An excellent video. Well done. Thank you, Rick! The comments about comparing Cuban people's way of life should be made against other Latin American countries rather than against ours in the US. That point was spot on. I'm married to a Cuban and have been to the island multiple times.
It was such fun talking and filming Cuba with you in Edmonton Thanks for making Cuba approachable and helping Americans understand the country beyond its first layer
You gave really good information and explained everything very well. I even subscribed because of how good this presentation was. Thanks for the tips Rick!
I too loved visiting Cuba. My only regret is that I wasn't there longer, because the people were lovely, the architecture was amazing, and the feel of walking down Obispo street.. with all of it's lively music spilling out of bars, buskers on the streets, and ladies posing in costume with cigars in their mouths was awesome. I wish I could go back and stay in a Casa Particular. We spent 3 days on a cruise ship in Havana, and one night at Hotel Raquel, where the staff were so lovely & treated us like family. The chef even came out to see us. I want to go there again.
Very informative Rick....I’ve been going for 30 years, I guess because it’s inexpensive, but also because it’s like stepping back 50 years! The Cuban People are terrific too . Thx again
I am Cuban and my father is a black man from the United States who immigrated to Cuba in 1950. Well, I'll tell you: Cuba is the most racist country in the world. Where blacks are forbidden to walk the streets of Cuba without being arrested because of the color of their skin. Blacks are forbidden to be treated in hospitals for tourists, even if our families outside Cuba pay for the treatment, we can not enter the hotels, or the beaches, or the bars, and not even have a white foreign girlfriend. Thousands of blacks in Cuba have been sentenced to 4 years in jail for having white European girlfriends or wives. Apartheid that all blacks in the U.S. have,t lived in 50 years. And all this was achieved through the moral deconstruction of the family. Persecuting and imprisoning priests and the same communist indoctrination in schools that they have brought to the USA. It's called a Trojan horse. They send ideological terrorists for 40 years and then their own generations of indoctrinated young people destroy the democracy of their country to live as slaves in a communist dictatorship as happened in Venezuela and Nicaragua, and soon in Colombia.
Rick - you outdid yourself. I like the way you took basic shots and narrated your experience. Most important, I appreciated the way you explained Cuban culture to those who otherwise might "turn up their noses" by not appreciating the greatness of the people.
I visited Cuba back in 1999, it was a residential trip from my university. I must its an interesting country, with many fond memories of beautiful sceneries and lovely friendly people! they all seem content and happy with what little they have.... I love that! I would love to visit Cuba again.... and I know I will in the future! :)
Was recently in Medellín, Colombia for two months. Love meeting people from all over the world in the AirBnBs. Hotels no more for me. ❤️ mixing with the Locals too.
I love Rick Steves, he present in a funny light way the reality of Cuba, he’s not going to talk about the lack of freedom or any other major problems in Cuba, he just present Cuba as a tourist destination, he’s a travel journalist. Thanks God Mr. Steves that you can travel around the world and use your money to take your family to have a good time in Cuba, that have been denied to Cubans for more than 50 years. But yes, definitely Cuba is an amazing tropical paradise, rich in culture, stunning scenery and extraordinary people trying to survive every day. Welcome to Cuba!
Cubans are allowed to travel. I am not sure what you are talking about. You are talking about years ago. What about all the medical personnel who are working on contract all over the Caribbean, South America and Africa. I have also met people in Cuba who leave the country to go on a vacation and go back to their jobs. They may not be able to just buy a plane ticket and leave without adhering to the government regulations but they are allowed to travel. And with the big tourist industry that they have, the people who are working in the hotels, resorts, etc., do make a lot of money in tips and do beat the system with the amount of gifts that we take for them. Yes, not everybody works in the tourist industry but those who do are not fighting to survive and they share things with their family and friends. The last time I was in Cuba, there were many Cubans spending the weekend at the resort. So things can't be that bad with some of them. They may have problems, but everywhere has problems in a different way. I come from an island that is considered more of a middle class society but people have to lock up after 6:30 p.m. for fear of being robbed, raped or killed and this is not only in certain bad areas. For a country (Cuba) where people are "supposed to be suffering", they are the most friendly and kindest people that I have every met. I wish the people in the developed countries could be like them.
Roberto Hernandez-Merlo Leave the guy alone. What is interesting in that 90% of Cubans love Fidel and when thy are in the island never say a bad thing about him. It is only when Cubans are out of the country that the speak their mind. Change comes from within.
Roberto Hernandez-Merlo I can't stand Cuban-Americans, who for years were the anointed spokespeople for Cubans in America because of the embargo, pretending to speak for REAL Cubans. For years I was subjected to their manipulated view of all things Cuba until I met my 100% Cuban wife. It was then that I realized just what a load of bullsh*t Americans are/have been fed for decades. Let me be clear - CUBAN-AMERICANS ARE NOTHING LIKE CUBANS. They DON'T speak for them. I know both groups very well. Is Cuba perfect? Absolutely not, but it is also NOT what many Cuban-Americans (usually the older generation) make it out to be. Very few things in this world are black & white, and Cuba is no exception.
