Cuba: a Bridge Between Cultures 2017

Cuba: A Bridge Between Cultures 2017

Your Travel Handbook CONTENTS

Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . 3 Packing ...... 19

Your Passport ...... 3 Suggested Luggage Solutions ...... 20 Visa Required ...... 3 Clothing Suggestions ...... 20 Our License ...... 4 Seasonal Packing Suggestions ...... 21. Letter of Authorization ...... 4 Toilets, Toiletries, and Sundries ...... 21 Trusted Traveler Programs ...... 4 What to Bring ...... 22 Emergency Photocopies of Key Documents . . . . 5 Do Not Bring ...... 24 Overseas Taxes & Fees ...... 5 Optional Gifts ...... 24 Electricity ...... 27

Health ...... 6

Keep Your Abilities in Mind ...... 6 Climate ...... 29 What to Expect: The Rigors of Traveling in Cuba 7 Steps to Take Before Your Trip ...... 7 About Your Destinations ...... 31 No Vaccines Required ...... 8 . . . 31. Staying Healthy on Your Trip ...... 8 Cuban Trip Leaders: A World of Difference ...... 31 Included Medical and Evacuation Coverage . . . . 9 A Word About Traveling in Cuba Photo Gear ...... 34 Additional Travel Protection: Strongly Recommended ...... 9 Shopping ...... 35 U .S . Customs Regulations & Shipping Charges ...... 35 Money Matters ...... 11 Cuban Customs: Arrival in Cuba ...... 36 Top Three Tips ...... 11 Local Currency ...... 11 Demographics & History ...... 37 Exchanging Money ...... 12 ATMs ...... 12 Credit & Debit Cards ...... 13 Resources ...... 40 Tipping Guidelines ...... 13 Suggested Readings ...... 40 Suggested Movies ...... 42 Preparing for Your Trip ...... 14 Useful Websites ...... 43

Flight Information ...... 14 Arrival in Miami / Miami Airport Hotel Overnight 15 Flight Q & A ...... 15 Communication ...... 17

2 FCT2017 07/13/2017 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Your Passport • Must be in good condition

• Must be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.

• Must have the required number of blank pages (details below)

• The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and Endorsements” are not acceptable

Need to Renew Your Passport? Contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) at 1-877-487-2778, or visit their website at www.travel.state.gov for information on obtaining a new passport or renewing your existing passport. You may also contact our recommended visa service company, PVS International, at 1-800-556-9990 for help with your passport

Recommended Blank Pages Please confirm that your passport has enough blank pages for this trip.

• Main trip: You will need 2 blank passport pages.

Please note: You might not use all of these pages on your trip (when you return, some may still be blank) but local officials will want to see that you have them.

Visa Required The cost of a visa for Cuba for non-Cuban born participants is included in your program price. Information about the visa will be mailed to you about 10 days after you make your reservation. Please review it promptly, as we need you to send us:

• Two legible color photocopies of your passport photo page

• If you have a foreign passport but are a resident of the United States, you will also need to send us two legible color photocopies of your U. S. residency card.

• A completed Emergency Contact Form

Unlike a typical visa that appears in your passport, this visa is more like a tourist card, which you will receive in Miami prior to our departure for Havana. Upon arrival in Havana, Cuban immigration officials will collect the first half of the card. The other half will be collected when you depart.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 3 IMPORTANT for Cuban-Born Participants: There is a supplement—currently $200 per person—for a visa for Cuban-born participants. If you are Cuban-born and have not yet alerted our Program Support staff, please contact them as soon as possible at 1-855-423- 3443 (Mon-Fri 9am to 8pm; Sat-Sun 9am-7pm EST).

Traveling Without a U.S. Passport? If you have a foreign passport and are not a resident of the U.S., it is your responsibility to check with your local consulate, embassy, or a visa services company about visa requirements. We recommend the services of PVS International, a national visa service located in Washington D.C.; they can be reached at 1-800-556-9990 or www.pvsinternational.org.

Our License U.S. government regulations state that all program arrangements in Cuba must be made by a licensed Travel Service Provider (TSP) approved by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Our OFAC approved, licensed TSP is Educational Travel Alliance (ETA). ETA works closely with Havanatur, a leading Cuban tour operator that has been appointed by the Cuban government to specialize in programs from the U.S.

You are traveling under a general “People-to-People” license granted by the U.S. Government Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). It provides authorization for “a full-time schedule of educational exchange activities … that will result in meaningful interaction between the participants and individuals in Cuba”. You will be expected to actively participate in and engage in all meetings (even if you are not a U.S. citizen or resident) and to approach our people-to-people interactions with Cubans with an open mind—and an open heart.

Letter of Authorization When you check in for your flight to Havana at the Miami airport, we will give you a copy of a letter authorizing you to travel to Cuba under a general People-to-People license. You will need to keep these documents for a minimum of six months after your return, in the unlikely event of government scrutiny.

Trusted Traveler Programs Some travelers have found that Trusted Traveler programs can expedite long waits at customs when re entering the U.S. There are currently three programs available: Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI. These three programs also include TSA Pre-Check, which allows you to use a dedicated security line at participating airports, or you can apply solely for TSA Pre-Check.

TIP: Keep in mind that not all airports and airlines participate in these programs. You may want to consider checking with your airport prior to applying to find out if these programs would benefit you.

To apply for a Trusted Traveler program or TSA Pre-Check, typically you will be asked to pay an application fee (varies by program) and schedule a background check and/or an interview. If you are approved, you will be issued a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Your KTN is valid for a set number of years, based on the conditions of the program. Please see the U.S. Customs

4 FCT2017 07/13/2017 and Border Protection website for more details on each of these programs: www.cbp.gov/ travel/trusted-traveler-programs. You can also find more information about TSA Pre-Check at www.tsa.gov/precheck.

If you are enrolled in TSA Pre-Check (or a Trusted Traveler program that includes it), you must provide your KTN to the airlines.

Emergency Photocopies of Key Documents We recommend you carry color photocopies of key documents including the photo page of your passport plus any applicable visas, air itinerary, credit cards (front and back), and an alternative form of ID. Add emergency phone numbers like your credit card company and the number for your travel protection plan. Store copies separate from the originals.

If you plan to email this information to yourself, please keep in mind that email is not always secure; consider using password protection or encryption. Also email is not always available worldwide. As an alternative, you could load these documents onto a flash drive instead, which can do double-duty as a place to backup photos during your trip.

Overseas Taxes & Fees This tour may have taxes and fees that cannot be included in your airline ticket price because you are required to pay them in person onsite. All taxes are subject to change without notice and can be paid in cash (either U.S. or local currency). If applicable, you will receive a list of these fees with your Final Documents.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 5 HEALTH

Keep Your Abilities in Mind Please review the information below prior to departing on this journey. We reserve the right for our Trip Leaders to modify participation, or in some circumstances send travelers home, if their condition would adversely affect the health, safety, or enjoyment of themselves or of other travelers.

PACING • 3 locations in 11 days with a one-night stay in Miami

• Roundtrip flight between Miami and Havana

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS • Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids

• You must be able to walk 2-3 miles unassisted and participate in a full schedule of People-to-People exchange meetings each day

CLIMATE • Daytime temperatures range from approximately 70-90ºF

• The weather in Cuba is semi-subtropical year-round, with trade winds often tempering the heat

TERRAIN • Walk along many uneven cobblestone streets in Havana and Trinidad, and along dirt paths in the Escambray Mountains

TRANSPORTATION • Travel by private, air-conditioned 32-passenger motorcoach

• Three 2- to 6-hour drives between cities

ACCOMMODATIONS & FACILITIES • Hotel rooms in Cuba, while clean and comfortable, offer simple amenities

• All accommodations feature private baths

• Some hotels may not have elevators, or working elevators, and may require you to walk up stairs to rooms on second or third floors

FOOD • Due to Cuba’s limited access to fresh produce, meals may lack variety

6 FCT2017 07/13/2017 • Typical Cuban cuisine consists of dishes based on rice, beans, chicken, pork, plantains, and root vegetables

What to Expect: The Rigors of Traveling in Cuba Due to an inconsistent infrastructure, travel in Cuba sometimes poses minor physical challenges. So for your comfort and safety, we recommend this program only to individuals in good physical condition. If you have any ongoing medical conditions or concerns about your health, we highly recommend that you schedule a checkup with your personal physician at least six weeks in advance of your departure date. Discuss with your doctor any aspects of your itinerary that may affect your health and be guided by his or her advice.

