Cuba: An Honest Guide to the "Island of Freedom"

Most countries don't need a visa for stays under 30 days. You need a 'Tarjeta del Turista' (tourist card) which you can buy from your airline, travel agent, or at the airport. It costs about $25-50.

Bring USD or EUR in cash. Credit cards from US banks don't work due to sanctions. Cards from other countries may work in some hotels but cash is essential. Exchange at CADECA offices or banks.

Internet is limited and expensive. Buy ETECSA/Nauta cards at hotels or ETECSA offices. WiFi hotspots in parks and plazas. About $1-2/hour. Download everything offline before your trip.

Viazul buses are the main tourist transport - book online in advance at viazul.com. Alternatively, use collectivos (shared taxis) which are faster but more expensive. Classic car taxis available too.

Cuba is very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare. Watch out for petty scams: inflated prices, fake cigars, jineteros (hustlers) offering services. Use common sense and you'll be fine.

Casa particulares (private rooms) are often better than state hotels. More authentic experience, better food, cheaper, and hosts help with local tips. Book via Airbnb or directly with hosts.

Bring all essential medicines from home. Cuban pharmacies have very limited stock. Painkillers, antibiotics, stomach medicines, sunscreen, mosquito repellent are scarce.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for Cuba. It must cover medical expenses. Some airlines check at boarding. You can buy at the airport if needed but it's more expensive.

Cubans appreciate: toiletries (shampoo, soap), medicines (painkillers, vitamins), clothes, school supplies for kids. These items are in short supply and highly valued.

International roaming is very expensive. Better to buy a local SIM from ETECSA (Cubacel) or use WiFi. WhatsApp works when connected. Download offline maps before trip.

November to April is the dry season - best weather. Avoid September-October (hurricane season). Summer is hot and humid but cheaper. Christmas/New Year is peak season - book early.

Tipping is important in Cuba - staff rely on tips. 1-2 CUC/USD per day for housekeeping, 10-15% at restaurants, 1 CUC per drink at bars. Tip in USD or CUC, not CUP.