Most tourists to Cuba fly directly from European airports or from Canada. From Australia, it is easy with various options. The cheapest route from Melbourne or Sydney is usually direct to Los Angeles (or Houston), then change for a flight to Mexico City, and then from there to Havana. It is also possible to fly from Australia via New Zealand to Santiago de Chile, and then change for a flight to Havana; or fly to Vancouver and Toronto in Canada, then direct to Cuba. You can book on line yourself, looking for the best available fair on sites such as www.webjet.com.au/flights/; www.farecompare.com/‎; www.cheapflights.com.au and many others. I recommend getting an idea of what you might need to pay for a return flight, and then go to a travel agent like Flight Centre (www.flightcentre.com.au/) and see their best offer.

Travel insurance is necessary to enter Cuba and most travel agents will organise that for you if you want. It is worth considering what your maximum excess payment will be… as having a higher excess reduces the cost of insurance dramatically. Platinum VISA card holders are now offered free travel insurance.

Visas are needed to pass through the USA and Mexico. If you are Australian, you can apply on-line for a “visa waiver” at the US government ESTA site https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/. The visa waiver costs only $US14 and lasts two years and covers Canada, USA and Mexico. Beware however, there are scams in operation that look like the official site, but charge you $US87 for processing your application.

Your visa to enter Cuba can be obtained from the Cuban consulate in Canberra for $60 in person or $110 by mail, http://www.cubadiplomatica.cu, but it is easier to just buy a visa at the airport in Mexico City en route to Havana ($US50). It is quick, easy and reliable.

Next consider your health! It may be quickest and easiest to see a specialist “travel doctor” and make sure you have the necessary vaccinations. Cuba is a healthy destination, but it is good to use roll-on insect repellent against mosquito born infections, like dengue fever (especially in eastern Cuba). Vaccination is recommended against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, diphtheria and tetanus – measles and influenza while you are at it! You can find what you need to know in the Australian Government “Immunization Handbook”, health.gov.au.

The flight from Australia is long. Wear comfortable clothing. To avoid deep vein thrombosis, flex your feet and leg muscles while sitting for long periods, and every hour or so, get up and walk around the cabin and drink water. Water is provided and can be found at the rear of the aircraft, usually with fruit and nibbles.