Cuba an interesting video with views of great places to view with well thought out comments highlighting the Cuban. culture a different polices and. Politics.Thanks Rick Ann March 2021
I strongly encourage anyone planning on visiting Cuba who wants to immerse themselves in the culture & the Cuban way of life, to eschew the hotels & stay at a casa particular (private home) as Mr. Steves did. They are extremely affordable (starting at 25-35 CUC per day) & are practically guaranteed to be spotlessly clean & well-kempt as the government requires the homes to be inspected regularly. Before I married my 100% Cuban wife (NOT Cuban-American), it was the only way I stayed in Cuba. I even suggested it to 3 relatives who recently visited Cuba & they absolutely & thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
I cannot wait to go to Cuba soon. I had always been sure out in the neighborhoods to see what the locals are doing. It's just natural to me to do so. I lived in quite a few big cities where it's just too much repetitiveness. I like to go out and just really truly see how people live and other countries. It's the people's natural habitat.
I deleted my comment...anyway, thank you for an amazing job as always. I traveled Europe after watching many.of your informative videos. We had a great time. Now we need to go to Cuba. My children loved Cuba. They mixed with the Cuban people for a great experience. They hope that one day Cuba will be free of the U.S.A embargo. We come from Chile so we know how things are in other Central and South American countries in comparison with Cuba but people choose to believe the propaganda instead of traveling around and see things as they really are. Thanks again Steve.
Coco cabs.... LOL try taking a COCO from Vieja to Miramar via the Malecon and coastal road at 1:00 AM to check out a jazz club. One of the few times in Cuba I felt the need to offer prayers to get to my destination in one piece... a bit scary, but man, what a ride ;-)
Rick I was starting to think he was way to EUROCENTRIC and always wondered why he only stayed in Europe?? When the rest of the world has much more beauty and culture... Good to see he opened his travels!
Rick, I enjoyed your video immensely. I live in Canada, but I am from the Caribbean. I have gone to Cuba many times but have always stayed at resorts and I am about to go in two weeks to one of the islands. I have been to the places in the video and I have travelled to about 2/3 thirds of Cuba by now. I love the country, so I go there often. Your video was excellent. I have never stayed in a casa particular, but I plan to do so now that the government is allowing them. At one time, they could not operate as they do now. I remember eating one of my best meals in an illegal restaurant (yes, they could not run restaurants like they do now). I hope to do an island tour to accompany one of my American friends when she is allowed to go on her own and I will then stay at the casas and really get an opportunity to stay with the families. I will then arrange for her to stay at one of the resorts so she can see the other side that tourists enjoy including the beautiful beach. Thanks again for some memories.
Going from Orlando to Havana for 154 RT. 42 for fare and 112 for taxes. lol Purchased 12/15/16. On jetblue you can buy visa from Jetblue for 50 dollars at check-in counter.
I spent three weeks in Cuba Dec. 2015-Jan. 2016, from one end of the island to the other, with a cultural exchange group. We visited rural hospitals and schools, had meetings with government administrators, saw the sights, ate the food, drank the rum, but especially enjoyed the Cuban people. I was very impressed by some aspects of the society, and dismayed when seeing the results of the embargo in real time. My roommate is a woman from Iran who is a PhD and left in 1982 after the Ahatolla gained power and suddenly women were limited and veiled, and Western goods in the stores disappeared. She married an American, Jewish doctor and still goes back on occasion to Tehran to visit family, and her stories of what one of our embargoes does to a nation were the same. Restrict trade and contact, and the population doubles down in support of the dictator in defense, or flees if they have the means.
Thank You, Rick. It is so important to note that the travel landscape is ever-changing and difficult in my particular field. I, with my fellow Miamians, are excited to see where this goes. -Travel Agent
Hi Rick. love ur work as you teach us about traveling and different cultures. I think that you are open minded and fair. Regarding Cuba, I think you should not compare it to central America in 2021. Rather, u should compare Cuba to USA in 1958. The Cuban Peso was worth more than the US $, the Riviera Hotel was the 1st hotel in the world with central A/C. As per trivial pursuit, Cuba was the 1st country in the world to try out color TVs.. On Utube, Armando Ruiz channel has a great video called "Havana in the 1950's" that shows the great place that Cuba used to be before the Bolsheviks took over. It's eye opening! Regards
Hello, travelling in January 2017. Is it necessary to get a tourist card/visa to enter Cuba. If so, how do I obtain? Have tried calling Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C. and have left numerous messages to no avail. Also, how and where do I obtain the U.S. Declaration Form which you mention in your video. Thanks so very much for your help.
