Hola Friend,

Cuba, with its vibrant culture, colorful streets, and welcoming people, holds an allure that's hard to resist. But, immersed in this veneer of charm is a deeper, more complex reality — one that we, as responsible travelers, need to understand and engage with. Recent discussions suggest a reluctance to visit Cuba, citing concerns over political structures and support for the government. However, I argue that traveling to Cuba can be a positive force, especially when done in a conscientious manner.

Understanding the Stakes

Criticism has echoed from various corners, with the most vocal often being the Cuban diaspora. Their experiences and perspectives are invaluable, but they are not the only narrative. The Cuban government, whether we agree with its policies or not, is NOT synonymous with the Cuban people. As we face these critiques, it’s a matter of separation — supporting the populace while not enriching those in power.

A Responsible Approach to Cuban Travel

My stance is clear: if you go, go wisely. Travel should not funnel finances into a corrupt system; it must be a conduit for growth, an instrument of empowerment. We have local ties, thus have developed relationships with local providers, and we thrive to ensuring fair wages and ethical practices — a testament to solidarity with the Cuban community.

For those who have left Cuba, it's easier to denounce their homeland. But they do not encapsulate the spirit of those who remain. Our support extends to these resilient individuals — the guides, artisans, and entrepreneurs who are our partners, not beneficiaries of a regime.

A Call for Conscious Exploration

Cuba offers a unique experience for the mindful explorer. It's a country rich in history and culture, but it also faces profound socio-economic challenges. Traveling in a way that celebrates the Cuban identity, engages with local customs, and provides direct economic benefit to residents is how travellers can make a difference.

The key lies in investing in Cuban society at the grassroots level. The impact may seem incremental, but collective small steps lead to great strides. We have put everything into creating tours that support the Cuban people, whilst give our travellers an insight to the lives and challenges at the same time — with more of these we are supporting improved livelihoods, dispelled misconceptions, and, most importantly, hope for a better future.

Traveling with Purpose

Every tour we craft is a statement of our commitment — we are not tourists, but locals ourselves. We refuse to exist within the bubble of luxury resorts, where opulence masks widespread need. Our travelers experience the true nature of the Cuban people, where generosity overflows despite material scarcity.

The recent outcries need not discourage us. They are a sign that change is desired, but they also provide a notion: we're doing it wrong. We travel not to bolster ailing economic strategies but to foster a genuine, mutually-beneficial partnership.

The Invitation Remains

Yes, the allegations sting, but they won’t deter us from our mission. We continue to call on the world to explore Cuba responsibly, to see beyond the surface, and to forge connections that transcend borders. By standing with the Cuban people, we stand for the right kind of travel — travel that respects, empowers, and unites.

To the discerning voyager, my call is simple: come to Cuba. But come ready to learn, to explore, to understand. For those who have the privilege to adventure, we also have the obligation to do so with reverence, with an agenda that's as altruistic as it is adventurous.

I hope that my personal narrative sheds light on the nobility of traveling to Cuba — not for self-indulgence but for the collective good. With an open mind and a heart attuned to the local pulse, we can rewrite the script of Cuban tourism into a tale of mutual enrichment. It’s not just about seeing a different part of the world; it’s about empowering each other, one responsible trip at a time.

Cheers

Orsolya