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The answer is yes. Technically, Americans are still not allowed to freely travel to Cuba unless they meet one of 12 criteria with the two most common ones being mission trips and people to people cultural exchanges. The cruise lines sailing to Cuba from US ports have qualified to do so by meeting the people to people cultural exchange requirements.
As per NCL, who will be operating cruises with an overnight in Havana: A people to people exchange is defined as a traveler who maintains a full time schedule of educational exchange activities intended to enhance contact with the Cuban people and that will result in meaningful interaction between the travelers and the people of Cuba. The traveler must self certify that they have met these requirements, by keeping a log of their activities and impressions whether they explore on their own or through a shore excursion offered by NCL. The traveler must retain this log of activities for 5-years from the dates of travel. Travelers must fill out a form indicating they meet the people to people requirements as set forth by OFAC, they must have a valid US passport that does not expire less than 6-months from your last date of travel in Cuba and must obtain a Cuban visa. NCL can process this visa for a $75.00 fee. I have visited Cuba and the advantage of visiting by ship, means consistency in the level of accommodation and ensures the traveler a place to stay. Cuba's infrastructure is struggling to meet the increased demand, and accommodation levels are not yet up to US traveler's expectations. I would be happy to assist you in planning your Cuba cruise. But don't delay, as there is limited space and it is bound to sell out quickly.
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Exactly what is Fathom? It is a new way to cruise that focuses on local culture and impact activities that help the communities you visit. It is the type of trip that changes you by interacting with wonderful people and learning about their lives. I had the pleasure of experiencing Fathom last Summer with my 18-year old nephew. On board the ship, the Impact Guides teach you about the culture of the DR and Cuban people so one can better understand the daily challenges they face. They also lead you in activities to learn more about yourself such as story telling and problem challenges. It was surprising how these activities made a bond between passengers that made the trip even more special. On land we worked alongside the women of a chocolate factory cooperative that also had some sweet surprises included.
The Repapel Recycled Paper Factory left me on such a high, singing and dancing with the local women who work there. And it was nice to see the products of our labor. I also planted trees as part of a shore protection activity to help the environment. Opportunities also exist to work with children at an arts/sports school, teach English in a local community, make water filters and deliver them to families in need and pour concrete floors to give a family better quality of life. All of these impact activities leave the participants with a sense of purpose in doing good for others. In Cuba, visiting Santiago de Cuba, will provide participants with the opportunity to engage with the Cuban people. The history is amazing and their love of music and dancing is absolutely contagious! I promise you won't be able to sit still! There is also plenty of time to enjoy Amber Cove, a purpose built cruise port with a huge swim up bar, zip line and waterfront cabanas. On board, the food and service are fantastic and a great band performs every evening and on sea days. And they have the best Latin Dance instructor on board. He will have you doing salsa, merengue and bacchata in no time! Join me on this adventure on May 7th. It will be a trip of a lifetime and you can do it all from less than $800.00 per person for a week! You can find details on my specials page under Adventures With Toni Tours. |
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Toni Lanotte-Day, CTC, MCC
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Toni TOURS, INC. |
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Independent Affiliate of Nexion Travel - CST # 2071045-50 | FL ST # ST38545 | WA UBI # 603 046 768
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Terms and Conditions Site created by Voyager Websites