20 essential insights before visiting Cuba

For first-time visitors, Cuba can feel like a puzzling challenge, especially if you're venturing beyond the resorts and exploring independently.

The local Spanish is spoken quickly and can be tough to understand; many streets have dual names, and the country's complex monetary system deserves its own guidebook. Nevertheless, the delights of the country make the effort to research worthwhile before you embark on your journey.

To ensure you’re well-prepared, here’s everything you need to know before planning your trip to Cuba.

1. Verify your insurance coverage

Medical insurance is mandatory for entering Cuba, and you must present either a digital or printed proof of your coverage. Random checks are conducted at the airport, and if you arrive uninsured, you'll need to purchase a Cuban policy on-site for US$30.

2. Complete your passenger information ahead of time

Cuba requires travelers to use an online form called D’Viajeros to provide necessary immigration and health information prior to their trip. You can fill out this form digitally up to 72 hours before arriving in Cuba.

3. A tourist card is essential for all visitors

To gain entry into Cuba, every traveler must present a filled-out tourist card. This card is typically provided by your airline (inquire during booking) and is often included in your ticket price.

If you don't receive one, you can buy it from a Cuban travel agency, with prices ranging from US$50 to US$85. Citizens from 20 African and Asian nations need a formal visa to enter Cuba, so check your country's requirements before booking.

4. Navigating cash and currency is tricky!

Understanding money in Cuba can be challenging, even for locals. Following the abolition of convertible pesos (CUC) in January 2021 and the removal of the US dollar from circulation in June 2021, inflation has surged and a black market has flourished, resulting in a perplexing dual economy.

Cuba's official currency is the Cuban peso (CUP), but foreign currencies are also commonly accepted, particularly by private businesses that need hard cash for purchasing items in MLC (freely convertible currency) stores.

State-owned businesses and banks adhere to official exchange rates, but private businesses often charge prices based on black market rates for their premium services.

For example, a main dish at a private restaurant in Havana can cost approximately CUP$500 (US$21), making it quite pricey if you're using pesos obtained from a Cuban bank.

However, many private eateries will accept payment in euros at a more favorable exchange rate, and some even provide a separate menu with prices listed in euros.

When purchasing from a private establishment—whether a restaurant, casa particular (private lodging), or taxi—it's usually advisable to pay in a foreign currency. Always confirm in advance which currencies are accepted and what exchange rate is applied to their peso prices.

Euros are the most widely accepted currency and the favorite among Cubans. Canadian dollars and British pounds are also usable and can be exchanged.

While US dollars still circulate on the black market, it's advisable not to bring them. Instead, when you arrive, keep most of your funds in foreign currency and only convert small amounts into pesos for minor expenses like museum entries, concert tickets, and tips.

5. MLC is a currency without a cash equivalent

The Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is a currency sanctioned by the Cuban government in 2020, designed for use in specific shops for purchasing higher-end products.

This currency does not exist in cash form and is linked to the value of the US dollar. It is primarily used by Cubans who possess special magnetic cards.

Tourists need not be overly concerned about MLC$, though you may encounter prices listed in this currency at state-run establishments like cigar shops or airport gift stores, where non-US credit cards can be used.

6. Only certain credit cards will function

Credit cards are becoming more common in Cuba and are often the preferred payment method in many state-run businesses, sometimes being the only option.

Despite previous assurances from the Obama administration, credit cards associated with US banks are not accepted. Most private businesses lack credit card facilities, leaving cash as the sole option.

7. Bring your favorite casual attire – men should include a shirt

Cuban style is relaxed, so leave the formal wear at home. The main dress code applies to cinemas, theaters, and nightclubs, where men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves or half-sleeves.

8. Cuban Spanish is quick and often informal

If you know Spanish, you’ll notice that Cubans typically use the informal tú form instead of usted. In the plural form, ustedes is preferred over vosotros.

