Hi, rumor has it that the U.S. Government will be cracking down on all Americans traveling to Cuba. The possibility of hefty fines is looming over your head if you go. However, our Government has tried to fine some Americans but when the Cuban tourists threatened to fight back in court, the U.S. Government rescinded. About 6 months ago, there was a healthy debate on this site about Americans risking fines if they ventured to Cuba. Apparently, President Bush is planning on stopping all American travel to Cuba, unless associated with a university project, or some other valid reason. I wouldn't announce on this or any other site that you plan to, because the U.S. Government can effortlessly get all useful information from your electronic communications, thanks to ECHELON, which has no legislative oversight on its operations. So, going to Cuba via Canada, Jamaica, or where ever, will not block the government from prosecuting you, if they desire to. Robert

Hola designchikita:

While I am a Canadian, I have been travelling to Cuba on a regular basis since 1998, often accompanied by American friends. While it is easy for me to say Don't Worry, Be Happy, in reality there is no doubt that the present US administration is taking a much harder stance on Americans travel to Cuba. Remember, it's coming up an election year and the Florida ex-Cuban voting block must be appeased.

That said, you are smart to become a well informed traveller. The best source of info on the current state of American travel to Cuba that I know of, is the National Lawyers Guild in New York City.
Here is their link;

http://www.nlg.org/

In addition, they have a specific sub-committee on Cuba and travel to Cuba and here is the link to that forum.

http://www.nlg.org/cuba/

While on a personal level I do hope you go and see for yourself the facinating culture that is Cuba, only you can make the decision to go. Personally I also believe that the discourse and exchange of ideas between visitors (of all nationalities) and Cubanos will have far more effect on change than the 40+ year-old ineffective embargo.

For trip info, you might consult these websites.

www.cubalinda.com
www.ways2cuba.com
www.1click2cuba.com
www.cuba.com


Enjoy the Cuban experience.
Steve