Hi, Jim, Try blog.ricksteves.com/blog/cuba-roundup/ for links to all of Rick's Cuba blog entries. See also www.cubadiplomatica.cu/sicw/EN/ConsularServices.aspx#TouristCard and scroll down, but I don't see the form in a quick look. - Laura
I just got back from Cuba, there is no problems going. The declaration form is provided by your airline provider...just check one box and you're good to go...nobody even looks at the form, just red tape...you airline will have your visa as well, if not you can purchase one on arrival in Cuba using USD $85. Keep in mind that Cuba has absolutely zero problems with US tourist, in fact they are waiting with open arms!! Awesome place to visit!!!
You forgot to mention: And no drugs! Compared with most U.S. cities! My daughter was in Santiago de Cuba for a month…impressed by it cleanliness, friendliness, beauty…can't be beat!
Maria Isabel Alfonso it is not as utopian as it sounds. Most average cubans would flee cuba if they had a chance. You get sn education, become a doctor, and yet, you have to ask for rides to get to snd from your hospital. Salary a month for one of the best doctors is 700 pesos or $35 dollars a month compared to that in US about $30,000 a month for an average doctor.
From a fellow Maria; my family suffers there, sister. I need to bring them medication especially for my grandmother as they dont have the medication she needs and she is dying. You can get all the meds you want, they reserve it for tourists only. The residents life is very different. My family in Cuba gets very little food for month and they are stuck there, its not like they can leave. Smart and safe for nothing, my fellow poor Cubans. I wish them better in the future. Para mis hermanos, Cuba libre carajo.
Thanks. Yes to connect with the local people you need to know the language. Also many people travel everywhere not knowing the social problems and social / cultural scams. Unfortunately racism goes both ways and in many countries racism is still a big problem together with different social classes. The locals I talk to in Mexico say that there are 7 social classes in Mexico as an example. Poverty, racism, social classes is terrible but the thing is how to be aware of it and how to learn about it and how to deal with it.
Thinking I would love to see Cuba. It would be more of a history lesson for me though. And a mission trip of sorts. Wouldn’t be able to go and not give in some significant way.
This is by far the best info I have gotten. My friend and I are going on a cruise and our itinerary has changed. We are going to Havana, Cuba. Excited and very nervous at the same time.
My carrier is T-Mobile. When I travel to Cuba which prepaid phone card is the cheapest for calling back to the USA ? Please give me any info what is the best option for me. Thanks
Leave your phone at home. It wont work anyway. Even Canadian phones rarely work and very expensive. Btw no ATM machines or US credit cards and 15 % premium on US dollars.
You can purchase an Etecsa card (@ your hotel) in Cuba to access the internet in WIFI zones or for use on hotel computers. $2.00 CUC's for 60 minutes. If you're staying in a hotel you're better off to have someone (from home) ring your room at a mutually-agreed upon time, much cheaper to call in than out. Have a marvelous time!
I loved Havana. The only thing I'd say is that you missed talking about the 13% tax they put on changing US dollars into CUCs on top of the exchange rate. I would go back in a hot second.
Grief over comes me when i hear such lovely jovial people talking about my homeland and justifying the atrocities inflicted on the Cuban people by the dictatorships of the last 60+ years.
Nelson Mandela was not an "alternative" world leader? Donald Trump is an alternative world leader. Your ignorance is disturbing and dangerous. Next time visit Cuba with an open-mind and heart.Try to really live. Please, please, please leave the bigoted mindset and dialogue at home.
Rick, I love your shows. I have been in all the places you went in Cuba and I must say that on one hand, I admire your attitude but on the other think you are totally crazy. Foreigners need to be very careful where they go....
@j. Santiago: Trinidad, a small town 196 miles from Havana, I believe he stayed there a couple of days to enjoy the atmosphere and horse riding with his family.
I went in Cuba last summer. When we arrived to La Havana Airport, I just said to myself...."I'm in Cuba !!??" When we left, I also said to myself..."I went in CUBA and Nothing happened to me !!??"
When the pandemic ends, Rick you must to go Southamerica, definitely we haven't as much history as Europe has, but you will see the most beautiful landscapes, Southamerica has all of them deserts, beaches, smoky mountains, glaciers, exotic islands, rainforest like Amazons, Iguazú Falls, SA has more natural wonders than another continent
At about 19:34 into the video, the host probably because of basic ignorance, a lack of cultural knowledge and sensativity identifies all the ethnic groups in Cuba properly, but the African. He simply refers to Blacks (African people) as the "Slaves", lol. As a point of reference these "Slaves" were kidnapped and sold Africans. They had a culture, history and land base before being stolen and taken into captivity by Europeans.
Thank you! I was thinking the same thing. Spreading the same lies about people from the African Diaspora. As you pointed out, they were enslaved and from the pictures you can see they are a huge population of the country. They don't look like many who came in in the 60's and benefited from the US governments policies against Cuba.
