Cuba

Trip #7… Sorry it’s a late post!
For years I have wanted to visit Cuba. I am sure for a long time the desire to visit Cuba was because as a citizen of the USA I could not go, but now that restrictions have started to be lifted, I want to go and experience Cuba before it becomes to “westernized” as happens to many destinations that begin to cater to North American and European tourist. I want to see Havana as it is today, and then go back in 10 years and see how, if at all, it has changed.

Yes, there are still restrictions on visiting Cuba, and instead of going into all of the details about those restrictions, you can check them out for yourself here. One of the best ways to experience Cuba right now is to travel with one of the Cruise lines that have been able to add Cuba to their itinerary. You can find a cruise that ports just for the day or one that stays overnight so you can experience the Havana night life. Plus they also have experts on board to help you plan your excursion and make sure you understand the restrictions before you disembark. They also help you to secure your visa prior to travel to Cuba as well, which is a great benefit.

The cruise I am most drawn to is the Norwegian Cruise Line, 5-Day Cuba (overnight) & Bahamas from Orlando (Port Canaveral). You can find the details about the cruise here. The reason I like this cruise, is not just because of the overnight, but also because it ports in Key West, Florida which is another place I would love to visit.  The downsize of this cruise, is right now it is only offered Sept 3-8, 2018. However NCL is offering a Free at Sea offers right now, so I can add a Speciality Dining Upgrade and a $50 shore excursion credit. A nice little bonus!

The cruise for 2 people, with a ocean-view is pricing at $1,999.90 (Which includes port fee’s and taxes, and gratuities at $13.99/person/day). Remember while one board all of your food is included, and on this particular cruise your drinks are too!

Roundtrips flights from Denver to Orlando would be $760. One of the downsides to flying out of Denver is that generally you can not make it to Orlando on the same day as your cruise so you need to fly in the day before, which requires an additional hotel stay.  The Sheraton Suites at the airport is $122 that night and roundtrip transportation for the airport area to the cruise ship is $80.

So to cruise to Cuba, the total price for two people would be $2,961.90! Not a bad price for an incredible memory!