Kappa Delta Chi, Xi Chapter President
Suzanne Varughese
Collegiate District Chairs
All Photos (C) Tiffany Hopwood Photography
7
"Everything is Different in Cuba"
It really did feel like we went back in time and to a whole other world. The streets are beautiful and the architecture has its charm, but there is still so much struggle and harsh realities in everyday lives. This was unlike any other trip I've taken, and as corny as it sounds, part of me changed a little bit. I hope to keep in touch with all of the wonderful people and new friends we made.
I'd like to share two highlights:
1) We were truly impressed with the rich cultural presence: Cubans are very proud of their strong musical and artistic identity, one without external influence that they call their own. I loved it! and
2) I was challenged multiple times
on the concept of socialism and communism - even by people my age. While we may disagree on systems, one thing is undeniably true, the Cuban people have survived through tough times and they deserve better.
An unforgettable experience with fun adventures along the way.
- Oriana Piña, Alpha Sigma
8 Things You Should Know if You Plan to Travel to Cuba
Ed Perkins, SmarterTravel
With rules updating on a constant basis, you'll need to know these eight new things if you want to travel to Cuba in 2016.
1. The restrictions are not over — yet.
President Obama loosened the rules substantially and you can now travel to Cuba as an individual; you no longer need to be in a group. But the U.S. government maintains some limitations on entry. You have to be traveling for one of twelve specified purposes; family visits, education, support for the Cuban people, and a few others. You don't need to obtain permission in advance, but you have to certify one of the legitimate purposes when you arrange your trip. Check here for more details. This is strictly a U.S. requirement; the Cuban government's position is, "Y'all come."
Folks in the industry seem to think that nobody will ever try to verify that you did what you said you would. But if you're antsy, I'm pretty sure some enterprising organizations will happily arrange for your participation in a qualifying activity.
2. You need a tourist card.
Before departing from the U.S., you need to get a 30-day tourist card (visa). As far as I can tell, the big U.S. visa service agencies are not yet geared up to arrange them. But on flights from Cancun, Nassau, and Canada, airlines often sell them, and, presumably, U.S. airlines that "win" Cuban routes will also set up to handle the tourist cards. Also, you can check with any operator running tours to Cuba. Currently, the isn't very helpful Cuban Embassy's website. You also need proof of travel insurance.
3. Scheduled flights will start this fall.
Most big U.S. airlines have applied for rights to fly from various points in the U.S. to various points in Cuba. Although a few applied for Varadero and other beach centers, most want to start by flying from their important hubs to Havana.
Click on http://www.businessinsider.com/8-things-to-know-about-travel-to-cuba-2016-4 to read the entire article