British tourist numbers heading for Cuba have increased considerably in the last few years.  The country certainly offers an exotic alternative to other hot destinations as well as a sense of adventure.  But it appears that sense of adventure may have been costing the Cuban government too much.

With effect from 1st May 2010, the Cuban government introduced new legislation that requires that any tourists visiting the country must ensure they have sufficient travel insurance before they leave home.  And leading online travel insurance website, insurewithease.com is warning holidaymakers not to forget their insurance cover paperwork.  Otherwise they could find themselves refused entry!

“The new regulations require that anyone arriving at Cuba’s borders must show their travel insurance documents before they will be granted entry”, explained Sarah Taylor, Online Manager, insurewithease.com.  “And they need to ensure that their travel policy provides medical cover for the duration of their trip, including evacuation by air if required.

“We believe that most holidaymakers heading for more far-flung locations see travel insurance as a ‘must have’ purchase.  But what we’re worried about with these new regulations is that travellers may forget to pack their paperwork.  And without proof that they have the right level of travel insurance cover, they may find that they are turned away before they even get a chance to experience this exciting country.

“The Foreign & Commonwealth Office states that, in exceptional circumstances, travellers may be able to purchase a policy from Cuban insurance companies at the port of entry.  But we believe UK holidaymakers would prefer to have the peace of mind that they’re covered by a UK insurer with a good network of medical and repatriation services if needed.”

Insurewithease.com is also warning holidaymakers to make sure their travel insurance offers the right level of cover to satisfy the Cuban government.  “In particular they specify that the travel cover must include medical repatriation if required”, continued Sarah Taylor.  “So it’s crucial that travellers check the level of cover their insurer offers.  Some may be caught out by very low priced policies that put limits on the type of medical cover offered.”

www.insurewithease.com