1. Cash Is King
US credit and debit cards generally do not work in Cuba due to the trade embargo. Plan to bring sufficient cash (USD or Euros) for your entire trip. You can exchange currency at:
- Cadecas (official exchange houses)
- Banks
- Your casa particular host (sometimes at slightly worse rates)
Pro tip: Bring clean, undamaged bills. Cuban exchange offices may reject torn or heavily worn notes.
2. Internet Access Is Limited
WiFi is available but not ubiquitous. You'll find it at:
- Hotels (often the most reliable)
- ETECSA WiFi parks (outdoor hotspots)
- Some restaurants and casas particulares
Purchase an ETECSA card or use your hotel's WiFi service. Download offline maps (Maps.me works well) before arriving.
3. Stay at a Casa Particular
Private homestays (casas particulares) are the best way to experience Cuban culture and comply with the "Support for the Cuban People" OFAC category. Benefits include:
- Direct support for Cuban families
- Home-cooked meals (often the best food in Cuba)
- Local knowledge and recommendations
- More affordable than hotels
4. Learn Basic Spanish
While you'll find some English speakers in tourist areas, basic Spanish goes a long way. Essential phrases:
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much?)
- "¿Dónde está...?" (Where is...?)
- "La cuenta, por favor" (The check, please)
- "No entiendo" (I don't understand)
5. Classic Cars Are Transportation
Those iconic 1950s American cars aren't just photo props — many serve as taxis. Options include:
- Almendrones: Shared classic car taxis on fixed routes (very cheap)
- Private taxis: Negotiate the fare before getting in
- Coco taxis: Three-wheeled yellow coconut-shaped taxis (fun but bumpy)
- Bici-taxis: Bicycle rickshaws for short distances
6. Eat at Paladares
Paladares (privately owned restaurants) offer the best food in Cuba. State-run restaurants tend to be underwhelming. Ask your casa particular host for recommendations — the best paladares are often not on Google.
7. Tipping Is Important
Cuba has a tipping culture. General guidelines:
- Restaurants: 10–15% of the bill
- Casa particular staff: $3–5 CUP equivalent per day
- Musicians at restaurants: $1–2 CUP equivalent per song
- Tour guides: $5–10 CUP equivalent per day
8. Bring Supplies to Share
Basic supplies that Cubans appreciate:
- Over-the-counter medications (aspirin, vitamins)
- Toiletries (soap, toothpaste, shampoo)
- School supplies for children
- Clothing in good condition
This also aligns with the "Support for the Cuban People" OFAC category.
9. Explore Beyond Havana
While Havana deserves several days, consider day trips or overnight excursions to:
- Viñales Valley: Tobacco farms and stunning karst mountains
- Trinidad: Perfectly preserved colonial town (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Varadero: Beach resort area (2 hours from Havana)
10. Get Your Documents Right Before You Go
The most stressful part of a Cuba trip should NOT be documentation. Before departure, ensure you have:
- ✅ Valid US passport
- ✅ Cuba e-visa (apply at CubaVisaServices.com)
- ✅ D'Viajeros health declaration
- ✅ Travel insurance with Cuba coverage
- ✅ OFAC category selected and documented
- ✅ Sufficient cash for your trip