Wande Wanders

The Basics

Where to go

When to travel

Visa Information

Where to go

Havana + Viñales
are a M U S T.

(zoom to see map)

There is an incredible amount of history and culture everywhere you go in Cuba, so you can't really go wrong when choosing which cities to visit. Most travelers fly into the capital, Havana, then branch out from there. Havana is the epicenter of life in Cuba with music, history, and smiling faces around every turn. And when you're ready to escape the bustle, I HIGHLY recommend venturing out to the Valle de Viñales. More on Viñales later.

When to go

It's best to travel during the dry season.

There are really only two seasons in Cuba: wet and dry. Fortunately, you can expect relatively warm temperatures all year round, however to avoid the rain it's better to schedule your travel plans at the beginning of the year when the weather is driest. This time frame also makes Cuba the perfect escape from frigid temps during the winter.

Visa Information

Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Many travelers stress over acquiring a Tourist Visa when travelling to Cuba, but there is absolutely no need. Obtaining a travel visa is a fairly straightforward and simple process that can usually be done at the departure gate before your flight. *breathes sigh of relief*
Depending on which country you are traveling from and the which airline, the cost of the Tourist Visa will either be included in the cost of your flight or a seperate charge (~ $50).

WiFi & Internet

Just forget about it & be present :)

Finding Wi-Fi in Cuba is tough. The government restricts & controls access, so it's best to be prepared and not expect to rely on it too much. If you MUST use Wi-Fi here are a few options:

1) Purchase an ETECSA prepaid card from an office or hotel. The rate is $2/hr.
2) Visit an Internet Cafe. The rate is $6-10/hr.
3) Some major hotels have a slow desktop computer for use, however there is usually a line... and a fee.

Currency Exchange

1 USD = 1 CUP

Cash is king in Cuba, so it's important to understand how their currency works before travelling. There are two primary currencies: Cuban Peso Nacional (CUP) for locals and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) for foreigners. You can exchange your money at the airport or Cadeca around the city. All currencies have a 3% exchange fee. US Dollars have an additional 10% tax on exchanging them. For example, 100 USD will get you 87 CUC with the 10% tax and 3% fee. For Credit & Debit Cards: No credit card associated with an American bank can be used while in Cuba. There are very few exceptions to this and travellers should travel with cash to exchange in hand.

One last important note: Make sure that the money you recieve matches what is printed on your reciept. It's not uncommon for tellers to 'miscount'.

Transportation

Hailing a cab is good. Walking is even better.

Everyone has seen those quentesstial colorful 50's vintage cars that drive around Cuba. However, there are many ways to get around in Cuba, let's break them down:

1) Classic Taxis - A common sight, it's easy to hail one of these down by just standing on the side of the road you want to go and raising your hand.
2) Bicitaxis - Open bikes that seat 2 and are perfect for squeezing through tight Havana streets. (~0.80 CUC/km)
3) CoCo Taxis - Resembling yellow helmets, these open-air wacky taxis are targeted at tourists and seat 2 to 3. (~0.50 CUC/km)
4) Almendrones - Similar to Uber Pool, these taxis drive along pre-set routes and are used by heavily by locals. (~1 CUC/ride)
5) Bus - The buses, run by Viazul, are safe and realiable with adequate AC.

Remember: Always ask and negotiate your fare price before getting in your taxi.
Pro Tip: Befriend a taxi driver, especially if you're driving alot. You'll typically get a better price this way.

Packing Essentials

SPF. Face Mask. Repellant.

It can be difficult to locate bare essentials in Cuba so it's best to make sure you include these items in your luggage.
SPF: The sun can be very harsh depending on the time of year. Travel with SPF 30 or higher.
Face Mask: Air pollution on the roads in Havana is heavy. To aid your respiratory system consider packing a mask.
Repellant: Cause bug bites are no fun.
Medications: Even over-the-counter pills like Tylenol and Ibuprofen can be hard to find.
Toilet Tissue: Never hurts to have a spare roll, especially for public restrooms.

What to do

Tour the Vinales countryside

Stroll through Old Havana

Salsa at Fabrica de Arte

Admire the Fusterlandia Mosaics

Museo de la Revolucion

Airbnb Experiences

Upon arrival, getting settled into Cuba can feel a bit frustrating and difficult, but just wait… because this place really grows on you. From the colorful colonial architecture of Havana to the lush green valleys in the countryside of Vinales, there is so much to see and experience. Not to mention, the islands Afro-Carribean culture and revolutionary history will leave you in awe and curious to learn more. I could write a novel on all there is to do across the island, but here are some must-do items that should be on every Cuba bucket list.

things to know ...

In a nutshell, Cuba is pretty lit.

Upon arrival, getting settled can feel a bit frustrating and difficult, but just wait… because this place really grows on you. From the colorful colonial architecture of Havana to the lush green valleys in the countryside of Vinales, there is so much to see and experience. Not to mention, the islands Afro-Carribean culture and revolutionary history will leave you in awe and curious to learn more. I could write a novel on all there is to do across the island, but here are some must-do items that should be on every Cuba bucket list.

MILLER ASSOCIATES
1960 W CHELSEA AVE STE 2006
RALLENTOWN PA 18104

Valle de Vinales

MILLER ASSOCIATES
1960 W CHELSEA AVE STE 2006
RALLENTOWN PA 18104

Location

Vinales

(~2 hrs from Havana)

highlights

Horseback Riding. Authentic Food. Rum. Cuban Cigars. Tobacco Fields.