Cuba trip

[wader]

Hi all,
Giving strong consideration to going for a Xmas holiday of diving. We cant afford the Gardens of the Queens this time, but are considering Maria la Gorda area. What I am looking for is advice on:

• Getting there from Havanna
• Favorable lodging (safe and clean is our motto, no need for a lot of stars)
• dive conditions/sites (worthwhile, comparable to other Caribbean sites?)
• Other notable information

I have found flights from MSP to HAV for around $700 r/t. Just not sure what to do after I am in Havana. Thanks for your help.