What can you expect? Some of the places you visit may not have been improved with elevators, escalators, ramps, railings or other aids that you may be used to. Many streets and buildings are in a state of disrepair so you must take greater care than usual as you walk along roads that are unpaved, stairs that are steep or crooked, or cobblestones that are uneven. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes with good support. You may also want to bring a walking stick.

This trip includes a fair amount of walking—sometimes at a fairly fast pace—and the weather can be very hot and humid. In general we recommend that you be able to walk unassisted, for several miles each day. Our most strenuous activity is a walking tour of Old Havana along uneven cobblestone streets for a few hours. If you have difficulty in terms of breathing, balance, or stamina, or are generally inactive in your daily life, consider an exercise program to tone up for your trip. If in doubt, consult your physician describing the length and type of rigors you’ll encounter. Please note that this program is not wheelchair accessible; nor can Grand Circle Foundation accommodate motorized scooters of any kind.

If you have a condition that requires special equipment or treatment, you must bring and be responsible for all necessary items related to your therapy. If you take medications regularly, be sure to pack an ample supply that will last your entire trip, as obtaining medication refills at local pharmacies will be difficult if not impossible during your trip. Our schedule permits little free time for pharmacy runs and more importantly, many prescription drugs are not readily available and may take quite some time to procure. Pack your medications in your carry-on bag, and keep them in their original, labeled containers. To be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications, you should also bring copies of the prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name.

Steps to Take Before Your Trip Before you leave for Cuba, we recommend the following:

• Check with the CDC for their recommendations. You can contact them online at http:// wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel or by phone at 1-800-232-4636.

• Have a medical checkup with your doctor at least 6 weeks before your trip.

• Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 7 • Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less urgent)

No Vaccines Required At the time of writing there were no required vaccines for this trip. The CDC recommends that all travelers be up to date on their routine vaccinations and on basic travel vaccines like Hepatitis A and Typhoid, but these are suggestions only. However, this could change in future so we encourage you to check with the CDC yourself before meeting with your doctor.

Traveling with Medications • Pack medications in your carry-on bag to avoid loss and to have them handy.

• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers for a quicker security screen at the airport and a better experience if you get stopped by customs while overseas.

• Bring copies of your prescriptions, written using the generic drug name rather than a brand name to be prepared for any unforeseen loss of your medications.

We recommend checking this site for medication restrictions by country:http://travel.state. gov/content/passports/english/go/customs.html. (Follow the links to “Local Laws & Special Circumstances” for each country; if you don’t see any medications specifically mentioned, then you can presume major U.S. brands should be OK).

Staying Healthy on Your Trip

Cuban Health Care The Cuban health service infrastructure is adequate. There are hospitals, clinics, health centers, and pharmacies throughout the country accessible to nearly all of the population, and there is at least one all-night pharmacy in every town; however, the latter are not as well supplied with medications and prescription drugs as they were prior to 1959. Many prescription drugs need to be ordered, and some may not be available at all. This is why it is essential that you take adequate supplies of any medication you may require.

Should you wish to contact a medical professional, there are international clinics that charge in CUCs, and hotels generally have a doctor or nurse available at all times. Emergencies are handled on an ad hoc basis. The cost of our program includes a policy to cover medical costs incurred within Cuba of up to $20,000 (for more details, please see the Travel Protection section of this booklet), but it does not cover pre-existing conditions.

Daily Tips Drink plenty of bottled fluids, bring vitamins or supplements if you use them at home, and take precautions in the sun. Pre-moistened, individually wrapped towelettes or antibacterial hand gel is also recommended. Be sure to bring insect repellent (preferably with DEET) when dining outside in the evening, as biting flies and mosquitoes can be pesky, especially in

8 FCT2017 07/13/2017 the summer. (They are less of an issue in winter.) Malaria does not present a risk in Cuba, however Cuba has had outbreaks of other mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile Virus and Dengue Fever, so a good supply of insect repellent is key.

Allergies If you have any serious allergies or dietary restrictions, we advise you to notify us at least 30 days prior to your departure. Please call our Cuba Support team at 1-855-423-3443, and we will communicate them to your Trip Leader. Every effort will be made to accommodate you, but please keep in mind that Cuba’s resources are limited—meaning there won’t be a wide variety of food to choose from.

Water Sanitary reforms have transformed Cuba into a healthy country, however do not drink the tap water or use it for brushing your teeth. It often causes an upset stomach. We will provide one bottle of water per person per day. It is also widely available in all restaurants and your Cuban Trip Leader can also direct you to local shops where it is sold at very affordable prices. Most but not all our meals are included. When you are dining on your own be sure to consult with your Trip Leader or the concierge at your hotel about where you should or should not eat.

Included Medical and Evacuation Coverage Due to Cuban government regulations, the following coverage is included in our airline tickets for the flight to Cuba:

• Maximum of $20,000 to cover emergency medical costs incurred in Cuba.

• Maximum of $7500 evacuation insurance provided only if a Cuban doctor states that you need to be evacuated in order to receive adequate treatment.

Please note: This does not cover pre-existing conditions. For instance, if you suffer from asthma and have an asthma attack while in Cuba that requires medical attention, you will need to pay the doctor or clinic directly for any treatment you receive, as asthma is considered a pre-existing condition.

Additional Travel Protection: Strongly Recommended Grand Circle Foundation does not offer additional travel protection that covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage. Therefore, we strongly recommend you purchase a full travel protection plan.

Please note that not all American travel insurance companies cover programs in Cuba. As a service to you, we have found a plan that does cover Cuba through a company called Allianz Travel Insurance (formerly Access America). Of the several different plans available, we recommend the Classic plan—but you can compare and decide which is right for you. Please contact Allianz directly:

• Phone: 1-800-284-8300. Reference code F029941 when you call.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 9 • Online: www.allianztravelinsurance.com/AA/SelectAPlan.aspx. Enter code F029941 in the box labeled, “Did a travel agent refer you?” at the upper right corner of your screen. This refers to our Travel Service Provider, who is authorized by OFAC to provide travel arrangements in Cuba.

Pre-Existing Conditions Waiver Pay close attention to Allianz’s definition of “Pre-Existing Conditions” (or the definition of any travel protection plan you consider). To better cover you, Allianz will waive the plan exclusion for pre-existing conditions if you purchase the plan within 14 days of making your initial program deposit to Grand Circle Foundation.

10 FCT2017 07/13/2017 MONEY MATTERS

Top Three Tips • Expect that you’ll rely mainly on cash, with credit cards as backups or for Miami only. Certain credit or debit cards issued by U.S. financial institutions may be used in Cuba. (Check with your particular credit card company before you travel.) However, even if your credit card works there, most vendors are still cash only, so you cannot depend on credit cards throughout your program.

• Bring 2-3 times more money than you think you’ll need. You might not be able to access more funds while in Cuba, so it is better to bring more than you need in case of an emergency. For this itinerary, most travelers spend less than $450 each, so we suggest bringing $900-$1200 per person. Remember, you don’t need to convert it all—leave some in U.S. dollars, and if you don’t end up needing it, you can bring it back with you.

• You can bring a mix of currency to convert. Besides U.S. dollars, British pounds, Euros, and Canadian currency are also accepted for exchange into the Cuban “convertible pesos” (CUC). You can change money at our hotels or at official exchange locations as needed. If you have leftover CUCs at the end of the trip, you can change them back into dollars at the airport.

Bonus Tip: Allow about $15 for lunches and $25-$35 for dinners (including a mojito, beer, or glass of wine) that are not included in your program price.

