general license is the way to go.

There are 12 categories for your general license, decided by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) :

1: Family visits

2: Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations

3. Journalistic activity

4: Professional research and professional meetings

5: Educational activities

6: Religious activities

7: Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions

8: Support for the Cuban people

9: Humanitarian projects

10: Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes

11: Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials

Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing Department of Commerce regulations and guidelines with respect to Cuba or engaged in by U.S.-owned or -controlled foreign firms.

There used to be a “People-to-People Activities” category, which was part of “Educational Activities” and one of the easiest categories to fulfill, but that category was removed during the Trump Administration.

Joining a tour group can be a fun way to visit Cuba — but keep in mind that many international tour operators that offer Cuba tours don’t allow American citizens to join them. There are other, specialized Cuba tour operators that provide the paperwork that allows Americans to visit (often trips that qualify as journalistic or religious activities).

And what about Cuba cruises? There used to be a handful of cruise lines traveling to Cuba, but not these days. Cruise ships are not docking in Cuba during COVID. Will this change in the future? We’ll see.

Best Way to Get a General License

If you are a regular person who wants to visit Cuba as a tourist, I recommend getting a general license under the “Support for the Cuban people” travel category. This is similar to acquiring one through a tour operator, and the easiest way to do so is to work with a company like ViaHero .

ViaHero builds custom itineraries for trips, and each itinerary is designed by locals . While ViaHero operates all over the world, they are particularly good for Cuba because a ViaHero itinerary will count as valid documentation for the “Support for the Cuban People” general license.

Best of all, ViaHero will book your transportation in Cuba — usually a huge headache on your own — and they’ll walk you through getting your Cuba visa. You can learn more here.

If you have a visa, you can fly direct to Cuba from the United States! Seriously. There are flights from Miami, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and more. Even on American Airlines. You can find cheap flights from the US to Cuba on Skyscanner. Some flight booking websites won’t show flights to Cuba, but Skyscanner does.

If you’re flying to Cuba from the United States, you’ll need to pick up the “pink tourist card” at the airport. You can get this at check-in or at the ticket office of your airline. (You can also buy it in advance , but this isn’t necessary. I wouldn’t waste your money on the $35 “processing fee.”)

Most travelers to Cuba get the regular or “green tourist card,” but if you’re arriving on a flight from America, you’ll need the pink tourist card.

If you have a visa but you’re flying to Cuba via Mexico or another country, you will need the green Cuban tourist card instead. More on that below.

Rows of different Havana Club rum bottles

Visiting Cuba as an American Without a Visa or General License

The other way to visit Cuba as an American is a bit of a legal gray area: flying into another country and booking a separate flight to Cuba from there. Cancún is a popular option, as it’s often cheap to fly there and flights from Cancún to Havana take just over an hour.

You can also fly to Havana from Mexico City, Mérida, and several other cities in Mexico. And of course, you can fly there from Canadian cities like Toronto.

For cheap flights to Cuba, I recommend using Skyscanner. Some flight booking websites won’t show flights to Cuba, but Skyscanner does.

If you choose to visit Cuba this way, you will not need to secure a visa in advance. The only thing you will need is the Cuban tourist card, sometimes called the “green tourist card.” You pick this up at the airport — you go to your airline’s ticket office.

In Cancún’s airport, Interjet sells the tourist cards where you get in line to check in for the Havana flight. The cost is 25 USD.

Cuban immigration doesn’t care if you show up without an American visa. It makes zero difference to them. The only thing they care about is the tourist card. And Cuba won’t stamp your passport if you don’t want them to.

What else do Americans need to know before visiting Cuba?

Travel insurance is required in order to visit Cuba. You may or may not be asked for proof of this (I wasn’t). I recommend printing it out so you’ll be able to show it.

Americans can’t spend any money at Cuban establishments on the restricted list. Many government-owned hotels are on the list, so you should double-check the list before booking your stay. You can see the full list here.

You should also keep your receipts. The US government is allowed to ask you for your receipts from a trip to Cuba for up to five years after you return.

A church in Old Havana, set against a blue sky.

Money in Cuba as an American

But visiting Cuba as an American is complicated. Americans cannot make financial transactions in Cuba. You can’t use ATMs, debit cards, or credit cards, even if you have a visa, which means that you need to arrive with all the cash you’d need for your full stay.

I have a bit of a cushion on my trip — I’m traveling to Cuba with my boyfriend Charlie and our friend Klara. Charlie is a British citizen with Czech permanent residency; Klara is a Czech-Canadian dual citizen. Both are able to use ATMs, debit cards, and credit cards in Cuba; if I run out of money, I can rely on them.

Soon, however, we learn that ATMs don’t always work in Cuba — even for non-Americans. Charlie arrived a day before me with some cash, planning to hit the ATM later to take out more, but ATMs in Havana aren’t working for him. At all. We keep trying ATM after ATM; none of them are working on any of his cards.

After a quick visit to the wifi zone outside the Hotel Ingleterra (more on that later) and sending a quick Facebook message to Klara reading, “BRING 400 EUROS, NONE OF THE ATMS ARE WORKING!!” — we try another ATM a few blocks away and finally, blessedly, it works.

It turns out that ATMs in Cuba don’t always like MasterCard. This is a good reason to have a lot of backup cash in Cuba, no matter what your nationality is.

So how do American travelers handle money in Cuba? You’ll be in good shape if you bring US dollars or Euros and exchange them on the ground.

(In the past, US dollars got you a worse rate, but as of early 2024, US dollars and Euros both get you a good rate.) I expected to see exchange shops everywhere in Havana and was shocked when I didn’t see any.

People exchange money at the banks in Cuba, and there are always long lines. You’re best off exchanging money at your accommodation. You can also exchange money at the airport, but you’ll pay a much worse exchange rate.

If I had been traveling solo in Cuba, or only traveling with Americans, I would have kept enough US dollars for transportation to Havana Airport and a flight to Cancún in my underwear at all times. Seriously. I have never done that on my travels, but I would in Cuba. There is no financial safety net here.

And because you’re traveling with large amounts of cash, it’s imperative to keep it stowed safely. I highly recommend using a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf , which has a hidden pocket the perfect size for a wad of bills and comes in a variety of light fabrics that won’t make you sweat in Cuba. I even designed my own.

You’ll want to bring a portable safe, too. I use a Pacsafe Travelsafe and consider it the most important thing I pack.

Hide cash in secret places in your luggage, too. One of my favorite spots is in a maxi pad or tampon applicator. One of the few nice things about toxic masculinity is that some uptight men will refuse to touch menstrual products — and that makes them great hiding places.

Beyond that, Cuba has two currencies — Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) and Cuban National Peso (CUP). Most of the time, travelers will use CUC, and it’s valued to the US dollar. CUP are valued at 24 to the CUC and are primarily used by locals.

The easy way to tell them apart? CUC has monuments on it, while CUP has faces on it.

Get rid of your Cuban currency before returning to the US, as you won’t be able to exchange it at US banks and currency conversion places.

View of the Capitol building and the streets of Havana after sunset.

Where to Stay in Cuba

Hotels definitely exist in Cuba — they tend to be large properties and beach resorts. But if you want to stay somewhere more local and special, and put money into the pockets of Cuban citizens who need it, I recommend staying in casas particulares.

Casas particulares are rooms or entire apartments in private homes that Cubans rent out to visitors. They are often quite cheap, usually around $25 per room, and that’s what I paid ($25 for my one-bedroom in Viñales and $50 for my two-bedroom in Havana).

I loved both of the places where I stayed. In Havana I stayed at this two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment on the edge of Old Havana for $50 per night. It was large and spacious, and felt like an oasis, though it was very loud with the buses rumbling by on the street downstairs. It was fine with earplugs.

In Viñales I stayed at this one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite in a casa particular in town. It was large and spacious with two rocking chairs on the porch out front — peaceful in the countryside!

You can find casas particulares through Airbnb. I recommend using Airbnb to check out what’s available — see cases particulares in Havana here .

The wonderful thing about casas particulares is that they’ll hook you up with the rest of your stay! Looking to head to Trinidad or Cienfuegos next? Tell your casa host, and they’ll call someone they know there and get a room reserved for you at the next place. They’ll even get you a ride if you need one.

My casas particulares also organized onward transportation, tours, currency exchange, and provided drinking water.

This is one of the things I enjoyed most about Cuba — the networks that people have. It’s a throwback in the best possible way.

A shiny purple classic car on a brightly colored Havana street.

What’s Havana like?

What do people picture when they think about Cuba? Classic cars lining the streets, crumbling colonial buildings, high-rise hotels, salsa bands, beaches lining the edges of the city? Kind of.

Here are my Cuban observations:

Cubans come in every color of the rainbow. I remember in the movie Moonlight when Juan, played by Mahershela Ali, says, “I’ve been here a long time. I’m from Cuba. Lot of black folks in Cuba. You wouldn’t know that from being here, though.”

You’ll see Cubans that look African, Italian, Ecuadorian, Scandinavian, and there’s a sizable Chinese community in Cuba, too. There is no one way to look Cuban, at least physically.

The classic cars really are a thing in Cuba. Everyone knows about Cuba’s classic cars, and it’s entertaining to see what drives down the street. You see a lot of Russian cars like Ladas. The nicest, shiniest classic cars are used for expensive taxi rides and city tours for tourists.

Roughly one third of the cars in and around Old Havana were classic cars; there were also plenty of grungy 80s hatchbacks and early 2000s taxis. Unfortunately the old cars have terrible exhaust.

Cubans have an interesting accent. It’s unlike any other Spanish accent I’ve heard, and the letter s gets dropped often. Viñales becomes “bin-yallih” and even más becomes “ma.”

Cubans really love their Havana Club rum. When I first got to Florence for my semester abroad, my roommates and I were so excited that you could drink Cuban rum in Italy! Here, it’s just normal. You can do a tour of the Museo del Ron , or just sit back with a cocktail.

My recommendation: try a Havana Special cocktail with rum, maraschino, and pineapple juice. The tastiest one was at Chacon 162 ; another standouts was the creamy piña colada on the rooftop of El Louvre Bazar . [2024 update: sadly, Más Habana has closed.]

Throughout Havana you see vegetable carts pushed through the street. These carts are almost always laden with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. Occasionally you might see sweet potatoes, bitter oranges, or garlic, but there’s very little variety.

Cubans love their NBA jerseys. Most of them were Michael Jordan jerseys; LeBron jerseys and Celtics merchandise were popular choices as well. I’m fairly certain I didn’t see merchandise from any other sport. A bit surprising — I expected Cubans to be more fans of baseball than basketball.

Grocery stores are sparse. It looks like the bread aisle in Massachusetts after a Nor’easter is on the way — shelves are mostly empty. And in other stores, you’ll see rows and rows of identical items, rather than several different brands. And it goes without saying that you see zero American brands in Cuban grocery stores.

Many Cubans are rough with their dogs. I grimaced at the number of Cubans whom I saw yank the leash on their dog’s neck, hard.

It feels like every Cuban is a talented singer, dancer, or musician. I loved almost all of the Cubans I met, and it seems like Cubans really take the time to savor and enjoy life. One of the ways is by sharing music. Just a casual band playing in a bar at 2:00 PM could be one of the best bands you’ve ever heard.

And that’s what I observed on the surface level. But to gain a greater understanding of Cuba, you need to talk to Cubans directly.

Kate stands in front of a mural in Cuba reading "Viva Cuba Libre" with a Cuban flag.

Cuban Conversations

A hot pink Corvette drops us off at a brightly painted building in Central Havana. We’ve signed up for a seafood cooking class — one of the most highly rated Airbnb Experiences we saw, filled with rave reviews.

Odalys has been waiting with plates of prepped vegetables. She shows off the three lobsters — not quite North Atlantic lobsters, but large and juicy. We’re going to be making lobster enchiladas today, but they’re not the kind of enchiladas you might expect — there are no tortillas in sight. This is lobster stewed in sauce.

Her friend Ivan serves as translator. “You can each cut the vegetables. Cut them small.”

Three sets of hands chopping the raw lobster, still in its shell.

We each take our place — me with peppers, Charlie with garlic, Klara with onions, dicing them up tiny. When we’re finished, Odalys shows us how to make the proper breaks on the lobster tail, locate its intestine, and pull it out, long and spaghetti-like.

As a native New Englander, I know my way around a whole lobster, but damn, I’ve never disemboweled one before! (Is, um, is this something we’re always supposed to do?)

Odalys shows us how to cut the lobster tail, still in its shell, and we stew it in the onions, peppers, and garlic. Odalys opens a bottle of crushed tomatoes and adds it to the sauce with lots of cayenne pepper.

Onions, peppers, and tomatoes. Same as the ingredients in ropa vieja , the only Cuban dish I’ve attempted to cook before. Same as the ingredients in the Cuban shrimp dish we had the night before.

