How to Travel to Cuba

President Obama’s recent position change on Cuba sparked huge interest in visiting the island. Though it may take years for such changes to affect American tourism, there are 12 ways to legally visit the island now and learn about Cuban culture.

Visiting family

Cuban-Americans are able to visit the island and reconnect with family still living there. Legislation changes also allowed for goods and money to be exchanged. Flights from Miami to Havana are often full of shrink-wrapped televisions and bursting suitcases, clutched by anxious relatives and friends.

Education and immersion

Early in Obama’s presidency, the Treasury Department began granting “people-to-people” visas for Americans to visit the island through licensed operators. Unlike a Caribbean vacation, these opportunities place Americans and Cubans together, fostering dialogue and cultural ambassadorship. Popular operators are Marazul Charters and Insight Cuba.

Journalism or academic work

Researchers and investigative reporters can receive special permission to work in Cuba. For instance, the Associated Press hires American journalists to work in short-term news reporting positions, in order for news about the island to reach a U.S. or global audience.

Humanitarian work

Religious and government organizations, like USAID, conduct humanitarian work on the island, in order to better serve the Cuban people and promote democracy. Though, the U.S.’s history of alleged sedition with ZunZuneo and Alan Gross might make this a less reliable option.