What was Cuba like?
John and I just returned from Cuba and Wow! there is a lot of interest in this destination. Everyone wants to know about Cuba. Here are a few areas where people need to be educated.

I thought we couldn't travel to Cuba?
The present administration in Washington, DC, revived the People to People visitation program between the US and Cuba. Although an embargo on goods and services still exists between the two countries, American citizens are once more allowed to visit Cuba under the guidelines of the Treasury Department.

What is People to People Travel?
People to People travel encourages our personal relationship with the peoples of Cuba. We interact on a daily basis with its citizens and learn of the creativity and effort it has taken the Cuban people to achieve a positive lifestyle amid the changes that have affected them these last six decades.

Is it safe?
It is very safe. I felt more comfortable in Cuba than I felt in most countries. No guns...Cuba does have theft of goods as they can't get enough items into the country. The water is good to drink also.

How are the hotels?
John and I drove the island in search of the best hotels for our travelers. We were able to select four-star properties and better. All lodging is air conditioned and full service amenities.

What about the food?
I loved the food. Several meals are at Cuban "paladars", privately-owned and operated restaurants which add to the favor of our visit. Most breakfasts have eggs served your way. Beef is not readily available on the island. There is plenty of pork, fish, beans, rice, and of course fresh fruit and vegetables. One of our hotels is an all-inclusive property which has everything, including included beverage service - and even a cigar bar!

How do you communicate with home?
This is tricky. No cell phones and no internet until we get to our last hotel property in Havana. Of course, Mayflower has this covered "just in case".

What about the money?
No credit or debit cards. No ATMs. You bring your USD dollars to Cuba and convert it to CUC. The conversion rate is the same as to our dollar yet there is a 13% service fee.

What did you like best?
Always the Cuban people. They are very friendly, happy and artistic. PLUS, We loved the antique cars. There are over 66,000 antique cars on the Cuban streets. Can you believe that the Cubans have kept these cars going without parts from the USA?

Here are some pictures of our trip. Our first departure to Cuba is February 22, 2015. Cuba is the closest exotic destination to us. More on Cuba in next months' MTIps!