Local Currency For current exchange rates, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com/ currencyconverter, your bank, or the financial section of your newspaper.

Cuba Cuba has two official currencies: the convertible pesoCUC ( – pronounced “Kook”), and the Cuban peso (pesos Cubanos) This two-tiered system can be confusing: restaurants menus and local stores may have two sets of prices. Note also that Cubans often use peso and dollar interchangeably.

As a People-to-People participant you will be using CUCs—which have a much higher value than the Cuban peso. When using CUCs, make sure that you do not receive your change in Cuban pesos. To tell the difference at a glance, remember that in general Cuban pesos bills are printed in two colors (red and white) and have faces of historical Cuban heroes or leaders of the revolution on one side. CUC bills are printed in three colors and feature images of monuments on one side.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 11 Cuban money has absolutely no value outside of Cuba, so bring home only what you’d like as a souvenir. U.S. dollars are not widely accepted in stores and are difficult for the average Cuban to exchange, though you may find some shops willing to accept them. For simplicity, we recommend using CUCs. CUC banknotes and coins come in denominations of:

• Banknotes: 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 CUC

• Coins: 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents, and 1 CUC

Starting in March of 2011, the CUC was revalued to be equal to the U.S. dollar at a 1:1 ratio— but there is a 10% tax and a 3% (approximately) service fee for converting U.S. dollars to CUCs. After these charges, you’ll receive around .87 CUC for each dollar. The 1:1 exchange rate is subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date information, we encourage you to visit an online converter like www.xe.com.

Exchanging Money Money can be changed at hotels, banks or exchange booths known as Casas de Cambio (CADECA). You’ll find CADECAs in airports and business/shopping districts. They are typically open between 8:30am and 6pm, though they close at noon on Saturday and are closed on Sundays.

You will need your passport to exchange money at a bank or a CADECA, so we recommend you exchange money at your hotel instead (where a passport is usually not required). The exchange rate is the same no matter where you convert your currency. If you need to exchange CUCs back for dollars, you will be charged a 3% service fee but not the tax (you will receive about $0.97 for 1 CUC surcharge – so it’s wise to consider your monetary needs carefully. Your Trip Leader will make recommendations of when and where to make exchanges, to ensure you have enough cash in locations where exchanges aren’t available.

Euros, British pounds, and Canadian dollars are not subject to a conversion surcharge in Cuba. However, you will still be subject to the normal conversion rates when you exchange U.S. dollars into these foreign currencies, and when you change them back into U.S. dollars after your trip. Also, if you exchange foreign currency in Cuba, banks will offer the best exchange rate. If a bank is not available, a CADECA is the second best source.

Do not exchange currency on the street under any circumstances. It is not only illegal, but subject to scams that are expressly designed to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors.

ATMs When using ATMs in Miami, keep in mind that many banks charge a fee of $1-$5 each time you use an out-of-network ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. We recommend that you check with your bank before you depart.

Lastly, don’t forget to memorize the actual digits of your card’s PIN number (many keypads do not include letters on their keys—they only display numbers).

12 FCT2017 07/13/2017 Currently, you cannot use a U.S. ATM card in Cuba. This may change in the future, but even if that does happen, the number of ATMs is very limited compared to the U.S.

Credit & Debit Cards Even if you don’t plan on using a credit card during your trip, we still suggest that you bring one or two as a backup, especially if you are planning on making purchases in Miami.

Certain credit or debit cards issued by U.S. financial institutions may be used in Cuba. However, we do advise that you check with your particular credit card company before you travel to make sure they are approved for use in Cuba. Some vendors may still be cash only, so you cannot consistently depend on credit cards throughout your program. Because credit card use is sporadic and traveler checks are not accepted, we suggest that you rely mainly on cash with credit or debit cards as backups.

Notify Card Providers Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card if they see suspicious charges—such as charges or withdrawals from another state. To avoid an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank in advance. You can do this by calling their customer service number a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do this online.

Tipping Guidelines Because Cuba is a difficult place to make a living, we encourage you to reward good service directly, and it will be much appreciated. For instance, musicians in bars and restaurants depend on your tips, so if their talents bring you enjoyment, we encourage you to give a little something. The following amounts are intended as guidelines only; whether you tip, and how much, is always at your discretion.

Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your Cuban Trip Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual service. As a guideline, we recommend U.S. $7-$10 per person, per day.

Hotels: Tips to luggage porters are included in your program price. It is recommended you leave a CUC per person per night for the housekeeping staff.

Restaurants: There is a gratuity for included meals in your program price. For non-included meals, it is recommended you leave a tip of about 10-15% in CUCs for your server at your place on the table.

Please note: Your program price includes gratuities for local guides and drivers.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 13 PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP

Flight Information Please note that your airline tickets and other trip documentation must bear your first and last names exactly as they appear on your passport. It is your responsibility to check your travel documents when you receive them to make sure they are correct. If they are not correct, please contact Grand Circle Foundation immediately. For all air travel arrangements made by Grand Circle Foundation, you will receive a final package approximately 14 days prior to your departure that will include your final air information.

Our goal is to provide you with the air option that best suits your needs. For this reason, we offer two different options: Land Only and Standard Air.

Land Only Definition: Your trip price does not include U.S. domestic air. You’ll be arranging your own domestic flights to and from Miami; we’ll arrange your flights to and from Cuba.

Points to Know:

• We’ll be sending you a preliminary flight schedule about 60 days prior to your departure. We strongly recommend that you do not book your flights to Miami until you receive your Cuba flights schedule.

• Inside 60 days from your departure, schedule changes to the Cuba flights are unlikely, but not out of the question. We cannot guarantee that there won’t be last-minute changes. Therefore we recommend that when you book your domestic flights you avoid tickets that are nonrefundable or carry high penalty charges for changes, as you would be responsible for these fees.

• Grand Circle Foundation cannot be responsible for airfare penalties or any loss resulting from unexpected changes in your flights, cancellations, or changes in travel dates. Grand Circle is not responsible for flight delays or flight cancellations.

• Flights to Cuba do not offer frequent flier miles or credits.

Standard Air Definition: Your trip price does include U.S. domestic air. We’ll be arranging both your domestic flights to and from Miami and your flights to and from Cuba.

Points to Know:

• Grand Circle Foundation has made arrangements to purchase your U.S. domestic air tickets from Overseas Adventure Travel. You will fly economy class on regularly scheduled airlines.

14 FCT2017 07/13/2017 • Grand Circle Foundation reserves the right to choose the air carrier, routing, and city airport from each departure city. Every effort will be made to arrange the most direct flight schedule; however, your routing may involve connections and layovers. Occasionally, flight schedules will require an overnight en route at your expense.

• Changes to your departure city or tour date up to 65 days prior to departure will not incur any penalty fee. See your Terms & Conditions for the terms of changes inside 65 days.

• Tickets are issued as a group for your departure. This means that travelers who book after the group has been ticketed may not be on the same flights as the rest of the group—even if they are departing from the same city, and even if they are traveling as a companion to a traveler who booked earlier.

Arrival in Miami / Miami Airport Hotel Overnight We spend one night at a Miami airport hotel before departing for Havana, the cost of which is included in your program price. If you are making your own U.S. domestic air arrangements, we recommend that you plan to arrive in Miami by 4pm EST in order to attend a briefing with the group on the eve of your departure. Please be aware that meals in Miami are not covered in the program price and are your responsibility. For your convenience, your hotel will feature complimentary shuttle service from the airport. You’ll receive more details on your specific Miami hotel, flights, and a 24-hour number to call if you are delayed en route in your Final Documents approximately 2-3 weeks before you depart.

Flight Q & A We hope you’re looking forward to your upcoming program in Cuba. In order to make your time in the airport as smooth as possible, we are including the following answers to the most frequently asked questions about air travel to Cuba. If you have any questions that are not covered here, please call our Program Support Team at 1-855-423-3443.

