5 things you need to know about traveling to Cuba
This week's reopening of embassies and resumption of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba opens a new chapter in the countries' complicated relationship. Now, many people want to know how to plan a trip to Cuba to take in the history and culture. Vivianna Pommier, president of West End Travel, joined us with 5 things to know before booking your trip to the island!
1. CUBA IS NOT YET A U.S. TOURIST ATTRACTION. You need at least one of 12 available licenses in order to travel to the country.
2. PLAN AHEAD TO OBTAIN YOUR LICENSE. You should contact a travel company who can help you get that license and also help plan for your tours and lodging.
3. YOU CAN'T FLY IN WITHOUT A CHARTER. There are some charter services that fly direct from New York and out of Miami.
4. WANT TO TRAVEL ON YOUR OWN? YOU'LL NEED A SPONSOR! A sponsor can send you to the island for educational purposes. Otherwise, you'll have to wait until open travel is accessible which should be within 1-2 years.
5. NO CASH = PROBLEM!!! Very few credit cards can be used in Cuba at this time. It would be beneficial for travelers to change money to Euros or Pounds -- European travelers have used them on the island for years.
For more information on West End Travel, CLICK HERE.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.