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by Melissa Terris3 things to know before traveling to Cuba
Thinking about traveling to a once forbidden country, but you don’t know what to expect? Let me prepare you with some helpful tips and insight for a trip to Cuba.
I traveled to Cuba almost a year ago and it’s still hands down one of my favorite countries, from the classic Fords, Chevys and Buicks to the perfectly rolled cigars, Cuba has many distinctive flavors.
Let's start by talking about our accommodation which was located in old Havana, steps away from the Malecon, which is a sea wall that stretches about 5 miles along the coast of Havana. We stayed in ‘Casa Particulares’, which are homes owned, and rented out by locals. The accommodations were equivalent to an Airbnb with breakfast included and a security guard/door man (who was about 70 years old and was more of a source of information than security).
Next is the infamous Cuban cigar, we visited a tobacco farm and had the opportunity to partake in something that was once illegal to enjoy in the US. While I did try a Cuban cigar, I really didn’t understand the fuss, after a couple of puffs and cool photos I was content (smoking kills!!)
Then there is Salsa which is fast, upbeat, and fun, so we had to take lessons while there! Cuban style of salsa differs from other styles as it is more linear in its execution. Once we finished the lesson (after one lesson I was a bonafide salsa dancer - NOT!) in the afternoon, we had to show off our moves at the night club. We went out that evening and danced the night away. Salsa clubs in Cuba are a definite popular pastime for many locals, and everyone appeared to be exceptional dancers (I think they had more than one lesson!).
Now let’s talk about the 3 things to know before traveling to Cuba:
- Visa - depending on your airline carrier you will need to purchase a visa/“Cuban tourist card”/“tarjeta del tourists”. I flew with JetBlue and the visa was purchased at the airport during the check in process. The cost was about $50. The price may vary depending on the airline (delta airlines $50, American Airlines $85, southwest $50 and United airline $75).
- Internet/phone card - Unlike traveling to most other countries, where you are likely to rely mostly on your cellphone or mobile company’s internet, in Cuba it is illegal to have WiFi in homes, but you are able to connect to WiFi hotspots using internet cards that you can purchase. The hour long WiFi cards are cheap and easy to come by while in Cuba. One of my favorite WiFi spots was along the Malecon, where you can see fishermen, kids flying kites, and couples hanging out.
- Money/Dineros-There are two types of Cuban currency, the Cuban Peso Nacional (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). CUP is the national currency used by Cuban locals and the CUC is used in the tourism industry. Money can be exchanged at the airport. This is a cash only country, plastic doesn’t work here, no atm, credit or debit. Important tip: count the Cuban currency you receive. It's common for tellers to miscalculate your exchange amount. I personally fell victim to this.
Cuba is a mystery to most Americans and a place that may instill some apprehension, which is certainly understandable. However, let me ease your fears; you have nothing to worry about when entering or leaving Cuba. The country is safe and the people are friendly. Visiting Cuba is like stepping back in time and makes you feel like you don’t want to come back. I’d say visit Cuba and take on board all the tips provided. If you’ve traveled to Cuba before, I’d love to hear about it. Please comment below.
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