About Our Flights Our flights to Cuba are arranged through our licensed travel service provider, Educational Travel Alliance, Inc. Because of the restrictions surrounding travel to Cuba, we cannot offer you the option of a different carrier or flight. We will fly economy class on scheduled flights between Miami and Havana.

Questions About Tickets Q. Where are my tickets?

A. A Grand Circle Foundation Airport Representative will give you your tickets at the airport in Miami before checking into your flight to Havana.

Q. I just noticed that my name is incorrect on the enclosed letter. What do I do?

07/13/2017 FCT2017 15 A. If your first and last names do not match your passport, please call our Program Support Team at 1-855-423-3443.

Before You Leave for the Airport Q. Should I confirm my flights?

A. You do not need to confirm your flight to Havana. However, we do recommend that you confirm your flight to Miami. Contact your airline at least 24 hours prior to your departure.

Q. I don’t see seating assignments on my itinerary. How can I request seats?

A. You are welcome to call our Program Support Team to make seating requests. However, please keep in mind that there is no guarantee—some airlines will not process requests in advance. If you have specific seat requests, your Foundation Airport Representative will make every effort to confirm them upon check-in, but we cannot guarantee that requests will be honored.

At the Airport Q. How early should I arrive at the airport?

A. For your flight to Miami, the rule of thumb is 2 hours for a domestic flight. For your flight to Havana, your Foundation Airport Representative will coordinate the group’s arrival at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure.

Q. What time should I plan on arriving in Miami?

A. We recommend that you plan to arrive in Miami by 4pm EST in order to attend a briefing with the group on the eve of your departure. For participants residing in cold climates who are visiting Cuba during the winter, we strongly recommend you consider arriving in Miami one day earlier and booking a second overnight in the hotel—which would be at your expense and completely at your discretion. Due to the limited number of flights available to Cuba, it will be difficult (or even impossible) to reschedule your transfer to Cuba in the event that your domestic connection to Miami is delayed or cancelled due to inclement weather. If you’d like to change your flights to depart a day early, you must do so at least 65 days prior to departure and flights are subject to availability. You will receive information on how to reserve an additional night at your airport hotel when you receive your flight information approximately 60 days prior to departure.

Q. What time should I plan on departing from Miami to my home city?

A. We recommend allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled arrival time on your flight itinerary. While the legal connecting time between flights is 2 hours and 30 minutes, we’ve found with possible flight delays and/or crowds in U.S. Immigration and Customs, it’s better to plan on having 3 hours between flights.

Q. Will I need to pay a baggage fee?

16 FCT2017 07/13/2017 A. This is always subject to change, but currently, the flight from Miami to Cuba charges a $25 fee to check the first bag. (Your Foundation representative will collect this one-time fee— which covers both outbound and return flights—before leaving for the airport on Day .)2 In regards to weight, you are limited to 50 pounds of checked luggage on your flights to and from Cuba (plus 15 lbs for your carry-on). In regards to size, a standard American-sized suitcase and carry-on will be fine. Overweight luggage is subject to a fee to be determined by the airline. If your carry-on is oversized, you will have to check it. The cost for checking a second bag is another $40, plus any overweight charges. Checked bag fees and overweight charges are payable in cash only.

If there is a last minute change to the airline’s policy, your Grand Circle Foundation Airport Representative will advise you of the change. Please note that you will be responsible for paying any baggage fees when checking in for your flight.

On Arrival Q. Will someone be at the Miami airport to meet me?

A. Because travelers have made individual flight arrangements to Miami, we are unable to schedule representatives to meet every flight. Therefore, you are responsible for making your way to the Miami Airport Hotel. The Miami Sheraton Hotel offers a 24/7 free shuttle service to and from the airport. They run approximately every 15 minutes during the day and every half hour at night.

Upon check-in at the hotel, there will be details at the front desk regarding the time and location of your group’s briefing that evening, most likely around 6:30pm.

Communication

Phones Some U.S. cell phones might not work in Cuba. Phone cards come in denominations ranging from $10-$20, and will cost you an average of around $2.40 per minute. You can use these phone cards at blue Etecsa phone boxes, which can be found throughout the country. You can also make calls from your hotel room for around $2.50 per minute.

To call the U.S. from Cuba, dial 1, followed by the area code and number. If you are unable to connect, dial 119-1, followed by the area code and number.

To call Cuba from the U.S., dial 011 + 53 + city code and number. To reach an international operator dial 012 in Havana and 180 in the rest of Cuba.

In the unlikely event of an emergency dial 104 for an ambulance, 106 for police, and 105 in case of fire.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 17 Internet Most hotels in Cuba have either an Wi-Fi or business center where you can access the Internet for a fee. Wireless service is not universally available in your room but may be available in certain hotspots around the hotel (usually the lobby or business center). Expect to pay $3-$10 per hour.

Keep in mind that the connection speed in Cuba will be much slower than what you’re accustomed to—and that in rural areas the Internet may not be available at all. Also, U.S. cell phone networks do not work in Cuba.

Calling Cuba When calling overseas from the U.S., dial 011 for international exchange, then the country code (indicated by a plus sign: +), and then the number. Note that foreign phone numbers may not have the same number of digits as U.S. numbers; even within a country the number of digits can vary depending on the city and if the phone is a land line or cell phone.

Cuba: +53

18 FCT2017 07/13/2017 PACKING

Luggage Limits

MAIN TRIP LIMITS

Pieces per person One checked bag and one carry-on per person

Weight restrictions 50 lbs for checked luggage and 15 lbs for your carry-on

Size Restrictions Checked luggage should not exceed 62 linear inches (length+ width + depth) and carry-on should not exceed 45 linear inches . A standard American size suitcase is fine .

Luggage Type Duffle bag or suitcase—wheels are highly recommended

TRIP EXTENSION(S) LIMITS

Because of limitations set by OFAC’s People-to-People license, this itinerary does not feature any trip extensions .

REMARKS/SUGGESTIONS

Luggage rules: Luggage rules and limits are set by governmental and airline policy . Enforcement of the rules may include spot checks or may be inconsistent . However one thing is the same across the board: If you are found to have oversized or overweight luggage, you will be subject to additional fees, to be assessed by—and paid to—the airline in question .

Fees on your Cuba flights: This is always subject to change, but currently, the flight from Miami to Cuba charges a $25 fee to check the first bag . (Your Foundation representative will collect this one- time fee—which covers both outbound and return flights—before leaving for the airport on Day 2 .) Overweight luggage is subject to a fee to be determined by the airline . If your carry-on is oversized, you will have to check it . The cost for checking a second bag is another $40, plus any overweight charges . Checked bag fees and overweight charges are payable in cash only .

Fees on your domestic flights: Luggage fees from the airlines for your U .S . domestic flights are not included in your trip price . If your air itinerary features flights on a carrier that has instituted fees, you will be required to pay these fees upon checking in at the airport . Most airlines will charge fees for checked baggage on domestic flights and on international flights . We encourage you to confirm regulations and fees directly with all of your air carriers before you depart . Checked luggage fees on domestic flights generally run around $15-$50 per bag .

07/13/2017 FCT2017 19 Don’t Forget • These luggage limits may change. If the airline(s) notify us of any changes, we will include an update in your Final Documents booklet.

• It’s a good idea to reconfirm baggage restrictions and fees directly with your domestic airline a week or so prior to departure. For your convenience, we maintain a list of the toll-free numbers for the most common airlines on our website in the FAQ section.

• Baggage fees are not included in your trip price; they are payable directly to the airlines.

• The luggage limits above are based on your international flights. Even if your domestic airline offers a larger weight limit, you will need to pack according to the lower restrictions.

Suggested Luggage Solutions Consider using a daypack or small backpack as your carry-on bag for flights. It can do double duty during driving excursions and walking trips to hold your water bottle, camera gear, sunscreen, windbreaker, etc.

