This summer we'll be stopping in Cuba during a cruise, arriving one day and leaving the next. I am looking for things to do that comply with the people-to-people regulation but are more "back door" than what the cruise company offers. Does anyone have advice for where I might start looking?
Posted by
Chicago
8178 posts
What is back door? That sounds like it is something that would not comply
Posted by
OP
Maryland
3 posts
"Back door" is the phrase that Rick Steves has been using for a few decades to describe his philosophy of travel. It refers to genuine interactions with locals as opposed to canned experiences.
Posted by
Chicago
8178 posts
By that definition, then there are no real legal "back door," experiences since you can not go off on your on.
Posted by
Boston
380 posts
I'm pretty sure you are allowed to go on your own instead of taking the ship's excursion. Have you already filled out your Passenger Affidavit for Travel to Cuba that your cruise line provided?
Make sure you check both P2P Travel 515.565 (b) People-to-People Exchange Arranged by a Sponsoring Organization (your cruise line) and 515.565 (b) Self-Guided People-to-People Exchange. Then, you have the flexibility to go on your own.
We took only the cruise excursions, but some of our friends hired a private driver for the day. They just negotiated with one of the drivers with the old cars when they went ashore. This was in Havana. You could tell the driver what you might like to see to have him customize a tour for you.
You could also go to the Cuba Forum on TripAdvisor for more information.
I was overwhelmed in Havana. Be prepared for lots of hawkers and beggars approaching you. Try to get small denominations of CUCs when you exchange your money at the cruise terminal. You need one CUC for toilet attendants.
Posted by
OP
Maryland
3 posts
Thanks, Michelle, particularly for the advice about Havana.
I haven't completed that form yet, but it's on my list of things to do. I believe self-guided people-to-people travel is no longer an option after the Trump administration changes. But the separate category of "support for the Cuban people" looks like it's a better fit. Support for the Cuban people seems to be pretty broadly defined.
The cruise excursions are not terrible, but I'd like more flexibility than they offer.
Posted by
Boston
380 posts
We had a good time in Cuba. It's fairly safe. Just the usual caution about pickpockets in a crowded city.
Our ship stayed overnight in Havana. Our friends went out in the evening to Plaza Viaja, easy walk from the ship terminal.
They had a great time listening to music and meeting people until close to midnight - a "back door" experience for you?
Also, I forgot to add, even during the daytime, there are plenty of street bands as you walk about.