Cuba Travel Tips

The currency of Cuba is the peso (CUC) which is broken down into 100 centavos. Notes can be found in denominations of CUC100, 50, 20, 10 and 5; while coins come in denominations of CUC1, and 20, 5, 2 and 1 centavos. The US Dollar was introduced as legal tender in 1993, forming a vital part of the economy, but dollars have been banned for use in commercial transactions since November 2004. Dollars must now be exchanged pesos and a 10 per cent commission will be charged.

Money should only be exchanged at official foreign exchange bureaux, banks or international air and seaports and you should always get a receipt with your transaction. Cash is preferred, although credit cards are becoming increasingly accepted. The only credit and ATM cards not to be accepted are those issued by US banks. ATMs are still rare, but cash can be obtained in banks with Visa credit or debit cards. US Dollar, Pounds Sterling and other major traveller’s cheques are accepted.

Banks are open from 08:30 to 12:00 and 13:30 to 15:00, Monday to Friday; 08:30 to 10:30, Saturday.

Both the import and export of all local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, although amounts over US$5000 must be declared upon arrival. Exporting foreign money is allowed up to the amount imported and declared. A maximum of 10 pesos may be reconverted to foreign currency for re-export at the end of your holiday, but will only be converted on presentation of a correctly filled out official exchange record.

The following goods may be taken into Cuba without incurring any customs duty, provided you are aged 18 years and over: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars; three bottles of alcoholic beverages and gifts up to a value of US$50. Natural fruits, seeds, meat and dairy products, weapons and ammunition, video cassettes, household appliances, pornographic material and drugs are all banned. Electrical items with heavy power usage may be confiscated to be returned upon departure.

110/230 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style flat two-pin plugs are generally used, except in certain hotels, where the European round two-pin plug is standard.

Mains water is chlorinated and may cause mild stomach upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised, at least for your first few weeks. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood and fruit are generally considered safe to eat, although always ensure that everything is properly cooked.

Hepatitis A has been reported in the northern Caribbean Islands and you should be vaccinated against the disease. Human fascioliasis is endemic and dengue fever may occur in urban areas as well as outbreaks of dengue haemorrhagic fever and meningitis. Rabies is present and if you consider yourself to be high risk, it is advisable to get vaccinated.

Cuba’s medical services are excellent and in line with international standards. Some emergency treatment may be available to visitors free of charge, but it is essential to have adequate medical insurance, as a lot of treatment will only be given after it is paid for.

Medical emergency telephone number: 26811

Most visits to Cuba are trouble-free, but you should always be aware of the global risk of random terrorist attacks which could take place in popular tourist destinations.

You should also be aware that crime is on the increase. Most of the crimes against tourists are petty crimes as violent crime is rare. It is essential therefore to always keep hold of your belongings and avoid flashing cash and jewellery around in public as this will act as a magnet to potential thieves. It is strongly advisable to keep your funds separate and to have a photocopy of your passport.

Due to an increase in serious accidents involving tourists, you are advised not to use mopeds or three-wheel Coco-Taxis for travel around Cuba.

The hurricane season in Cuba normally runs from June to November and you should be prepared to follow any advice given if a hurricane strikes.

Police: 26811

A handshake is the normal form of greeting in Cuba and locals usually address each other as ‘compañero’. Visitors however should use ‘señor’ or ‘señora’. You will find that some Cubans have two surnames; the first surname is the correct one to use in all situations.

If you are visiting somebody’s house, normal courtesies should be observed and a small gift should be given if invited for a meal. Formal wear is not often needed, unless the occasion is something very special such as a wedding.

Moderate tipping is expected and given at your discretion. However, as Cuba opens up to more tourists, many people who would not normally warrant them have begun to demand tips.

The country code for Cuba is +53. Internet is available at hotels and there are some Internet cafés in the major cities such as Havana.

GMT – 5

Visas are required by everyone who visits the country. People of Cuban origin who are now nationals of other countries must always travel with a Cuban passport if they left Cuba after 1970. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the entry date into Cuba. Tourist visas last 30 days with extensions available. For more information, contact your nearest Cuban embassy.