Blog

InsightCuba caught up with Jeff Phillippe, an insightCuba tour leader that used to spend his days guiding mountain expeditions all over the U.S. and South America. With over fifty trips to Cuba, Jeff discusses why Cuba is his favorite place to travel in Latin America and how first-time travelers to the island can experience the authentic Cuba he has come to love. 

InsightCuba: Who is Jeff?

InsightCuba caught up with Nicole Melancon, a writer, advocate and global volunteer from Minneapolis, MN, following her Classic Cuba tour with insightCuba. A world traveler and dedicated volunteer for insightCuba's parent company Cross-Cultural Solutions, Nicole had wanted to visit Cuba ever since she was a teenager, spending Christmas holidays in Key West, Florida. 

InsightCuba: Who is Nicole?

There is something magical about the arrival of spring: a sense of renewal, blossoming flowers and lots of sunshine to look forward to. And for this next spring, an extra reason to celebrate: Cuba is calling!

After 50 years of being forbidden to visit Cuba, Americans are flocking to the island nation. At the same time, Cuba is experiencing an economic renaissance, resulting in a burgeoning restaurant scene, increased services in the tourism, and an upbeat vibe which is palpable on the streets of Cuba. There has never been a more exciting time for Americans to visit Cuba.

I always try to immerse myself in the stories and sagas of a country before I travel, so when I’m lost in the beauty of it all, I have something to guide me. There is no more immersive way to contextualize yourself than through the fiction of that country. Cuba is ripe with stories; it has a history so utterly unique and dramatic, that many people both Cuban and otherwise have brought the past to life in stunning and compelling ways.

Most men I meet in Cuba say the same thing to me: “Why are you travelling alone? Where is your husband?” I vary my answer just to make it more interesting; I have a whole harem of imaginary husbands now. Us solo female travelers may be a rare breed here, but that’s not to say it isn’t a good country to visit as a woman.