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Travel to Cuba is like being on a rollercoaster ride: full of contrasts and baffling dichotomies, there is no moment in which you won't feel intoxicated (and perhaps a little frustrated).  
Cuba is, in essence, indefinable.  It needs to be seen firsthand to be understood, yet I still walked away scratching my head, nonplussed by the country that seems to be indefinitely wrapped in a time warp.  
Go, work through it for yourselves and perhaps see why the Marxist Dictatorship - a stone's throw from US shores - is so beguiling and frequently misunderstood.  I hope this brief overview of Cuba has started to unravel some of the mystery for you. 
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Things to Know Before Travelling to Cuba


Facts

Capital: Havana 

Population: 11,330,000 (2023)

Language: Spanish is the official language of Cuba, and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. There are also various regional dialects and indigenous languages spoken by smaller groups.

Currency: Cuban Peso (CUP) and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC)

Visas

For most international travellers visiting Cuba, a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card, is required. The specific visa requirements can vary depending on your country of origin. 

Visitors should have a passport valid for at least six months from their planned departure from Cuba and should also provide proof of return or onward travel.

Non-U.S. medical insurance is required, and visitors should ensure they have sufficient funds and accommodation arrangements.

It's important to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling to Cuba. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult the official travel or embassy websites of your home country or Cuba.

Best time to visit

Cuba experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, making the best time to visit dependent on your interests and activities.

Dry Season (November to April):

Considered the best time to visit for clear skies and comfortable temperatures. Ideal for beach activities, exploring cities, and outdoor adventures.

Peak tourist season, especially from December to March.

Wet Season (May to October):

Characterised by higher humidity, heat, and frequent rainfall, especially in the afternoons.

The lush green landscapes are at their most vibrant, and it's a great time for nature enthusiasts. Less crowded, offering a more authentic experience and potentially lower prices.

Each season offers unique experiences: the dry season is perfect for enjoying Cuba's famed beaches and cultural sites, while the wet season offers lush scenery and fewer tourists.



Top Things to Do in Cuba


Stroll Through Habana Vieja

Explore the historic heart of Havana, featuring colourful colonial architecture, vibrant street life, and important landmarks. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich history and culture.

Visit Varadero Beach

Experience one of Cuba's most famous beaches, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores. Varadero offers a range of water sports and luxury resorts.

Tour the Viñales Valley

Discover the stunning landscapes of Viñales Valley, known for its tobacco farms, traditional agriculture, and unique limestone formations (mogotes).

Explore Trinidad

A well-preserved colonial town, Trinidad is known for its cobblestone streets, historical buildings, and vibrant cultural scene.

See Che Guevara Mausoleum

Visit the memorial dedicated to the revolutionary Che Guevara, featuring a museum and mausoleum in his honor.

Dance Salsa

Immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of salsa in its birthplace. Santiago de Cuba offers an authentic Cuban music and dance experience.



Prices in Cuba


Accommodation

20-30 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) per night (approximately US$20-$30)(budget guesthouse or casa particular)

60-80 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) per night (approximately US$60-$80)(midrange hotel)

Food & Drink

14-24 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) (approximately US$7-$12) per person (basic meal in a restaurant or street food)

50-130 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) (approximately US$25-$65) per person (midrange restaurant meal)

Transportation

3-5 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) (approximately US$3-$5)(short taxi ride)

0.5-2 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) (approximately US$0.50-$2)(short bus ride)

Activities

80-120 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) per person (approximately US$80-$120)(city tour of Havana in a classic car)

120-240 CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) per person (approximately US$120-$240)(scuba diving in Maria la Gorda for a single immersion)


Articles about Cuba


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