6 Things To Know When Traveling to Cuba
Stepping off the plane in Havana was like stepping into another world. I didn’t get to travel a lot as a kid, so now I love any opportunity to explore new places. I’ve been very fortunate to travel lots of fantastic locations in the last decade, but Cuba is up there as one of the coolest and most amazing cultural experiences I’ve ever had. I had no idea what to expect when we landed and what I experienced blew me away. Because travel to Cuba recently became unavailable to Americans I was excited for the fortunate opportunity to go there. How? I was with a group that was grandfathered in since we had booked two years ago with an educational component. Our trip was such a culturally-driven experience, we learned so much about the country with a rich history and the coolest people ever.
As Cuba is a communist nation, there are a few things to know and understand before you travel there. The first is that the island doesn’t have a lot of the convenience products we use today. You guys, the had a toilet paper shortage. That’s just one example. Also, only recently has luxury travel and tipping made their way to the island, but the people are so friendly and helpful. Traveling here will get you far outside of your norm, and it’s an experience I’m so grateful to have had. Here are 6 things to know when you’re visiting Cuba.
1. The Cuban people are awesome.
It was amazing to meet Cubans and learn about their culture and experience. They love to meet Americans! It was so interesting to talk to so many different types of people who live in Cuba; I learned so much. The Cuban motto might as well be, “Figure it out.” For instance, they just got internet access a few years ago and e-commerce isn’t even a thing yet. Cuban people have been just starting (within the last two years) to learn about the private sector what it can do for them and their lives. Learning about this way of life was so eye-opening.
2. Cuba is crazy safe- so no need to worry.
Crime is literally non-existent. Cuba has been voted the safest island in the Caribbean year after year. I felt so comfortable everywhere I walked. Just like anywhere, be mindful of your surroundings but it’s very safe to travel in Cuba.
3. It’s one of the last Communist countries and the world.
This is important to know and understand when you look at this country’s infrastructure, architecture, and business. Most Cubans have more than one job (usually three) to be able to afford their homes and feed their families. Also, homes or beautiful buildings/facades usually house several families in them. Sometimes upwards of thirty. That’s a lot of people under one roof. They have to maintain and take care of their property which can be expensive. There is a reason Cubans don’t walk on the sidewalk there. It’s a country that is 500 years old so there is a fear of buildings and structures collapsing. In fact, our tour guide told us around 1-3 buildings falls per day.
Cubans are well educated and take pride in their homeland. They also are the epitome of perseverance and another motto they probably would all agree on is “It’s complicated.” This would definitely define how they see their government and its relationship with the USA.
4. Dress comfortably.
No need to pack your high heels. The weather is warm, more often hot so make sure you have outfits that work with that climate. We did a lot of walking through Old Havana and other tours so having comfortable footwear is a lifesaver - especially with the cobblestone streets!
5. Get your Cucs!
Their currency is called Cucs. Similar to the peso, you’ll need these for everywhere you go in Cuba. You can get them at the nicer hotels or banks but you must bring American dollars to exchange. As of right now, they do not accept American credit cards or ATM cards.
6. It’s truly a Classic Car Museum.
Classic cars are everywhere and talk about the willingness to learn and find a way to maintain and preserve American Classic Cars without access to American parts. Again another way they figure it out. All of them are in phenomenal shape and the Cubans take great pride in them. A lot of them are taxis. I had the pleasure of riding in a couple but one, in particular, the driver was the third-generation owner of his car. It was amazing to hear his story and see the pride and love he had for his car.
I’ve told my friends and family that they all need to get to Cuba to experience such an amazing, different place. Now, I’m telling you! If you’ve ever been curious or want to get outside of your comfort zone and truly experience ab amazing cultural experience then put Cuba on your list, so that when this wonderful place opens back up for the American people you can go. I would love to help you and give any suggestions for food, restaurants, and places to stay. Feel free to reach out with any questions. Cubans don’t say goodbye they say Hasta Luego.