Thoughts of sailing to the forbidden waters of Cuba often fill my head. The Cuban waters are said to be beautiful and pristine, barely touched by today's world of tourists and commercialism. The locals aren't allowed to own boats (they might escape), which also allows for plenty of space for cruisers. The culture, buildings, old cars, music and people are said to also be amazing. It's been said that Cubans welcome Americans with open arms, and the US Coast Guard are the ones to fear.
Tell someone they can't have something and they want it even more ... ever heard of Eve and the apple? I know and understand the history of Castro and Cuba's relations with the United States, but it's hard to accept that our freedom ends when speaking of visiting Cuba. We're free, but we can get into trouble by simply visiting a place?! Hmmmm.
Hopefully things will change in the near future, and we'll be able to sail to Cuba someday. We'd love to visit soon after it's legal, before the mass amount of tourists and hotels change its ambience. Until then, I hear that we could possibly visit Cuba if we have a sponsor or some sort of project like journalism or education. If things don't change, we may have to hit up one of you Canadians to be our sponsor! What does that mean? It's my understanding that the US doesn't want us Americans spending money there ... isn't it always about the money? Having a sponsor would indicate that they're paying our expenses, and therefore we're not spending our American dollars in Cuba.
We'd love to hear from American cruisers that have sailed to Cuba. You can even be anonymous ... just share your experiences!
I came across the video below of Havana, Cuba in 1958 ... before Castro's influence. It seemed to be such a glamorous place, and I love the music. Enjoy!
Hasta luego ... until then. Mid-Life Cruising!
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5 comments:
When we were in the Caribbean we came close to Cuba because of the rough seas. I'd like to go there too, but I don't think I would. Well unless things change.
Have a terrific day. :)
Isn't blogging a little bit like journalism? Especially lately? I think you qualify for a trip to Cuba. And I agree -just tell me 'no' and it makes me want to do thing all the more.
I have been to Cuba several times on vacation. As a Canadian Cuba represents inexpensive trips down south. It's an amazing country, the people are very humble and work very hard. Havana is facinating in that it is slowly crumbling away. The most amazing part of Cuba is the lack of commercialism. Quite refreshing to drive down the highway and so no advertising. No big box stores or chain restaurants.
While I have not sailed there (outside of catamaran snorkeling tours) I know several people who have and the thoroughly enjoyed the experience. After my former boss and his wife retired they spent an entire winter season sailing around Cuba and had nothing but good things to say about it.
I hope to return again before Cuba opens up just to experience it as it is now again.
Guys, the key is to go to the Bahamas, then got to Cuba, (no passport stamp), then back to the Bahamas before returning to the States. Unfortunately Cuba is starting to turn. With Castro gone, it is only a matter of time before there are Walmarts all over the place. Two years ago the government starting giving out limited business permits. They are slowly starting to morph into a typical North American society. Unfortunately with change comes a lot of bad years. They have just started, but if you go soon you will still get to see Cuba, if you wait until Uncle Sam lets you, you will see Detroit.
The lack of commercialism makes Cuba sound amazing! We hope to visit before greed ruins it ... so sad. Waikiki Beach in Hawaii is a great example ... I was so disappointed when I first got there and saw all the hotels. I couldn't see the beach! Luckily, the Northshore of the island was a good escape.
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