Destinations

Traveling To Cuba Just Got Harder

In order to fight American dollars from empowering the Cuban regime, Trump’s security counsel has placed new restrictions on travel to the country.

Published

9 months ago

July 15, 2022

Owen Gardocki

Last week, the Trump administration placed further restrictions upon nonfamily travel to the Cuban country, a mere 100 miles from the tip of Florida. During a speech given to the veterans of the Bay of Pigs invasion, the failed 1961 event that sought to overthrow Fidel Castro, Trump’s national security advisor, John Bolton, added that the new regulations were also placed upon the countries of Nicaragua and Venezuela. Alongside Cuba, Bolton has stated that these three countries are “the troika of tyranny.”

During his speech, he mentioned “The Department of the Treasury will implement further regulatory changes to restrict nonfamily travel to Cuba… These new measures will help steer American’s dollars away from the Cuban regime.”

Background

For many years, tensions between the US and Cuba did not allow for travel. From 1999 until 2003, the US government allowed “people-to-people” licenses. These licenses allowed Americans to travel to the country if the purpose was for a short list of reasons. Educational or religious needs were two of these. During his term, President George W. Bush’s administration then restricted those licenses.

However, in an effort to thaw tensions between the countries, the Obama administration granted the American people even greater opportunities. Americans who were not even journalists or scholars were able to visit the country – given that it was with an officially licensed operator. Come March 2016, Americans were free to travel to the country as long as they interacted with the Cuban people during educational exchange activities.

This policy included 12 approved categories: family visits, support of the Cuban people, educational/religious/journalistic activities, humanitarian projects, professional research or business, private foundation activities, research or education at institutes, public performances, competitions and exhibitions, official US government matters, foreign government/intergovernmental organizations, export transactions, and transmission of information.

Easy No More

In recent years, the process to travel was quite simple. Direct flights to Cuba could be purchased at airlines like JetBlue, American, Southwest, and United. Travelers would then apply for a tourist card, a Visa, that was valid for 30 days and that could further be extended for an additional 30 days in Cuba.

However, in 2017, the Trump administration canceled the people-to-people licenses. Visitors were only given permission to visit if they were part of an educational program. As of late, American tourists are now banned from government-owned shops and hotels as they are controlled directly by the government.

The Treasury Department has stated that Americans who are caught violating these new guidelines could face an up to $250,000 and be jailed for 10 years. So far, these two punishments have not been doled out.

With much dismay, we suggest you find some sort of educational program, and quick… if you had ever planned on visiting our southern island neighbor.

Destinations

See Where The Super Rich Vacation

Check out where the richest people in the world vacation and what the heck they spend their money on.

Published

15 hours ago

March 28, 2023

Loren Thorn

Where would you go on vacation if money wasn’t an issue and you had all the time in the world? Go on and think about it, I’ll wait. I would go to a private island and have a castaway experience with luxury amenities, of course. Well, the super-rich have the ability to go anywhere they wish and do literally whatever money can buy, how awesome must that be? Check out where the richest people in the world vacation and what the heck they spend their money on.

BILL GATES: CROATIA

Unlike many super-rich people, Bill Gates likes to mix and mingle with the locals when he vacations. He enjoys Croatia for its old Europe feel and medieval construction. The hot spot in Europe, Croatia is enjoying a tourism boom, which is centered around the countries pleasurable weather and affordable luxury. Bill Gates doesn’t need to save money but who says the super-rich can’t be frugal?

RICHARD BRANSON: BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Why not just ball out of control like Richard Branson and buy your own island. That is some next level stuff there. The Virgin Mobile/Records/Airlines etc entrepreneur and billionaire owns Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands. The private island is an actual resort where rooms rent for a minimum of $5,000 a night. Luminaries such as the Obamas and Mariah Carey have stayed here before. Wow, talk about luxury, a private island where the former president stays. Enjoy all the watersports you can handle while basking in the hot Caribbean sun.

STEVEN SPIELBERG: IRELAND

Where do the best directors of all time spend their vacations? Well, if you love Steven Spielberg movies, you’ll know he enjoys incredible landscapes and none are grander than Ireland. The Emerald Isle just is so vibrant and lush that it attracts all sorts of travelers, even the mega-rich. Ireland isn’t a vacation that will break your bank, in fact, its one of the most affordable trips you could choose. Spielberg loved the countryside, the people, and the food, what’s really not to love?

OPRAH WINFREY: FIJI

Where does one of the most influential women of all time vacation? Wherever the heck she wants, is the only acceptable answer, she is the queen of entertainment. Oprah recently went on a luxury superyacht called the Rising Sun, where she partied with The Obamas and Bruce Springsteen in Tahiti. When she stays on land she prefers the beaches of Fiji. The island of Fiji features luxury at every turn but when Oprah is there she reserves the entire resort.

WARREN BUFFETT: LAGUNA BEACH

The man who is in charge of our country’s wealth, Warren Buffett is a billionaire of the most frugal standards. He’s lived in the same modest home in Omaha Nebraska since 1958 and only splurges on vacations, so where does he go? He owned a lavish beach home in Laguna Beach, California where the rich and fabulous play. Laguna Beach is very accessible for the non-rich so check it out for yourself. The steep cliffs and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean will have you coming back for years.