And then it hits me.

Onions, peppers, and tomatoes, again and again. These were the only vegetables I saw on the carts. Maybe these vegetables are the ingredients of so many Cuban dishes because these are the only vegetables Cubans can access on a regular basis .

That moment knocks me over. Imagine if you only had access to a few vegetables.

As the lobster cooks, we squish plantains for tostones, chop up tomatoes, and add lime juice to our glasses filled with Havana Club rum.

Ivan leans in periodically to translate Odalys’s instructions, and he’s casually browsing the internet on his phone the whole time — an unexpected image. Most people in Cuba make the most out of their limited internet and focus intently, signing out the moment they are finished to save the minutes for next time.

Ivan was one of the first Cubans to get a 4G package for locals, which began rolling out in late 2019.

We compliment Ivan on his English — he even gets idioms. “I get the weekly package,” he replies. “I watch Kimmel, I watch Trevor Noah.”

The weekly package, El Paquete Semanal, is something truly unique to Cuba — it’s a terabyte of data worth of TV shows, movies, apps, and classified ads. It gets collected by anonymous Cubans and distributed via networks across Havana and the whole island. They come to your house and copy the hard drive onto your computer.

The cost? $1. The BBC did a feature on it here.

It’s internet without internet — an amazing way that Cubans use their networks to connect with the world.

Lobster stewed in tomatoes, onions and peppers.

Soon, it’s time to eat, and the lobster enchiladas are sublime — fresh lobster bathed in tomato sauce with just the right amount of spiciness. Tostones, rice, and sliced tomatoes fill out the rest of the meal. It’s the best thing I eat in Cuba.

During the meal, the rum is flowing and I get up the nerve to ask Ivan the question I’ve been wondering for years.

“How do you feel about US citizens?” I ask Ivan. “Do Cubans like Americans?”

“Of course,” he replies, and my body relaxes. “We’ve always loved Americans. We just don’t like your president.”

“Well, that makes two of us,” I say. “Were you happy when Obama came to Cuba?”

“Obama was more of the same,” he replies.

I pause. “More of the same? He did more to open Cuba than any other president.”

“It made no difference to us,” he says. Point taken.

Rows of stacked wood in front of the mountains of Vinales and tobacco fields.

Airbnb in Cuba, and Economic Opportunity

In 2024, the average monthly salary in Cuba is projected to be $1050 CUP , which is just $44 per month. That’s incredibly low. That’s why tourism is so critical here, especially when you buy from people directly — it has potential to change their lives for the better.

I was so impressed with Odalys’s operation. She doesn’t just teach the cooking class — she and her husband rent rooms out to travelers. They have an Instagram-friendly mural on the outside of the building. They partner with local drivers to bring people there. Everything is a hustle, and it pays off.

I noticed that at our apartment rental in Havana, too. Gladys, the owner, had several other possible income streams for her guests. She was happy to provide drinking water, for a fee, and to change money, at a rate that would earn her money.

Odalys charges $39 per guest for her cooking class. After Airbnb fees and food expenses, that’s probably at least $20 profit per person. Can you imagine how much that adds up over the course of a month?

I talk a lot about how Airbnb has made life worse for many people — especially cities where it’s massively reduced housing availability for locals, like Barcelona and Lisbon, and cities where Airbnb refuses to follow the law, like New York and New Orleans. And I think that we as travelers have a responsibility to use Airbnb responsibly.

But in Cuba, where locals are limited in their earning power, Airbnb is providing incredible economic opportunity.

I just hope the Cubans that rely so much on tourism are able to keep their incomes afloat in 2024 and beyond.

Classic cars at an intersection in Havana, clouds of exhaust behind them.

How to Use Internet in Cuba

You see “free wifi” signs everywhere around the world — but in Cuba, it has a different meaning. Normally, “free wifi” means you can hop on the internet with no issues. In places like Belarus and Turkey, it usually means free wifi if you have a local phone number.

But in Cuba, “free wifi” usually means that there’s a wifi network nearby that you can use — but with the wifi cards you already paid for.

Don’t have any wifi cards? You’ll need to buy some. You can get them at the local Etecsa store; some hotels sell them, too. They cost $1 per hour, and some people on the street sell them for more, saving you the wait in line.

You can easily tell a wifi hotspot in Cuba because you’ll see people clustered around and absorbed in their phones. One popular spot in Old Havana is outside the Hotel Ingleterra; you can also find hotspots at Etecsa stores and in some parks.

Occasionally you’ll find a place where you can hop on the wifi without entering your card info. These places are rare, but they do exist.

I was shocked that my American AT&T phone plan actually worked in Cuba — though not for data. Rates were extremely high at $3 per minute, $0.50 per text, and $1.30 per photo or video sent.

Do not touch any banking sites or apps while you’re in Cuba, including sites like Paypal and Venmo. I had to fight the urge to check my balance. If you access any banking sites or apps while in Cuba, your account will be frozen.

And that’s a huge pain in the ass to deal with when you get home and can’t use an ATM or call an Uber. Or worse — if your phone plan is attached to your frozen bank account and you miss a payment, you might not even have working data when you get back to America!

Karaoke in Cuba

Karaoke isn’t much of a thing in Cuba — but if anyone can track a karaoke spot down, it’s my friend Harvey (a.k.a. H-Bomb). He has sung karaoke in all 50 states and countries as far-flung as North Korea. He’s in Havana at the same time as us, and he’s found a bar — La Esencia in Vedado has karaoke starting at 9:00 PM on Wednesdays. We go to cheer him on.

Harvey introduces himself in Google-translated Spanish, announcing that Cuba is his 65th country where he’s sung karaoke, and launches into “La Bamba.” And the locals are loving it, cheering him on and taking photos of this gringo singing in perfect Spanish.

The rest of us sing a bit here and there — Rihanna and Madonna have their moments. But the funniest thing by far is that the English songbook has the songs and artists out of order, making the most hilarious pairings. We read through the book and CRY with laughter! Some of our favorites:

Bob Marley — “Man! I Feel Like a Woman”
Tom Jones — “Oops, I Did It Again”
Janis Joplin — “YMCA”
Barbra Streisand — “You Shook Me All Night Long”
Coolio — “Genie in a Bottle”
Ray Charles — “I Like to Move It Move It”
Whitney Houston — “Just a Gigolo”
John Denver — “Another Brick in the Wall”
Tony Bennett — “Like a Virgin”
And finally, Shania Twain — “Who Let the Dogs Out?”

Admit it — you can hear ALL OF THOSE perfectly.

Chaotic Havana streets filled with people, a yellow car, and a church tower in the background.

Cuba is a Hard Place to Travel

I have to be truthful with you guys. While I had some wonderful experiences in Havana, after the first five days, I didn’t like Cuba much. And it pains me to write that because I really wanted to like it and I try to find the good in everywhere I visit.

Every day that we went out in Havana, especially Old Havana, I felt stressed. Walking down the street, people constantly asked if I wanted a taxi. If I was on my own, it was nonstop catcalls. The streets and sidewalks were so broken that you had to constantly watch your step.

It was noisy, hot, and unpleasant smells permeated the air. And as nice as those classic cars are, they produce a disgusting amount of exhaust that fills the air and clings to the buildings.

Unfortunately, it was very difficult to find decent food in Havana. The best food in Cuba tends to be in the countryside, not the cities. My friend Ayngelina wrote a guide to the best restaurants in Havana , which was very helpful, but aside from places on that list, we ate a lot of disappointing food.

And the one time we found a somewhat decent breakfast place — a restaurant called El Cafe with a hummus and roasted pepper sandwich — of course it was mysteriously closed for the rest of our trip. Not the biggest deal, but in a city where the food isn’t that great, you yearn to revisit the places that are good.

And it seems like everything was just such a hassle. Klara bought a ticket for 9:00 AM bus — then showed up and was told it was sold out, even though she had bought a ticket online, and they had decided to book her on the 4:00 PM bus without telling her.

I felt the need to escape the madness each day — to go back to my apartment in the afternoon and just rest or read.

Even after leaving Havana, I hated feeling vulnerable as an American in Cuba — that if there were an emergency, I had no way to access money. Getting stranded with no money was a constant worry as I traveled the country.

It’s not that I disliked Cuba because it was hard — I’ve traveled to lots of challenging places. Lebanon had very little travel infrastructure , and Albania was super frustrating at times , but I had a great time in both countries.

And it wasn’t because of the lack of internet. I was eager for a digital detox. Twelve days without internet in Antarctica was blissful. The Rupununi region of Guyana was remote, unconnected, and mice pooped on my head from the rafters in the bathroom, but I fell in love with the nature and loved being off the grid.

Why didn’t I like Cuba as much as other challenging destinations? I found that the things I loved about Cuba the most — the people and the music — weren’t quite enough to make up for everything else. Since this trip, I’ve talked to many of my well-traveled friends and several of them feel similarly about Cuba.

Tobacco fields and mountains underneath a blue sky with puffy clouds.

My trip to Cuba was in danger of being a bust — but then we got to Viñales, and it saved the trip. This bright green region was like a balm for my soul.

If you’re looking to travel from city to city in Cuba, you’ll need to book a bus or take a colectivo, a shared private vehicle. Buses to Viñales have been sold out for a long time, so we ask a taxi driver for a colectivo. He drops us off on a garbage-strewn road outside the bus station.

After asking locals, and being told to wait, and sitting on cement and smelling the garbage for 45 minutes, the man in charge beckons us over to a red classic car filled with travelers.

I’m jammed up in the middle seat in the front row between Charlie and the driver. Our driver charges down the highway, jovially honking at the other drivers he sees.

Soon the highway turns into curvy mountain roads, and then we’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful verdant scenery I’ve ever seen. The mountains here look like the limestone karats of southern Thailand, and it’s all surrounded by the bright green fields of tobacco.

Viñales is a small town. It’s laid out with casas particulares, restaurants, and bars. Super touristy? You bet. But after Havana, it feels nice to be somewhere that feels easier. Especially with bars like 3 Jotas [2024 Update: it’s been renamed Bar Tapas 3J ] that let you pour your own rum into your piña colada. (Oh, and less is definitely more when it comes to rum in piña coladas.)

The next morning, we head out on a tour of the surrounding area with Osniel, an English teacher and local guide from our casa, and two French guys. Many people who come to Viñales choose to explore on horseback; I’ve heard that not all horses are treated well here, so I’m happy to walk.

Two orange dirt paths in the Vinales countryside.

After an hour’s walk along bright orange dirt paths, we come across a farm. Tobacco is the primary crop in this part of Cuba. The land was given to farmers after the revolution in 1959, and in exchange, the government takes 90% of what they produce, compensating them very little.

Enter tourism. We’re the first group to arrive at the farm and we order juices. Soon, others join us and we’re on a rotating circuit of learning how coffee is made, how rum is made, and of course you can buy any of these products to take home. (We grab cigars.) Tourism has made a big impact in this part of rural Cuba.

And though it might sound too touristy — it’s not. Everyone is wonderful. We have free time and decide to lounge around, drink in the atmosphere.

A pregnant dog snuggles up to us, her belly suggesting that she doesn’t have long to go, and a tiny black kitten screeches at the top of his lungs, sounding more like a goat than anything feline. Charlie picks up the kitten and names him Montecristo.

From the farm we hike past more gorgeous mountains to a cave and one of the French guys dares to take a dip in the ice-cold darkness. After another stroll, we head back to the farm for lunch, then take the hourlong walk back.

At night we feast on ropa vieja for the first time in Cuba, much better than the version I made in my Instant Pot in New York, the beef cooked slowly with onions, peppers, and tomatoes.

Viñales was a joy. I’m so glad we went.

Kate standing in front of green tobacco fields, facing away, in a purple workout top.

Traveling to Cuba: The Takeaway

Osniel books us a ride back — a classic car, natch — and we return to Havana Airport. Looking at the departure screen, I shake my head at the list of cities — Miami. New York. Atlanta. Half of the international departures are to the United States and people have no idea that this is possible .

There is absolutely no reason for the ban on travel to Cuba today. It is a ridiculous grudge that our government has held for more than 60 years. I’ve traveled to more than 80 countries around the world and I’ve seen that the US has close relationships with countries who do far worse than Cuba.

Cuba is not a threat. This embargo serves nobody.

If the United States were serious about retaliating against the countries who have caused harm to the United States, they’re better off starting with Russia, for the war in Ukraine and hacking the 2016 US election, and Saudi Arabia, for sanctioning 9/11 and killing Saudi journalists living in the United States.

Hell, China and Myanmar are actively carrying out genocides at the time of writing, and it’s a lot easier to travel to them than Cuba.

I hope that President Biden continues the baby steps Obama made and allows our countries to reconnect once again.

