The book outlines the restrictions and informs readers who can travel legally, and how to prepare for such a trip.
Are tourists allowed to travel around the island freely? How do Cubans interact with you as a tourist?
Tourists are allowed to travel freely around Cuba without restriction, including talking to Cubans. However, Cubans themselves face various restrictions. For example, they have restricted access to most hotels and certain other tourist venues and may not enter certain tourist-only enclaves [such as Varadero and Cayo Coco]. In addition, certain cities and resort areas bar romantic liaisons between Cubans and foreigners.
Tourists talking with known dissidents face possible harassment by Cuban authorities. And anyone publicly bad-mouthing Castro or the Revolution is likely to face consequences. Tourists who avoid making inflammatory comments face no problems.
Cubans enjoy meeting and talking with U.S. visitors, and share many interests in common. The vast majority of interactions are pleasurable and without restriction. However, many Cubans will hesitate to become involved too closely with foreigners in the company of police. In several cities, many younger Cuban females are hesitant to be seen talking with foreign males.
How pervasive is Revolutionary propaganda?
Celebration of the Revolution and its achievements is perhaps the most ubiquitous element of travel throughout the nation. Every community has its museum, and sloganeering even extends into hotel lobbies. Schools usually welcome unannounced visits by foreigners, and teachers display a genuine desire to impress visitors. In fact, seeing well-versed, well-behaved children in school uniforms is one of the joys of traveling through Cuba.
How does the cost of travel in Cuba compare to other Caribbean destinations?
Cuba is no longer a relative bargain. But travelers can keep costs down by staying with local families in licensed casas particulares—a popular option. Many atmospheric historic hotels are bargain priced. Taxis are comparatively cheap and efficient.
If someone were looking for help planning a trip, what would you recommend?
Low end: In Havana, stay in a casa particular. I recommend that of Jorge Coalla Potts, Calle I Number 456, Vedado, Havana, telephone 832-9032, e-mail jorgepotts@web.correosdecuba.cu, or Hostal Valencia. Travel between cities using Viazul bus service. Eat at peso restaurants as much as possible.
High end: In Havana, stay at the Hotel Nacional. Rent an Audi 6 from Rex Limousines. (You can use your U.S. MasterCard.) Eat at the Tocororo, La Guajira, Cocina de Lillam.
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