If you’re unfamiliar with someone, it’s polite to address them as señor or señora, though you’ll often hear Cubans using various informal terms like socio, hermano, papa, chica/o, and asere.

9. Cuban cities feature streets with dual names

In many Cuban cities, streets have two names: a modern one found on maps and street signs, and a pre-revolutionary name that locals still commonly use.

This can lead to confusion, especially when locals, who may not know the new street names, give directions or addresses using the familiar terms. Always verify addresses and, if possible, ask for both names of the street you need.

10. Learn the local etiquette for queuing

Cubans often face lengthy waits in tedious queues, so they’ve created a unique way to handle it without standing in line. In a Cuban queue, you arrive at the bakery, clinic, or visa office and call out to the crowd, 'Quien es último?' (Who’s last?).

Ideally, someone within a 400m radius will respond to your query with 'yo' (me). That person becomes your reference point. As long as they’re still there, you can stroll around, relax, or grab an ice cream. Just be ready to jump into action when they get called up—you’ll be next!

11. Don’t hesitate to ask questions multiple times

Due to extensive bureaucracy, straightforward inquiries often lead to vague or incorrect answers. Politely dig deeper and consult at least five different people before making any significant decisions.

12. Pack something warm for chilly bus rides

Cuba features a nationwide state-operated bus service known as Víazul, linking all major cities and several smaller towns. Prices are set in MLC$ (equivalent to US$), and tickets must be purchased using a credit card, either in person or online.

Another service called Conectando, managed by Cubanacán, operates buses during peak season on some of the most frequented routes. Be sure to bring a sweater or jacket for long bus journeys—the air conditioning can feel like a brisk day in Vancouver.

13. Cuba is regarded as a safe destination for travelers

Cuba ranks as one of the safest nations in the Americas concerning violent crime. While pickpocketing does occur, it's not widespread and can largely be avoided by taking some simple precautions: wear a money belt, utilize hotel room safes, and avoid displaying cash in public.

14. Solo female travelers often encounter unwanted attention

Many solo female travelers report facing a significant amount of unwanted attention, yet it often doesn't detract from their overall experience in Cuba.

There's a thin line between being friendly and crossing into harassment; some men may become overly familiar or ask too many personal questions. It’s helpful to learn key Spanish phrases to indicate disinterest clearly.

15. Stay alert for counterfeit items

Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized street vendors to steer clear of receiving counterfeit bills, known locally as estafas.

16. Pack your own medications

Cuba boasts a competent healthcare system (having developed and swiftly rolled out three COVID-19 vaccines), but it often faces shortages of pharmaceuticals.

Bring all prescription drugs you anticipate needing, along with over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you're considering donating, you can bring in up to 10kg of medical supplies tax-free (just pack them separately).

17. Steer clear of questionable cigars

Cuba has its share of jineteros (touts) who weave intricate tales about incredibly cheap, top-quality cigars supposedly sourced from their relatives at the factory. Don’t fall for it. Instead, shop for cigars at official state stores like the Casa del Habano chain. Street cigars are typically factory rejects and not authentic.

18. Driving may not be as straightforward as it seems

While light traffic might give the impression that driving is easy, the high rental costs and limited availability of vehicles can make it quite challenging.

Considering the occasional lack of signage, pothole-riddled roads, and various obstacles—such as goats, horses, bicycles, children, and slow-moving, smoke-spewing trucks—you might want to think about taking the bus or hiring a driver.

19. Pack your own toilet paper and sanitary supplies

While antiseptic hand lotion has become more readily available post-pandemic, toilet paper remains elusive. Bring your own roll and try to find four- or five-star hotels if you find yourself in need in the city.

If you expect your period while in Cuba, make sure to pack reusable pads or silicone cups, as well as disposable pads and tampons, which are in high demand here.

20. Avoid drinking tap water

While the water won't be deadly, it could cause some mild discomfort or an upset stomach. Luckily, bottled water is widely available and inexpensive. A smarter option might be to carry your own filter bottle or water purification tablets.