WASHINGTON, D.C. and CUBA
On Monday, September 21, the United States released updated travel regulations allowing practically anyone who wishes to visit Cuba to do so, though standard tourism is still illegal in the country.
The Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets issued a formal document detailing the changes. Americans can now go to Cuba without having to apply for permission as long as the trip falls into one of the pre-established 12 purposes, which include family visits, official business of the U.S. government, journalist activity, professional research and meetings, educational activities, religious activities, public performances, support for the Cuban people and humanitarian projects, among others.
Travelers are required to report the purpose of their trip upon entering the country and they are required to keep travel receipts for five years after they return (an itinerary is also helpful to keep on hand).
The new regulations also make it easier for family to travel to Cuba with visiting Americans.
While travel restrictions continue to be loosened and it appears the country is well on its way to being opened up for business purposes, travel to the Cuba is still a bit challenging, outside of flights operated by charter companies in Florida, and several major U.S. cities such as Los Angeles and New York.
The New York Times reported the Federal Aviation Administration is in talks with Cuban authorities to allow American carriers to offer regular flights. It is expected that cruises will also open up service to Cuba in the near future, with Carnival already announcing plans for U.S.-to-Cuba charters starting in May 2016.
A recent article in The Wall Street Journal reported that Cuban hotels and restaurants have been straining to meet up with increased demands due to the recent tourism boom. There is also a noted shortage of high-end hotels in the country, which may prove problematic for planners looking to hold meetings in Cuba.
Meetings Focus will continue to monitor the opening of U.S.-to-Cuba travel (and meetings) as it develops. Many hotel companies are no doubt already eyeing what could be a valuable new MICE market.
