Rapid City’s Bursch Travel Plans Cuba Trips

Now that relations with Cuba are warmer than in years past under President Barack Obama, some Rapid City residents are taking advantage of the situation to travel to the island.

Bursch Travel in Rapid City said that many people have contacted them about flying to Cuba.

“Cuba has been a destination that's been off limits to people for a very long time, and now that they can go there has been a very big appeal to people,' said Jessica Kern, travel agent for Bursch Travel.

However, you should know that there are only 12 situations in which a person can travel to Cuba, and tourism is not one of them.

Linda Rabe of the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce, traveled to Cuba on an educational tour, said Cuba really isn't set up for an influx of tourist; it doesn't have the infrastructure in place.

"It was like walking back into the 1950's," said Rabe.

John R Dreyer, a professor of political science at the School of Mines and Technology, thinks it won't be long before Cuba is opened up for tourist.

"I think we are going to see American tourist going down there in the next five years . . . those American dollars, people want them," said Dreyer.

A round trip to Cuba can cost in the neighborhood of $8,000, but if you get a chance, Mrs. Rabe highly recommends it.

"It was fascinating to see what a country looks like when a government runs everything," said Rabe.

Cuban officials hope relations with the U.S. will continue to grow under President –Elect, Donald Trump in the new year.

Source: ABC News