Consider a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase for your main luggage. Wheeled versions of these are ideal for the often long walks to departure gates. Porterage at airports and hotels is provided for one bag per person. All bags should have Grand Circle Foundation luggage tags. Packing is easier if you use inner bags to help organize your gear. Plastic shopping bags, nylon stuff sacks, small zipper duffels, or special mesh bags can separate clothing, gear and dirty laundry inside your suitcase. Isolate liquid toiletries in heavy-duty Ziploc style bags—which are generally quite handy to have when traveling.

TSA Locks To reduce the risk of damage to your luggage, either do not lock your bags when checking in for flights that originate in the U.S. or use TSA-approved locks. (These are locks that TSA screeners can open and relock with a special tool, avoiding damage to your luggage or lock if a physical inspection is required. Look for the words “TSA” or “TSA-approved” on the lock’s packaging.) Outside of the U.S., we strongly recommend that you lock your luggage as a preventative measure against theft.

Clothing Suggestions Cuba, in general, is very informal in terms of fashion. Comfortable, casual, loose cotton clothing is most appropriate for most days and evenings. We also recommend bringing sensible outdoor clothing appropriate for moderate walking; and long pants and a collared shirt for the evenings. It is acceptable to wear shorts to dinner and in bars, even though Cubans don’t typically do so. As there will be considerable walking on old cobblestone streets, comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles and good ankle support are highly advised. The sun can be intense during the day, so bring good sunscreen as well as a lightweight

20 FCT2017 07/13/2017 long-sleeved shirt, perhaps in a UV-blocking fabric, long pants, and a hat with a visor. Sunscreen is expensive in Cuba. There are occasional showers so a small, collapsible umbrella or light rain jacket may also be useful.

The luggage weight and size restrictions imposed by travel today have made traveling light an absolute necessity. With modern fabrics – Gore-Tex, Polarfleece, polypropylene, Omni-Shade, etc. – lightweight packing for comfort and protection through a wide range of weather is easy. A visit to any on-line or local sporting goods/outdoor stores (L.L. Bean, REI, EMS, etc.) will yield a treasure trove of lightweight, specialized, and fashionable clothing and gear that is readily adaptable to your itinerary.

Seasonal Packing Suggestions As a tropical country, Cuba doesn’t experience the same clearly defined four seasons a year that the northern U.S. states do. There are seasonal variations in temperature, but they’re not as extreme as in places like New England, the Midwest, or the Pacific Northwest. The coolest months are December-February, when the nighttime lows tend to be in the 70s. If you are traveling during these months, you’ll want to bring a couple of layers for cool mornings or chilly evenings. The hottest months are June-September, when daytime highs are often in the 90s—and may go even higher. If you are traveling during these months, bring loose, light clothing and look for breathable fabrics.

Perhaps the seasons in Cuba are better defined by the amount of rainfall. There’s the wet season, which runs from roughly May-October, and the dry season, from about November- April. During the wet season, humidity is higher and rain is twice as likely. You’ll definitely want to bring an umbrella and/or waterproof raingear during these months. During the dry season, it can still rain, but it is less common and usually fleeting.

Toilets, Toiletries, and Sundries • Hotel soaps and shampoos are almost always provided. For most travelers, what is provided at your hotels will be fine. But if you have a strong preference for a particular brand, allergies, or sensitive skin, then you may want to bring your own soap and shampoo.

• Toiletries are also in-demand gifts at several of the places we visit for people-to-people interactions (see the optional gift list). Even if you plan on using the hotel soaps and shampoo for yourself, you might want to bring some along to give as gifts.

• Your hotels will provide towels, but washcloths are not typically provided, so bring one from home if you need it.

• All your hotel rooms provide toilet paper, but this is not always the case in public restrooms. In some restaurants and other public buildings you must bring your own toilet paper (we recommend you carry a small roll or a pocket-sized pack of tissues) or you pay an attendant a few coins (no more than 1 CUC) for a handful of toilet paper.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 21 • Finally, most public restrooms are not to U.S. standards. Toilet seats are hard to get in Cuba, so it’s not unusual to find broken seats or no seat at all. The plumbing is old, so flush handles might not work well. You may be asked to put waste paper in a trash can instead of the toilet.

What to Bring We have included suggestions from Trip Leaders and former travelers to help you pack. These lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You may also want to consult the “Climate” chapter of this handbook.

Keep in mind that many things can be difficult to obtain in Cuba, especially outside of Havana. For example, razor blades, medicines, contact lenses and solutions, insect repellent, sunscreen, reading and writing materials, photographic supplies, flashlights, and batteries should all be brought with you if you need/want them.

Essentials ❑❑Daily essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, hairbrush or comb, shaving items, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, shower cap, etc.

❑❑Spare eyeglasses/contact lenses and your prescription ❑❑Sunglasses and a neck strap ❑❑Sunscreen, SPF 15 or stronger ❑❑Insect repellent with DEET (spring-fall; optional in winter) ❑❑Travel money pouch or money belt ❑❑Moisturizer, lip balm ❑❑Light folding umbrella ❑❑Wide-brim sun hat or visor ❑❑Pocket-size tissues ❑❑Moist towelettes (packets) and/or anti-bacterial hand cleanser ❑❑Working flashlight ❑❑Photocopies of passport ❑❑Written prescriptions for your medications

22 FCT2017 07/13/2017 ❑❑Folding hand fan

Medicines ❑❑Your own prescription medicines ❑❑Vitamins ❑❑Cold remedies (Sudafed/Dristan) ❑❑Pain relief (Ibuprofen/aspirin/naproxen) ❑❑Laxatives (Senokot, Ex-Lax) ❑❑Upset stomach (Pepto-Bismol/Mylanta) ❑❑Anti-diarrheal (Imodium) ❑❑Band-Aids ❑❑Moleskin foot pads ❑❑Antibiotics (Neosporin/Bacitracin)

Optional Gear ❑❑Travel alarm ❑❑Toiletry bag with hook and pockets ❑❑Washcloth ❑❑Earplugs ❑❑Hand-wash laundry soap (Woolite), clothespins/travel clothesline/stopper ❑❑Swimsuit, if your hotel has a pool/whirlpool ❑❑Electrical transformer & plug adapters— see “Regional Electricity” ❑❑Reading materials ❑❑Travel journal/note pad ❑❑Home address book/email addresses ❑❑Spanish phrase book

07/13/2017 FCT2017 23 ❑❑Folding walking staff ❑❑Pocket-size calculator for exchange rates ❑❑Basic sewing kit ❑❑Extra passport-sized photos (useful if you lose your passport)

Do Not Bring ❑❑Walkie-talkies (strictly prohibited by the Cuban government) ❑❑Satellite telephones (also strictly prohibited) ❑❑Laptop computers (except for your personal use) ❑❑GPS devices (prohibited)

Optional Gifts During visits to non-governmental charitable institutions you may wish to offer a non- monetary donation. These small items will also be welcomed by the local people you meet, perhaps in exchange for a photo or just to break the ice. They are often more deeply appreciated than a monetary donation, as items like these are difficult to obtain in Cuba.

Below is a list of optional gifts to give you some idea of what you might bring — though you will receive a more up-to-date list in your Final Documents booklet before your departure. Note that once you are in Cuba, your gifts will be pooled and then donated discretely as gifts from the group, and that we can’t anticipate every possible gift option.

Senior Center, Havana • Clothing - Men and Women

• Socks - Sizes 7 through 9

• Shoes (do not have to be new) - sizes as above

• Cleaning supplies for center such as Spic ‘N Span, cleaning gloves

• Bengay cream

• Spices to liven up the food

• Razors, soaps, hand cream, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes

• Games, such as bingo and dominoes

24 FCT2017 07/13/2017 • Over-the-counter medications for seniors, Band-Aids, lotion for bruises/itching, vitamins, medicine for digestion

Archbishop’s Day Care Center, Havana Ages: 2 to 4 years old

• Books, crayons, coloring books, age appropriate games

• Clothing - Ages 2 to 4; Shoes - Ages 2 to 4

• Soaps, toothpaste, toothbrushes

• Children DVD’s (i.e. Dora the Explorer, Sesame Street)

• Play-Doh, finger puppets (to aid with motor skills, emphasized by the teachers)

• Cleaning gloves

Children’s Social Program Cienfuegos Ages: approx. 5-15 years old

• Candy

• Art supplies such as crayons, colored pencils etc

• Music supplies such as guitar strings

• Books, note pads, erasers, school supplies

• Costume jewelry for performances

• Ballet shoes

Basket Weavers, Trinidad • Hand lotions

• Bengay cream

• Soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, make up

• Granola and power bars, snacks

• Men’s and women’s clothing (mainly women’s)

• Thread and measuring tape

Local Home Visit, Trinidad • Toiletries, granola bars, shampoo, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, etc.

