Originally Posted by fly-yul
"average" Americans are not allowed entry. The embargo is economic, you simply aren't allowed to spend money there. Makes a holiday somewhat difficult. There was a US company that exploited a loophole by parking a cruise ship in Int'l waters, shuttling visitors in and out for the day. The US government shut it down.
Flying in thru Canada or Mexico is possible. A $20 tucked in the passport will prevent it from being stamped.