WASHINGTON — Whether you’re trying to visit family or visiting for fun, traveling to Cuba is about to get a little bit easier.
The Biden Administration announced Monday it plans to expand flights to Cuba. It also plans to take steps to ease restrictions on Americans who travel to the country.
The change will also allow commercial and chartered flights from the U.S. to land outside Havana. During the Trump presidency, flights to the island were only allowed to land at Havana’s airport.
The Associated Press is reporting that while the U.S. will reinstate educational travel in groups, it will not reinstate “people-to-people” educational trips. People-to-people trips provided travelers the most freedom to explore the country. The decision means Americans traveling to Cuba will need to be with, or meet up with, an organized tour of the country.
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The Biden Administration also promised to support better Internet services in the country as well as electronic payments. That is expected to make it easier for travelers while in the country.
It also plans to reinstate the Cuban Reunification Parole Program. The program allows certain U.S. citizens U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents to apply for family members living in Cuba. If granted, the family members may come to the U.S. without waiting for an immigrant visa priority dates to become current.
The policy changes come after an official review by the Biden Administration after former President Trump increased sanctions against Cuba and led to protests across the island.
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Not everyone supports the change. Some believe it sends the wrong message to the Cuban government and will allow the government to continue oppressing its citizens while also enjoying the benefits of increased business and tourism.
What do you think? Are you planning to book a trip to Cuba, or do you think it’s a bad idea?
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