AORE Association News February 2015 | Page 17

The Cuba Connection Photo by Adam Ermatinger When people typically think of Cuba images of Castro, cigars, an embargo, and a crisis more than half a century old abound - but think again. What actually exists is a stunning country that has tempered the passage of time. Beautiful neoclassical architecture, classic Detroit steel, a warm gregarious people, amid stunning beaches and world-class crags make it an exciting destination for climbers. Getting There (and Back) Traveling to Cuba from the United States can be tricky. Due to long-standing political issues, it is easier to fly out of Canada, Costa Rica, or Mexico, with Mexic o City offering the cheapest fare. Depending on the season, a ticket will run anywhere from $400 (Seattle) to $600 (New York) dollars. If spending the night in Mexico City, find a room near the airport. There are a number of three and four star hotels less than a mile away. The airport has a high police presence and is a relatively safe area to stay and walk around while waiting for your connecting flight. A roundtrip flight from Mexico City to Havana will cost around $500 dollars and take about two and a half hours. Going through customs in Havana is a breeze, but be aware that if you bring US dollars you will be charged a 10% penalty and a 3% exchange fee. Try to bring another currency. Cuba draws many Europeans, so consider bringing Euros. When exchanging your money for the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), the tourist version of the country's currency, try to find a bank or government-approved vendor, called Cadecas. Most hotels and resorts have an exchange kiosk, but these are unregulated and will tend to give you less favorable exchange rate. Make sure to keep 25 CUC in cash for the Airport Departure Tax when you leave the country. 17