As far as travel to Cuba goes, however, I would recommend doing things a bit differently. Five days was way too long for Havana; I think you’re better off with two full days. I’d even recommend staying in a posh neighborhood like Vedado, away from the chaos of Old Havana.

Would I return? I’m not sure. Klara traveled longer in Cuba, both with her dad and on her own, and while she loved Viñales and enjoyed the beach by Trinidad, she found the rest of the country to be an enormous hassle. I have the feeling I’d feel the same way.

Our plane touches down in Mexico City and I sigh with relief. Sure, I’m excited for tacos and internet. But more importantly, I have access to money in case of an emergency. The uneasiness has left my body.

Green and purple stained glass windows in the Museum of Perfume, Havana

Don’t Mention Cuba to Your Bank

A few days later in Mexico, I reimburse Charlie for travel expenses. And I write “CubaMerida” in the memo. THAT was a mistake.

Normally my financial transactions go through in moments, but I get an email from the bank saying that this transaction is going to take a little longer on their end, and it won’t take more than a few days.

Soon I have another email from the bank in my inbox, asking why I put “Cuba” in the memo of a transaction. Was I spending money in Cuba?

I email them back saying that I was reimbursing Charlie for photography. (And true, he did take all of the photos of me on this page.)

The bank emails me back, pointing out that a month earlier, I sent a payment to Charlie with the memo “flights.” “Did you also pay Charles for flights to Cuba?”

ARGH. For the record, I didn’t. Those were different flights.

I angrily forward them the confirmation of my flights from Prague to Boston and back, the actual flights I had reimbursed him for a month earlier.

I post about this ridiculousness on Facebook and am flooded with tales from friends who went through the same thing. Turns out you can’t say Cuba anywhere. One friend even had his Venmo account frozen for reimbursing his friend for a Cuban sandwich!

Lesson learned — Americans can travel to Cuba, but be careful how you talk about it afterward.

Essential Info

If you’re an American, I highly recommend getting a visa to Cuba through ViaHero — they will give you a customized itinerary, handle tough bookings like transportation, and this will count as the “Support for the Cuban People” category for your general license/visa. Learn more here.

In Havana I stayed at this two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment on the edge of Old Havana for $50 per night. This was a great apartment; it served as an oasis and the owner was lovely. It is, however, located right on a bus route and extremely loud buses rumble by all night. I recommend bringing earplugs. Check out more places to stay in Havana here.

My cooking class with Odalys in Havana was booked here through Airbnb Experiences . I highly recommend doing this on one of your days in Havana. This was the best meal I had in Cuba and I appreciated learning about Cuban life with Ivan. $39 per person.

It’s tough to find good food in Havana, but Ayngelina has a guide to Havana restaurants here . I enjoyed Paladar Omar, one of her suggestions, and we had a great New Year’s Eve dinner at Genesis.

In Viñales I stayed at this one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite in a Casa Particular in town. $25 per night plus $5 each for breakfast. This was an excellent place to stay with a friendly family hosting and I loved staying here. Check out more places to stay in Viñales here.

We booked our Viñales tour through Osniel, one of the sons at the casa particular. He hopes to be listed on Airbnb Experiences someday. Osniel and his brother Orlando organized our onward journey back to the airport.

Cuba requires travel insurance, and they may ask for proof at immigration. Be sure to double-check that your insurance is valid in Cuba. (2024 update: In the past, I recommended World Nomads for travel insurance, an Australian company, but they have stopped providing coverage in Cuba.)

Have you been to Cuba? How did you like it? Share away!

clock This article was published more than 2 years ago

Biden’s revised Cuba policy creates more options for U.S. travelers

The United States just approved flights to airports beyond Havana and will restore the group tours banned under Trump

Americans who want to travel legally to Cuba will have more options after the Biden administration announced it was undoing some of the restrictions President Donald Trump imposed before the pandemic.

While a timeline for all of the changes is not yet clear, travelers should eventually be able to choose from flights to more destinations and take the kind of group-based educational trips that have been off-limits for nearly three years.

Under an order issued Wednesday by the U.S. Transportation Department, airlines will again be allowed to fly to Cuban destinations beyond Havana, an avenue that was cut off in late 2019. Public charter flights will also be permitted to go to airports outside Havana after being suspended in early 2020.

The Transportation Department issued the order rescinding the Trump-era restrictions after a request this week from Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He wrote that scheduled and charter air services could resume “effective immediately” once the department took action.

That formal request followed a May 16 announcement that the Biden administration was taking measures, including allowing the additional flights, to “increase support for the Cuban people in line with our national security interests.”

As Biden eases Trump’s sanctions, Cubans hope for an economic lift

Peggy Goldman, president and co-owner of two travel companies that bring visitors to Cuba — Friendly Planet and Insight Cuba — called the permission to add flights “wonderful news.”

“It makes it possible to enjoy much more of the island, and having these additional flights is a hallelujah moment for us,” she said. She added that her companies have been “badgering” airlines on a daily basis about increasing service.

U.S. carriers that offer scheduled flights to Havana, including American Airlines, JetBlue and Southwest, told The Washington Post this week — before the DOT’s order — that they did not have any additional services to announce. American Airlines flew to five destinations in addition to Havana until December 2019, and JetBlue once flew to three cities beyond the capital city.

“While we do not have any news to share at this time regarding changes to our operations in Cuba, we regularly evaluate new opportunities throughout our network,” JetBlue said in a statement.

Cuba reopened to visitors in November after closing its borders earlier in the pandemic.

Can Americans travel to Cuba? Yes, but it’s complicated.

U.S. officials have said that a popular authorized way for groups of travelers to visit Cuba — called “people-to-people” trips — will be back at some point. The Trump administration eliminated the option in mid-2019. The State Department said it would reinstate the option, along with other categories of group educational travel and some additional travel connected to professional meetings and research.

“We’ll certainly ensure travel is purposeful and in accordance with U.S. law. And we’ll note something that President Biden had said often, which is his belief that Americans are the best ambassadors for democratic values,” a senior administration official said on background during a press call last month. “And facilitating group people-to-people travel will allow for greater engagement between the American people and the promotion of their democratic values.”

The State Department did not release a timeline for reopening that category of travel, but it said in a statement that the administration is “working expeditiously to implement these changes, via regulatory amendments and other steps on an expedited basis.”

Collin Laverty, founder of Cuba Educational Travel, said people-to-people trips were a prominent way to visit Cuba before the Trump administration prohibited them. He described those trips as “having a full-time schedule that involves meaningful interaction with the Cuban people” — though independent tourism is not allowed.

Americans have been allowed to visit the island under categories that remain legal, including family visits, religious activities, competitions, educational activities and professional research, and meetings. After the Trump administration eliminated the “people to people” option, first for individuals and then for groups, most travelers opted to visit under the “support for the Cuban people” category.

Under that option, travelers need to have a full-time schedule of activities that enhance contact with locals, support civil society in Cuba, result in meaningful interaction with residents or promote independence from Cuban authorities, The Washington Post reported in 2019.

2019: Trump administration ends group travel to Cuba by Americans

The two categories were similar, but supporting the Cuban people required more direct aid to locals on the ground. Some tour operators told The Post when the changes were first announced a few years ago that they were skipping attractions such as Ernest Hemingway’s house and famous cemeteries. To keep their programming in compliance, they said, they would meet with craftspeople who make humidors instead of going to cigar factories, and they would visit artists in a studio cooperative instead of going to a museum.

David Lee, founder of Cultural Cuba, has always provided trips that meet the requirements of supporting the Cuban people and calls it “the best way to go by far.” But still, he and others said, the news about Trump restrictions being dropped had led to an increase in inquiries.

“Some of the changes that the Trump administration made definitely made people think they could not come to Cuba,” he said. “If this announcement has people believing, ‘Oh, it’s open again’ — even though it was always open ... and at least leads people to put Cuba back on their list as a destination, awesome.”

Laverty said he expects the return of U.S. travelers to Cuba to be slow, noting that he doesn’t see any regulatory changes that would lead to an “avalanche” in demand.

While the Biden administration’s goal is to expand authorized travel to Cuba, the State Department said the recently announced moves are not a return to the Obama-era policies that allowed cruise ships to visit the island and individual travelers to embark on people-to-people trips.

In Cuba, a desperate search for milk

Other Trump crackdowns prohibiting travelers from staying in military- or government-owned hotels remain in effect. They pose continued challenges to travelers and tour groups who have to find accommodations without those government or military ties.

“With new flights and group People to People programs being announced, more travelers will be able to visit Cuba safely but they will need more safe places to stay,” Michael Zuccato, CEO of Cuba Travel Services, said in an email.

Laverty said the last decade has brought “incredible development” in private-sector lodging, including privately owned apartments, rooms and boutique hotels. His company will sometimes split groups between multiple properties if needed.

“It definitely adds an extra logistical layer,” he said. “Trying to look at the positive side, it’s a really cool experience” where guests get to interact with their host and learn more about what it’s like to live in Cuba.

With economic hardships and severe shortages in Cuba that led to widespread protests last year, Laverty said he was concerned about what the travel experience would be like when his company started bringing Americans back earlier this year.

“What we’ve found over the last few months is U.S. travelers have really been exposed to shortcomings and challenges and also support Cubans through their travel and get an honest picture of the good and the bad in Cuba and still have a really great experience,” he said.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Entry Requirements - YES! YOU CAN STILL TRAVEL TO CUBA!
Travel Essentials

TRAVELING TO CUBA IS EASY WITH CUBA UNBOUND

Updated december 2023.

***We are pleased to offer guidance to our valued Cuba Unbound guests. For your convenience, please consult the information below or call us with your reservation number. Regrettably, if you are not a guest of Cuba Unbound, we are unable to provide advice or assistance regarding your Cuba visa. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to explore the resources available online.

Here is an explanation of the recent history of travel to Cuba as it pertains to U.S. citizens. Bear in mind that several million people a year from countries such as Canada, England, France, Italy, Germany and many more, go to Cuba on vacation every year. The United States is the only country that restricts its citizens from traveling to Cuba for touristic reasons, however, at the same time, the U.S. does allow travel to Cuba under one of 12 permitted travel categories (listed below). Of these categories, most of our travelers are traveling under either "Support for the Cuban People" or "Educational People-to-People" travel.

When you travel with Cuba Unbound, we take care of all the legal details and make sure that your trip is stress-free and superbly organized. As well, we include your Cuban visa or "Tourist Card" as part of your tour with us.

Support for the Cuban People

Cuba Unbound is licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which is part of the United States Treasury Department, to provide travel services to Cuba under the category of Support for the Cuban People. This category is intended to direct the economic activities of U.S. travelers to primarily benefit the private sector in Cuba as well as engaging our travelers in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba. This requires a full-time agenda of such activities and thus tours in Cuba have somewhat less flexibility than our tours in other countries. Every day is structured to include enriching, educational and meaningful Support for the Cuban People activities.

US Regulations Regarding Flights and Hotels for Travel to Cuba

When you purchase your air travel to Cuba from the United States, you will select the OFAC category of Support for the Cuban People during the reservation process. For those people who are subject to US jurisdiction (US citizens for example), you are able to extend your stay in Cuba beyond your tour dates.

The Support for the Cuban People category of travel also encourages travelers to stay in private accommodations, eat in private restaurants and generally avoid spending any money with the Cuban government. Also note that OFAC has issued a list of specific “restricted” entities that Americans are forbidden from having direct financial transactions with, including certain hotels. You can review this list here . Fortunately, we are here to navigate all these rules on your behalf.

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Here's a simplified list of Cuban entry requirements:

For Cuba - Complete the D'Viajeros Advance Information of Travelers Form . This can only be completed once you are within 48 hours from departure for Cuba. This is a simple form that asks some health questions as well as including the customs declaration form. You must fill this out before you leave home but not sooner than 48 hours prior to departure. Upon submission of the form you receive a QR code and an email that you present to Immigration officers on your arrival in Cuba. You can view our instructions for filling our this form here.
Valid Cuban Tourist Card/Visa - We include this for all our travelers! See below. You can find instructions on how to complete the form here.
Valid Passport—valid for at least 6 months after your entry into Cuba.
Proof of Travel Medical Insurance.

CUBAN TOURIST CARD or TRAVEL VISA

Travelers to Cuba require a visa, also known as a Cuban Tourist Card . Cuba Unbound includes these as part of your tour and we mail it to you upon receipt of your final balance. If you were to lose it, or forget it, and you are flying from the USA, the U.S. air carrier will have these visas available for sale in the boarding area, at a price ranging from $80-$120. It’s also legal to fly through another country like Canada or Mexico. In that case you can also obtain the visas at the airport. *Please note that you must hold onto this visa card for the duration of your trip as you will need it to exit the country in addition to entering.

