Picture a travel destination that offers beautiful sandy beaches with warm tropical breezes and hospitable, friendly people with a proud cultural heritage. Envision that it also has an energetic nightlife pulsing with lively local music and historical cities that offer a true glimpse into the past. Now imagine that this place still feels virtually undiscovered, yet to be overrun with vacation resorts and tourist traps. Would you believe that this tropical island is just 90 miles off the U.S. coast?

These are among the many reasons why Cuba has become one of fastest growing and increasingly desirable travel spots for American tourists. Last year alone, more than 200,000 Americans visited Cuba - a number widely expected to climb over the next few years. Recent tourists include former President Jimmy Carter as well as U.S. governors and senators. One couple regards their recent visit to Cuba as one of the best trips they've ever taken. "Everything in Cuba was great. We both loved the country, the people, everything really. Both hotels were beautiful. Our guide, could not have been better. I have never met such friendly people. We got a good feeling for daily life in Havana from our guide, which was most interesting. We are definitely going back." Many other Americans who visit Cuba are equally enthusiastic. v While many believe that it is illegal for Americans to travel to Cuba, there are exceptions and avid travelers are finding ways to see Cuba for themselves - legally. While it may take a little more planning than most vacations and should include a good understanding of regulations, most visitors agree that Cuba is well worth the effort. There are a number of resources on the Internet and several travel agencies that specialize in helping Americans tour Cuba. We've assembled an overview that provides the facts on travel to Cuba and helps to clear up some common misconceptions about our neighbor off the Florida Keys.

Sections:

• Cuba Facts
• What are the Main Attractions?
• Is it Safe?
• When is the Best Time to Visit?
• How can I Legally Travel to Cuba?
• Is Cuba an Economical Destination?
• Travants Resources for Cuba Travel Planning

Cuba Facts:
A tropical island slightly smaller than Pennsylvania, Cuba has a population of just over 11 million people. The temperature ranges from a high of roughly 86 degrees F in July to a gentle low of 70 degrees F in January, making it an ideal travel spot year round. Home to beautiful mountain ranges and gentle plains, the island boasts more than 200 bays and nearly 300 sun-drenched beaches. In fact, Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and the least commercialized - a draw for many who avoid the bustling tourist traps. Due to its close proximity to the U.S., many believe Cuba will become a crowded tourist destination for Americans if restrictions on travel are lifted.

Known by many as the last bastion of communism in the West, Cuba is equally known for its lively music, such as the mambo and salsa, fine cigars and strong cocktails - particularly mojitos. Cuba is a multiracial society with strong influences from Spanish and African cultures mixing with the indigenous Tainos in the past. There is also a small Chinese community in Cuba. Today those cultures are fused into a blend that is uniquely Cuban from its cuisine to its ever evolving and lively music.

While Cuba is a fascinating tourist destination, not all aspects of life are rosy on this island paradise. Food shortages are still common, as are lines to get food when it is available. The economy suffered a difficult recession in 1990 with the collapse of the Soviet Union. The Fidel Castro-led government today blames the U.S. trade embargo for many of the country's continuing economic woes. Others cite government control over the press and repression of those who oppose the Castro regime.

While many tourist destinations have their drawbacks, Cuba as a country still has much to offer tourists. Many American travelers do choose to stay in luxury hotels or resorts, mostly run by European companies. And the many positive anecdotes from visitors to Cuba suggest that travelers do not experience any of the hardships - in fact many rave about the overall experience.

What are the main attractions?
Cuba has a wide variety of attractions, sights and activities for tourists. With a prime location in the Caribbean, it is an ideal spot for sun worshippers and beach lovers. History buffs will enjoy the feel that they've stepped back in time - there are relatively few modern buildings in Havana adding to its charm. Most of the cars are a real blast from the past - big American muscle cars from the 1950s still dominate the roads in Cuba. Havana also offers a wide variety of restaurants with local fare and nightclubs to experience the vibrant sounds of Cuba.

Other common attractions include cigar tours to see how the world's finest are made, Ernest Hemingway-themed tours, eco-tours, scuba diving, fishing and golfing. Many travelers also go under the auspices of a religious or humanitarian organization and engage in social activities through their groups.

Is it Safe?
Safety is a primary concern for many travelers these days. Despite what some people may think, Cuba is a safe destination with a relatively low crime rate. Many travelers are overwhelmed by how inviting and friendly the Cuban people are toward American tourists. While the political isolation has prevented Cuba from modernizing at the same pace as most Western nations, Cuba has dramatically improved its tourism infrastructure. Hotel choices range from inexpensive government-run facilities to world-class resorts and luxury hotels. Many of the cars remain classic - a treat for automobile aficionados - but tour buses are often more modern and reliable.

From a health perspective, Cuba doesn't pose any major health concerns with the exception of Hepatitis A for those drinking tap water in remote areas with bad sanitation. Health concerns for travelers in Cuba are significantly lower than in Mexico and many of the Caribbean nations.

Overall, Cuba is welcoming to tourist and safe for travelers. The country receives more than 2 million tourists annually and many are return visitors.

When is the Best Time to Visit?
Cuba enjoys a warm, temperate climate year round with temperatures seldom dipping below 70 degrees F and rarely exceeding 87 degrees F. May through October is the rainy season and can be humid. The winter months are peak tourism season for Cuba. Hurricanes do hit Cuba from time to time and are most likely from September through October.

