Cuba
The island of Cuba was “discovered” and claimed for Spain by Christopher Columbus during his first voyage to the New World in 1492.
What draws people to the tropical Caribbean island of Cuba is much more than beaches and antique 1950’s cars, although there are plenty of those!
In Cuba, you can wander bustling city streets, go hiking in the mountains, learn about the history of tobacco, or simply soak up the country’s 1950’s time-warp appeal.
While Cuba can sometimes be a confusing and challenging place for many travellers, we invite you to give it a try and experience some Cuban magic for yourself.
Best Time To Visit
It’s pretty much summer all year long in Cuba, but some months are hotter, stickier, and more uncomfortable than others. The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April. These are not only Cuba’s driest months but also good bets for 70 degree (21c) blue sky days made for exploring cobblestone streets and lounging on secluded postcard-perfect beaches.
While December through February are Cuba’s coldest months, temperatures are usually in the 70s (21c). Lows might dip into the 60s (15c), but you’ll never need a coat, hat or gloves. Winter days are long, with nearly 11 hours of daylight even in December, and there are few better places to escape the winter back home than a Caribbean island nation where summer lasts all year long.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: Havana
Language: The official language of Cuba is Spanish. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Spanish: “Hola” and “Gracias”
Currency: The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP) . £1 GBP is equivalent to 29.95 CUP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: At the moment, no US credit or debit card can be used in Cuba. This also includes using a US debit card to try to get cash out of a Cuban ATM. However, if you are using a card from somewhere else, like Canada or Europe, it’s likely your card will work, but you will run into a 3% charge for every payment. Any other country-issued card will work just fine but again, expect a small fee.
Plugs: In Cuba, the power plugs are type A, B, C, and L, the standard voltage is 110 / 220 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Cuba is generally safer than many other countries, with violent attacks being rare. Petty theft, especially at the beach or in hotel rooms, can be common. The same goes for pickpocketing. Just keep your wits about you!
Random useful tip: Bring Print outs of your documents! With internet roaming charges being high you will need to show them at the airport: boarding passes, vaccination certificates, visas, accommodation bookings, health insurance, and an onward flight booking. Keep these documents safe in case you need them during your stay and you can’t get to them online!
Dont’s: Do not drink tap water though it is drinkable. Drink bottled water to avoid tropical illnesses. Do not carry excessive amounts of cash. Bag snatching and pickpockets are common, especially in the area of Old Havana.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Cuba, reasons to visit Cuba, and how to travel Cuba on a budget.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Cuba
Havana Vieja, or Old Havana, is a captivating maze of cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and plazas echoing with tales from a bygone era. With pastel-coloured buildings and classic American cars lining the roads, the city feels like a step back in time. Wander the vibrant streets, exploring landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana and the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales. The rhythmic beats of rumba spill from corner bars, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Cuba’s rich musical tapestry.
As the birthplace of the son — the precursor to salsa — Santiago de Cuba pulsates with musical energy. This city, steeped in revolutionary history and Afro-Cuban culture, is best known for its annual Carnaval: a riotous celebration of dance, drums, and colourful parades. Visit the Casa de la Trova, where musicians gather to serenade visitors with traditional tunes, or delve into Cuba’s storied past at the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic coastal views.
Stretching over 20 kilometres along Cuba’s northern coast, Varadero offers one of the Caribbean’s best beachfronts. Its pristine white sands and crystalline waters are the very epitome of tropical paradise. Visitors can lounge under the shade of palm trees, indulge in water sports, or simply bask in the warm Cuban sun. The nearby Parque Josone, with its lush gardens and tranquil lake, provides a serene contrast to the beach’s vibrant energy.
4. Explore the Historical Depths of Trinidad
A jewel of colonial architecture, Trinidad is akin to an open-air museum, preserving the grandeur of 18th-century Spanish Cuba. Its cobbled streets, flanked by terracotta-roofed buildings and wrought-iron grilles, lead to bustling squares where local artisans peddle their wares. The Palacio Cantero, with its striking neoclassical architecture, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. As evening falls, the steps of the Plaza Mayor come alive with local musicians and dancers, reflecting Trinidad’s indomitable spirit.
Nestled in western Cuba, the Viñales Valley is a verdant landscape of limestone cliffs, traditional tobacco farms, and underground caves. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this region showcases Cuba’s agrarian roots, with farmers employing centuries-old methods to cultivate the tobacco used in the country’s famed cigars. Embark on a horseback ride through the valley, explore the depths of the Cueva del Indio, or simply soak in the panoramic views from the Mogote del Valle viewpoint, embracing the natural beauty of this Cuban gem.
Travel Resources
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