Into the Mystic

In the land where time stood still, our man in Havana discovers the hypnotic allure of the new CUBA

- Josh Eells

For decades, the only way for travellers to visit Cuba from America was by enduring the stuffiness of government-sanctioned tours or risking the illegality of going through another country. But thanks to the recent thaw in relations , seeing this forbidden tropical wonderland has never been easier. Several airlines, such as American and JetBlue, now offer hassle-free charter flights direct from the States — including practically hourly from Miami — while companies like Cuba Travel Network can book expedited VIP entry and JetSuite can fl y you in privately . All you need is a passport, tourist visa, and qualification in one of 12 preapproved travel categories (including the helpfully vague “professional research,” wink, wink) and you’ll be sipping Cuba libres to the sound of thumping salsa in no time.