Have you always wanted to visit Cuba?

Picture by Carnival Corporation

First and foremost, given the current debate on things, I feel compelled to warn you that this article is not a treatise on the merits of thawing relations with Cuba no its track record of human rights violations and the injustices of the Castro regime. Likewise, this is not a commentary on the Obama presidency. Rather this is the musings of a traveler who delights in moving outside his comfort zone to experience new things, meet interesting people and learn a little something about the complex world we live in.

Not since the 'boomers has there been a generation of Americans able to visit Cuba, despite it being a mere 90 miles from our shores. The result has been several generations during which an air of mystery surrounded the island nation. With it's deep roots in Spanish colonialism, slave trading, conflict and revolutions - Cuba promises to deliver a profoundly educational experience for those open to the idea educational, immersive travel. Anyone who has traveled through Latin America understands the strength and resilience of the people in these countries who often straddle a thin line between the wealthy, western nations and the relatively impoverished (and often disadvantaged) native cultures. Add to that decades of isolation and socio-political tension you can cut with a knife and your trip to Cuba is sure to deliver a history and anthropology lessons around every corner and in every cafe.

If you are like me, the prospect is too good to pass up. Still, there is no denying that Americans may be viewed as persona non-grata by some, particularly Castro-loyalists. There in lies the conundrum.
Do you take advantage of a new opportunity to learn about a nation and people so similar yet so different than its Latin American neighbors or do you play it safe and wait for political temperatures to cool?

Starting May 1st, Carnival Corporations will present a great opportunity for those with a pioneering spirit and a sense of adventure. Travelers can sail on their newest brand of cruise ships, Fathom, on 7 night cruises to Cuba that visit 3 cities and tout an impressive 3.5 days of shore excursions that are designed to be fully immersive, educational and safe. In Carnival's own words:

"Our voyages to Cuba provide your clients an exclusive opportunity to relax by the pool, enjoy a leisurely dinner, or take advantage of Cuban cultural immersion activities on board in between ports. Your clients will only have to unpack once and will arrive in the next port fresh and ready to make the most of their time. Book your clients with confidence as they depart on what is sure to be an unforgettable experience and an opportunity to make history. 

So many great things to immerse yourself in. Learn how to salsa, and maybe even tango. Practice some elementary Spanish. Take a workshop on how to make great travel photos. Learn the art of the Cuban cocktail and make an authentic Mojito or Daiquiri. Join an orientation session in Cuban history and culture to help deepen your onshore experience. 

Or, if you'd rather, spend your time by the pool, in the spa, or just leaning over the deck rail enjoying the Caribbean breezes."

I for one cannot wait to be among the few who can tell their fellow travelers about this one-of-a-kind trip. Fathom's first ship, the MV Adonia, is already booking cabins and space is filling up. Even if you thought cruising was not for you, this promises to not be your typical cruise experience. A word of caution, however, for families - age restrictions apply to these sailings.

If you would like more information or to book a Fathom cruise, contact your Dream Vacation Specialist at D&H Travel Advisers by visiting our Website at www.dhtraveladvisers.com.