• Clothing for university-aged twin boys - Size L

07/13/2017 FCT2017 25 • University-level school supplies

• Household cleaning items and kitchen towels

• Granola and power bars

Farmer in Escambray Mountains, Trinidad • Razors, soaps, shampoo, lotions, toothpaste, toothbrushes

• Sunblock and skin healing cream

• Granola and power bars

• Household items

• Men’s and women’s clothing (winter clothing too; it can get cold in the mountains)

• Small tools useful for the countryside (i.e. Swiss army knife, multi-purpose tool)

Local Fishermen, Cojimar (Havana) • Fishing line, leaders, hooks/lures and old fishing equipment

• Household cleaning items

• Razors, soaps, shampoo, lotions, toothpaste, toothbrushes

• Granola and power bars

Dance Company, Havana Ages: late teens to early 30’s, men and women

• Make up, nail polish, hair bands or ornaments

• Men or women’s athletic socks

• Dance tops or leggings/sweat pants for men

• Costume jewelry for performances

• Granola and power bars, snacks

• Ballet shoes

One handy way to lighten your load and spread the wealth is to leave behind your gently worn clothing as you travel. A blouse, nightgown, extra sneakers, hats or tee-shirts will be greatly appreciated.

26 FCT2017 07/13/2017 Electricity When traveling overseas, the voltage is usually different and the plugs might not be the same shape.

Voltage Electricity in Cuba in most older hotels is 110 volts, 60 hertz; newer construction can be 200 volts/60 hertz. In other words, older buildings have American-style electricity and newer ones have European-style.

To prevent damage to your appliances, we recommend you either bring dual-voltage items (i.e. a charger that says it can work on 110 or 220/240) or bring a 110/220-voltage transformer. Note however, that transformers tend to be unreliable, so dual-voltage appliances are the better choice.

Plugs In addition, electrical outlets/plug types vary. Most of the time you’ll find American-style outlets, but sometimes you’ll see European-style ones (see images that follow). In some Cuban hotels the plugs vary from room to room. Or there will two outlets—one American and one European—in the same room! Since you can’t be sure what you’ll find, we recommend you bring an European plug adapter. This can be handy if you want to use more than one outlet at a time or if you happen to get a room with European outlets. However, keep in mind that adapters only change the shape of the plug, not the strength of the electricity. So it is best to only plug dual-voltage appliances into European-shaped outlets.

Cuba: A (U.S. plugs) and C (European plugs)

Type A Type C

07/13/2017 FCT2017 27 Availability Electricity in Cuba is generally reliable, but not guaranteed at all times due to sudden power outages.

28 FCT2017 07/13/2017 CLIMATE

The weather in Cuba is semi-subtropical. Temperatures are generally warm year-round, but trade winds often temper the heat.

• The wet season, which accounts for nearly two-thirds of the country’s rainfall occurs approximately from May-October, and the dry season runs from November-April.

• Located on the southwestern periphery of the North Atlantic high atmospheric pressure zone, Cuba’s climate is influenced by the northeast trade winds in winter and by east- northeast winds in summer – which mitigates the hot temperatures.

• April and November - transitional months between the seasons- can be pleasant because while the weather is hot (day and night) and sunny without being too hot or humid, with little risk of cold fronts and sparse rainfall.

• December to February is the coolest and driest time of the year. Evening and night can be cool (61 to 68 °F) during these months.

• The hottest months are June to September but trade winds and marine breezes help to keep things tolerable as the heat and humidity rise. Cubans take their holidays in July and August.

Climate Charts & Online Forecast The following charts reflect the average climate as opposed to exact weather conditions. This means they serve only as general indicators of what can reasonably be expected. An extreme heat wave or cold snap could fall outside these ranges. As your departure approaches, we encourage you to go online to www.weather.com for your 10-day forecast.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 29 Average Daily High/Low Temperatures (°F), Humidity & Monthly Rainfall

MONTH HAVANA, CUBA CIENFUEGOS, CUBA

Temp High-Low % Relative Avg # of Days with Temp High-Low % Relative Avg # of Days with Humidity (am-pm) Rain Humidity (avg) Rain JAN 78 to 63 91 to 65 6 78 to 63 73 1 .3 FEB 84 to 68 89 to 63 6 82 to 62 72 1 .5 MAR 82 to 66 89 to 62 5 84 to 64 71 3 .2 APR 84 to 68 88 to 60 5 85 to 67 72 4 .2 MAY 87 to 71 88 to 66 9 87 to 69 74 8 .5 JUN 88 to 74 90 to 72 12 89 to 71 77 11 6. JUL 89 to 74 91 to 72 11 90 to 72 76 10 AUG 89 to 74 92 to 72 11 90 to 72 76 11 9. SEP 88 to 74 93 to 74 12 89 to 71 78 10 .4 OCT 85 to 71 93 to 73 10 88 to 71 79 9 .6 NOV 82 to 69 93 to 70 7 83 to 67 76 3 .2 DEC 79 to 65 90 to 66 6 82 to 64 75 1 .4

MONTH TRINIDAD, CUBA

Temp High-Low % Relative Avg # of Days with Humidity (am-pm) Rain JAN 79 to 62 95 to 60 6 FEB 80 to 62 93 to 57 6 MAR 82 to 65 93 to 55 5 APR 82 to 67 92 to 54 5 MAY 86 to 71 93 to 65 11 JUN 87 to 73 95 to 70 14 JUL 89 to 74 95 to 68 11 AUG 89 to 74 96 to 68 14 SEP 86 to 73 97 to 76 15 OCT 86 to 72 96 to 74 15 NOV 82 to 68 95 to 69 9 DEC 80 to 64 94 to 63 7

30 FCT2017 07/13/2017 ABOUT YOUR DESTINATIONS

Cuban Trip Leaders: A World of Difference During your People-to-People journey you’ll be accompanied by one of our expert Cuban Trip Leaders. All are fluent in English and possess the skills, certification, and experience necessary to ensure an enriching adventure. As Cubans, our Trip Leaders provide the kind of firsthand knowledge and insight that make local history, culture, and wildlife come alive. Coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm, caring personalities, and ability to bring diverse groups of travelers together, our Trip Leaders ensure that your experience is one you’ll remember for a lifetime.

A Word About Traveling in Cuba Cuba is a fascinating country unlike any other you have likely seen before. Be prepared for an eye-opening experience, as not only the government but also the social structures and basic ins and outs of daily life here are quite different from what you might expect. As with travel anywhere, both flexibility and willingness to adapt will make your experience all the more satisfying.

The Cuban people are lively, engaging, opinionated, warm, musical, and excited to welcome Americans to their homeland. They are proud of their culture and all their country has achieved since gaining its independence from Spain in 1898, though they are sanguine about the challenges Cuba faces as dramatic change unfolds on an almost daily basis. The standard of living that currently prevails in Cuba is certainly lower than those in most western nations. There is a rationing system and frequent shortages of goods and services that we take for granted. Some of this may or may not impact you personally – for example, don’t be surprised if you encounter a somewhat limited menu at a restaurant, occasional power outages, a shortage of toilet paper in public bathrooms, or spotty Internet service. Local people take this in stride and have become quite adaptable, and you will best enjoy your time here if you, too, can keep minor inconveniences in perspective.

