I visited Cuba for the first time in 2017. I arrived having done a lot of research, but surprisingly it was very different from what I expected in many ways. It’s such a unique country and culture; getting your head around what to expect is tough if you’ve never been there. For all the research I’d done, I found that the images and preconceptions I carried were filled with misunderstandings and misconceptions.
Myth: Cuba is cheap
Many people imagine Cuba as a budget-friendly destination, picturing cheap digs, inexpensive cigars, rum, and exceptional low-cost cuisine. While certain aspects of traveling in Cuba can be affordable, it’s much more expensive than many believe. While you can find cheap rooms, you will get what you pay for, and a moderate hotel will set you back $100 a night, while something with a little bit of luxury can easily be three times that price. Food and drink can also be pricey, and you should budget a minimum of $10 per meal (and that’s for a low-budget meal) and at least double that for nicer eats. Even the cigars will cost you $5 for a cheap single, and a box of half-decent Cohibas will set you back $200+.
Truth: There’s a Dual Currency System
Cuba operates on a dual currency system: the Cuban Peso (CUP), used by locals, and the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), typically used by tourists. This is a dual-pricing country and the reason behind its high tourist prices. When you sit in a local eatery and receive a bill close to $20 for a small rice meal and a glass of Mojito, you can be sure you are paying as much as 4-10x what the locals are for the same.
Myth: Cuba is Unsafe
Cuba is often portrayed as a dangerous country due to its political history, and when you walk around on your first night, seeing dimly lit streets with large groups of locals hanging around on beach walls and doorways, it can seem intimidating. However, it’s one of the safest tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Violent crime is rare, and tourists are generally safe walking around at all hours. Of course, petty theft can occur anywhere, so it’s always wise to take obvious precautions, but generally, the people are extremely friendly and welcoming.
Truth: Internet Access is Limited
Limited is actually putting it nicely, it’s close to non-existent. Tourists aren’t allowed to buy local sims, and there is no roaming access for international sims. Few hotels have wifi (and the ones that do charge as much as $10 for 10 mins), and the internet cafes can have queues lasting several hours just to gain access. One tip is to hire a taxi driver to be your guide for the day and ask them to get a local internet card that they can tether to you. Better yet, use your trip to Cuba as a digital detox!
Myth: Cubans Dislike Americans
Despite political tensions between the US and Cuban governments, Cubans generally distinguish between a country’s government and its people. Most Cubans are warm, friendly, and curious about visitors worldwide, including those from the U.S.. I can confirm that, as I travelled around Havana with an American, and most locals were eager to talk to him about boxing and baseball.
Truth: You’ll Need Health Insurance
To be fair, you shouldn’t travel to any foreign country without good health coverage, but that is especially true for Cuba. Cuba requires all visitors to have health insurance that covers medical expenses in Cuba. Many travellers are unaware of this, and some even have coverage, but it doens’t cover Cuba. Make sure to have a policy which covers Cuba for the full length of your trip, and have a copy of it to show immigration on entry.
Myth: There’s Little to See Outside Havana
While Havana is a must-visit city, Cuba has so much more to offer. From the colonial charm of Trinidad to the natural beauty of Viñales Valley (including many of the famous tobacco plantations) and the white sand beaches of Varadero (and some first-class beach resorts), there’s a wealth of sights to explore beyond the capital.
As I first said, despite this, you still have to prepare yourself for the unexpected when heading to Cuba. None of this should act to deter you or give you any concerns, as a trip to Cuba will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience which you won’t forget.
