Travelling to Cuba

Visa to enter the country

All visitors need a Tarjeta de Tourista for Cuba. If you book a trip through a travel agency back home, most of the times it will be included in the travel package.

Alternatively, it is easily obtained at any Cuban Embassy abroad.

The third possibility is to buy it at the first entry point into Cuba which is the option I had gone for. I would not recommend this option because instead of the US$22, I had to pay US$85 with no receipt in return. Arguing with immigration officers was not conducive!

The visa is valid for 30 days.

Independent travellers

On entering the country, you will be asked to show your return ticket. They might also ask for a health insurance certificate. This goes mainly for independent travellers. It is advisable to have both. However, nobody asked me for either during my visit.

Copies of your documents

If you venture out of the hotel, always carry a photocopy of your passport with you. Carrying identification with you at all times is mandatory. Get the copy done back home.

Internet

Internet is a bit of a nightmare in Cuba. Unless you are logged into the internet of one of the big hotels, the only alternative places to get connected is on the main squares of any particular town.

ETESCA scratch card

You will need to get a scratch card from a ETECSA office (or in a hotel lobby if available). It took close to one hour standing in front of the office to buy one.

IPhones encounter more difficulties to get internet connection than any android phone.

Changing money

CADECA offices are the place to change money. Another option is in a bank which was my preferred way. It does not go any faster but at least you might be lucky and find a seat in an airconditioned environment.

Of course, changing money at a pretty bad exchange rate at the reception of big hotels is also an option.

Changing US$

Keep in mind that it is not only difficult to exchange US$ but you will also be charged 10% on the amount you exchanged.

A better option is to have Euros. Also, in case you have an American visa card, be prepared that it will not be accepted in many places.

Zika virus

Cuba takes the Zika virus seriously and all places are sprayed once a week. This is enforced by the military.

So make sure that you acquaint yourself when your area will be sprayed next as there is no regard to whether anybody is in the vicinity, the spraying just takes place.

People chat you up all the time

There is a big possibility that you will get chatted up by someone which in itself is not a problem. Be prepared, however, that you will have to pay the bill of whatever is consumed in any place as they believe that every tourist is a millionaire.

Casa particulares

There is a pretty good network where you might consider to book online before getting to Cuba. I found casaparticular.com a good website but there are others.

Also know that you can stay in a 3-star hotel for the same price.

If more adventurous, get your first days sorted out in order not to be under stress. The remainder of your trip can be organised through word of mouth.

Good hotel deals when travelling independently

If you book a hotel while already in the country through e.g. Cubanacan, you will get amazing deals.

Know that a 5-star hotel equals to a 3-4 star-hotel elsewhere.

Cubanacan also has clean and air conditioned buses taking you almost everywhere in Cuba.

Join a tour on Havana

In especially Havana, I would advise to join a guided tour to the four main squares in town. You will get a much better understanding of the interesting history not only of the city but also of Cuba.

Do not buy cigars at the corner of the road

Don’t fall into the trap of buying Cohiba or other cigars offered on the street. They are fake and not good.

Also, know that when leaving the country, the only cigars you can take with you need to carry a government stamp.

Security

While it is advertised that Cuba is a very safe country, I do recommend to keep your guard up especially at night.

My most important tip

And, at the end, the most important tip I would like to pass on. Venture out of the all-inclusive hotel.  Cuba has so much to offer. Basic knowledge of Spanish however is very useful.

What to pack for Cuba

Bring your essentials

Bring your toiletries as it will be very difficult to find your preferred brand.

Snacking during the day?

Same goes for if you have the habit of snacking throughout the day as I do. So bring your candies, chewing gum, energy bars.

Sun is very strong

If you plan to sit on the upper deck of the tourist bus, bring a hat as the sun is stronger as at home. And don’t forget the sun cream.

Mosquitos

Mosquito repellent is always good to have.

Medic kit

A small medic kit including some Imodium if you have a sensitive stomach.

Dress code

Generally speaking, people dress casually. For the evening, a smarter outfit is great. After all, if you go salsa dancing, you do want to look good.

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My destinations in Cuba were Havana, Trinidad, Vignales, Cienfuegos, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba

Enjoy the reading!