See what the experts are saying about Cuba. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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Visitor information
Tourism is Cuba's number-one source of hard currency, and the government is actively involved in promoting tourism internationally. As a result, there's a fairly decent network of tourism boards and agencies in major cities around the world.... Continue reading »
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When to go
The tourist high season runs December through March, coinciding with the winter months in most northern countries. It also coincides with Cuba's dry season. Throughout this season, and especially around the Christmas and Easter holidays, the... Continue reading »
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Calendar of events
Cuba has a packed schedule of festivals, congresses, and carnivals, and it seems like more are being offered each year. If no specific contact information is offered below, you can contact Paradiso (tel. 7/832-9538; paradis@paradise.artex.com... Continue reading »
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Getting there
By Plane Cuba has 12 international airports. Havana is by far the principal gateway, although there are numerous regularly scheduled and charter flights to Varadero and Santiago de Cuba as well. To a lesser extent, international charter fl... Continue reading »
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Escorted & package tours
Recommended Package & Escorted Tour Operators From the U.S. -- There are over a hundred licensed travel service providers in the United States; almost all offer charter flights and packages. Some of the best and most reputable are:... Continue reading »
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Health & insurance
Travel Insurance at a Glance Check your existing insurance policies and credit card coverage before you buy travel insurance. You may already be covered for lost luggage, canceled tickets, or medical expenses. The cost of travel insuran... Continue reading »
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Getting around
By Car Driving a rental car is an excellent way to travel around Cuba. The roads are generally in pretty good condition, and there's very little traffic -- although you'll have to keep a sharp eye out for horse-drawn carriages, slow-moving... Continue reading »
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Money
Cuba's state banking system is trying to keep up with the rise in international tourism and joint business ventures. Both the Banco de Crédito y Comercio and Banco Financiero Internacional have been opening up branches in most major business... Continue reading »
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Entry requirements
All travelers to Cuba must posses a valid passport, a return ticket, and a visa or tourist visa. Tourist visas are generally issued by the ticketing airline or travel agent. In a worst-case scenario, they can usually be bought on the spot upo... Continue reading »
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The 21st-century traveler
Surfing For Hotels Be prepared for some pitfalls when booking directly through hotel websites in Cuba. Many of the state-run chains -- Gaviota, Habaguanex, and Cubanacán -- have primitive or poorly maintained websites, and their online boo... Continue reading »
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Regions in brief
Cuba is the westernmost and largest of the entire chain of Caribbean islands, located at the convergence of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean just 145km (90 miles) south of Florida. They say that Cuba -- if you use... Continue reading »
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Customs
What You Can Bring Into Cuba You may bring in all manner of effects meant for personal use, including video and still cameras, personal electronic devices, jewelry, and sports equipment. In addition, visitors may bring in up to 2 bottles of... Continue reading »
