"CUBA" a Cuba Travel Page by PremaMarie

If you live in US, we are not allowed to spend US currency in Cuba without a "license." Funny enough, the US dollar is all you can really use there.

Cubana Airlines flies from Mexico as does Mexicana Airlines. However, if you travel Cubana you are giving money to Cuban Nationalists.. so beware -- better to take Mexicana. You should have someone outside of the US "sponsor" your trip - or destroy and discard any evidence of spending money there before coming back to US.

You can either have your passport stamped in Cuba or they can stamp a small piece of paper for you. This way if you travel to other Countries, they won't see that you have been to Cuba (just a precaution). However, upon returning to the States you cannot lie on your reentry form. That will surely cause you the most trouble. You must indicate you have been to Cuba and if they ask you any questions, be prepared with the proper answers (stayed with a friend, spent no money, traveled on Mexicana, etc.)

You can also travel to Cuba from the US as a missionary, student or with a religious organization. Here is an internet buddy of mine's organization... If you have a sincere interest in helping the Cuban people....

www.internet-physician.com

www.cybercuba.com

www.purecubaplay.com

See my travel tips for more information.

Generally, these are guidelines. I had no trouble reentering US. Just don't plan on bringing back any cigars and rum :o)

Casas Particulars or guest houses are the best place to stay when in Cuba. That is if you are the type who likes to mingle with the people instead of just see the sites. I was very well taken care of in La Orquidea by Andres and his wife and staff. I was treated like family and a doctor was called for me when I was ill. I was taken to see the March for Elian. Here is a picture of La Orquídea. I highly recommend staying there. Tell them Toni Marie sent you.

This is the newer site. They have done renovations to the house since I have been there.
http://www.housecuba.com/

This is older site with other photos.
http://members.tripod.com/~LaOrquidea/pictures_ing.htm

For more information see my travel tip under accomodation.

The people of Cuba are full of love, life and character. This chap and his dog are sitting in the same position. They were just adorable. It was, of course, a little show for some change, which I gladly gave. Be prepared to give away many things in Cuba. The people don't generally ask for anything, but if you offer, they will humbly accept. I must have given away half my clothes, all of my toiletries and medicines and a good amount of cash before I came home. Something about the people just filled me with the desire to let go of my material things and just enjoy life. It is a lifechanging place.