Essential Guide for Traveling to Cuba: Practical Advice
These tips are aimed at simplifying your travel experience, ensuring you enjoy the Cuban culture to the fullest while managing common logistical challenges.
1. Currency and Finances: Cash is King
The monetary situation is the most critical point for visitors. Cuba abandoned the CUC, and the official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP).
- Bring Cash: Most local establishments, Casas Particulares, and taxis only accept cash. Card payments are rare outside of large state-run hotels.
- Which Currency to Bring? Euros (€) and US Dollars are the best currencies for exchange.
- Exchange: Official exchange rates at banks (CADECA) are low. Most travelers choose to exchange in the informal market for a much more favorable rate. Ask your Casa Particular host for trusted advice.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Cards issued by US banks do not work. If your bank is European or Canadian, they will work in some ATMs, but expect high fees and limited availability, especially outside of the capital cities.
2. Internet and Connectivity: Plan Offline
Say goodbye to instant, high-speed connection. Connectivity in Cuba requires patience.
- ETECSA: It is the only telecommunications company. To access Wi-Fi, you must purchase internet access cards.
- Access Points: Connection is mainly available in public parks, main squares, and hotels. Look for groups of people looking at their phones.
- Offline Apps: Before leaving home, download complete maps of Cuba to your phone using apps like Maps.me or the offline map option in Google Maps. This will save you from navigation issues without connectivity.
- Notify Your Provider: Inform your phone company that you will be traveling to Cuba. Roaming is usually extremely expensive, so it is best to keep your phone on airplane mode and only use Wi-Fi.
3. Accommodation: The "Casa Particular" Option
For an authentic experience and to directly support the Cuban economy, choose Casas Particulares over all-inclusive hotels.
- What Are They? They are private rooms or apartments rented by Cuban families. They are identified by a small blue or red logo that looks like an anchor.
- Advantages: The service is personal, the food (if you choose to eat there) is delicious and authentic, and you will have a local contact to help you with advice and bookings.
- Reservations: You can book through websites like http://www.mycubarent.com or contact the owners directly.
4. Local Transport: Negotiate and Explore
- Classic Taxis (Colectivos): The famous American cars are not just a perfect photo opportunity. Shared taxis (taxis colectivos) are the most economical way to make long trips between cities like Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad.
- Private Taxis: For short trips within the city, always negotiate the fare before getting in. There are no meters.
- Vía Azul Buses: For long and comfortable trips between tourist destinations, Vía Azul is the bus line for foreigners. It is more reliable than local transport, but book in advance, especially during the high season (winter).
5. Health, Safety, and Social Etiquette
- Mandatory Travel Insurance: Cuba requires all visitors to have medical travel insurance that covers the island. You may be asked for it upon arrival at the airport, so carry a printed or digital copy.
- Water: Always drink bottled water. Avoid tap water, even for brushing your teeth, if you have a sensitive stomach.
- The People: Cubans are extraordinarily warm and friendly. A friendly "Hola" or "Buen día" (hello or good day) goes a long way.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary and appreciated, as base wages are low. It is recommended to tip in CUP to musicians, waiters, taxi drivers, and cleaning staff.
Humberto. Havana City Tours. Arts, Society, History.
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