Originally Posted by SJOGuy

No doubt that 10 years of travel to Cuba have given you a lot of knowledge. Unfortunately, our circumstances are quite different as Americans. That has to be mentioned. I wish it weren't so, but it is for now. The tours that the OP mentions are one way we can legally go. The style of tourism that you've luckily been able to engage in is not. Doesn't mean that Americans don't do what you've done. I think at least it needs to pointed out that it doesn't conform to U.S. law. What the individual does with that information is their own concern.

You can't travel to Cuba and not spend money. If nothing else, included in your airfare are taxes that go to the Cuban government.