I thought it was illegal for Americans to go to Cuba?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions held by Americans. Technically it is not illegal for any American to go to Cuba. It is, however, illegal for Americans to spend money and engage in trade with Cuba. Some may call this a mere technicality, but the regulations do allow for many Americans to visit this unique destination - with a little extra planning to comply with regulations. These regulations are controlled by the U.S. Treasury Department and its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). An official explanation of travel restrictions can be viewed on the OFAC website, available at:
http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/sanctions/t11cuba.pdf

Following is a summary of regulations to help you understand who is eligible to visit Cuba. This is not an official document and specific questions should be directed to OFAC.

Technically, if you had a way to visit Cuba without spending money, you could legally visit. Since many of us do not have a wealthy relative in Canada, Mexico or other parts of the world willing to pay for our trip to Cuba, we must rely on the exceptions to OFAC's regulations. There are several, and many tourists have found ways to organize a trip to Cuba.

General licenses to spend money in Cuba are granted to a number of people, but typically don't apply to the common public. These include:

• Government officials, thus we have seen a number of state and federal politicians visit Cuba
• Journalists and support staff, such as camera operators or photographers
• Family members visiting close relatives in circumstances of humanitarian need
• Full-time professionals engaged in legitimate research where the research is non-commercial or academic, comprises a full work schedule in Cuba and has a likelihood of being publicized
• Professionals whose travel transactions are directly related to attendance at professional meetings or conferences. These conferences must be organized by a professional organization that is not headquartered in the U.S., unless it gets special permission from the U.S. Treasury Department. There are further restrictions on conferences that promote trade or tourism to Cuba or its developing biotechnology industry
• Amateur and semi-professional athletes competing in an international competition held under the auspices of a relevant international sports federation

As you can see, unless you hold political office, work for CNN, have close family in Cuba or compete in international athletic competitions that happen to take place in Cuba, obtaining a general license from OFAC will be difficult. Don't be discouraged. The more common way to get a license to visit Cuba is granted through educational, religious or humanitarian organizations. These are known as specific licenses.

Specific licenses for educational institutions include:

• Undergraduate or grad students participating in a structured and licensed educational program sponsored by an educational institution
• Students engaged in noncommercial Cuba-related academic research for the purpose of qualifying academically as a professional, for example, research toward a graduate degree
• Undergraduate or grad students participating in a formal course of study at a Cuban academic institution, provided the course work will count as credit for a degree at a licensed U.S. institution
• Professors and teaching employees at a U.S. academic institution who plan to teach part or all of an academic program at a Cuban academic institution
• Cuban scholars teaching or engaging in other academic activities at a licensed U.S. academic institution
• Secondary school student participating in an educational exchange program sponsored by a Cuban or U.S. secondary school
• Full-time employees of a licensed U.S. institution planning or engaging in any of the programs or activities listed above

Specific licenses for religious institutions authorize travel transactions by individuals or groups related to religious activities under the auspices of a licensed religious organization. Licenses must be renewed every two years. Individuals traveling to Cuba with a license from a religious institution must carry a letter from the religious organization stating its license number and that the individual is affiliated with the organization. The license is for full-time religious activity while in Cuba.

Many American travelers organize trips through churches, synagogues and other religious organizations. Others apply for a specific license for humanitarian travel. Other forms of specific licenses include:

• Humanitarian travel
  • Persons traveling to Cuba to accompany licensed humanitarian donations
  • Persons traveling in connection with recognized human rights organizations investigating specific human rights violations
  • Persons whose travel is directly related to a certain humanitarian project in or related to Cuba that are designed to directly benefit the Cuban people (This is commonly used)
• Persons involved with public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions and exhibitions
  • The events must be open to the public
  • All proceeds must be donated to either Cuban or U.S. charities
• Licensed activities of private foundations, research or educational institutions
• Persons traveling for the purpose of exportation, importation or transmission of information or informational materials
• Freelance Journalists
• Persons involved in licensed exportation - typically of healthcare products.

Keep in mind that there is a per diem amount of money that the U.S. Treasury Department allows visitors to spend. The most recently published maximum for Havana was $166 per day and $125 in all other localities.

Is Cuba an economical destination?
Cuba is one of the more affordable destinations in the Caribbean, but contrary to popular belief it is not a completely inexpensive location. Western resorts and hotels can even be pricey. State-run hotels are modest in cost, as are stays at a private residence. Meals are relatively inexpensive, except for those restaurants catering to foreign tourists or in the European hotels. Public transportation is cheap, but rental cars typically run higher than rates in neighboring Florida. The best way to plan your trip safely, and cost-effectively is to talk to a travel agent specializing in Cuba, who can steer you clear of both the tourist traps and the dumps.

While there are some obstacles that make travel to Cuba more challenging than most destinations, most who visit agree that the extra effort is more than worth it. Cuba, however, is not a travel spot for everyone. This document is not to advocate or encourage travel to Cuba. The intention is merely to provide the facts on American tourism to Cuba and allow readers to make their own decisions. Those interested in learning more and perhaps planning a trip to Cuba can contact Travants at Cubainfo@travants.com or visit the Website at www.travants.com to locate a Cuba specialist travel agent.