I'm going to Cuba in January..anyone knows the best way to get from Havana to Florida camaguey. And a phone number would help also..they tell me a bus goes there ..any info would be appreciated
angela herrington my suggestion CASA PARTICULAR. private owners. Cheaper than hotels. great services. Food. And they make you feel like part of their family. Cubans are very humble people
All my family are in Cuba. I would say stuck, for they cannot leave. I am born and raised in the US as my mother left in the Mariel boat years ago with my brother. My brother sends them money because they dont have much. And all the touristy things you've done in this video, they can't afford any of that, it's only when I'm there. When you are a tourist in Cuba, you are treated differently because you have money. You can get all the medicine you need and state of the art healthcare, they boast about this too, but only tourists can afford it. Double-edged sword everyone, stop feeding into the lies. Most crops and product produced in Cuba are exports, not for the cuban people. And in return, they get paid next to nothing. Please, if you need to hear a genuine opinion, hear it from the people who have family there or are from there by blood. The majority of them are not pleased with the situation in Cuba. Let's make efforts to not only improve the experience for a mere tourist... but also, for the Cuban people.
Sorry but I'm going there. I don't want socialism but I don't want crime and duscontent. The USA seems to have its own problems but you may know different. My only problem going there is maybe I'm too white to go there. I like Cubans and their music culture and friendliness. Of course it is pretty and tropical
I have never been to Cuba but am in the beginning stages of planning a trip there. When I travel, I like to be the least "touristy" and the most "local experience" type of traveler. Could you offer some specific suggestions as to how we, as tourists, can improve the experience for Cuban people? I like the idea of staying in Casa Particulars to provide additional income to families, as opposed to staying in hotels owned by wealthy corporations. I like the idea of hiring a local guide, as well. What else can we do?
Was at a party mostly my wife's friends from school. One said she wanted to go to cuba 'before the Americans ruined it'. In one of those you always think of what you should have said later episodes, I thought on the way home I should have said well, you'll always have North Korea.
Rick Steves the king of tour guides.
As a Cuban I thank you making this excellent video about my country!
That was one of the best videos on cuba that I’ve seen. Good stuff!!
An excellent video. Well done. Thank you, Rick! The comments about comparing Cuban people's way of life should be made against other Latin American countries rather than against ours in the US. That point was spot on. I'm married to a Cuban and have been to the island multiple times.
It was such fun talking and filming Cuba with you in Edmonton Thanks for making Cuba approachable and helping Americans understand the country beyond its first layer
You gave really good information and explained everything very well. I even subscribed because of how good this presentation was. Thanks for the tips Rick!
I too loved visiting Cuba. My only regret is that I wasn't there longer, because the people were lovely, the architecture was amazing, and the feel of walking down Obispo street.. with all of it's lively music spilling out of bars, buskers on the streets, and ladies posing in costume with cigars in their mouths was awesome.
I wish I could go back and stay in a Casa Particular. We spent 3 days on a cruise ship in Havana, and one night at Hotel Raquel, where the staff were so lovely & treated us like family. The chef even came out to see us. I want to go there again.
What cruise line did you travel on?
Very informative Rick....I’ve been going for 30 years, I guess because it’s inexpensive, but also because it’s like stepping back 50 years! The Cuban People are terrific too . Thx again
This dude goes everywhere. He's got a segment on Fridays on NPR
I am Cuban and my father is a black man from the United States who immigrated to Cuba in 1950. Well, I'll tell you: Cuba is the most racist country in the world. Where blacks are forbidden to walk the streets of Cuba without being arrested because of the color of their skin. Blacks are forbidden to be treated in hospitals for tourists, even if our families outside Cuba pay for the treatment, we can not enter the hotels, or the beaches, or the bars, and not even have a white foreign girlfriend. Thousands of blacks in Cuba have been sentenced to 4 years in jail for having white European girlfriends or wives. Apartheid that all blacks in the U.S. have,t lived in 50 years. And all this was achieved through the moral deconstruction of the family. Persecuting and imprisoning priests and the same communist indoctrination in schools that they have brought to the USA. It's called a Trojan horse. They send ideological terrorists for 40 years and then their own generations of indoctrinated young people destroy the democracy of their country to live as slaves in a communist dictatorship as happened in Venezuela and Nicaragua, and soon in Colombia.
@@kelvinmederos6208 do you have any evidence to back this up?
I'm going to Cuba in June, your video was very insightful. Thank you for all that you shared. - Cheers!
Rick - you outdid yourself. I like the way you took basic shots and narrated your experience. Most important, I appreciated the way you explained Cuban culture to those who otherwise might "turn up their noses" by not appreciating the greatness of the people.
Well said!
