7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Cuba Before Its Too Late

The evolving political situation in Cuba means that the Caribbean island could be on the brink of momentous change that would make it a completely different place to visit. Here’s why you should visit as soon as you can.

Tourist Numbers May be About to Explode

For many people, one of the main attractions of the island is that it has remained untouched by large-scale tourism. This may all change, depending on US President Donald Trump’s policy towards the island. For years, US visitor numbers have been severely restricted by a trade embargo, but if the relaxation of restrictions that started under President Obama continues under President Trump, there could be an explosion in the number of visitors.

Enjoy the pristine reefs before they are damaged

Get a more authentic experience

One charming feature of a trip to Cuba is the opportunity to stay in casas particulares, which are local houses with rooms to rent. If development does occur to the extent that some commentators are predicting, these lodgings may be driven out of business by chain hotels. If you go now, you’ll be able to stay with Cubans in their homes and get to know the culture.

Spend less

While Cuba has never been known as a particular cheap destination for travellers, things remain reasonably affordable for the moment. Depending on economic and political reforms, there could be a spike in prices as demand for limited resources increases as more tourists visit the island. Visit now to beat the rush and the price increases.

The Old Cars May Not Be Around Much Longer

Cuba is famous for the old classic cars that putter along its streets, but modern cars have been slowly encroaching. If you want to take a ride in an old classic, you’d be wise to get there sooner rather than later.

A Living Museum

The trade embargo meant that getting hold of new equipment or machinery has long been a problem in Cuba. As a result, the population has become adept at repairing and reusing their old stuff in any way they can. It’s a necessity for the locals, and it makes Cuba even more fascinating for visitors.

Socialism in Practice

While political scientists will argue over whether Cuba is a truly socialist country, for most visitors it provides a great opportunity to see a socialist nation with their own eyes. There aren’t many of them left, and if Cuba continues to implement reforms, it, too, could become a free market country before long.

You can still move around (fairly) easy

Another surprising feature of Cuba is the lack of traffic on the roads. The number of vehicles has barely changed since an ban on imports was introduced in 1959, but lately the rules have been relaxed. If car rental companies are allowed to operate on the island and wealthy Cubans start importing new cars, traffic could increase exponentially.

Take a Break From Advertising

Cuba is currently completely free from advertising, which means no billboards, posters or TV ads. You may see the occasional piece of political propaganda, but the level of visual contamination is nowhere near that of Europe or the USA. Get there before the advertisers do and enjoy an unimpeded view of the country.

Have a Digital Detox

Cuba is one of the few countries in the world where internet access is severely limited. You can only get online in a number of wifi zones in public squares, and in some large hotels. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect from the internet, and you’ll have the perfect excuse for not replying to any emails: you can’t!

There’s No Better Time Than Now

Even if Cuba weren’t a unique time capsule of a country, you’d have to argue that you should get there as soon as possible. After all, everywhere in our globalised world is becoming slowly and inexorably more similar, so visiting those places that retain some individual character is a must for the curious traveller. On the other hand, you could always wait until McDonald’s and Starbucks make their way to the island. At least you’d then be able to get a hamburger and a coffee just like the ones you have at home.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.