Few people over the age of 50 are unaware that to explore Cuba in years past was a very different experience than it is today. In the 1950's for example, Cuba was an exciting 90 miles from the U.S. mainland, but a very popular place to spend a weekend or holiday. Travelers enjoyed the shopping, music, and food, as well as the sun and sand.
As one of the last remaining bastions of communism in the world, Cuba is gradually reopening its doors to tourism, although U.S. travel restrictions prevent U.S. tourists from traveling to Cuba directly. Most U.S. visitors arrive in Cuba by way of round-a-bout means such as flying from the U.S. to one of the countries which does allow Cuban flights and traveling on to Cuba. Technically speaking it is not illegal for U.S. citizens to visit Cuba, it's just illegal to spend any money there.
Traveling within the country for the tens of thousands of U.S tourists who visit the country legally or illegally each year is another issue entirely. Travel is very inexpensive, but it is also limited by poor road conditions, lack of space on public transportation systems such as buses and trains, and lack of comfort while traveling.
In the larger cities, particularly Havana you can find fairly inexpensive taxi service, including some taxis which are powered by bicycle or even horsepower.
People travel to Cuba for various reasons. Tourist types usually go to see the historical sights, of which there are many. In recent history, the bar made famous by the novels of Ernest Hemingway and the site of the Bay of Pigs invasion and two locations often visited by travelers. Further back in history, visitors are interested in various structures dating from colonial and conquest eras.
There are a number of fine museums, including one dedicated to Ernest Hemingway and the one called the Napoleonic Museum
The third major reason for tourist visits to Cuba is for the world famous resorts located there. With the loss of Soviet support in past years, Cuba desperately needs foreign revenue to maintain its economy. Several large joint venture type resorts with international companies or hotel chains are very popular with tourists. They contain the expected mix of beaches, swimming pools, marine activities and entertainment events.
Outside of the resort areas, there are shortage of such things as meat, so dishes in the past which would represent the uniquely Cuban cuisine are now at best poor imitations. Again, the price for food is less expensive that one would expect, even considering the quality or lack or it.
While Cuba has many hotel rooms, including some which go back to the colonial period, there is a concerted effort to rebuild the lodgings that will bring waves of international tourists to revitalize the Cuban economy.
Although there are some agricultural products which form a basis for Cuban economy, the best hope for the future of its economy is still the influx of tourists coming and buying products and services in the country.