GENERAL LICENSES FOR CERTIFICATION OF TRAVEL FORM (aka Affidavit of Travel)

GENERAL LICENSES: Cuba Unbound is licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) under section 31 C.F.R.§ 515.572(a)(1) to provide travel services to Cuba. Cuba Unbound also has contracts with Cuban travel agencies that allow us to bring U.S. travelers to Cuba.

RECREATIONAL TRAVEL STILL PROHIBITED

Restraints regarding visits for purely tourist and recreational purposes are still prohibited. Cuban travel remains more accessible than it has been since the embargo in 1961 because there are additional travel categories that do not require OFAC authorization, but visits must have a purpose beyond beachfront relaxation. Under current regulations, “Recreational travel, tourist travel, travel in pursuit of a hobby, or research for personal satisfaction only” remain illegal.

MEDICAL INSURANCE

Cuba requires all travelers to Cuba to have travel medical insurance and the good news is that U.S. airlines include the mandatory level of travel medical insurance in your ticket*. The travel medical insurance must include coverage for medical evacuation, emergencies, and repatriation. The company providing your travel medical plan must be able to make payments from a non-U.S. banking institution. The Cuban health insurance that is included in your ticket with any U.S. airline, is provided by ESICUBA and is valid for 30 days. If you are staying in Cuba beyond 30 days, you’ll need to purchase additional insurance to cover the remainder of your stay. Guests may purchase supplementary coverage at their discretion. For those travelers who would like additional coverage, Cuba Unbound partners with Travel Insured International for this supplementary coverage, the costs of which depend on coverage amount, length of travel, and age of traveler. (*If you travel to Cuba from another country like Mexico, your air ticket will not include this insurance and you may be asked to show proof of insurance on arrival. Simply carry your own insurance card with you, or a copy of your travel insurance policy, to show Immigration Officers if you are asked.)

If you have further questions, the U.S Department of the Treasury is a great resource. Check out their updated FAQs for more information!

The Recent History of Travel to Cuba for U.S. Citizens Looks Like This:

Dec 17, 2014: President Obama announced that America was reestablishing diplomatic relations. This made for easier travel, trade, and financial relations between the two countries, the removal of Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list and the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Cuba Unbound operated our first trips in November, 2015 based on these new regulations.
June 16, 2017: President Trump announced some modifications to the regulations. The biggest change was that individual travel for educational people-to-people purposes was no longer allowed. However, group travel using the people-to-people category was still allowed.
June 4, 2019: The Trump Administration removed the people-to-people category from the categories of allowable travel.
October 25, 2019: U.S. Administration bars U.S. airlines, other than charter airline companies, from flying to any Cuban airport other than Havana.
June 1, 2022: The US Transportation Department rescinded the Trump-era restrictions regarding U.S. airlines flying to Cuba, allowing them to resume service to airports other than Havana. It wasn't long before American Airlines started service to Holguin and Camaguey. Other U.S. Airlines such as JetBlue, United and Southwest soon followed with flights to airports other than Havana.
June 9, 2022: President Biden reinstates the allowance of group People-to-People travel. Specifically: Effective June 9, 2022, OFAC amended 31 CFR § 515.565(b) to authorize group people-to-people educational travel conducted under the auspices of an organization that is subject to U.S. jurisdiction and that sponsors such exchanges to promote people-to-people contact, provided such travelers are accompanied by an employee, paid consultant, or agent of the sponsoring organization. Travel-related transactions authorized pursuant to § 515.565(b) must be for the purpose of engaging, while in Cuba, in a full-time schedule of activities that are intended to enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and will result in meaningful interactions with individuals in Cuba.

The 12 Categories of Permitted Reasons for Travel to Cuba

When you book or check in for your flight, you will be asked to certify the reason for your visit. There are currently two ways to gain permission to travel to Cuba: with a general license or with a specific license.

If you meet the regulations and conditions of a general license, you will not need to apply for a specific license. There are 12 categories of general licenses related to Cuba travel. These are listed below. When purchasing your airline ticket, choose "Support for the Cuban People."

Family visits
Official government business
Journalistic activity
Professional research or meetings
Religious activities
Sports and public events
Support for the Cuban people
Humanitarian projects
Informational materials
Authorized export activities
Non-immigrant Cuban National

You will not qualify for a general license if the reason for your travel is not listed above, and you will be required to apply for a specific license from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). All license applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please see the U.S. Department of the Treasury's OFAC FAQ page for more information. Cuban Nationals returning home do not need a license.

Support for the Cuban People and People to People Educational Travel

Can US Citizens Travel to Cuba Legally?

Can US Citizens travel to Cuba?

Yes, they can!

The USA is so close to Cuba and for years Havana was America’s favourite playground and holiday destination. Over the past sixty years, US-Cuban relations and the US Embargo have made Cuba seem like a forbidden fruit. Tantalisingly close and yet just out of reach. Easy to see why travelling to Cuba looks so complicated. In reality, it’s pretty easy for US citizens to travel to Cuba.

So, how can US citizens travel to Cuba legally?

Some opt for US travel agencies, licensed to organise tours in Cuba. Others choose to travel independently. These are the ones who ask Cubania Travel “How can I travel to Cuba legally from the USA?” Cubania Travel has been organising sustainable active adventures to Cuba for the past 20+ years. So, we’re a great place to start when organising your trip to Cuba.

As one of the most environmentally responsible adventure travel companies in Cuba , (check the carbon footprint on any of our trips!). We do things the Cuban Way so that our tours support local communities and give you an amazing insight into Cuba’s unique way of living.

How to travel legally to Cuba (AND support Cuban people)

In this article, we give you all the information you need for legal travel to Cuba from the USA. We’ll guide you on how you can avoid sanctions by travelling smart and we’ll encourage you to travel consciously and give something back to local communities.

So, how can US citizens travel legally to Cuba? Remarkably, it’s pretty easy! But you need a little background information before you jump on that plane and head for Havana’s vibrant streets and Cuba’s beautiful towns and landscapes. You’ll need to choose a tour which complies with OFAC regulations ( view ours here ) and you’ll need to get your travel documents in order.

You’ll need the following documents for travel to Cuba:

★ Passport valid for at least 6 months after your trip to Cuba

★ Cuba Tourist Card (Pink or Green depending on where you travel from)

★ Health Insurance (It’s a legal requirement to have health insurance for any trip to Cuba)

★ Flight ticket

Pretty straightforward right? Double check you have 6 months of validity on your passport otherwise you won’t be able to enter Cuba.

Cubania Pro Tip: Cuban Immigrations will NOT stamp your passport unless you specifically request a stamp. This is super helpful – you won’t have to answer any uncomfortable questions about what you were doing in Cuba, once you return home.

Cuba Tourist Card

Pink Tourist Card or Green Tourist Card? Most travellers need a visa to enter Cuba and there are 2 kinds: Green Cuba Tourist Card and Pink Cuba Tourist Card.

Pink and Green Tourist Card Cuba Examples

★ GREEN TOURIST CARD. If you’re flying to Cuba from anywhere else in the world but the USA, you need to buy a Green Tourist Card. So, if you’re flying from Cancun or from Toronto you buy a Green Tourist card, regardless of nationality. Cubania Pro Tip: Both tourist cards are valid for 30 days from the day of entry into Cuba and can be extended by a further 30 days if required. Phew!

★PINK TOURIST CARD. If you’re a US citizen or simply someone who booked a direct flight from the US to Cuba, you’ll need to buy a Pink Tourist Card. This is a Cuban government requirement and has nothing to do with US Sanctions on Cuba. The Pink Card simply states that the passenger entered Cuba from USA. Your airline in the USA should be able to sell you a visa directly. If not, you should be able to purchase the pink visa card at Miami Airport (or whichever airport you fly from) If you’re travelling to Cuba direct from the USA, you’ll need to satisfy US authorities that your trip complies with OFAC regulations. Whatever you do, DO NOT say you’re going to Cuba for tourism! Most people travel under “Support for the Cuban People” category (More about this below!).

Health Insurance

Cuban authorities require all visitors to have valid Health Insurance Cover before entering the country. Hard to buy when you’re travelling from the USA but you can buy on arrival through Asistur S.A., the local Health Insurance provider. The approximate cost per person is USD 5.00 per day.

Cubania Pro Tip: Most insurance companies do not have contracts with Cuba so if you have a medical emergency while in Cuba, your insurance company will ask you to pay in advance for treatment and you’ll get a refund once you return. However, if you buy local Asistur insurance, medical expenses will be paid for upfront. Please double-check terms and conditions with your insurance provider.

Flight Ticket

As easy as heading to Google Flights or SkyScanner…

How to prove that you’re supporting Cuban people when you travel to Cuba?

Actually, it’s pretty easy.

The rule of thumb is to ensure that all your money is spent on small private businesses rather than paying for services belonging to the Cuban government. You’ll need a full itinerary packed with activities which support Cuban people directly (by staying in their homes and eating in private restaurants ) and which engage you in meaningful dialogue with Cubans (cycling with Cuban masters is one of our favourite examples). If you’re booking through Cubania Travel, most of our itineraries already comply but some may require some adjustments. Please email our sales team if you have any questions about Cubania small group tours.

Here are some examples of ways Cubania packs your trip with OFAC compliant activities:

·Bed and breakfast accommodation: Long before AirBnB, Cubans had been renting out rooms in their homes. As a US citizen you can only stay in this kind of accommodation. Currently, all stays in hotels are NOT allowed. Good to know: Cubania Travel uses Casa Particular accommodation on all tours so you get to experience Cuba like a local.

·Visit local businesses: Take time to schedule visits to small businesses in Havana and beyond. Meet with small business owners, talk to them about their work and, if possible, buy their goods. You’ll be engaging with wonderful, hard-working, creative people and you’ll have an amazing insight into Cuban life. Good to know: Cubania travel schedules visits to Cuban businesses on all tours, so you can get a chance to meet with locals.

·Eat in Paladar Restaurants: These are privately-owned, licensed restaurants which serve food and cocktails. Usually, service and quality are far higher than in Government-owned places. Good to know: all your meals on a Cubania tour will be in paladars so you can sample some authentic, local dishes.

·Discover locally owned Shops: Design stores, jewellery, crafts, clothing, souvenirs… The streets of Havana are packed with amazing small stores selling a myriad of locally made goods. Upcycling is a big deal in a country where re-using everyday objects happens as a matter of course. Good to know: Cubania’s local guides will direct you to the best of local arts and crafts, away from tourist traps.

·Engage with Local Experts. Learn about Cuban music, art, sport, and dance by engaging with local experts. Cuba has produced a huge number of world-class artists, sportsmen and women and it’s surprisingly easy to get access to their expertise. Good to know: Cubania travel organises visits to art studios, jam sessions with Cuban musicians, cycle tours with Cuban Olympic Medallists and Master cyclist, dance classes with professional dancers… ·

·Discover local culture: Get close to a particular area of Cuban Culture. Learn about Cuba’s Afro-Cuban roots by visiting a Santeria priest or visit San Isidro with a local graffiti artist who’ll help you unravel the meaning behind some of Havana’s amazing street art. Good to know: This is exactly the kind of visit all Cubania tours include!

If you want to know more about the OFAC Regulations then please check our Travel USA page where you can access full OFAC Regulations. You can access the OFAC list of Restricted Entities here .

So, there you have it. Now all you need to do is get in touch and come visit us in Cuba!

Ready to plan your Cuba holiday?

With over 20 years of experience organising sustainable tours in Cuba, at Cubania we have your back. From Cuba cycling tours to family Cuba tours or LGBTQI-friendly Cuba tours, we’ve got something for everyone!

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How To Legally Travel To Cuba As An American

Yes, you can still legally travel to cuba as a citizen of the united states. plan accordingly based on the revised rules and regulations. updated: june 2019.

First, citizens of the United States could freely travel to Cuba, then we could under certain conditions, now those restrictions have changed. If you’re a bit perplexed by the new Cuban travel sanctions, you're not the only one. The update to Cuba's travel restrictions are confusing, particularly since not much has changed since the rules were previously revised. The most important thing to know is that "people-to-people travel" is no longer authorized, but we're getting ahead of ourselves... We’ve taken the liberty of breaking down Cuba's travel regulations for you. Consider this your updated guide to understanding how to legally travel to Cuba as an American citizen.

The key to understanding what the government is really saying about United States citizens traveling to Cuba, is to break apart the jargon, and put everything in layman’s terms. Let’s begin…

Can a U.S. Citizen legally travel to Cuba?

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: An American flag waves against the background of a cloud dappled blue sky.

Citizens of the United States of America can travel to Cuba; however, there are certain caveats.

Yes! You can still legally travel to Cuba — even with the recent changes to U.S. travel laws. However, the fact that your trip must meet certain qualifications has not changed. Understanding these rules or qualifications is generally where the confusion comes in. Going to Cuba isn’t like taking a last minute trip to San Diego or Las Vegas—you can’t just book a plane ticket and be on your way. To legally travel to Cuba, you’re going to need to plan your trip in advance, and ensure that you have a full travel itinerary throughout the duration of your stay.