I visited Cuba back in 1999, it was a residential trip from my university. I must its an interesting country, with many fond memories of beautiful sceneries and lovely friendly people! they all seem content and happy with what little they have.... I love that! I would love to visit Cuba again.... and I know I will in the future! :)
angelfire yeah if you go now you will be shocked to see how much they have fixed Havana it’s way more beautiful now 🇨🇺
@@arturoandarianorellana3815 ..
Thanks Rick for this education on cuba.
GREAT VIDEO!! RICK STEVES IS A JOY!!
Just got back from Cuba today! This video was very helpful, I had a great time!
Great 😃 presentation 🤠👍 Ricky Martin
Rick Steves rules forever. Thank you for being in the world- earnestly.
Im from Ecuador and your videos are awesome.
GREAT TALK! quite informative and insightful. Thanks for sharing your views on Cuba
Was recently in Medellín, Colombia for two months. Love meeting people from all over the world in the AirBnBs. Hotels no more for me.
❤️ mixing with the Locals too.
I am also cuban, fan of Rick Steve and I love this video
I love Rick Steves, he present in a funny light way the reality of Cuba, he’s not going to talk about the lack of freedom or any other major problems in Cuba, he just present Cuba as a tourist destination, he’s a travel journalist. Thanks God Mr. Steves that you can travel around the world and use your money to take your family to have a good time in Cuba, that have been denied to Cubans for more than 50 years. But yes, definitely Cuba is an amazing tropical paradise, rich in culture, stunning scenery and extraordinary people trying to survive every day. Welcome to Cuba!
All of his videos are insightful!
Cubans are allowed to travel. I am not sure what you are talking about. You are talking about years ago. What about all the medical personnel who are working on contract all over the Caribbean, South America and Africa. I have also met people in Cuba who leave the country to go on a vacation and go back to their jobs. They may not be able to just buy a plane ticket and leave without adhering to the government regulations but they are allowed to travel. And with the big tourist industry that they have, the people who are working in the hotels, resorts, etc., do make a lot of money in tips and do beat the system with the amount of gifts that we take for them. Yes, not everybody works in the tourist industry but those who do are not fighting to survive and they share things with their family and friends. The last time I was in Cuba, there were many Cubans spending the weekend at the resort. So things can't be that bad with some of them. They may have problems, but everywhere has problems in a different way. I come from an island that is considered more of a middle class society but people have to lock up after 6:30 p.m. for fear of being robbed, raped or killed and this is not only in certain bad areas. For a country (Cuba) where people are "supposed to be suffering", they are the most friendly and kindest people that I have every met. I wish the people in the developed countries could be like them.
Roberto Hernandez-Merlo Leave the guy alone. What is interesting in that 90% of Cubans love Fidel and when thy are in the island never say a bad thing about him. It is only when Cubans are out of the country that the speak their mind. Change comes from within.
Roberto Hernandez-Merlo
I can't stand Cuban-Americans, who for years were the anointed spokespeople for Cubans in America because of the embargo, pretending to speak for REAL Cubans. For years I was subjected to their manipulated view of all things Cuba until I met my 100% Cuban wife. It was then that I realized just what a load of bullsh*t Americans are/have been fed for decades. Let me be clear - CUBAN-AMERICANS ARE NOTHING LIKE CUBANS. They DON'T speak for them. I know both groups very well. Is Cuba perfect? Absolutely not, but it is also NOT what many Cuban-Americans (usually the older generation) make it out to be. Very few things in this world are black & white, and Cuba is no exception.
+darrtrubb That is for sure and I am a Cuban.
Cuba an interesting video with views of great places to view with well thought out comments highlighting the Cuban. culture a different polices and. Politics.Thanks Rick Ann March 2021
I strongly encourage anyone planning on visiting Cuba who wants to immerse themselves in the culture & the Cuban way of life, to eschew the hotels & stay at a casa particular (private home) as Mr. Steves did. They are extremely affordable (starting at 25-35 CUC per day) & are practically guaranteed to be spotlessly clean & well-kempt as the government requires the homes to be inspected regularly. Before I married my 100% Cuban wife (NOT Cuban-American), it was the only way I stayed in Cuba. I even suggested it to 3 relatives who recently visited Cuba & they absolutely & thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
I hope that one day Cuba will be free so that I can return to my beautiful country before I die. Patria y Vida!!!
Great video, thanks for making it. Really was fun to see if from your point of view and all the information you shared about your trip.
loved this! I'm heading to Cuba next week!
How did your trip go?
Interesting Video... I enjoy all your videos...
Best Cuba video I saw, ever.
Loved it....thank for this comprehensive video.
Cuba talk was great and most informative. Talk thanks Rick Ann Deakin Warwick UK 2021
thx Rick. real 360 review. next stop - Cuba!
I love sooooooo, soo much that Rick Steves isn't trashy and he's totally appropriate for my middle schoolers!
