Glenn Ashmore wrote:
I think you are right. The Dubya cut back on most cultural and
research permits, especially for teachers, artist and researchers
who tend to be Democrats ...

I'm not too sure about this. The prohibitions apply to just about all
groups who might earlier have obtained a travel license, not just art or
knowledge workers.

My wife traveled to Cuba last December with group of legal professionals
who, as far as I could see, pretty much spanned the political spectrum as we
know it. The only thing they really had in common was a desire to enjoy
mohitos.

--
Good luck and good sailing.
s/v Kerry Deare of Barnegat
http://kerrydeare.tripod.com