Understand that the purpose of the restrictions isn’t to keep American citizens from visiting family in Cuba, learning about the country up-close, or engaging in meaningful cultural exchanges. Here's what Cuba's travel restrictions really amounts to if you're an American citizen:

The United States government is trying to ensure that when you do go to Cuba, your money directly supports Cuban nationals in their quest for independence, and is not going to businesses which further the agenda of Cuba’s communist government.

What travel options do I have for legally visiting Cuba?

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: A navy blue United States passport peeks out of the front pocket of black luggage.

If you're an American citizen, you won't be able to take an impromptu trip to Cuba—you'll have to plan ahead.

Currently, a U.S. citizen can legally travel to Cuba under a “general license” from one of twelve (12) categories, as outlined on page two (2) of the document “ U.S. Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control Frequently Asked Questions Related to Cuba ”:

Family visits
Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
Journalistic activity
Professional research and professional meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
Support for the Cuban people
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
Certain authorized export transactions

The average American citizen who is trying to legally vacation in Cuba is going to fall into one of two categories—5. Educational activities or more likely, 8. Support for the Cuban people.

Does “educational travel” mean that only students can legally visit Cuba?

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: A student wearing printed pants sits on a bed holding a travel book. An orange backpack sits in the right-hand corner of a wooden floor; a map is open on the floor as well. On the left-hand side of the room is a black stool with papers on top.

You don't have to be a backpacking university student to travel to Cuba, but if you are a citizen of the United States, you must be in the country with a distinct and approved purpose.

No; it’s not necessary to try to gain admission to your nearest college or university. In this sense, “ educational travel ” basically means you have to visit Cuba under the guidance of a United States authorized “tour leader.” Officially, this is an individual who is a bona fide member of the organization sponsoring your trip—an employee, agent, etc.—who will be accompanying you throughout Cuba, and ensuring that you connect to Cuban history and Cuban nationals in thoughtful and educational ways. To legally visit Cuba, you must remain a part of this special group; however, this group can be comprised of your family and friends.

However, please be aware that "people-to-people travel" is not authorized as of June 5th, 2019. This field previously overlapped sometimes with educational travel, but now, there is a very clear delineation between the two. If you've previously made arrangements under people-to-people, you may be grandfathered in, but moving forward, this simple exchange is not enough. Your educational travel must include bonafide academics, or sponsorship from an authorized American tour leader.

What about the other category—Support for the Cuban People Travel?

This designation is your best option for meeting the travel requirements if you want to legally go to Cuba as an individual or part of a group of family and friends. However , you need to be aware that this must be an active vacation where you will be supporting entrepreneurs, and engaging in meaningful cultural exchanges with Cuban nationals. You’ll be traveling under what is known as a “general license,” and to qualify for this general license under Title 31 → Subtitle B → Chapter → Part 515 → Subpart E → §515.574 _,_ you must ensure that

(1) The activities are of:

(i) Recognized human rights organizations;

(ii) Independent organization designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or

(iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and

(2) Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that:

(i) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and

(ii) Result in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba.

(3) The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule.

In English? This is not a vacation where you’ll spend your entire trip sipping a mojito from the comfort of your resort’s private beach or pool. If you want to go to Cuba, you’re going to need to be prepared to be out and about— excited to engage with everyday members of various Cuban communities. In addition to keeping a full itinerary of educational and cultural activities you cannot experience outside of the country, you will do all that you can to ensure that you are putting money directly into the hands of Cuban nationals — not government owned enterprises.

Whatever status you legally visit Cuba under, remember one thing—cash is king...

What kind of activities do i have to participate in to qualify for 'support for the cuban people travel'.

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: An interior view of Casa Prado Colonial shows a nicely decorated sitting room, intended to pull together the home's colonial aesthetic.

Staying in a ' casa particular ' is a simple yet valuable opportunity to support Cuban entrepreneurism. This is Casa Prado Colonial, one of many casas particulares you can choose to support if you are an American visiting Cuba.

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: Another interior view of Casa Pardo Colonial—this time showing a room (which is almost like a very wide hallway) with bright blue door and window accents filled with tables and chairs.

A second interior view of the casa particular, Casa Prado Colonial, which is located in Old Havana—a World Heritage Site.

According to the Treasury Department, and the official regulations of the Federal Register, the following are acceptable options which will help you meet your overall trip requirements:

Casa particular - Renting a room in a private residence.
Paladares - Dining at a privately owned Cuban restaurant.
Cuentapropistas - Shopping at privately owned stores run by self-employed Cubans.

Additionally, volunteering with recognized non-governmental organizations is also an approved activity—especially for those hoping to travel as a group. Attending cultural and historical tours, and visiting museums will also help you meet your itinerary quota. The general guideline to remember is that the more your activity is directly connected to the Cuban community, its culture, and history, the more likely it is that it will be on the approved list. Of course, you will still want to verify this.

Does this mean I won’t have any time to relax?

Legally Travel To Cuba: On a white-sand beach with a small crest of vibrant blue ocean water in the background sit two chairs, a table, coconut drink with straw, and a thatched beach umbrella.

Cuba has beautiful beaches , but if you're an American citizen visiting Cuba, don't expect to spend your entire trip lounging on them.

Not necessarily. Again, per Title 31 , “The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule.” The keyword in that sentence is "excess." You must keep your pure leisure time to a minimum. That doesn’t mean that you won’t get to do fun low-key things, it simply means that every experience you have will be uniquely meaningful. An example?…

You shop for produce at a cuentapropista (privately owned store run by a self-employed Cuban) with your casa particular’s (rented room in a private residence) host. After learning something new about Cuban agriculture and the history of the store, you and your host cook and eat a traditional Cuban meal whilst engaging in lively conversation—this is an authentic and meaningful exchange. Your money is directly supporting the local community, and you are actively engaging with Cuban nationals and their culture.

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: A simpe but well decorated room in the Hostal del Angel includes a large bed, two nightstands with lamps. an oversized mirror, and chair.

Hostal del Angel is another example of a casa particular, a privately owned home which lets out rooms—essentially, a family owned boutique hotel or bed and breakfast.

Legally Travel To Cuba: Another room in the casa particular Hostal del Angel; a glass dining table has six chairs, and a wall of photos, four other chairs, and additional furniture.

Another view of Hostal del Angel, a casa particular American travelers can stay at to support the people of Cuba.

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: A salon/drawing room in the casa particular Hostal del Angel houses sofas, chairs, tables, and other furniture.

A salon/drawing room in Hostal del Angel —a casa particular which comes highly recommended.

You cannot however ride a bike around town, ask the sales clerk of a state-owned store how their day is going, and proceed to spend the rest of the day chatting up people at your hotel’s poolside bar. This is not an authentic cultural exchange, and does not support the private, small business sector in Cuba—per the guidelines of the State Department.

One thing we would recommend is making time to explore Cuba's unique museums and galleries...

Can’t i just book a tour package through a foreign country and call it good.

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: Shot of the beautiful and well-lit swimming pool of a luxury resort in Cuba.

If you're a United States citizen hoping to legally travel to Cuba, don't expect to stay in a luxury resort.

Absolutely not! No matter what other travel agencies may tell you, the U.S. Department of the Treasury website and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) will tell you that these kinds of activities are still viewed as illegal. Why? Because, these packages usually revolve around "scuba diving, bicycling, hunting, fishing, hiking, or other tourist travel in Cuba.”

We read the full advisory, and the third (3rd) paragraph explicitly states :

A Cuban vacation package that is prepaid by U.S travelers through a travel agency located in a third country does not qualify as “fully-hosted” travel as described in the Regulations. This is true regardless of the type of currency that is used to purchase the package tour. This type of trip is simply an “all-inclusive” vacation package similar those available at most resort and vacation destinations anywhere in the world.

Meaning? It doesn’t matter if you’re paying for a trip through a travel agency which does allow legal tourism to Cuba; you are an American citizen going to Cuba for a touristic vacation, and this is not allowed . These activities do not promote meaningful cultural exchanges, but you can easily and legally travel to Cuba with Anywhere. Why risk taking an illegal vacation when you don’t have to?

How do I prove that my trip meets legitimate qualifications?

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: The outline of an airplane made out of travel stamps.

If you're an American citizen visiting Cuba, keep copies of your travel itinerary and other credentials nearby. You may need to prove that you are in the country with a purpose.

Anywhere provides you with a printable itinerary, bring this with you. At the airport, your itinerary is proof that you are visiting Cuba with a specific (and clearly outlined) purpose.

What if the rules change again after I book my trip?

Legally Travel To Cuba Image: A black and white photo of the scales of justice, legal books, and a globe.

There are precedents and protocols which allow citizens of the United States to travel to Cuba, if they made their travel arrangements before new regulations or restrictions were implemented.

This is not an issue if you book your vacation with a trustworthy and reputable travel agency which specializes in unique destinations, such as Anywhere. If U.S. citizens find themselves unable to legally travel to Cuba under new governmental rules or guidelines, and you have already booked your trip with Anywhere, you will of course receive a full refund of your itinerary’s value; or, you can transfer your funds to a vacation in one of the other exciting countries we offer packages to.

Your concern is understandable, as this article was originally published in 2018 and had to be revised and updated in 2019 to reflect the most up-to-date information. The current version of this article is based upon information provided directly from the U.S. Department of The Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control Frequently Asked Questions Related to Cuba. As always, if and when the United States government changes the rules of its citizens legally traveling to Cuba, OFAC protects those who have completed their travel transactions prior to the latest announcement, and releases an exemption. Please be assured that you will get your money back or have the opportunity to book an alternate vacation if travel rules change again—it’s only fair.

The most important thing to remember about the updates to Cuba's travel restrictions is that it’s not about what you can’t do, it’s about what you can do— you can legally travel to Cuba .

With the privilege of being a U.S. citizen legally traveling to Cuba comes the responsibility of learning, sharing, supporting local entrepreneurs, and having an authentic cultural exchange outside of the confines of a resort or hotel. When you think about it that way, isn’t that what international travel is all about? Don’t just go to Cuba, explore Cuba. Anywhere knows how to legally travel to Cuba as an American—let us help you plan your legal itinerary today!

*Disclaimer* Anywhere is a travel agency which prides itself on operating within the confines of the law; however, this article is not intended to be a substitute for legal counsel—particularly if you choose to plan a vacation to Cuba which does not adhere to the guidelines outlined by the United States government, and/or this article. For questions regarding the legality of specific activities you may want to engage in, please seek legal counsel .

To view the most up-to-date list of entities and sub-entities associated with Cuba’s restricted list, please visit https://www.state.gov/e/eb/tfs/spi/cuba/cubarestrictedlist/275331.htm

Cubans welcome US visitors into their hearts and homes

2024 legal cuba travel for americans.

Cuba travel is legal, and People-to-People tours return

A new era of normal cuba relations under biden and harris.

Joe and Kamala pledged to swiftly undo four years of Trump-imposed economic and travel restrictions, increase US Embassy staff levels in Havana, and seek more engagement between the States and Cuba.

These changes have been slow in coming. After all, Trump enacted 243 measures against Cuba. But a positive change was enacted on June 8, 2022.

Free to visit Cuba easily again! People-to-People travel restored.

Hooray! Americans can travel to Cuba just like during Obama times. People-to-People travel allows every American to come to Cuba, meet islanders, and enjoy cultural, artistic, and educational activities – the same as traveling to any other country.

Yet caveats remain.

Cuba travel must be hosted by a tour company based in the United States.
Cuba travel must be escorted, meaning you travel with a guide on an itinerary that shows you are engaging in meaningful exchanges with Cuban people. But hey, the people are what the island’s all about anyway. You are still free to explore historical and cultural sites and tropical nature.
Lounging on Cuba’s spectacular sunny beaches and sipping mojitos all day is banned. Otherwise, almost anything you can imagine is permitted.

US Cuba tour operators help arrange trips featuring the best this magical island offers. You’ll enjoy dance, music, rum, cigars, museums, and effusive kind Cubans. People-to-People travel is comfy and always in the company of open-minded, outgoing fellow travelers. Refreshingly, Cuba has become a MAGA-free zone, not that they are unwelcomed. Instead, they seem to show little interest in different cultures.

Covid is gone. Cuba is the healthiest country in Latin America.

Cuba’s entire population is vaccinated. Cuba is one of the few countries globally that hold this distinction. There is no need for masks or proof of vaccinations to visit Cuba. Things are back to normal again. Learn more about Covid in Cuba and how easy it is to visit now .

Did Trump ban travel to Cuba? No, but he wanted to.

While Trump did everything possible to curtail Cuba visits, he couldn’t make them illegal. The US Constitution prevented Trump from doing so.

