I. General
Cuba is a island in the Caribbean known for its vast beaches and tobacco fields with many tourists travelling to visit for low cost holidays. The Cuban cigar is famous because of tobacco industry on the island. Salsa music is popular on the island. When travelling in Cuba you will see old rustic architecture. You can see and feel the history of Cuba as outside the resort areas some places seem like they have been frozen in time.
II. Transportation
Taxi’s are popular in Cuba as a mode of transportation. The taxi industry is owned by the government. Public transportation is good in the city areas but when travelling outside the well known areas, don’t expect well organized transportation with the quality of services you may find in other locations. Uber is not in Cuba currently like you can find in more developed countries. There are some locals starting their own Apps such as yotellevocuba.com. (Translated, “I will take you”).
III. Accommodation
There are a lot of resorts and places to stay when visiting the island of Cuba. From 2 to 3 star to 4 and 5 star resorts where your spoiled with service. There is choice between government owned accommodation and private foreign companies that have joint venture partnerships that offer accommodation services. There is option to stay in private houses for rent and generally you can get very fair daily rates.
IV. Food
The food is not what brings you to Cuba, as with some other tourist destinations but it is nothing to complain about. Cuban cuisine is a combination of Spanish, African, Native American and Caribbean cuisines. Spice and flavor can be expected with most dishes. The most typical Cuban food is the comida criolla.
V. Safety
Like most destinations, it is recommended to not venture outside of the resort areas late at night but in terms of safety the island is not known for extreme crime or violence. You feel a sense of calm when on vacation in Cuba like most Caribbean destinations. It is good to stay in well known tourist areas as these are the most secure and safest places to be.
VI. Climate
Expect hot weather on the island with cool winds from the ocean. People visit to Cuba for this reason alone. You can lay on the beach and relax and get away from the fast paced lifestyle of your hometown. The average year round temperature is 26 degrees Celsius in this sub tropical climate. Plenty of sunshine can be expected.
VII. Power Plug & Voltage
Power Plug: 1) Type A
2) Type C
Voltage: 110, 60HZ
(Most of the newer hotels have dual voltage with the sockets in the room being 220 volts.)
Reference: https://www.iec.ch/world-plugs
VII. Language
The official language in Cuba is Spanish although Haitian Creole is also a major language in Cuba by the Haitian Cuban people, who are estimated about 300,000 individuals. Cuba has a total population of about 11.5 million people.
VIII. Currency
There are two main currencies that are found in Cuba, including the Cuban Peso and Convertible Peso. Local food is bought with Cuban Peso’s while more the tourist products and restaurants usually ask for convertible peso’s. While paying be clear on the type of peso to avoid confusion and overpaying. Avoid USD currency as there can be extra tax charges.
IX. Visa and Other Requirements
Check the visa requirement before you purchase your flight tickets:
https://discover.passportindex.org/
Also, do not forget to check the COVID vaccination requirements.