Is there a real threat of punishment by the US for visiting Cuba? Should Americans worry about that at all?

Question

We were having a debate about this. Hypothetically, if an American wanted to visit Cuba (thru Mexico lets say), should they be worried about getting caught by the United States? And if caught, should they be worried about the consequences? Thanks.

Answer 1

Since 2004/05 U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba are more restricted than ever and is now limited to humanatarian groups, cultural (music), medical, media and political groups only. I went 3 years ago under a special license for the 'people to people' program which is no longer acceptable.
You can go via Mexico, Bahamas, Canada, etc. but you have to be very careful. You should stop overnight in one of those places on the way back; less chance of getting caught. In some places, like Cancun, they will video tape all passengers coming in from Cuba and watch if you continue on to the states. There is a $25,000 fine if you are caught. Cuba will not stamp your passport. U.S. citizens were limited to taking in no more than $200 to spend while there.

Wish they would open it up. Its a great place to go; not commercialized like other Caribbean Islands. No U.S. fast food places, stores, etc. People are friendly and fun, lots to see and do. The only problem with the U.S. & Cuba relationship, is the darn politicians. The U.S. government needs to quit meddling in Cuban affairs and let them run their country however they want.
Its been 40 years since the 'bay of pigs', can't they forget. You can't go there, but you can go to Viet Nam, Iran, S. Korea, China, Russia, Libya, etc. but not Cuba. DUH!!!

Answer 2

The person above me is correct. I'm Canadian also and have been to Cuba five times. They don't stamp your passports. They also don't except American Dollars anymore either. You cannot use American Credit Cards also cause the American Credit Card companies will not approve transactions there which is just as well cause that's how your government use to catch you. Jimmy Carter was there a few years ago. Go ask the US government allows a certain amount of Americans a year to visit. Its a beautiful country, so unique. The people are wonderful, well educated and have one of best health care systems in the world.

Answer 3

#1, Why would you go to Cuba through Mexico?

Cuba is just slightly south of Key West, FL. Cubans have even tried swimming the distance.

#2, Why would you want to go to Cuba?

Answer 4

When you go to Cuba, if you are American, you will have to fly through another country, such as Canada. When you leave Cuba for home, make sure the airport officials do NOT stamp your passport. I am from Canada and they didn't stamp mine, just makes things easier.

Answer 5

"The current regulation does not limit travel of US Citizens to Cuba per se, but it makes it illegal for US Citizens to have transactions (spend money or receive gifts) in Cuba under most circumstances without a US government Office of Foreign Assets Control issued license."

Answer 6

I have never heard of being punished for visiting cuba

Answer 7

Hey we go to Sandals resorts in Jamaica and on another web site, i found out that Sandals has a resort in Cuba, check out this web site there is people who go all the time. www.tropictravelonline.com/ubb/ultimatebb.php also try www.tripadvisor.com these sites are very knowledgeable

Answer 8

that doesnt seem right.....my aunt is in the country right now visiting from cuba, granted she had to wait 2 yrs for permission....

Answer 9

from time to time they go after folks. give Bush something to do.