Cuba, the Caribbean’s largest island is a very unique and flavourful country. Expansive and uncrowded, white sandy beaches and Caribbean-blue waters provide a backdrop for soaking up sun and local culture. Classic towns like Havana are filled with beautiful Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, Cuban cigar shops and places to sip mojitos.
A vacation in Cuba can be a wonderful experience if one needs a few travel tips for safety and for a better understanding of what to expect from a Cuban vacation.
Firstly, travellers should check their national regulations for traveling to Cuba. For those traveling to Cuba from the United States, there are regulations that mean traveling with government-authorized operators. The trip will come with an itinerary that facilitates “person-to-person” travel that is designed to be culturally educational. The itineraries vary but will likely include visits to farms, medical facilities and similar tours. It is unlikely that anyone will just spend the whole time lolling about on a private beach. Free time may be limited, but the experience will be well worth adhering to the itineraries.
There are no compulsory vaccinations required to travel to Cuba. However, for added protection consider having the following vaccinations at least two weeks in advance: typhoid, hepatitis A, and diphtheria. Make sure tetanus and polio protection is up to date.
The lack of infrastructure in Cuba may be surprising to travellers from the more modern world. Drink only bottled water even in the finest hotels. Public restrooms are flimsy. Take toilet tissue and don’t flush it. There will be small cans provided for the disposal of tissue.
Cuba is generally a safe place for tourists. Do watch out for aggressive street vendors, swindlers and robbers who might try to take advantage of tourists. Leave valuables at home. The internet is extremely slow, so consider a vacation away from the laptop and electronics. Leave the expensive camera at home and take a less expensive one or even one of the “disposable” brands.
There are not a lot of pharmacies and convenience stores in Cuba. Pack accordingly. Take toiletries, a first aid kit, sunscreen and extra prescribed medicines.
Nightlife in places like old Havana can be quite exciting. Keep a check on drinking alcoholic beverages. Eat often and space out drinks to avoid becoming inebriated. Some locals may watch for opportunities to hustle, scam or rob drunken tourists. Take only as much cash as will be needed. Take only a copy of your passport or ID and leave actual identifications tucked safely away in the casa. Never go out with wads of cash and credit cards. Place cash and IDs in a front pocket if possible, or stay alert for pick pocketing.
Should a passport end up getting stolen somehow, report this to the police immediately. A casa owner cannot legally house a traveller without a passport. They are subject to a huge fine. Take all measures to protect passports.
These measures and precautions will help to keep safe for the best holiday experience on this unique Caribbean island.
