Because Cuba is such a mysterious place with a lot of misinformation circulating about it, I seem to get a lot of questions about traveling there. So, here is a section on questions only about Cuba.
Is the trip legal?
Yes. If you are an American citizen or resident you must be issued a license from the United States Treasury Department to go to Cuba.
How do I get a license?
Once you have registered and paid for the trip, we will direct you in obtaining the license. You simply fill out a short application and send it to me with a check for the license application fee - we take care of the rest.
In terms of our license, you mentioned we'll pay a fee to the licensing organization. Is there any chance we'll commit to the trip and not get the license?
No, it is a group license and it is already secured. There is no possibility of you being "refused". The application is a formality.
Can I bring a GPS or GEO tagging device into Cuba?
No. You are not allowed to bring them into Cuba.
What if there is a GEO tagger built into my camera. Can I bring that?
Yes, but not a standalone GPS or GEO tagging device.
Can I bring my cell phone? The iPhone has a GPS in it, you know?
Yes, you can bring your cell phone or iPhone.
Will my cell phone work in Cuba?
Not if the carrier is US based.
Should I bring my US credit cards?
Yes. You can't use them in Cuba, but you may need them in the airport in Miami coming and going.
Can I use US based credit cards or travelers checks in Cuba?
You cannot use your US-based credit cards in Cuba. Travelers checks from US-based banks are not really accepted. Exceptions to this rule can occasionally be found at some banks, but with a stiff surcharge. Credit cards and travelers checks from non-US-based banks are fine. If you are American citizen or resident, cash is the way to go.
How much cash should I bring?
Depends on how much you like Cuban rum and Cuban cigars. Cuban regulations prohibit taking more than $5,000 US in to the country. Food wise, you'd probably be fine with on about $100/day. Plus you'll need some money for going to specific events; Tropicana Night Club, Cigar factory tour, ballet, etc. The complication with calculating a budget for Cuba is that if you run out of money, you can't just pop by the local ATM and pull out a few hundred dollars. I don't mind bringing much more than I think I will need and going home with what I don't spend. So, to be conservative, I recommend bringing no less than $175/day. You can leave the cash in the hotel safe or bring one of those neck or waist pouches that fits under your clothes.
Is there any problem bringing in our electronics (i.e., for field trips like this one, I shoot with two bodies - Canon 1DS Mark III and 1D Mark IV, lots of lenses, computer, back-up hard drives, GPS, etc)?
No problem bringing camera equipment and electronic gear in. No GPS or GEO tagging devices, unless it's part of a camera or built into a cell phone.
What's your philosophy of shooting the "must see" sites (i.e., touristy, but iconic and interesting) vs. off-the-beaten-path (i.e., more "insider", authentic, less known)?
Generally, we'll have time for a bit of both. Personally I like both. I like to see the main sights and also wander around where tourists usually don't go.
Are we restricted (e.g., by the government, safety concerns, schedule) as to where or when we can/can't go?
In general, no. I have never had a problem with having my movements restricted by government or safety concerns. Your safety issues will be similar to walking around a major city Like New York or Los Angeles with your gear. Well, having said that I think I'd rather walk around Havana than New York with my equipment - I think it's safer in Cuba. There will be things that I will be telling people not to shoot - military installations, army barracks, policeman, embassies, etc. So, common sense things.
Are you concerned about going during the summer, given the heat/humidity (i.e., from your FAQ "Summer can get very hot.")?
I've been to Cuba many times in the summer and love the heat. But, if you don't like hot weather, I wouldn't go in the summer. The Cubans love the hot weather; you'll see the kids are jumping off the Malecón wall into the ocean to cool off, occasionally some outdoor concerts will happen, etc. Lotsa fun. And remember, the trip is not a forced military march. People will be walking around for a few hours and then heading back to the hotel to rest. Everything is very centrally located and, most of the time we will never be more than about a 10 minute (about $5) cab ride back to the hotel. Lots of cafes around for cool drinks and to rest, etc.
It sounds like we'll be doing a great deal of street photography. Will it be impractical (and painfully hot) to trek around with my usual 40+lbs. LowePro backpack in really hot, urban environments?
Yes. Years ago that's exactly what I did and it was tiring. These days, I'm not such a masochist. I'll bring a big bag to Cuba with a lot of gear and a small over-the-shoulder bag. I'll load the smaller bag up in the morning and use that as a day bag for walking around. Then, for specific trips, I'll head back to the hotel and switch equipment.
Regarding equipment, will there be time/feasibility to use a tripod (with my tilt-shift lenses) for architecture shots during day as we walk around? Or will it be more hand-held street photography?
No problem at all using tripods. I'd try to bring one of the newer carbon fiber ones for weight.
Do you know if I could extend my "Cuba license" to stay on after by myself.
Unfortunately, that would not be possible. The license is a group one and everyone travels in and out of the country togther.
When do you require deposit, and final payments?
The trips are first come first served. Since I'm only taking about a small number of people the trips sell out quickly. A deposit will hold a spot for you and full payment is due 120 days prior to departure date.
Do the Cubans mind you shooting them on the streets and such?
I've never had a problem. It's the same as most places I've been (Africa, Vietnam, Papua New Guinea, etc.). As long as you treat them with dignity and respect, I wouldn't think there would be an issue. I photograph a lot of people when I am in Cuba.
Is it safe to leave laptops in the rooms, hotel safe?
I feel it's very safe. I'd put it at the same level as the big chain hotels (Hilton, Marriott, etc.) in major cities in the States.
What if I have more questions?
Call Lorne directly by phone (323-876-6999) or email. Please keep in mind Lorne's workshop schedule when contacting him directly, by checking his workshop schedule page. If he is in town and does not answer your phone call or email immediately, he will usually return it within one business day.