I'm going to Cuba on business in June and had so many questions about traveling there. Rick is amazing. So kind and smart and funny. Thanks!!!
Enjoyed and very informative. Thank you!
I have been there 3 times....enjoyed them all...hard to believe this is so close to the USA...very nice people
excellent video! congratulation! Cuba Libre!
sr my respet to you a im cuban and am happy to see your video .thankyou
Nice to see you covering a non-European nation. Europe is nice, but there are many beautiful countries around the world. Hopefully you release a DVD.
Check out his Iran lecture, it's fascinating.
Wow, thanks for the info. maybe sooner or later I can reach there.
I cannot wait to go to Cuba soon. I had always been sure out in the neighborhoods to see what the locals are doing. It's just natural to me to do so. I lived in quite a few big cities where it's just too much repetitiveness.
I like to go out and just really truly see how people live and other countries. It's the people's natural habitat.
watching you many yrs love you thank you from the black forest on my mothers side
I deleted my comment...anyway, thank you for an amazing job as always. I traveled Europe after watching many.of your informative videos. We had a great time. Now we need to go to Cuba.
My children loved Cuba. They mixed with the Cuban people for a great experience. They hope that one day Cuba will be free of the U.S.A embargo.
We come from Chile so we know how things are in other Central and South American countries in comparison with Cuba but people choose to believe the propaganda instead of traveling around and see things as they really are. Thanks again Steve.
Coco cabs.... LOL try taking a COCO from Vieja to Miramar via the Malecon and coastal road at 1:00 AM to check out a jazz club. One of the few times in Cuba I felt the need to offer prayers to get to my destination in one piece... a bit scary, but man, what a ride ;-)
Rick I was starting to think he was way to EUROCENTRIC and always wondered why he only stayed in Europe?? When the rest of the world has much more beauty and culture... Good to see he opened his travels!
Thank you very much. You were very interesting and I enjoyed this. My trip is coming up in 3 weeks and I am thrilled.
This is the BEST of travel!! I LOVE IT!!!
A very well balanced report
This was great!!! Thank you!!!
Rick, I enjoyed your video immensely. I live in Canada, but I am from the Caribbean. I have gone to Cuba many times but have always stayed at resorts and I am about to go in two weeks to one of the islands. I have been to the places in the video and I have travelled to about 2/3 thirds of Cuba by now. I love the country, so I go there often. Your video was excellent. I have never stayed in a casa particular, but I plan to do so now that the government is allowing them. At one time, they could not operate as they do now. I remember eating one of my best meals in an illegal restaurant (yes, they could not run restaurants like they do now). I hope to do an island tour to accompany one of my American friends when she is allowed to go on her own and I will then stay at the casas and really get an opportunity to stay with the families. I will then arrange for her to stay at one of the resorts so she can see the other side that tourists enjoy including the beautiful beach. Thanks again for some memories.
Going from Orlando to Havana for 154 RT. 42 for fare and 112 for taxes. lol Purchased 12/15/16. On jetblue you can buy visa from Jetblue for 50 dollars at check-in counter.
I spent three weeks in Cuba Dec. 2015-Jan. 2016, from one end of the island to the other, with a cultural exchange group. We visited rural hospitals and schools, had meetings with government administrators, saw the sights, ate the food, drank the rum, but especially enjoyed the Cuban people. I was very impressed by some aspects of the society, and dismayed when seeing the results of the embargo in real time. My roommate is a woman from Iran who is a PhD and left in 1982 after the Ahatolla gained power and suddenly women were limited and veiled, and Western goods in the stores disappeared. She married an American, Jewish doctor and still goes back on occasion to Tehran to visit family, and her stories of what one of our embargoes does to a nation were the same. Restrict trade and contact, and the population doubles down in support of the dictator in defense, or flees if they have the means.
Thank You, Rick. It is so important to note that the travel landscape is ever-changing and difficult in my particular field. I, with my fellow Miamians, are excited to see where this goes. -Travel Agent
Steve, I don't find an usual documentary of places to visit like in other countries...Was there any, was it banned by Americans because of embargo?
so excited.....planning a trip for June 2017 -thank you for the video
Hi Rick. love ur work as you teach us about traveling and different cultures. I think that you are open minded and fair.
Regarding Cuba, I think you should not compare it to central America in 2021. Rather, u should compare Cuba to USA in 1958. The Cuban Peso was worth more than the US $, the Riviera Hotel was the 1st hotel in the world with central A/C. As per trivial pursuit, Cuba was the 1st country in the world to try out color TVs..
On Utube, Armando Ruiz channel has a great video called "Havana in the 1950's" that shows the great place that Cuba used to be before the Bolsheviks took over. It's eye opening! Regards
Thanks rick for sharing
Viñales! Such a beautiful place. You're correct, but the average salary is around 30 dollars
One week away. Can't wait
Hello, travelling in January 2017. Is it necessary to get a tourist card/visa to enter Cuba. If so, how do I obtain? Have tried calling Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C. and have left numerous messages to no avail. Also, how and where do I obtain the U.S. Declaration Form which you mention in your video. Thanks so very much for your help.
