Cuba

Population:

11.5 million

Island size:

110, 860 sq km

Money:

Cuba has two currencies; Cuban convertible peso (CUC) and Cuban peso (CUP also known as moneda nacional, MN).

As a tourist you will be using CUC, as this is they currency used by all hotels, taxis, museums, restaurants, and for luxury goods such as cigars, rum, etc. You can exchange foreign currencies into CUC at exchange houses (casa de cambio, or cadeca). These are located in many hotels and in other places throughout the cities. Note that US dollars are no longer accepted in Cuba and you will be charged a 10% fine for exchanging them.

You can exchange your CUC for CUP in Cuba. They go a lot further if you're on a budget, but as a tourist you'll find they can only be used for a limited range of goods in markets or street vendors.

Language:

Spanish. Basic English is spoken in resorts but it is beneficial to have some basic Spanish especially if you are staying in a homestay.

Keeping in touch:

The international access code for Cuba is + 53. Some internet cafes exist but website are censored. Expect to be starved of printed information in Cuba. The state control media and western newspapers are not available.

Entry:

All visitors from the UK require a tourist card visa. They cost £15, can be bought in the airport on arrival and are valid for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions of 30 extra days are available in Cuba. There is also a departure tax of CUC 25 which is often forgotten!

Health Tips:

It is advised that you stick to bottled water as the tap water may cause stomach upsets. Obtain health insurance before travelling and it is wise to double check which vaccinations you may require at the time of travel.

Hurricanes:

Hurricane season runs between June and November. Early warnings are often issued if a hurricane looks like it will hit Cuba.

Safety:

Cuba is well known for its jinteros (touts) be prepared to say 'no thank you' firmly but politely to avoid getting tied up. After night falls the lack of street lighting in Cuban cities can make westerners feel uneasy, however on the whole Cuba is a safe destination, although crime rates have been increasing. Common sense applies; don't flash your valuables, and keep your wits about you.