Rewarding Cuba travel options are many. The longstanding twelve categories of authorized Cuba travel remain intact. Licensed US Cuba tour agencies help with all questions and ensure your trip conforms to current regulations.

Academic travel to Cuba has been expanded. Students, teachers, school staff, and chaperones can come to Cuba just like studying abroad in Canada, Asia, or Europe.

The popular categories of Educational Activities (which People-to-People travel is part), Support for the Cuban People, Humanitarian Projects, Religious Activities, Professional Research, and Journalism are fulfilling ways to witness Cuba and connect with islanders while partaking in their culture.

What is legal Cuba travel, how does it work, who is in charge?

The US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) oversees Cuba travel. There are twelve themes under which Americans can legally visit Cuba without any government documentation or permission in advance. The twelve categories are known as “general license” travel. There is no actual license issued. It is an honor system. If the purpose of your Cuba travel falls under any of the twelve pre-approved Cuba travel categories, you can hop on a plane and visit Cuba. It’s that simple.

What are the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba?

Office of Foreign Assets Control Cuba travel restrictions booklet.

Educational Activities (study abroad for students, teachers, and school staff), and People-to-People travel for regular Americans is part of Educational travel activities
Support for the Cuban People
Professional Research
Public Performances, Clinics, Workshops, Athletic and other competitions, and Exhibitions
Journalistic Activity (for electronic and print media reporters, including bloggers)
Humanitarian Projects
Religious Activities
Family Visits (connecting with close relatives in Cuba)
Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
Certain authorized export transactions (for businesses and NGOs)
Official business of the US government, foreign governments, and specific intergovernmental organizations

List of Cuba travel dos and don’ts

While in Cuba , your activities must focus on full-time engagement outlined in your chosen travel category.
It’s best not to stay in Cuban hotels banned by Trump and Biden. Click Worried Boy image for the list.
Trump and Biden outlawed Cuban rum and Cuban tobacco products in the US. While these sumptuous items cannot be imported to the United States, you can enjoy them during your Cuba stay. No problem!

What are the simplest, most rewarding ways to visit Cuba legally?

Cuba on your own . The island is ideal for sojourners with foreign travel experience and ample planning time. If you speak fluent Spanish, independent travel is tops. This avenue is only possible under the Support for the Cuban People license.

However, individuals can also use the People-to-People option and visit Cuba independently if hosted by a US tour operator and a guide. (You kick back, they do all the work for you!)

Design your own custom private Cuba trip with a US tour operator. Collaborating with a tour operator will ensure unrivaled rewards if you, your family, and your friends prioritize pre-planning, gratifying activities, and guaranteed pricing. US Cuba travel professionals know the best cultural activities, events, entertainment options, eateries, accommodations, transportation, and knowledgeable professional guides.

Prepaid small group Cuba travel packages guarantee your Cuba trip conforms to US legal requirements. Hosted by US agencies, small group tours are nearly all-inclusive, incredibly economical, and offer tons of cultural encounters in a brief period – many more than the most intrepid traveler could assemble on their own. And you’ll always be in the company of forward-thinking fellow Americans and Cubans to look after all your desires.

How do I choose a legitimate Cuba agent or tour operator?

We encourage potential Cuba visitors to browse the internet to shop and compare options. It’s fun and enlightening. You’ll find many travel agencies and tour operators with decades of professionalism offering excellent services at a wide range of pricing. Locate them on Google by searching “ legal cuba tours for americans ”.

Ensure the tour operator is based in the United States and licensed by OFAC to provide travel services to Americans.
The tour operator must issue a Certificate of Legal Cuba Travel , guaranteeing your trip conforms to current US Cuba travel regulations.
Travel companies come and go. Ask how long the travel provider has been in business. Don’t risk your precious travel dollars with fly-by-night operators.
Learn from the experiences of former travelers. Read the tour operator’s TripAdvisor reviews.
Ask your friends who’ve traveled to Cuba for their suggestions and recommendations for Cuba tour operators.

Legal Cuba travel essentials for US citizens and residents

Read the Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide , a summary of nearly three decades of Cuba travel tips and advice.
All visitors require a passport, valid for one week beyond your Cuba stay.
Cuba travelers require a Cuba entry visa. Purchase a Cuban Visitor Visa online now.
Fill out the online Cuban immigration and customs form called D’Viajeros . Review these simplified instructions to breeze through this mandatory pre-departure document in minutes.
Money US debit cards don’t work in Cuba. Only a handful of hotels in Havana accept US credit cards for in-house services. US dollars cover nearly all cash needs: no need to bring euros or Canadian dollars. Plan trip expenses carefully. See Cash requirements and guidelines while in Cuba.
US regulations require Americans to retain records of island expenses and activities for five years. Legitimate US-based Cuba tour operators keep these records for you.

Have questions about legal Cuba travel?

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Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of Work on Vets Issues to Dem Ticket

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz visits Minnesota National Guard

A retired Army National Guard noncommissioned officer who was once the top Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs Committee could become the next vice president.

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris announced Tuesday that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will be her running mate. That puts someone with an enlisted background on both presidential tickets after Republican nominee former President Donald Trump chose Marine veteran Sen. JD Vance of Ohio as his running mate.

Patrick Murphy, an Army veteran who was Walz' roommate when they were both freshmen in Congress, called Walz a "soldier's soldier."

Read Next: A Rocket Attack at an Iraqi Military Base Injures US Personnel, Officials Say

"The two largest federal agencies are DoD and the VA, so someone who has intimate knowledge of both is incredibly important," Murphy, who served as Army under secretary during the Obama administration, said in a phone interview with Military.com. "He was a field artilleryman who has tinnitus as diagnosed by the VA, so he understands the plight of our brother and sister veterans."

Walz enlisted in the Army National Guard in Nebraska in 1981 and retired honorably in 2005 as the top enlisted soldier for 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery Regiment, in the Minnesota National Guard, according to a copy of his records provided by the Minnesota Guard. He reached the rank of command sergeant major and served in that role, but he officially retired as a master sergeant for benefits purposes because he didn't finish a required training course, according to the records and a statement from the Minnesota Guard.

His Guard career included responding to natural disasters in the United States, as well as a deployment to Italy to support U.S. operations in Afghanistan, according to a 2018 article by Minnesota Public Radio . Walz earned several awards, including the Army Commendation Medal and two Army Achievement Medals, according to his military records. Working a civilian job as a high school teacher and football coach, the Nebraska native was also named that state's Citizen Soldier of the Year in 1989, according to official biographies.

During the 2022 Minnesota governor's race, Walz' opponent accused him of leaving the Guard when he did in order to avoid a deployment to Iraq, though Walz maintained he retired in order to focus on running for Congress, according to the Star Tribune newspaper .

Far-right commentators and media resurfaced those allegations and knocked him for never serving in combat -- something he has never claimed to do -- in contrast with Vance's deployment to Iraq as a combat correspondent.

"Looks like it is time to bring back Swift Boat Veterans for Truth. Oof. Walz is a really unforced error. He bailed on the military when they decided to send him to Iraq. JD Vance actually served," conservative talk radio host Erick Erickson posted on social media Tuesday.

Walz was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2006, becoming the highest-ranking retired enlisted soldier to serve in Congress.

His tenure in Congress included sitting on the House Veterans Affairs Committee, rising to be its ranking member in 2017.

"Walz' leadership on behalf of his fellow veterans when he was in the U.S. House of Representatives is notable at a time when our all-volunteer force continues to struggle to recruit," Allison Jaslow, CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, said in a statement praising the choice of a veteran to be vice presidential nominee. "How we care for our veterans is as important to our national security as how we care for our troops, and Walz has a record to prove that he understands that imperative."

As the top Democrat on the committee, Walz was a chief adversary for the Trump administration's Department of Veterans Affairs . He battled with then-acting VA Secretary Peter O'Rourke in 2018 during a standoff over O'Rourke's handling of the inspector general's office, and pushed for an investigation into the influence of a trio of informal VA advisers who were members of Trump's Mar-a-Lago club. An investigation by House Democrats completed after Walz left Congress concluded that the so-called Mar-a-Lago trio "violated the law and sought to exert improper influence over government officials to further their own personal interests."

Walz also opposed the Mission Act, the bill that expanded veterans' access to VA-funded care by non-VA doctors that Trump considers one of his signature achievements. Walz said in statements at the time that, while he agreed the program for veterans to seek outside care needed to be fixed, he believed the Mission Act did not have sustainable funding. VA officials in recent years have said community care costs have ballooned following the Mission Act.

Walz supported another bill that Trump touts as a top achievement, the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, which sought to make it easier for the VA to fire employees accused of misconduct or poor performance. But the implementation of that law was later part of Walz' fight with O'Rourke . The law also faced legal challenges that prompted the Biden administration to stop using the expedited firing authorities granted by the bill.

Walz was also an early proponent of doing more for veterans exposed to toxins during their military service, sponsored a major veterans suicide prevention bill and advocated for the expansion of GI Bill benefits. And he repeatedly pushed the VA to study marijuana usage to treat PTSD and chronic pain, something that could come up in a future administration if the Department of Justice finalizes reclassifying marijuana into a category of drugs considered less dangerous.

Walz' time in Congress also included a stint on the House Armed Services Committee, a perch he used to advocate for benefits for members of the National Guard .

Walz consistently voted in support of the annual defense policy bill, as well as advocated for repealing the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that effectively banned gay and lesbian service members.

"He was my battle buddy in the fight to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' and it wouldn't have happened if we didn't have Command Sgt. Maj. Tim Walz helping lead the fight," Murphy said.

Since becoming governor of Minnesota in 2019, Walz' role as commander in chief of the Minnesota National Guard has come under a spotlight several times. In response to a request from the Minneapolis mayor, he activated the Guard in May 2020 to assist law enforcement when some protests over the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd turned destructive. At the time, Minneapolis' mayor accused Walz of being too slow to order the deployment, a charge he denied.

"It is time to rebuild. Rebuild the city, rebuild our justice system, and rebuild the relationship between law enforcement and those they're charged to protect," Walz said in a statement when he announced the activation.

He also activated the Guard to protect the Minnesota state Capitol in January 2021 amid fears that Trump supporters could riot at state houses like they did at the U.S. Capitol that month. And he's used the Guard for missions that are more routine for the service, such as to help after heavy flooding earlier this summer .

As news broke Tuesday of Walz' selection, he quickly won praise from other Democratic veterans.

"Having a person who wore the uniform and who deployed around the world adds to the ticket someone who can connect with veterans and military families in a way that no one but a veteran can," Jon Soltz, chairman of liberal political action committee VoteVets, said in a statement.

-- Steve Beynon contributed to this story.

Related: Here's Kamala Harris' Record on Veterans and Military Issues

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Legal Cuba Travel From USA

Last updated: February 2024

KEEP CALM AND GO TO CUBA, it's still legal!

Cuban Adventures welcomes Americans on all our tours in Cuba.

Take a SCP-ready tour - with these tours we make it easy for you to meet the full-schedule requirement for the Support for the Cuban People Cuba (SCP) general license, taking the guesswork out of legal travel. These tours have a daily schedule of fun and diverse activities that support local communities and businesses, and help you connect to Cubans in a meaningful way. Look for the tour codes starting with SCP (e.g. SCP5, SCP9, SCP14). The tours also have the benefit of including our best accommodations, meals and most gratuities. See our tours .
Book a regular tour & choose compliant activities - American citizens can travel on any of our regular Cuba tour packages if they stick to certain activities that are appropriate for their general license travel category, and keep documentation to show it. You can learn how to make your trip to Cuba legal with these general license instructions .

Traveling legally to Cuba is easier than you think! Read more >

Pink visa or green visa? What you need to enter Cuba. Read more >

Fly to Cuba from the US or beyond. Read more >

Not flying direct from the US? You can buy the mandatory insurance from us. Read more >

Key things to remember as you prep for Cuba. Read more >

Frequently asked questions about US-Cuba travel. Read more >

CUBA TOURS for LEGAL USA TRAVEL

See more Cuba Tours for Americans

Other information for American travelers

Accessing your money in cuba.

You'll need to plan carefully how you will fund your purchases during your time in Cuba, as a Debit/Credit Card from a US bank will not work! As of June 2021, U.S. dollars are no longer accepted for official exchange in Cuba,we recommend you bring EUR. Read more about money in Cuba and our blog article with tips and examples .

Paying through Cuban Adventures - a safe option!

We accept payments to our bank account in Australia which carries the name of our parent company - Big Planet Adventures . (This will not mention 'Cuban Adventures')

PLEASE NOTE: You can pay us with complete assurance that NO reference to Cuba will be included in any way on your credit card or bank statements.

