7 Things to Know Before Travelling to Cuba

7 Things to Know Before Travelling to Cuba
Posted: 06/11/2015 10:37 am EDT
By: Fiona Moriarty, Hipmunk

While adventurous travelers are urged to visit Cuba before authenticity
goes the way of a Starbucks on every corner, travelers should take a
little extra time preparing, as heading to the island still isn't that
easy. Whether planning to spend time relaxing on sandy beaches or
exploring on a bike, the all-inclusive resorts of Varadero are a great
options for those just seeking some R&R. Just note the following before
booking your trip:

1. Prep for the Sky

Direct flights from the U.S. are still scarce and expensive, but that's
bound to change. Make sure to purchase traveler's insurance when
purchasing tickets -- it is required to enter Cuba, and customs will
likely do an insurance inspection upon arrival in Havana. Regardless of
the route take to get there, get to the airport at least three hours
before departure time, as check-in procedures are bound to take longer
than usual.

2. Go off the grid

Most hotels will have Internet cards for sale, and Wi-Fi in their
lobbies, but with no real infrastructure, access is always spotty. To
avoid frustrations, book any tours or activities, before arrival.
Download local maps or purchase paper ones, and print out all travel
documents that may be needed while abroad.

3. Get around

Vintage cars converted into taxis are everywhere in Havana, and as
glamorous as that may seem, it is important to note that they are not
retrofitted. Beware that most cars, both government and privately owned,
will have no seat belts, no air-conditioning, and no meters, even though
they are supposedly mandatory.

4. Get rid of the Benjamins

Cuba has two currencies, the CUC (Cuban Dollar) and the CUP (Cuban
National Peso.) Tourists should exchange their cash into CUCs, as
non-Cubans are not supposed to be in possession of CUPs.

There are very few ATMs around, but if if withdrawing cash is a must,
the best bet is to do so at the Havana airport upon arrival.

Exchange rates are horrible for American dollars, and much better for
Euros and Pounds--consider exchanging dollars into Euros before heading
to Havana, and then exchange them into CUCs once in Cuba.

This may change in the near future, but as of now, it is nearly
impossible to use credit cards to pay for anything in Cuba. In any case,
make sure to inform the bank and credit card companies about any travel.

5. Try the Cubano

There is still a heavy embargo on food, so meals may not be as
spectacular as expected. As a rule, "paladares" or privately owned
restaurants will always be much better than government-run eateries.
When in doubt, stick with local fruit, coffee with milk or "cafe con
leche" and a Cubano sandwich, known in Cuba as a "jamon con queso."

6. Pack it light

Small doorways and cobblestone streets are not conducive to carrying a
lot of luggage. With 24.1 billion bags being mishandled by airlines each
year, there is an advantage to packing all the essentials in a
carry-on. Even bare necessities can be hard to track down in Havana, so
try to anticipate any needs. Forgetting a toothbrush, means it may be
days before finding one for purchase.

7. Learn a lesson

A Spanish phrase here and there will go a long way with the locals. Most
people will want to chat but very little English is spoken outside of
the resorts. Any effort to speak the language will tend to be
appreciated. For those looking to enjoy some salsa dancing, take a
couple classes before embarking on the trip. Lessons will only better
the odds for joining in on the fun on the dance floor!

Source: 7 Things to Know Before Travelling to Cuba | Hipmunk -
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