Hi, Jim, Try blog.ricksteves.com/blog/cuba-roundup/ for links to all of Rick's Cuba blog entries. See also www.cubadiplomatica.cu/sicw/EN/ConsularServices.aspx#TouristCard and scroll down, but I don't see the form in a quick look. - Laura
I just got back from Cuba, there is no problems going. The declaration form is provided by your airline provider...just check one box and you're good to go...nobody even looks at the form, just red tape...you airline will have your visa as well, if not you can purchase one on arrival in Cuba using USD $85. Keep in mind that Cuba has absolutely zero problems with US tourist, in fact they are waiting with open arms!! Awesome place to visit!!!
Just purchase your airline ticket and everything will fall into place Marin. No worries.
Yes Miami, some flight go through Atlanta or Houston from what I hear
Jim Erlenborn Your airline company will sell you the visa at the airport. No worries just go check in. I am going tomorrow.
Thanks,Rick
Do you know the AVG time to hear back about a general license (support for Cuban people) for Cuba as a United States citizen?
Thankyou “ drug of choice” alcohol is a drug…….smart o telligent humorous and all round wonderful LECTURE
Education, medicine and no crime on the street in Cuba. You got that right and your comparison with Central/ Latin America is very accurate.
You forgot to mention: And no drugs! Compared with most U.S. cities! My daughter was in Santiago de Cuba for a month…impressed by it cleanliness, friendliness, beauty…can't be beat!
Maria Isabel Alfonso it is not as utopian as it sounds. Most average cubans would flee cuba if they had a chance. You get sn education, become a doctor, and yet, you have to ask for rides to get to snd from your hospital.
Salary a month for one of the best doctors is 700 pesos or $35 dollars a month compared to that in US about $30,000 a month for an average doctor.
From a fellow Maria; my family suffers there, sister. I need to bring them medication especially for my grandmother as they dont have the medication she needs and she is dying. You can get all the meds you want, they reserve it for tourists only. The residents life is very different. My family in Cuba gets very little food for month and they are stuck there, its not like they can leave. Smart and safe for nothing, my fellow poor Cubans. I wish them better in the future. Para mis hermanos, Cuba libre carajo.
Oh. Over 10000 executed in fiting squads and over 2 millon in exile. Thousands drowning in the Florida straights. Nice record. Clean country alright.
Maria Isabel Alfonso another one without a brain
Beautiful upbeat music..; What's the name of it?
Thanks. Yes to connect with the local people you need to know the language. Also many people travel everywhere not knowing the social problems and social / cultural scams.
Unfortunately racism goes both ways and in many countries racism is still a big problem together with different social classes. The locals I talk to in Mexico say that there are 7 social classes in Mexico as an example.
Poverty, racism, social classes is terrible but the thing is how to be aware of it and how to learn about it and how to deal with it.
Excellent.
Seems to me Cuba's people are well behaved and socially friendlier than Americans. Americans needs some lessons.
You are really a thug you went there they receive you humanly now you try to rewrite their story. You are really one more Yankees.
@@mcashnv ok boomer
Do you still have a store in Everette?
Thinking I would love to see Cuba. It would be more of a history lesson for me though. And a mission trip of sorts. Wouldn’t be able to go and not give in some significant way.
You didn't mention the issue of bringing gifts.
Thank you Rick!
This is by far the best info I have gotten. My friend and I are going on a cruise and our itinerary has changed. We are going to Havana, Cuba. Excited and very nervous at the same time.
Thank you so much for all the details
How do you hire a local guide before you get there?
thanks for information
love this!
STEVE! did u bring back any cigars? I do every time;)
Thank you Rick ! For telling the truth at 12:20 min.
Where were you buying $3 and $5 bottles of rum? Was it in Havana?
🇨🇺♥️
Buen video acerca de mi tierra.
Debe ser actualizado (2023)
Hoy dia son los cubanos quienes estamos viajando por EEUU
Perfect RS!
My carrier is T-Mobile. When I travel to Cuba which prepaid phone card
is the cheapest for calling back to the USA ? Please give me any info
what is the best option for me. Thanks
Leave your phone at home. It wont work anyway. Even Canadian phones rarely work and very expensive. Btw no ATM machines or US credit cards and 15 % premium on US dollars.
And if you do bring your phone, dump its memory. Anything deemed offensive ( nudity, weapons, drugs, ect) in your phone will result in its seizure.
You can purchase an Etecsa card (@ your hotel) in Cuba to access the internet in WIFI zones or for use on hotel computers. $2.00 CUC's for 60 minutes. If you're staying in a hotel you're better off to have someone (from home) ring your room at a mutually-agreed upon time, much cheaper to call in than out. Have a marvelous time!