Speak to our specialist: Sarah (Cuban Adventures USA - Manager) +1 (707) 702 4693 or via Email

More Cuba Travel Information

Cubans on Edge as Safe Exit to USA in Danger

with the suspension of the parole program

By Francisco Acevedo

HAVANA TIMES – The temporary suspension of the humanitarian parole program was the talk of the week among Cubans, both on the island and in any country where families are in the process or intending to apply.

Since July 6, it was temporarily suspended for Venezuela, but for the other three countries benefiting from this program (Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua), which has been in effect since January 2023, it was suspended on July 18th.

To apply for the permit, migrants need to have a sponsor in the United States who already has legal status and can demonstrate sufficient income to financially support the program’s beneficiary.

This is the safest way to leave the island given the desperate economic and social situation it is experiencing. The other alternative was to venture on a journey from Nicaragua, or even further, to reach Mexico and cross the border, exposed to criminal gangs throughout the journey or the possibility of imprisonment, not to mention the natural dangers of traversing a jungle.

According to the Office of Fraud Detection and National Security, several sponsors used false information, such as non-existent addresses, deceased persons’ account numbers, etc., to try to bring friends or relatives to the US. These cases certainly did not progress, meaning the beneficiary was rejected, but due to the sustained occurrence of these attempts to break the law, a halt was decided.

According to specialists on the matter, interested parties can continue applying, but the authorizations to travel are halted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Over more than a year and a half, more than half a million people from these four nationalities have traveled to the United States, but some might be at risk of losing that benefit if it is proven they entered through fraud, as during this pause, the sponsor’s applications, which have had inconsistencies, will be reviewed.

The DHS explained that the same social security numbers, addresses, and phone numbers were used on multiple forms. Specifically, it was discovered that 100,948 I-134A forms were filled out by only 3,218 people.

Furthermore, 24 social security numbers belonged to deceased individuals, just over 100 physical addresses were included in more than 19,000 forms, and the same phone number appeared on more than 2,000 applications, besides 2,839 forms with non-existent postal codes.

The DHS warned that individuals involved would be taken to immigration court, where they will face legal proceedings that could result in the revocation of their visas and travel authorizations, a situation that worries even those who supposedly did everything legally, as always happens when someone breaks the rules and affects others.

Similarly, the DHS will refer cases it deems appropriate to the Department of Justice, implying that those responsible could face criminal charges, including fines, penalties, and possibly imprisonment.

In a statement made public this Friday, the Department of Homeland Security said it had not identified any public safety issues concerning the people from the four countries benefiting from the parole, only with their sponsors.

Of course, when a violation is proven, those who obtained their travel authorizations through fraud will have their visas revoked, which means not only the loss of the right to remain in the United States but also that they will be subject to deportation proceedings.

Moreover, individuals deported for fraud may face a re-entry ban to the United States, which can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the fraud and applicable laws.

Evidently, beneficiaries of the parole who committed fraud will see their future visa or immigration applications to the United States affected, as the record will be noted and considered in any future immigration process, significantly complicating their chances of obtaining entry or residence permits.

In the case of sponsors, they could be investigated, prosecuted, and face criminal charges, besides losing the ability to sponsor other migrants in the future.

The suspension of the program, which facilitates the legal arrival in the United States of about a total of 360,000 citizens from these four countries per year and guarantees work permits and a two-year authorization to live legally in the US., leaves many families waiting for their travel permits in limbo.

The random manner in which applications were approved, where a person who applied a month ago could leave the country while others wait for more than a year, also suggested the existence of fraud and corruption in the method.

Personally, we know several cases of people who saw other applicants who started the process later move ahead, even though they were direct descendants of their sponsors and had all the paperwork in order.

These delays were heavily criticized, and many people were also denounced on social media (Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok) for sponsorship offers that turned out to be false.

Within the United States, there were also problems with the parole program because 21 Republican states sued the federal government because, according to them, it forced them to invest millions in healthcare, education, and public safety for immigrants.

Despite this initial rejection, the initiative prospered throughout this time, but now it is uncertain when it will resume, if it ever does, because the final decision will depend on the severity of what emerges.

Meanwhile, in Cuba, hundreds of families bite their nails amid the usual blackouts and widespread shortages.

Read more from Cuba here on Havana Times.

Those Who Travel with Their House on Their Back

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'Litigation is a certainty': Trump's call to end birthright citizenship would face a mountain of opposition

Former President Donald Trump at a rally on July 24, 2024 in Charlotte, N.C.

WASHINGTON — When Donald Trump took office in 2017, he immediately issued a provocative executive order banning travel from Muslim-majority countries that led to chaos, confusion and a flurry of lawsuits that ended up at the Supreme Court.

If he wins the election in November, he has pledged to follow a similar course on another contentious policy proposal: ending birthright citizenship.

In May of last year, Trump released a campaign video renewing his call to end the long-standing constitutional right, saying he would sign an executive order on day one of his presidency that would ensure that children born to parents who do not have legal status in the U.S. will not be considered U.S. citizens.

“The United States is among the only countries in the world that says even if neither parent is a citizen or even lawfully in the country, their future children are automatic citizens the moment the parents trespass onto our soil,” Trump said in the video.

Birthright citizenship has long been understood to be required under the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.” The language was included in the constitutional amendment enacted after the Civil War to ensure that Black former slaves and their children were recognized as citizens.

The phrase has been generally understood by legal scholars of all ideological stripes to be self-explanatory, but that has not stopped some anti-immigration advocates from pressing an alternative interpretation.

“Litigation is a certainty,” said Omar Jadwat, a lawyer at the American Civil Liberties Union who was also involved in the travel ban challenge.

“It’s directly in the teeth of the 14th Amendment,” he added. “It would essentially be an attempt to tear down one of the core constitutional protections that has been a key part of our country.”

The Supreme Court ultimately upheld a watered-down version of Trump’s travel ban, deferring to the president’s authority on national security issues, but even supporters of birthright citizenship accept Trump’s plan would face a potentially insurmountable uphill battle.

“It’s something that the Supreme Court may well decide against the president if he were to take this step,” said Mark Krikorian, executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, who supports the idea. His group favors strict immigration limits.

If Trump loses that case, then the next step is clear, he added: There would need to be an effort to start the difficult process of amending the Constitution.

A Trump campaign spokesman declined to comment on the plan, pointing to the former president’s original announcement .

Under Trump’s proposal, at least one parent would need to be a citizen or legal resident for a child to receive birthright citizenship. He indicated in his video that the policy would not apply retroactively.

The order, Trump said, would also address so-called “birth tourism,” a situation in which Republicans claim people visit the U.S. toward the end of a pregnancy in order to ensure the child is born a U.S. citizen.

It is unclear exactly how many children a year are born in the U.S. to parents who are both undocumented or how many of them could be described as “birth tourists” under Trump’s formulation.

Krikorian’s group has previously said that there could be up to 400,000 children born a year to undocumented parents and thousands of children born as a result of birth tourism every year.

The American Immigration Council, an immigrant rights group, said it does not have exact numbers but noted that there are currently an estimated 3.7 million U.S.-born children who have at least one parent who is undocumented, a number derived from U.S. census data.

A spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the federal agency that handles citizenship issues, declined to comment.

Trump had pledged to end birthright citizenship when first running for president in 2015 and he raised it again in 2018. But he never issued an executive order.

At the time, House Speaker Paul Ryan, a fellow Republican, dismissed the idea, saying: “You can’t do something like this via executive order.”

Despite Trump’s pledge, the plan to end birthright citizenship is not specifically mentioned in the 2024 Republican platform document, which includes a chapter titled “Seal the Border and Stop the Migrant Invasion.”

The platform does include language pledging to “prioritize merit-based immigration” and end chain migration, a term used to refer to people who have U.S. citizenship and then use their status to help other family members enter the country.

Ken Cuccinelli, who held a senior Department of Homeland Security position in the first Trump administration, said the proposal is “appropriate and manageable from a policy perspective” but did not respond to further questions on how it could be lawfully implemented.

Cuccinelli wrote the chapter on immigration-related issues that was included in Project 2025, a proposed road map for a second Trump administration issued by the conservative Heritage Foundation. His section did not mention birthright citizenship.

'Historical myth'

“As has been laid out by many scholars, this current policy is based on a historical myth and a willful misinterpretation of the law by the open borders advocate,” Trump said of birthright citizenship in his announcement video.

Few people agree with that assessment.

The legal argument, fleshed out by anti-immigration advocates, focuses on the language in the 14th Amendment saying that birthright citizenship is awarded to those “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States.

Opponents of birthright citizenship say that language means citizenship is denied to anyone whose parents are not legally in the country.

“Illegal aliens can hardly be said to be under the protection of the United States,” said Christopher Hajec, a lawyer at the Immigration Reform Law Institute, another group that supports limits on immigration.

But most legal experts say the jurisdiction language only refers to people not bound by U.S. law, most notably foreign diplomats.

Even James Ho, a conservative lawyer whom Trump appointed to the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals where he has built a reputation as a judicial firebrand, backs that view.

He wrote in a 2009 article that the 14th Amendment citizenship language applies to “most U.S.-born children of aliens, including illegal aliens.”

Being within the jurisdiction of the U.S. merely means people who are required to obey U.S. laws, Ho said. “And obedience, of course, does not turn on immigration status,” he added.

The Supreme Court has never directly ruled on the issue, but the one case that is frequently mentioned in any discussion of the issue suggested that it was assumed people born in the U.S. have citizenship, whatever the status of their parents.

In that 1898 case, called United States v. Wong Kim Ark, the court ruled that a man born in San Francisco to parents who were both from China was a U.S. citizen.

Birthright citizenship critics argue that the ruling did not address whether the children of people who entered the country illegally are U.S. citizens, as the parents in that case had been lawfully admitted.

In fact, they suggest the ruling assumes that the children of people who enter the country illegally do not have citizenship, although they concede that the argument can be difficult to follow.

“You really have to tease it out,” Hajec said. “It’s a pretty complicated argument.”

If Trump were to follow through on his plan to issue an executive order on day one, the impact could be felt immediately.

The Trump campaign has said the president would order the Social Security Administration to refuse to issue Social Security numbers to newborn children without proof of the parents’ immigration status. He would issue a similar order to the State Department regarding passports.

Krikorian, who said he has not discussed the policy with the Trump campaign, favors that approach as it would not require any action from Congress and would immediately prompt a lawsuit that would get the legal issue before the Supreme Court in short order.

In the unlikely event that Trump’s plan were to go fully into effect, it could be tricky to implement because federal agencies do not necessarily have immigration status at their fingertips and would need to access information not just on the newly born child but also data on both parents. Sometimes relevant information could be hard to determine, such as if the immigration status of an absent parent is not known to the other.

A Social Security Administration spokeswoman noted that the agency does not hold data on immigration status, which it has to verify with the Department of Homeland Security before issuing immigrants a Social Security number.

Currently, a U.S. birth certificate is all that is needed to obtain a Social Security number or passport.

Emma Winger, a lawyer at the American Immigration Council, said that Trump’s proposal would affect any child born in the United States, as every parent would now need to take an additional bureaucratic step to ensure that their baby is registered as a citizen.

“Everybody relies on the fact that if they are born here they just need to show proof of birth,” she said. “It would be a radical shift.”

Lawrence Hurley is a senior Supreme Court reporter for NBC News.

Will recreational marijuana be legal in NC? What to know after Cherokee approved sales

A recent social media update from Cherokee, the site of North Carolina's first and only cannabis dispensary, announced that adult-use recreational marijuana is coming soon.

The Aug. 1 post is a landmark occasion. The Great Smoky Cannabis Co., run by Qualla Enterprises backed by the Eastern Band of Cherokee, will become the first N.C. recreational marijuana dispensary to fully open to adults over the age of 21.

Until the full opening, slated for Sept. 7 according to the recent post, the dispensary sells their wide variety of cannabis products only to those over 21 with a tribal ID or medical marijuana card.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

As the dispensary is run by Cherokee, a sovereign nation located on the Qualla Boundary that has its own elections, laws, government and institutions, the area can have different legislation around cannabis regulation than N.C. as a whole.

Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards - along with several other NC politicians - have promised to stay committed to their opposition to legalizing recreational marijuana in Western North Carolina. Edwards introduced the "Stop Pot Act," which threatened to remove 10% of federal highway funding from states and tribes that sell legal marijuana. However, the bill failed to pass a referral to a subcommittee under the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Here's what else to know about marijuana legality in NC.

More: Eastern Band of Cherokee announce opening date for recreational marijuana; 1st in NC

Is medical marijuana legal in North Carolina?

In 2021, marijuana was legalized for medical use in Cherokee, which is self-governed and autonomous as a sovereign nation located on the Qualla Boundary. This year, the Great Smoky Cannabis Co.'s April opening drew hundreds of eager customers . However, laws that make medical cannabis sales legal at the Cherokee dispensary pertain only to tribal land.

