CUBA travel guide: Photographer Tracy Kahn @tracykahn Writer Jenny Heyside @theblondera
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alfway between the U.S. in the north and Latin America in the south lies Cuba, an isle of intrigue, romance and politics unlike any other. Earlier this year the United States government began to steadily ease travel restrictions to Cuba. Despite the relaxed travel stipulations, Americans still face many challenges, requiring more detailed and strategic planning. While it is still technically illegal to travel to the Caribbean country, Americans are able to visit under 12 categories of authorized trips, including family visits, religious or educational activities, professional research and participation in public performances or sports competitions. Organizing
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a professional event or competition, or filming and producing television shows and movies there are additionally covered by the 12 categories. The ground-breaking new rules also allow Americans to travel independently on what are called “people-to-people” trips — one of the most popular and affordable types of trips. Anybody can take part in the educational people-to-people trips, as long as their trip features a full-schedule of activities that generate “meaningful interaction between the traveler and individuals in Cuba”. What constitutes this educational experience has never been officially defined, but basically your holiday to Cuba can’t just involve you sitting on a beach.