For Americans

Americans are allowed to travel to Cuba, but they are barred from spending money there.

If an American spends more than a certain amount per day in Cuba, it is considered proof of money spent.

However, a license to spend money in the island nation, in certain cases, may be issued by the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control. Licenses are only granted for specific purposes such as journalism, education or political affairs.

Unlicensed US citizens willing to risk fines often travel to Cuba by plane from places like Canada, Mexico or Costa Rica.

Cuban customs officers will not stamp an American passport unless the traveler requests otherwise, making it relatively easy for Americans to travel there undetected.