Cuba Unexplored

To be transparent, the money situation in Cuba is complex, so much so that it deserves a separate article to explain it all. Take a look at our recent blog post for up-to-date advice on money matters in Cuba. 

Do your Paperwork

Travelers from most countries will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter the country. It can be purchased online, from your airline or travel agency, or at your country’s Cuban Embassy. If you are going from the U.S. to Cuba, you’ll need a pink Cuban Tourist Card, and YES, you can travel to Cuba as an American. Otherwise, a green Tourist Card will suffice. You will also need to fill out a quick immigration form up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba. 

Ensure that you’re Insured.

Basic medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so don’t skip it. Besides, it is super important in case of an emergency and random checks can occur at airports, so bring a printed copy of your insurance details.

Pack Accordingly

Cuba struggles with shortages, so make sure to pack all essential items such as medications (painkillers, anti-diarrhea, first aid) and personal hygiene (shampoo, repellent, sunblock, hand sanitizer, female sanitary products). Always carry packs of tissues with you to use as toilet paper and operate under the assumption that you won’t be able to get it in Cuba. We also recommend making space in your suitcase for some extras of these products and perhaps some clothes to gift to Cubans once you are there, these will be massively appreciated. 

Be Hosted in a Cuban Home.

The best way to experience Cuba is not in a swanky hotel but in a Cuban home which can be reserved on sites like Airbnb. Some hosts just rent out an entire apartment to you and are more hands off, or you can stay in a Cuban’s spare room where they will delight in cooking and looking after you. It’s depnds what you’re after. 

Educate Yourself on Cuba’s Current Climate.

if you want a guaranteed smooth-sailing luxury travel experience, another Caribbean destination may be a better fit. However, if you’re looking for a stimulating, immersive, and fascinating time filled with culture and stories to return home with, Cuba is for you. There may be times when the power goes out or when restaurants don’t have everything on the menu, but this is all part of the authentic Cuban experience. 

Get Connected.

The internet has improved in a very short space of time in Cuba, but it still has a way to go. Most major hotels offer a WiFi service, as do some casa particulares, but it can be unreliable. Your best bet is to use Cuba’s 4G network which works better than WiFi and can be used out and about. 

Buy a 30-day SIM card at any of ETECSA’s offices – get the hosts at your casa to direct you. Once you are connected, many important sites are blocked in Cuba, so download a VPN onto your devices (we love Express VPN). Other useful sites to download are Maps.me for an offline map and La Nave, Cuba’s answer to Uber. . 

Support Cuban Private Businesses. 

If you are an American traveling under “Support for the Cuban People” this will already form an important part of your trip, but this is a tip everyone coming to Cuba should follow. Whether it’s visiting a casa particular, café, restaurant, or shop, business owners are achieving the previously unachievable in the face of many barriers and challenges. Pay a visit to Ama, Color Café, Clandestina, and el Cuarto de Tula to name a few. 

Watch out for Hustling.

Cubans are known for being very friendly and this is often well intentioned but be aware that there is also a rife hustling culture in Cuba. Be wary of jineteros (hustlers) selling you fake cigars, forged bank notes, or coaxing you into certain bars under the guise of being a new friend innocently showing you around.

These top tips will put you in good stead for your Cuba trip but if you need any further travel planning, get in touch with us here.