I loved Havana. The only thing I'd say is that you missed talking about the 13% tax they put on changing US dollars into CUCs on top of the exchange rate. I would go back in a hot second.
Yes, a good point. When I visited Cuba (2013), I was advised to travel to Cuba with Euros rather than US dollars. I would also love to go back.
I love the frog!!!
Your voice attracts me so much.
does cuba still have natives
I wonder how much has changed since COVID
Grief over comes me when i hear such lovely jovial people talking about my homeland and justifying the atrocities inflicted on the Cuban people by the dictatorships of the last 60+ years.
Ok "bob smith" lol.
Nelson Mandela was not an "alternative" world leader? Donald Trump is an alternative world leader. Your ignorance is disturbing and dangerous. Next time visit Cuba with an open-mind and heart.Try to really live. Please, please, please leave the bigoted mindset and dialogue at home.
Rick, I love your shows. I have been in all the places you went in Cuba and I must say that on one hand, I admire your attitude but on the other think you are totally crazy. Foreigners need to be very careful where they go....
Where did you stay in Trinidad?
@j. Santiago: Trinidad, a small town 196 miles from Havana, I believe he stayed there a couple of days to enjoy the atmosphere and horse riding with his family.
Unsure about 14:15...to the best of my knowledge tourists are not allowed CUP's.
I went in Cuba last summer.
When we arrived to La Havana Airport, I just said to myself...."I'm in Cuba !!??"
When we left, I also said to myself..."I went in CUBA and Nothing happened to me !!??"
When the pandemic ends, Rick you must to go Southamerica, definitely we haven't as much history as Europe has, but you will see the most beautiful landscapes, Southamerica has all of them deserts, beaches, smoky mountains, glaciers, exotic islands, rainforest like Amazons, Iguazú Falls, SA has more natural wonders than another continent
At about 19:34 into the video, the host probably because of basic ignorance, a lack of cultural knowledge and sensativity identifies all the ethnic groups in Cuba properly, but the African. He simply refers to Blacks (African people) as the "Slaves", lol. As a point of reference these "Slaves" were kidnapped and sold Africans. They had a culture, history and land base before being stolen and taken into captivity by Europeans.
Thank you! I was thinking the same thing. Spreading the same lies about people from the African Diaspora. As you pointed out, they were enslaved and from the pictures you can see they are a huge population of the country. They don't look like many who came in in the 60's and benefited from the US governments policies against Cuba.
Slave heritage?!? Then he goes on to mock their Belief. He needs to stick to touring Europe.
Funny he had to film this in Edmonton Canada
Canadians have a much easier time getting to Cuba.
GOod viDeO!!!
I'm going to Cuba in January..anyone knows the best way to get from Havana to Florida camaguey. And a phone number would help also..they tell me a bus goes there ..any info would be appreciated
Wick B.M.G I’m going to Cuba in January too! Lol
any suggestions for hotels
angela herrington my suggestion CASA PARTICULAR. private owners. Cheaper than hotels. great services. Food. And they make you feel like part of their family. Cubans are very humble people
All my family are in Cuba. I would say stuck, for they cannot leave. I am born and raised in the US as my mother left in the Mariel boat years ago with my brother. My brother sends them money because they dont have much. And all the touristy things you've done in this video, they can't afford any of that, it's only when I'm there. When you are a tourist in Cuba, you are treated differently because you have money. You can get all the medicine you need and state of the art healthcare, they boast about this too, but only tourists can afford it. Double-edged sword everyone, stop feeding into the lies. Most crops and product produced in Cuba are exports, not for the cuban people. And in return, they get paid next to nothing. Please, if you need to hear a genuine opinion, hear it from the people who have family there or are from there by blood. The majority of them are not pleased with the situation in Cuba. Let's make efforts to not only improve the experience for a mere tourist... but also, for the Cuban people.
Well said!
Well said! Thank you.
Sorry but I'm going there. I don't want socialism but I don't want crime and duscontent. The USA seems to have its own problems but you may know different. My only problem going there is maybe I'm too white to go there. I like Cubans and their music culture and friendliness. Of course it is pretty and tropical
I have never been to Cuba but am in the beginning stages of planning a trip there. When I travel, I like to be the least "touristy" and the most "local experience" type of traveler. Could you offer some specific suggestions as to how we, as tourists, can improve the experience for Cuban people? I like the idea of staying in Casa Particulars to provide additional income to families, as opposed to staying in hotels owned by wealthy corporations. I like the idea of hiring a local guide, as well. What else can we do?
Was at a party mostly my wife's friends from school. One said she wanted to go to cuba 'before the Americans ruined it'. In one of those you always think of what you should have said later episodes, I thought on the way home I should have said well, you'll always have North Korea.