Essence Magazine Recommends Traveling to Cuba

The latest issue of popular Essence magazine recommends readers to delve into the Cuban culture with a spectacular visit to the island nation that stands just 90 miles off the coast of Key West.

Attention, attention! Despite what you may have heard in the news recently, Americans can still travel to Cuba. You heard us correctly, experiencing the vibrant beauty and culture of the island nation is still within your reach.

Though President Trump has made it significantly more difficult to visit the Caribbean island – including revoking the once popular People to People travel option – American can still go under the ‘support for the Cuban people’ visa category. In fact, many tour companies are still operating group trips under the category, and many American based airlines like Jetblue, Delta, and United continue to offer scheduled flights to Cuba. 

Basically, start planning your trip! Since we have no idea how much longer the doors of Cuba will be open to us, now is the time to go on this bucket list adventure. One jetsetter, @pinkdreamsz, recently went to Cuba and took her followers on a journey to the past as she explored the timeless city of Havana.

Welcome to Cuba

Located just south of Florida and nestled between the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, the island of Cuba is a country where time seems to almost stand still.

From classic automobiles and architecture to the island's love for its favorite pastime, baseball, Cuba's old-school feel has fascinated travelers for years. In recent years, decades of sanctions and isolation placed on the nation while it was under Fidel Castro's regime have been slowly softening in the U.S., allowing Americans to finally have a chance to experience Cuba's magic.

But be sure you carry all the cash you'll need for your trip to Cuba since Americans are still not fully allowed to used debit or credit cards in the country.

City Vibes

With tourism coming alive again new accommodation offers are popping up all over the island. Currently staying with local Cuban families via Airbnb is the popular choice for visitors, however, luxury hotels like the new Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski have arrived to offer travelers more modern touches and amenities.

Timeless Flavors

Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and other Caribbean cuisines, and it shows in some of the country's most popular dishes. Though the Cubano sandwich might be popular stateside, make sure you try some of Cuba's flavorful classics like its national dish ropa vieja, comida criolla and pernil asado con mojo - all served with rice and beans.

Up in Smoke

Beautiful beaches, intoxicating music, and masterful street artists are just a handful of experiences that await you when you arrive in Cuba. But of course, your trip to the island wouldn't be complete without getting your hands on a classic Cuban cigar.

Though Cohiba is the brand that most Americans know, you will find local men making cigars by hand throughout the island. And don't worry, even if you're not a smoker, you can bring back a few as souvenirs for someone you love.

Source: Essence