Especially in the countryside and towns outside Havana, people may approach you with curiosity and wonder where you are from, and why you are here. Some may appear shy or even suspicious, since our presence will be unusual. But for the most part you will find most people polite and open and happy to practice English (many people speak at least a few words in English). On the other hand, it will be obvious to them that you enjoy certain economic advantages that are difficult if not impossible for most Cubans to attain. They know that Americans are generous and so local people may approach you asking for money, candy, toiletries, spare clothes, or any other personal items that are very hard for them to come by. It is up to your own discretion whether or not you give anything, but in any case people can be very bold and persistent in their pleas. Several people may approach you at once, and feel a little overwhelmed by their entreaties. But trying not to not lose sight of the serious economic hardships facing Cuban families will make these interactions more comfortable.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 31 What Cubans lack in material riches is counterweighted by free medical care and a free education system. As a result, there is a deep appreciation for the arts here, and easy access to music, dance, museums, and more. Cubans appreciate intellectual pursuits, and life’s simple pleasures and social interactions here have an intimacy, richness and small town feeling, even in larger cities.

All travel in Cuba is ultimately arranged by organizations controlled by the Cuban government and is subject to rules, regulations, and other constraints that are not always evident. As noted above you will find that the infrastructure is not what you may expect were you traveling at home or in Europe. Regarding the logistics of day-to-day travel, you’ll find that the Cubans assisting us are friendly and eager to make your visit a rewarding one. They will be as cooperative as possible given the set guidelines and framework within which they operate. Please respect the knowledge of your local Cuban Trip Leader and follow his/her instructions. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask.

Our Accommodations Confirmation of your lodgings with hotel contact information will be sent to you with your final documents package. Our hotels in Havana, Cienfuegos and Trinidad offer clean, comfortable rooms with private baths and standard amenities. But please bear in mind that Cuban standards are different than what you would enjoy in the U.S. or Europe, and in some places accommodations are scarce so our choices are limited. Cuba has a struggling economy and so hotels do not undergo the constant renovations that happen in their American or European counterparts. For example, at the “grand dame” of Havana, the Hotel Nacional, you may find that the guest rooms are somewhat less grand than the historic public areas. In general it helps to keep things in perspective: this a rare chance to experience Cuba and the potential leaky faucet, worn carpet, or busy lobby is a small tradeoff for the excellent location, authentic atmosphere, and rich experience you will get in return.

Cuisine in Cuba Cuban cuisine is limited by what’s available to the Cuban people, and varies widely (and often arbitrarily) depending on the season, location, and market prices. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices cannot be easily distributed or stored in Cuba, and are sometimes difficult to come by. As a result, the primary staples of Cuban cuisine are rice, beans, chicken, fish, pork, plantains, and root vegetables. If you have special dietary requests, your Trip Leader will do everything possible to accommodate you—but due to a general lack of available ingredients, there can be no guarantees.

Some of the best food is found not in restaurants, which are owned by the government, but in paladars—locally owned restaurants in private homes. For meals on your own, please ask your Trip Leader or hotel concierge for recommendations, as the food served in some paladars can lead to digestive issues for non-Cuban stomachs. You should dine only in paladars that offer a printed menu; otherwise you can expect to pay far too much. When menus are available, there are two different options for locals and visitors—with visitors paying a higher price in CUCs.

32 FCT2017 07/13/2017 Interactions with Locals During this People-to-People program in Cuba, our primary focus will be on interactions with the Cuban people, who we think you’ll find to be warm, friendly, and extremely welcoming of Americans. As we get to know the Cuban culture, we’ll encourage you to keep an open mind—because by sharing in Cuba’s pervasive sense of spontaneity, we open ourselves up to experiences that are not only unplanned, but also unforgettable.

As part of our mission to change lives, we hope that our interactions will be as meaningful to the local people are they are to you and your fellow participants. Your contribution is simple, but crucial: the sharing of your viewpoints and ideas. Cubans are extremely open to discussing the realities of their country—both the good and the bad—as long as you’re open to doing the same. If you sense that someone is reluctant to discuss a certain topic, however, don’t press the issue, and avoid making statements that are obviously inflammatory—just as you would anywhere else.

Security In general, the Cuban people are very hospitable. The island is considered safer than many of its Caribbean and Latin neighbors, but certain common-sense precautions should be taken. You should never lose sight of your luggage unless you give it to a hotel porter or your bus driver. Most hotel rooms come equipped with a safe. It is strongly recommended that you use this safe to store your passport, airline ticket, visa, and cash over $100. We also recommend bringing a money belt or a small neck pouch for your cash. Pick pocketing and purse snatching happen from time to time, and walking at night, especially in unknown areas, is discouraged. But while precautions should still be taken (as they should anywhere), crime is not prevalent. The police are very helpful and thorough when investigating the infrequent cases of theft that do occur.

Some of the local population will do anything to get hard currency, from simply asking for money or dollar-bought goods to offering goods for sale, especially cigars. If someone approaches you suggesting that he or she has a friend who has access to good cigars, cheap, it is most often a scam. The right thing to do is to say a firm but polite “No thank you,” look straight ahead, and just continue walking.

Although violent street crime is quite low in Cuba, pick pocketing is on the rise, so we strongly urge you to carry only the cash you need for the day on your person. Leave your valuable documents, passport, credit cards, and most of your cash in the safe in your room.

Postal Service Postcards can be purchased throughout Cuba, and stamps can be purchased at post offices, certain hotels and souvenir shops. Keep in mind that letters and postcards can take up to 2-5 months to reach the U.S. — and some may never arrive at all.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 33 Photo Gear You are allowed to bring one camera and one (amateur) video camera into Cuba. If you lose your camera, select locations sell small digital and instant models—but more advanced photographic gear such as DSLRs, lenses, filters, and flash units, can be very difficult to replace. Regardless of the complexity of your equipment, keep it nearby while in restaurants and bars. Unattended cameras have been known to disappear.

Be sure to bring enough batteries. Recharging batteries is sometimes impossible, due to a lack of outlets, electrical shortages or outages—and some cameras drain batteries very quickly. Whether you need standard (2A or 3A) or proprietary batteries, it’s wise to have spares. Particularly with proprietary batteries, spares may be impossible to find. Be sure your charger will work with the local electrical system, and bring enough memory cards—they may be hard to find and are often pricier than in the U.S. Whatever the storage format, memory cards are small and thin and, as with being thin, you can never have too much storage.

Finally, if you’ve bought a new camera for your travels, get familiar with it before you leave. Read the manual, take some pictures of your garden flowers or pets. A little play up front can save lots of hassle on the trip – and your photos will look better if you have command of the camera.

Taking Photographs You can photograph just about anything in Cuba—though please avoid pictures of government buildings, military installations, officials in uniform, etc. When in doubt concerning legality, refrain from taking the photograph, or ask your Cuban Trip Leader.

In any culture, it is polite to ask permission before taking pictures of people, and Cuba is no exception. But don’t be surprised if everyday people going about their daily business seem reluctant to have their image taken. They may have some fear of government surveillance, have folk beliefs that make them suspicious of strangers trying to capture their “essence,” or simply be very private people.

There are many official “models”—especially in Old Havana—who are licensed to dress in traditional garb and pose for your camera, for a small fee (usually a CUC will do). Unofficially, many local people will be “freelance” models, willing to pose but expecting a little off-the- record tip in return. Candid shots are trickier, and you will have to use your instincts and good sense to know whether your shooting is considered intrusive or not. Similarly, if you photograph the proprietor of a market stall, it’s customary to make a small purchase.

When not using your camera, always keep it in your pocket, in a case attached to your belt, or hanging on a strap around your neck.

34 FCT2017 07/13/2017 Shopping There may be scheduled visits to local shops during your trip. There is no requirement to make a purchase during these stops, and any purchase made is a direct transaction with the shop in question, subject to the vendor’s terms of purchase. Grand Circle Foundation is not responsible for purchases you make on your trip or for the shipment of your purchases.

