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Explore Cuba through Dance Trips
Essential Information
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Can Americans travel legally to Cuba?This is one of the most common questions we receive from our clients, and the answer is “Yes, you can legally travel to Cuba as an American citizen” as long as you do so under one of the 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba. Most of the itineraries designed by DanceTrips.org qualifies under the “Support For The Cuban People” reason. You will feel totally integrated with all aspects of the Cuban culture as you stay in Casas Particulares (private houses of great comfort) or hotels (not listed in the Cuba Prohibited Accommodation List), delight your palate in the best Cuban paladares (privately-owned restaurants), and visit community projects and private studios of Cuban artists. Our main goal is to establish a bond of friendship between visitors and locals that lasts a lifetime.
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How do I Obtain an OFAC general license to Cuba?A general license or travel category is not a specific document that you must obtain. Individuals who meet the regulatory conditions of the general license they seek to travel under do not need to apply for an additional license from OFAC to travel to Cuba. If you are traveling under the "Support the Cuban People" Category, you do not need an OFAC license.
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What documents do I need to travel to Cuba?Valid Passport: A valid passport is required for the entirety of your trip. Make sure it has at least six months of validity at the time of entry. Cuban Tourist Card or Travel Visa: Cuba requires that all arriving travelers, except Cuban born travelers, have a Tourist Card or Visa to enter the country. If you are flying to Cuba via the US or you are a US citizen, then you will need a “pink” Visa. For those who travel from the rest of the world to Cuba, they will need a “green” one. You can get your visa online or purchase it at the airport during check-in for your flight. If you are a US passport holder residing in the United States you can also purchase it from us. We ship only within the US. Note it will arrive blank for you to fill out with your passport information. This tourist card is valid for 90 days. Make sure you do not misplace it while in Cuba since you cannot leave the country without it, and please, do not detach the two separate sides. Customs in Cuba is responsible for this. PINK TOURIST CARD / TRAVEL VISA GREEN TOURIST CARD / TRAVEL VISA Travel Insurance: Cuba requires all visitors to have a travel medical insurance at the time of entry to the island to cover their entire stay. Most of the U.S. airlines that fly directly to Cuba give you the option of purchasing it at the moment of booking your flight ticket. Flight Ticket: Make sure to buy a roundtrip ticket or have onward travel from Cuba if you are buying one-way. US airlines flying to Cuba: American Airlines (AA), Southwest (WN) and Delta (DL). SST assists its clients with the airline ticket booking process if required. Please, take into account that your flight ticket will be booked directly through the airline depending on their availability for the scheduled date. Most of these airline tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE. If you cancel your trip, the amount paid for the airline ticket and the travel insurance will not be refunded. D’Viajeros Travel Form: This is an Advance Traveler Information form. As it is mandatory for each traveler to fill out the form, it is available in several languages and must be filled out 48 to 72 hours prior to arrival. It results in a QR code to be presented digitally or printed, in order to facilitate transit through customs. Access through this link, click Top Right Hand ‘Lenguaje’ tab for the dropdown language menu and choose Ingles/ English which will instantly translate the page for you. Then, follow the instructions. If you need more help filling out the form, check out our complete guide on how to fill out the D’Viajeros Travel Form.
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Remember to keep your travel receipts and records for 5 years.For up to 5 years after your Cuba trip, the US Government can ask you about your travel records and receipts, so keep your records safe for five years in case you’re questioned about your trip.
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What are the currency restrictions when traveling to Cuba?U.S. credit and debit cards generally do not work in Cuba, so it’s recommended that you bring enough cash for your stay. Cuba has two currencies: the Cuban peso (CUP) and the Cuban convertible peso (CUC), but as of 2021, the country is transitioning to using only the CUP. Be sure to exchange your money at official exchange locations or in private businesses, as government-controlled exchange rates can differ.
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What are the restrictions on bringing goods from Cuba to the U.S.?You can bring back up to $400 worth of goods, including a maximum of $100 in alcohol or tobacco products for personal use. Items must comply with U.S. customs regulations.
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What is the best way to prepare for potential internet and communication challenges in Cuba?Internet access in Cuba is limited and often slow. Public Wi-Fi is available in some parks and hotels, but it may require purchasing an access card. It’s a good idea to download any essential apps or information before you leave, and let friends and family know that communication might be delayed.
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What should I include in my travel itinerary to ensure compliance with U.S. regulations?Your itinerary should demonstrate a full-time schedule of activities that comply with your chosen travel category. For example, under the "Support for the Cuban People" category, this could include volunteering with local organizations, engaging in cultural exchanges, or patronizing privately-owned businesses.
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Are there any essential items I should bring with me that might not be easily available in Cuba?Yes, it's a good idea to pack essentials like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wipes. Many public restrooms in Cuba, as well as some restaurants, may lack basic supplies such as toilet paper, soap, or paper towels. Carrying napkins, wipes, or small packs of tissues with you at all times can be very helpful, especially when you're out exploring. It's also a good idea to bring any specific toiletries or medications you might need, as these can be difficult to find or expensive in Cuba.
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