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Well this sucks Trump administration halts cruises to Cuba under new rules

Gabriel Theodoulos

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Local paper so not sure how accurate this is but it was expected
/Snowflake Warning: The following is an Unpaid Personal Opinion. Keep yer' panties from bunching up.

I like Donald Trump. I voted for him, even though he can be a lousy diplomat, and someone who just doesn't know when to remain silent. Yet, I like the guy, because he has kept his word with campaign promises and the economy is doing great!

With that being said, there are a few of his policies I disagree with. Did you hear that FCC Chairman Ajit Pai?!?!?!

This is another policy I really am disappointed with. Yes, we are pouring money into Cuba for their wonderful cigars, but they aren't the source of communism in our nation. Sadly, that's leaking in from other places.

I am saddened by this move, but life will continue on.

Personal Opinion Ended/
 
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Politics aside I was trying to make the trip sometime after hurricane season and I guess I'll just have to wait. Gives me a little time to learn a bit of Spanish!
 

Cigary43

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I had plans to cruise there and held back...it was in September so good thing I didn't pull the trigger on this. Reported that some cruiselines have changed course with their itinerary...shame that their plans just got screwed...NO SOUP FOR THEM...or CIGARS!
 

icehog3

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I had plans to cruise there and held back...it was in September so good thing I didn't pull the trigger on this. Reported that some cruiselines have changed course with their itinerary...shame that their plans just got screwed...NO SOUP FOR THEM...or CIGARS!
At least one BOTL I know was offered 50% off the cruise with the substituted port, or a full refund to cancel. I'd love to get to Havana soon, but I'd take the 1/2 price cruise and hit Havana by another route.
 
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What other routes are there. I think it is a passport/ Visa restriction more then just a cruise or airline restriction? Denying the "person to person educational" exemption reduces the allowable types of visits. You could become Canadian, you are a big Hockey Fan!
 

qpzmide

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At least one BOTL I know was offered 50% off the cruise with the substituted port, or a full refund to cancel. I'd love to get to Havana soon, but I'd take the 1/2 price cruise and hit Havana by another route.
This happened to my in-laws. They were suppose to leave tomorrow for Cuba. Now they are getting a nice tour of the Caribbean for cheap. I was looking forward to getting some of those EL glass tops but life goes on I guess.....:LOL:
 

Cigary43

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At least one BOTL I know was offered 50% off the cruise with the substituted port, or a full refund to cancel. I'd love to get to Havana soon, but I'd take the 1/2 price cruise and hit Havana by another route.
There are different POV as to what we as the Consumer can do in these situations....I've learned through experience as to what can be mitigated....I'd probably take the full refund and use that money to do the best cruise to Havana I could find. This story kind of aggravates the situation to travel to Cuba....always plan a trip where if things go tits up...you're prepared...story of my life...should even change my Avatar and ID to reflect this.

1. Always pay for your trips with a good Credit Card that protects and insulated you for Trip Interruption or where change of plans occur.....this happened to me in Italy where our flight was late....I was injured during the flight with severe burns from a Flight Attendant that spilled a pot of HOT COFFEE all over me...3rd degree burns where I was taken to the hospital...missed connecting flights..had to stay overnight...food...etc. and costs went to the tune of around $10K but my insurance from the Card paid it all.
2. If there is a change in plans.....cruise, trains, lost baggage, etc. you can be reimbursed with a well written claim including photos....Always document everything.
3. Study and research cruises that stay in Havana for at least 2 days,.....one day is not near enough for what is there. A few cruise lines tour about 2 cities in Cuba where you really get full flavor of the island but ensure you know the rules...stay within the confines of Law and don't travel alone as you become a target from unsavory types .....even Govt folk there.
4. Know the Cigar Vendors....plan your trips with enough knowledge that who you buy from has a reputation where you aren't taking chances. Use Credit Cards where you are protected in any event....NEVER carry cash except in small denomination for sundries that you need.
5. Keep a copy of your PASSPORT since your original will be kept by the Cruise Line...tuck your copy in a place where you can use it in case there is an issue.
 

icehog3

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What other routes are there. I think it is a passport/ Visa restriction more then just a cruise or airline restriction? Denying the "person to person educational" exemption reduces the allowable types of visits. You could become Canadian, you are a big Hockey Fan!
Via Canada would probably be my choice, I think I can pull it off without becoming a citizen! :giggle:
This happened to my in-laws. They were suppose to leave tomorrow for Cuba. Now they are getting a nice tour of the Caribbean for cheap. I was looking forward to getting some of those EL glass tops but life goes on I guess.....:LOL:
I would do the same, take the 1/2 price trip, Eric.
 
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