Planning a Trip to Cuba

Cuba is unlike any other destination in the world right now. The island is at once beguiling and infuriating, a cruel mistress that can leave you frustrated and penniless if you don’t work out how she works.

Before you leave home, it pays to get your head around the dual currency system. At the time of writing, 1 CUC was equal to 25 CUP. As you can tell, if you think you are paying in CUC but it should be CUP, you can end up way out of pocket. For easy reference, 1 CUC is the same as 1 USD.

Prior to your trip, it is worth booking a night in a casa particular in Havana for your first night. This saves you the stress of looking for a place to stay when you arrive tired and hungry. Although casas particulares are everywhere, it’s worth knowing where you are going. From here, your host will be able to offer places to stay in other towns across Cuba.

Be aware U.S. bank cards do not work in Cuba, thanks to the ongoing embargo. Those of you with cards from other countries will be fine. VISA cards will work in Cuban cash machines, while MasterCard users will have to queue up to see a clerk inside the bank.

The easiest way to see Cuba is to bring enough cash for the whole of your trip. Euros or pounds sterling are best, whereas U.S. dollars incur a 10 percent tax when you exchange them for Cuban pesos. If you do find yourself in a tight spot, Western Union is a good emergency option.

Make sure you bring a physical guidebook or download a PDF version before you leave. Internet connections are scarce and unreliable in Cuba, so it pays to come prepared.