Here are my five top tips for what to know before you go to Cuba:
1. Money - Cuba has two currencies- CUP for locals and CUC for tourists- tourists will always pay in CUC. Withdrawing money at Cuban banks is difficult, and sometimes impossible depending on your bank. Be prepared for this and take plenty of cash (EUR or CAD, not USD), alongside a one or two different visa cards in the hope of finding an ATM which you will be able to withdraw money from. Most towns will have an ATM machine. Although private accommodation is relatively cheap, travel, tourism and food is not- take enough money to cover you when you head out each day, as card payment machines are also rare.
2. WiFi - WiFi is not widely available in Cuba. To gain access to WiFi, tourists and locals alike must buy an internet card from an ETECSA outlet to use in a designated shop or WiFi park. With this in mind, it is wise to book accommodation for your travels in advance (booking.com is not accessible in Cuba), and pre-download any maps you may wish to use offline too. If you are staying in a hotel, WiFi may be available, but this is usually at a huge extra cost.
3. Safety - Violent crime is rare in Cuba and tourists rarely experience any issues as they are so valuable to the country's economy. Be aware of pickpockets and being overcharged for services, however, you should feel at comfortable exploring as a tourist here.
4. Food - The quality of food is generally not high in Cuba; the cuisine is very meat-heavy, and standards hugely vary. Despite this, waiters generally expect a tip of between 10-15%. Staff are not paid well, so remember this when tipping, even if the actual quality of food is not high.
5. 'Casas Particulares' - Find a private home to stay in on Airbnb, or by word of mouth once you arrive, and feel closer to the Cuban way of life than you would in a typical hotel. Although the standards of these private homes can vary, your host will want you to feel like you are at home, offering bed, breakfast and sometimes even dinner, all for a great price.
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