Destinations

4 Australian Beaches That Are Breathtakingly Beautiful

Published

2 days ago

March 27, 2023

Adam T

Australia is a wild and wonderful place filled with diverse people and landscapes.

If you’re planning a trip to this amazing place, there’s no shortage of incredible beaches to explore while you’re there.

Read on to discover a list of four of the best beaches in Australia that are sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

1. One Mile Beach

This beautiful Australian beach offers miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of charming accommodation options to choose from. Be sure to take a look at the many recreational activities and amenities this beach has to offer.

Enjoy an incredible adventure by participating in camel rides at sunset, or enjoy sandboarding down the dunes at incredible speeds. You can also experience the fun of camping, staying in a comfy cabin, and more. This beach is within close proximity to tons of entertainment including playgrounds, a games room, and much more.

2. Best Beaches in Australia: Bondi Beach

This famous beach in Sydney offers an incredible history and a truly breathtaking landscape. Enjoy mingling with tourists from around the world at this beautiful beach, known for its close proximity to Sydney for easy access.

While you’re there, explore the many trendy cafes and enjoy some of the local food and fare. With turquoise-blue waters and sunny weather, it’s not surprising that Bondi is one of the best beaches in Australia. Experience the thrill of meeting people from across the globe or spend time relaxing in the cool, clear waters.

3. Lizard Island

Located in the Great Barrier Reef, Lizard Island is a nature lover’s paradise. This remote island includes over 23 white sandy beaches to explore, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a little bit of adventure.

You can stay in your own private villa at the island resort, offering premier access to some of the most remote and secluded beaches in Australia. Enjoy diving, snorkeling, and exploring the beautiful reefs. Lizard Island is perfect if you want an off-grid getaway in a tropical place.

4. Byron Bay

Once known as a small hippie town, Byron Bay has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists. This beautiful beach offers a variety of delicious cafes and modern reports as well as boutique shopping.

Located on the eastern point of mainland Australia, you’ll get to visit the iconic lighthouse at Cape Byron. Surfers also love this beach due to the fantastic ocean breaks. Walk along the soft powdery sand, enjoy a day of swimming or just lounge at one of many beachfront cafes.

Make it an Unforgettable Visit

With so many incredible options to choose from, these are just some of the best beaches in Australia that you can visit for a relaxing getaway. From the white sands of One Mile Beach to the mysterious Lizard Island, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For more fantastic articles, guides, and information about travel, destinations all over the globe, and much more, be sure to visit our website today!

Destinations

Royal Wedding Locations You Need To Visit

Many of the locations of famous royal weddings are open to the public. Here are five of them you simply have to see.

Published

3 days ago

March 26, 2023

Loren Thorn

With the upcoming wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, royal weddings seem to be the only thing people can talk about these days. And while it’s a little out of control, we’re not complaining! There’s just something about the extravagance and pageantry of it all that is undeniably fascinating. But for the longest time, I always assume it was something so completely out of reach that I would never be able to experience even the slightest bit of what being at a royal wedding is like.

Well, I was wrong! You can actually visit many of the locations where royal weddings have happened over the years. Here are just five of them. I know I’m going to try and see at least a couple of these before I die!

YORK MINSTER

This stunning cathedral is, of course, located in York, England. It was the home to two royal weddings. First, in 1328, King Edward II married Philippa of Hainault, making her his Queen. Then, in 1961, Edward, Duke of Kent married his love, Katharine Worsley. Also, the city of York is really something to be seen. So this is a great location if you’re looking for a proper England experience with a little royal flavor.

THE ISLE OF WIGHT

This island getaway off the coast of Southampton was actually home to two royal weddings. The Osborn House is on the Isle of Wight, which was once the vacation home of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria. Their second daughter, Princess Alice, was married right there at the house. While her little sister, Princess Beatrice, was actually married at the Church of St. Mildred at Whippingham, which is just a short trip away from the Osborn House.

WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL

The Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire was also home to two different royal weddings. First, in 1403, King Henry IV of England married his second wife, Joanna of Navarre at the Cathedral. Then, in 1554, Mary I married King Philip II of Spain. Mary I was famously the first woman to rule England and her marriage to King Philip was famously an unpleasant one. So This is a great place to eat up a little royal history!

HAMPTON COURT

This truly gorgeous property was long-owned by the one and only Henry VIII. Yes, the Henry VIII that was married not four, not five, but six times. In fact, his sixth and final wedding took place at Hampton Court. He married Katherine Parr there in 1543. The Court is still kept in immaculate condition and is definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.

CANTERBURY

Canterbury is a perfectly quaint and charming English town. It was here, in 1625, that King Charles I married Henrietta Maria of France. Their marriage was famous for Henrietta’s loyalty to King Charles after a civil war broke out during his reign. She stayed loyal to him even after the civil war resulted in the execution of her husband and her king. A regular Romeo and Juliet over here!

And those are just a few of the amazing a beautiful locations that have hosted royal weddings. But there are plenty more to be seen if you’d like to do some more homework. I’m just trying to get you started! The rest is up to you.