Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to Cuba

Planning a trip to Cuba? Here are some crucial tips to help you navigate the unique challenges and make the most of your visit.

Cash is King

Cuba is mostly a cash-only country. While some dollar stores accept cards, credit cards are generally only accepted in hotels or for booking tours. Bring enough dollars or euros (euros are generally better) for currency exchange. Avoid taking notes bigger than 50s, as getting change can be difficult. Don’t carry any 200 euro bills; they are very hard to get rid of (trust me, I’ve been there).

Be Smart About Currency Exchange

The official exchange office offers the worst rate (1 euro = 126 pesos, compared to the international rate of 1 euro = 270 pesos as of 2023). You can use the black market or pay in euros or dollars at restaurants, which often have a better rate (around 1 euro = 200 pesos). Be cautious with the black market; only exchange money with trusted individuals to avoid counterfeit pesos. If you trust someone at your hotel or a local restaurant, try exchanging 50 dollars with them first and check the money for counterfeits. Never accept offers from strangers on the street. If someone offers to take you to a “genuine” Cuban restaurant, it’s best to decline; they often receive a commission, leading to inflated bills.

Pack Essential Supplies

Hygiene products and medications can be scarce in some areas. Bring painkillers, tablets for diarrhea, and disinfectant (some private restaurants might lack soap in the toilets). Mosquito spray is also essential due to the risk of dengue fever. Don’t worry about a single bite, but try to avoid frequent bites.

Install a VPN

Install a VPN on your phone before arriving in Cuba to access online banking and the app store without issues. Setting this up once in Cuba can be challenging.

US Bank Cards Won’t Work

If you have a US bank or are using a US subsidiary, your credit card will not work in Cuba. A Travel Cash Card from Swiss Bankers (or a similar alternative) can be a good solution, especially if you have a VPN to access your online banking to recharge it when needed.

Bring a Water Filter

I used a Grayl Ultrapress water filter during my trip and was glad I did. Bottled water is available, but the quality can be questionable. The Ultrapress filters 150 liters of water before needing replacement and improves taste while removing bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and metals. You can even drink tap water with it, as long as the source is clear.

Learn the Word “Maniana”

“Maniana” is a crucial word in Cuba, meaning “tomorrow” or “whatever.” If a street vendor persists, saying “maniana amigo” will usually make them back off quickly. Use it sparingly, only with people who won’t take “no” for an answer.

Download Offline Maps and a Translator

Download an offline map and a translator if you don’t speak Spanish. Pre-download areas on Google Maps and the language on Google Translate for offline use.

Confirm Taxi Prices Upfront

Always ask for the taxi price upfront and clarify the total cost for the number of passengers. I once had a driver try to double the price upon arrival because we hadn’t discussed the cost for two people. Stand your ground and don’t pay the extra amount.

Places to Avoid

When traveling, I like to spend time with the locals and experience their culture. Varadero is the only place I can confidently say should be avoided if you're a traveler who enjoys authentic experiences rather than being cramped together with Canadian spring break goers.

My Favorite Place in Cuba

Trinidad is by far the best place to be in Cuba. Whether it's the photographic opportunities or the town's atmosphere that takes you back to the pirate era, you won't regret spending time there.