Medical marijuana cards are available to eligible individuals on the EBCI website . It remains illegal to transport cannabis out of Cherokee, regardless of medical status. A medical cannabis patient card does not prevent or act as a defense to prosecution by the Federal or North Carolina state government.

More: Cuban coffee shop opening set for West Asheville with late-night hours

Is recreational weed legal in North Carolina?

While customers of the Great Smoky Cannabis Co. currently must meet the medical standards in place in order to purchase cannabis products, the company's recent post has stated that this will change.

The announcement stated that the sale of recreational marijuana for adults ages 21 and older will begin at 10 a.m. on Sept. 7.

More: Which were the most-expensive homes sold in Asheville area in 2nd quarter 2024?

Is delta 8 legal in North Carolina?

While marijuana is not legal for recreational or medical use in N.C., a popular loophole in hemp legislation has made it possible to get legally stoned .

Laws around cannabis largely revolve around psychoactive chemical delta-9 THC. Delta-8 THC, however, is not mentioned in the legislation. This has led many N.C. hemp businesses to begin extracting the compound from plants or converting other compounds like CBD into delta-8. If you've seen weed sold at gas stations, tobacco stores or anywhere else, it's likely psychoactive "delta-8" or a similar compound .

It's worth mentioning that, while delta-8 causes a "high," the FDA has not evaluated or approved it as safe for consumption, meaning that delta-8 products are not regulated by the FDA and could therefore be harmful to your health.

More: NC allows dog breed restrictions: These 2 cities label certain breeds 'potentially vicious'

Which states have legalized weed?

There are currently 24 states where cannabis is fully legal. Every state on this list had authorized medical marijuana prior to full legislation. The states include:

Ohio: Legalized in 2023
Minnesota: Legalized in 2023
Delaware: Legalized in 2023
Rhode Island: Legalized in 2022
Maryland: Legalized in 2022
Missouri: Legalized in 2022
Connecticut: Legalized in 2021
New Mexico: Legalized in 2021
New York: Legalized in 2021
Virginia: Legalized in 2021
Arizona: Legalized in 2020
Montana: Legalized in 2020
New Jersey: Legalized in 2020
Vermont: Legalized in 2020
Illinois: Legalized in 2019
Michigan: Legalized in 2018
California: Legalized in 2016
Maine: Legalized in 2016
Massachusetts: Legalized in 2016
Nevada: Legalized in 2016
District of Columbia: Legalized in 2014
Alaska: Legalized 2014
Oregon: Legalized in 2014
Colorado: Legalized in 2012
Washington: Legalized in 2012

More: Downtown Asheville restaurant to relocate, expand breakfast, dinner menus

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Will recreational marijuana be legal in NC? What to know after Cherokee approved sales

A cannabis plant grow room in the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians' Great Smoky Cannabis Co. dispensary in Cherokee, North Carolina. April 20, 2024.

IMAGES

How to Legally Travel to Cuba as an American
Can Americans Travel To Cuba? [2024 Legal Travel Guide]
Legal Travel to Cuba: Best Cuba Tours for US Citizens 2021
Is it still legal to visit Cuba?
Legal Travel to Cuba For Americans (Updated for 2020)
Legal Travel to Cuba For Americans (Updated Jan 2020)

COMMENTS

Can Americans Travel To Cuba? [2024 Legal Travel Guide]
American Travel to Cuba. The short answer to the question "can Americans travel to Cuba" is YES, American citizens can travel to Cuba. Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba via the United States as well. American citizens can fly from the United States directly to Cuba, travel independently (no need for a group trip or guided trip ...
Traveling to Cuba
Please note that neither the U.S. Embassy in Havana nor the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. process Cuban visa applications. To apply for a Cuban visa or for any questions regarding Cuban consular services, please contact the Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C.: Embassy of the Republic of Cuba 2630 16th Street, NW Washington, D.C ...
Is it Legal for U.S. Citizens to Travel to Cuba?
U.S. law states that those who want to go to Cuba need to qualify for a "general license" based on one of 12 approved categories. The 12 categories currently authorized by U.S. government, for travel to Cuba are: Family visits. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations.
Cuba International Travel Information
Travel to Cuba from or transiting through the United States by persons under U.S. jurisdiction (defined as [BE1] U.S. citizens located anywhere, and anyone located in the United States regardless of citizenship and nationality) , is regulated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. All travelers falling under U.S. jurisdiction must comply with ...
The rules for Americans visiting Cuba in 2022
The 12 categories of travel licenses for US citizens. US law states that US citizens can only travel to Cuba on a 'general license' based on one of 12 different approved categories, which include family visits, educational and religious activities, public performances and exhibitions, and the vague sounding 'support for the Cuban people.'Licenses are self-qualifying (there's no long ...
Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism
The simple answer is yes. It's perfectly legal for Americans to travel to Cuba, except for explicit tourism purposes. Americans can't go to Cuba for tourism thanks to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations of July 8, 1963, which imposed a trade embargo on the island.. However, you can travel legally to Cuba if you comply with certain Cuban and US government regulations.
Cuba Travel Advisory
Travel outside of the Havana area for U.S. Embassy employees requires a special notification process which may affect the Embassy's ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Cuba. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Cuba. If you decide to travel to Cuba: Be aware of your surroundings.
Entry to Cuba: Visas & Travel Requirements · Visit Cuba
For most European citizens, a valid passport is required during your stay in Cuba. Some countries, like Spain, require the passport to be valid for at least 6 months. It's also important to note that if you plan to travel to the United States after visiting Cuba, you'll need a visa. This is because the electronic system for travel authorization ...
How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American
Using the Havana Embassy. The U.S. Embassy in Havana reopened in August 2015, as full diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States have been restored. Although the relationship is now strained thanks to the Trump administration, this embassy will still help American citizens in Cuba in a variety of different ways.
Cuba travel restrictions: What you need to know
Some frequent Cuba travelers feel the support for the Cuban people category is broad enough to allow most US citizens to travel to the island provided they stay in Airbnbs and eat at paladars ...
Can Americans Travel to Cuba?
Yes, travelers with US passports can travel to Cuba. Considine says that it's perfectly legal for US individuals to visit Cuba for one of twelve specific purposes defined by the United States ...
Traveling to Cuba as a US Citizen: 2024 Guide
In short, yes, it is possible for Americans to visit Cuba. However, the country still remains off limits for tourist activities. This means U.S citizens currently cannot visit Cuba when the sole purpose of their trip is to sightsee, go to the beach, and explore. In 2024, U.S. citizens that wish to travel to Cuba must fall into one of the 12 ...
Everything you need to know about traveling legally to Cuba
Despite recent bans on cruise liners and 'people-to-people' trips, US citizens can still apply for a 'general license' to travel to Cuba under 11 different categories listed by the US Department of the Treasury. These range from public performances to athletic competitions to humanitarian projects. Independent travelers with no specific ...
US lifts Cuba flight restrictions imposed under Trump
The administration of President Joe Biden on Wednesday revoked a series of restrictions on flights to Cuba imposed by his predecessor, including ending a prohibition on US airline flights to Cuban ...
Travel to Cuba for United States Citizens
Updated on 07/10/19. Michael Krakowiak / E+ / Getty Images. United States citizens can only travel to Cuba under specific conditions, but under current regulations, U.S. citizens cannot travel to Cuba simply to vacation there, even if they go to Cuba via a third country, such as Canada. Additionally, any travel to Cuba must be undertaken in ...
Cuba Travel Restrictions and Warnings for U.S. Citizens
On June 4, 2019, the U.S. Department of State announced new travel restrictions on United States citizens traveling to Cuba: "Going forward, the United States will prohibit U.S. travelers from going to Cuba under the previous 'group people-to-people educational' travel authorization. In addition, the United States will no longer permit ...
Rules for visiting Cuba: Clearing up the confusion
1 of 6. CNN —. Since President Barack Obama restored diplomatic relations with Cuba, there have been endless headlines heralding the reduction of travel restrictions for U.S. citizens. With a ...
Can Americans travel to Cuba? I did. Here's how. [2024 Update]
Yes, Americans can travel to Cuba — there are multiple ways to do so. You can visit Cuba in a completely legal way, obtaining a visa in advance, or you can do what many Americans do — simply book a flight from another country, like Mexico. Read on for the ways to visit Cuba legally when you hold a US passport.
Biden's new Cuba policy creates more options for U.S. travel
The United States just approved flights to airports beyond Havana and will restore the group tours banned under Trump. Americans who want to travel legally to Cuba will have more options after the ...
Can US Citizens Travel to Cuba
Here's a simplified list of Cuban entry requirements: For Cuba - Complete the D'Viajeros Advance Information of Travelers Form. This can only be completed once you are within 48 hours from departure for Cuba. This is a simple form that asks some health questions as well as including the customs declaration form.
Can US citizens travel to Cuba right now?
Can US Citizens travel to Cuba? Yes, they can! The USA is so close to Cuba and for years Havana was America's favourite playground and holiday destination. Over the past sixty years, US-Cuban relations and the US Embargo have made Cuba seem like a forbidden fruit. Tantalisingly close and yet just out of reach.
How To Legally Travel To Cuba As An American
Yes, you can still legally travel to Cuba as a citizen of the United States. Plan accordingly based on the revised rules and regulations. Updated: June 2019. First, citizens of the United States could freely travel to Cuba, then we could under certain conditions, now those restrictions have changed. If you're a bit perplexed by the new Cuban ...
Legal Travel to Cuba Explained: How to Visit Cuba in 2024
Legal Cuba travel essentials for US citizens and residents. Read the Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide, a summary of nearly three decades of Cuba travel tips and advice. All visitors require a passport, valid for one week beyond your Cuba stay. Cuba travelers require a Cuba entry visa. Purchase a Cuban Visitor Visa online now.
Thought you couldn't legally tour Cuba as an American? You can ...
The itinerary, arranged by Friendly Planet, falls under the category "Support for the Cuban People," one of 12 legal categories of travel to Cuba by US citizens. The other legal categories ...
Tim Walz, Who Spent Decades as an Enlisted Soldier, Brings Years of
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Legal Travel To Cuba For Americans
CUBA TOURS for LEGAL USA TRAVEL. 15 day Cuba Heritage Tour. $2590 USD / person. 15 days / 14 nights. P Premium Style. Tour Code: SCP15. 11 Day Holiday Rumba. $2100 USD / person. 11 days / 10 nights.
Cubans on Edge as Safe Exit to USA in Danger
The suspension of the program, which facilitates the legal arrival in the United States of about a total of 360,000 citizens from these four countries per year and guarantees work permits and a two-year authorization to live legally in the US., leaves many families waiting for their travel permits in limbo.
'Litigation is a certainty': Trump's call to end birthright citizenship
"The United States is among the only countries in the world that says even if neither parent is a citizen or even lawfully in the country, their future children are automatic citizens the moment ...
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The applicants from Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti and Nicaragua must have a valid passport to fly into a U.S. airport and pass security, background and health checks to receive approval to travel to the U.S.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba? [2024 Legal Cuba Travel Guide]

American Travel to Cuba

U.S.-Cuba Policy Changes

Cuba Travel 101

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

How Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Best Places To Stay in Havana

12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Support for the Cuban People

Travel Insurance

Regulations on American Travel to Cuba

Restricted Hotels in Cuba

Read More: Accommodation Guides in Cuba

Financial Restrictions in Cuba

Read More: Financial Restrictions in Cuba

Internet Restrictions in Cuba

Read More: Internet in Cuba

Packing Restrictions in Cuba

What to Pack for Cuba

American Travel to Cuba – Frequently Asked Questions

Do Americans Have to Travel to Cuba With A Group?

Is Cuba Safe for Americans?

Travel Essential

American Embassy in Cuba

Travel to Cuba

Carley Rojas Avila

Yes, Americans Can Still Travel to Cuba. Here’s How

Can you travel to Cuba?

How to travel to Cuba as an American citizen

What the “support for the Cuban people” license entails

Can you still travel to Cuba with organized tour operators?

Challenges and considerations for travel to Cuba

How to get a Cuba Tourist Card

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024? Yes, But Not for Tourism.

Can Americans Travel to Cuba in 2024?

The Cuban Tourist Card

Buy it From Your Airline

Purchase it on EasyTouristCard.com

Mandatory Travel Health Insurance

Customs and Health Declaration Forms

The 12 Categories of Authorized Travel to Cuba

Educational Activities (People-to-People Travel)

The Support for the Cuban People Travel Category

Restricted Businesses and Accommodations

Travel Receipts and Records for Five Years

Bonus Tip for Americans Traveling to Cuba: Stick to Private

US Legal Travel to Cuba, Summarized

Essential Travel Logistics For Cuba

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Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Tony Perrottet

Can Americans travel to Cuba in 2024?