Returns If you discover an issue with an item, you should contact the vendor directly and expect that any resolution will take longer than it would in the U.S. We recommend that you keep a copy of all your receipts, invoices, or contracts, along with the shop’s contact information. Keep in mind, local practice may vary from U.S. standards, so don’t assume that you have a certain number of days after the purchase to speak up or that you are guaranteed a refund.

Crafts & Souvenirs Artists and craftspeople have a special place in Cuban culture, and as a result, you’ll find a wide variety of handmade goods. Some standouts include: baskets and straw totes, hats, tablecloths or other linens, and pottery. You’ll also find artwork of all types from watercolors, to sculpture, to photography. Prices will range from $20 for a student work to thousands for an original by a well-known name. If you think you might purchase some high-quality artwork during your travels in Cuba, don’t forget to budget accordingly and bring cash.

The music of Cuba also makes a great souvenir. You’ll find that many street musicians will have their own CD for sale, or you can pick up big-name bestsellers—like Benny More, Afro- Cuban All Stars, Compay Segundo, and Omara Portuondo, to name a few—at the local music shop. You can also find unique instruments like themarimbula (plucked box instrument), shekere (a shaking gourd), or guiro (wooden percussion).

What about rum and cigars? Cuba is known for both, but for many years it was illegal to bring them back to the U.S. However, current regulations do allow travelers to bring back a limited amount of alcohol or tobacco products for personal use. For more details see the “Customs” section.

U.S. Customs Regulations & Shipping Charges When you return to the U.S., you will be issued a standard customs declaration form—just as you would when returning from any foreign country. You can list Cuba just as you would any other destination.

For all things related to U.S. Customs, the ultimate authority is the U.S. Bureau of Customs & Border Protection. Their website, www.cbp.gov has the answers to the most frequently asked questions. Or you can call them at 1-877-227-5511.

The top points to know are:

07/13/2017 FCT2017 35 • Travelers can bring back up to $800 worth of Cuban goods duty-free (this is your duty exemption). The next $1000 worth is subject to a flat 3% duty tax. If the value exceeds $1,800, the remaining tax will be determined by Customs officials. Please note: The Cuban goods must be for personal use only, and must be brought into the U.S. with you as accompanied baggage (either in your checked luggage or carry-on).

• You are allowed to bring back 1 liter of alcohol duty-free as part of your $800 exemption if you are at least 21 years of age.

• The former restriction of $100 worth of cigars has been replaced with the standard U.S. duty-free tobacco policy: A traveler may include up to 100 cigars and 200 cigarettes in their $800 exemption.

• Items shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. Even when the shop has offered to include shipping and duties in the price, this typically means shipping to the nearest customs facility and payment of the export duties—not door-to- door shipping or payment of the import duties. All additional duties or shipping charges would be your responsibility. Unless an item is small enough to send by parcel service (like FedEx), chances are you will need to arrange shipping or pick-up once the item is in the U.S. and will need to pay customs duties.

• It is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins.

Cuban Customs: Arrival in Cuba You may bring your luggage and articles for personal use into Cuba free of duty. However, you are limited to the following: 200 cigarettes, 2 bottles of liquor, 5 rolls of film, one camera, one video camera, one radio (but two way radios and portable GPS devices are not allowed), and one personal computer. You may be required to show prescriptions for any medicine you carry. For most visitors, customs formalities are limited to an X-ray and a cursory look through your luggage. We suggest that you pack cameras, valuables, and items that would be extremely difficult to replace while in Cuba in your carry-on.

In the unlikely event of a thorough inspection, you will be given a receipt for any items that must be produced when you leave Cuba, along with the tagged item. If questioned about who is making your arrangements in Cuba, please respond, “Havanatur,” which is the partner of our Travel Service Provider (Educational Travel Alliance) and by extension, us.

Cuban officials may stamp your passport, as you are traveling on a legal program. If you don’t want your passport stamped, please let the Cuban immigration officer know as soon as you enter the Cuban Immigration booth.

36 FCT2017 07/13/2017 DEMOGRAPHICS & HISTORY

Cuba

Facts & Figures • Area: 110,860 sq km

• Capital: Havana

• Government: Communist

• Language: Spanish

• Location: An island located in the Caribbean, south of Key West, Florida

• Geography: Cuba is long and thin—750 miles from east to west, but only 60 miles wide—but that still makes it the largest island in the Caribbean Sea. Scattered at either end of the island are two mountain ranges (the Sierra Maestra in the east and the Sierra del Rosario in the west), plus a third range lies in the center (the Escambray Mountains). The rest of the island is mostly rolling hills, beaches, or swamps.

• Population: 11,179,995

• Religion: Roman Catholic 85%, mix of Protestant, Jehovah’s Witness, Jewish and Santeria 15%

• Time Zone: Cuba’s time zone is equivalent to Eastern Standard Time (or Daylight Saving Time) in America.

National Holidays: Cuba

In addition to the holidays listed below, 05/01 Labor Day/May Day Cuba celebrates a number of national 07/25 Revolution Anniversary holidays that follow a lunar calendar, such as Easter. To find out if you will be 07/26 Day of the Rebellion traveling during these holidays, please visit www.timeanddate.com/holidays. 07/27 Revolution Anniversary Celebration

01/01 Liberation Day 10/10 Beginning of the War of Independence

01/02 New Year Day 12/25 Christmas Day

12/31 New Year’s Eve

A Cuban Chronology 1492 – Columbus discovers Cuba.

1508 – Sebastian Ocampo circumnavigates Cuba to prove it was an island.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 37 1512 – Diego Velazquez de Cuellar begins conquest on behalf of the Spanish crown.

1515 – Santiago de Cuba becomes the capital, and remains so until Havana in 1607.

1519 – Havana is founded.

1848 – U.S. attempts to buy Cuba from the Spanish.

1868 – 10 Years’ War: the first war of Cuban Independence led by Carlos Manuel de Céspedes.

1886 – Slavery abolished in Cuba.

1895 – Second war of Cuban Independence. Leaders include Antonio Maceo and Máximo Gomez.

1898 – Spanish relinquish control to U.S. in the Treaty of Paris.

1901 – Platt amendment.

1925 – Gerard Machado becomes Cuba’s fifth President. Corruption is rampant.

1946 – Mafia meets at Hotel Nacional to discuss expansion to Cuba.

1952 – El “Zarpazo”: Batista military coup.

1953 – Attack on Moncada barracks led by Castro. Castro is jailed.

1955 – Fidel Castro released from prison; joins brother Raul in exile in Mexico.

1956 – Castro and 82 followers depart Mexico on “Granma” and land in Cuba.

1959 – Fidel Castro and his Revolutionaries take control.

1960 – U.S. embargo begins.

1961 – Bay of Pigs invasion.

1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis.

1973 – Mariel Boatlift.

1990 – Tourism surpasses sugar in importance.

1991 – Soviet Union collapses. Special Period begins.

1993 – Dollars allowed in Cuba. Limited small private businesses become legal.

1996 – Helms-Burton Act strengthens the U.S. embargo.

1998 – Pope John Paul II visits Cuba.

2002 – Jimmy Carter becomes first former U.S. president to visit Cuba since the Revolution.

2004 – President George W. Bush eliminates Culture Exchange Licenses to Cuba, and restricts both high school and college groups from traveling.

38 FCT2017 07/13/2017 2005 – Peso Convertible (CUC) introduced. Dollar no longer accepted.

2006 – Cuba, Bolivia, and Venezuela sign far-reaching trade accord. Cuba receives cheap oil from Venezuela in exchange for teachers and doctors.

2006 – Cuba beats Dominican Republic in World Baseball Classic to reach finals. Lose to Japan 10–6 in finals in San Diego.

2008 – Raul Castro replaces Fidel as President. Fidel remains head of the Communist Party.

2011 – President Barack Obama eases travel restrictions to Cuba.

2011 – Grand Circle Foundation operates its first ever People-to-People program in Cuba.

2014 – Embargo between the US and Cuba is relaxed, allowing some import and export between the two.

07/13/2017 FCT2017 39 RESOURCES