Support for the Cuban People: What It Really Means (and How We Keep It Luxe & Compliant)

Cuba has long captured the imagination of travelers with its vibrant culture, music, and heritage. For U.S. travelers, though, visiting Cuba requires following specific regulations. The most common and meaningful category is “Support for the Cuban People.”

But what does that really mean? And how can you experience Cuba with luxury, ease, and sisterhood while staying compliant? At Black Travelers International (BTI), we’ve designed our luxury Cuba small groups to honor the regulation and elevate the journey. Here’s how.

What “Support for the Cuban People” Means

The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) authorizes travel under 12 categories, with “Support for the Cuban People” being the most widely used.

In practice, this means your trip must:

Engage in meaningful interactions with Cuban locals.
Directly support privately owned businesses such as restaurants (paladares), artisans, or independent guides.

Include a full schedule of compliant activities that avoid prohibited government-owned entities.

👉 View our Upcoming Trips and review the Certification Form required before traveling.

How BTI Curates Luxe & Compliant Cuba Trips

1. Supporting Local Businesses in Style

Our itineraries spotlight paladares (private restaurants) where chefs share both their cuisine and personal stories. Think rooftop dining with mojitos, music, and the warm embrace of Cuban hospitality.

2. Immersive Cultural Experiences

From Afro-Cuban dance workshops to visits with local artists, we weave cultural enrichment into every day. These are not tourist traps, but authentic exchanges that empower communities.

3. Boutique Accommodations

Instead of government hotels, we stay in locally-owned boutique casas and properties, blending charm and luxury while supporting the Cuban people directly.

4. Small Group Sisterhood Vibes

With luxury Cuba small groups, you’ll travel with other Black women who value both compliance and ease. Small groups mean deeper connections, more flexibility, and intentional sisterhood.

Why Luxury & Compliance Work Together

Many travelers assume “Support for the Cuban People” means giving up luxury. At BTI, we prove the opposite:

Luxury = Ease: You’ll still enjoy curated meals, chauffeured transfers, and guided experiences.

Compliance = Connection: Supporting locals doesn’t diminish the journey — it enriches it.

Sisterhood = Celebration: Traveling together creates space for laughter, reflection, and lifelong memories.

What to Expect on a BTI Cuba Journey

Explore Havana’s Hidden Gems: From vintage cars to lively neighborhoods.

Dine & Sip: Rooftop dinners, craft cocktails, and locally roasted coffee tastings.

Heritage Experiences: Learn Afro-Cuban history through music, art, and storytelling.

Moments of Ease: Time to journal, reflect, and soak in the rhythm of Havana.

👉 See more on our Caribbean Trip Page

FAQs About Cuba Travel Compliance

Do I need to fill out a certification form?

Yes. Every traveler must complete the Support for the Cuban People certification form for legal compliance.

Is Cuba safe for U.S. travelers?

Absolutely. With BTI’s curated trips, vetted partners, and small groups, you’ll experience safety and comfort throughout.

Will I miss out on luxury by staying compliant?

Not at all. Our itineraries balance cultural immersion with luxury experiences — think private tours, chic dining, and boutique stays.

Conclusion

Traveling to Cuba as a U.S. citizen isn’t just possible — it’s powerful. With BTI’s luxury Cuba small groups, you’ll stay compliant under the “Support for the Cuban People” category while experiencing Havana with depth, joy, and ease.

✨ Compliance doesn’t limit your journey — it makes it more authentic, intentional, and meaningful.

👉 Join our Havana interest list today and let’s explore Cuba, the luxe + compliant way.

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