Idiots Guide to Cuba for Tourists
If you really are new to learning about Cuba from a tourist point of view, then let us keep it simple and talk about the very basics of what you can expect if visiting as a tourist.
Is it safe to visit Cuba?
Given the media coverage of Cuba and the mention of communism and dictatorships, you can be forgiven for asking if Cuba is safe or unsafe to visit as a tourist.
Cuba is actually statistically one of the safest places to visit in the Caribbean!
Crime in relative terms is very low and, if anything, if you are worried about crime when you choose a holiday, Cuba is one of the best options.
You still need to be aware of petty criminals such as pickpockets but much less so that in a place such as Barcelona, Spain.
Why should I visit Cuba?
Personally, I think that Cuba is a truly fascinating place (and not just because I write about Cuba).
A country that has a stunningly unique situation in that it is stuck in the past and yet has so much potential for its future (given its fantastic location in the Caribbean but with close connections to other islands and the USA with it being very close to the port of Miami).
The island is steeped in history and where else can you see 1960s cars being driven around as the main form of transport.
It is a living museum. Cuba is also surrounded by a stunning coastline, benefits from the Caribbean weather, and, combined with what for me is one of the best international cuisines (after Italy), this is a great holiday location.
What about Cuban people? Are they friendly?
The people, despite the difficulties they have faced in the past i.e. through poverty (and which many are still facing), are lively and noticeably passionate people.
Live music and dance are a common feature in many cafes, bars, and restaurants for example, here in the heart of Havana, and it is always lively and a way in which the Cuban people always seem happy to use as a form of expression.
What is there to See in Cuba?
There is a lot to see and it really depends on what your interest in visiting Cuba is, as to what it is best to suggest.
If you are a cultural tourist, then make sure to allocate at least three days for Havana.
You could in fact easily spend one or two weeks in Havana and still have things left to do and see, because there are several decent museums, art galleries, and historical attractions to see.
If you simply want a beach vacation, then head over to Varadero or a location such as Cayo Coco and you can enjoy a true white sandy Caribbean beach, high-class hotels linked to the beach, and excellent service.
Many people come to the island for the beaches and great weather and are not especially interested in the history and Havana.
Cuba is whatever you want it to be.
Personally, I love it all and I really love Havana because of the live jazz and Latin music and I love the local foods and am known to enjoy the odd mojito.
Anything Worth Doing There on Holiday?
For beach lovers, apart from hanging out on the beach or poolside by the hotel and reading a book, outdoor activities such as diving, scuba diving, snorkeling, and jet-skiing are very popular.
The islands are great for other activities also such as for bird-watching excursions and, for those of you interested in rural tourism, the Vinales Valleys are stunning.
In the valleys, you can spend the day horse riding, visit the caves and explore the green pastures hiking and meet the locals in the smaller towns.
You could easily spend two weeks in Havana alternatively, and enjoy the various bars, restaurants, shops, museums and just take in the Cuban culture.
What is Cuba famous for apart from the embargo?
It is a fair question because everything one seems to read in the print media about Cuba is always to do with Castro and the trade embargo and to do with politics.
Cuba though is also famous for its cigars, its very vibrant dance and music styles, and for having one of the best literacy rates in the world.
Where is Cuba?
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean region and situated just north of the Cayman Islands and Jamaica, and just south of Miami, USA, and the Bahamas.
How can I get to Cuba?
It does, of course, depend on where you are traveling from, particularly given that there are still restrictions on many Americans traveling from the U.S. to Cuba.
Canadians can travel freely as can Europeans. From a country such as the UK, many travel holiday companies offer flights and packages to Havana and the coastal resort areas in Cuba.
You often also have the choice of a multi-center trip and this I recommend highly if you want to get a brief introduction to the culture, but also want to have some quality beach time.
By a multi-center trip it means that you will fly into a city such as Havana, you will be provided 3 nights accommodation there in the capital, and then transfer to a resort area such as Varadero.
You will be transferred by coach and a hotel will be provided for whatever time you have remaining on your holiday, i.e. 4 nights in a top hotel in Varadero.
For flights only, from the UK, Virgin Airways and Air Europa both provide flights to Cuba.
Where else in Cuba is good that you have not yet mentioned?
The island has a rich history, which can be seen throughout the capital of Havana, but other cities such as Santiago De Cuba are great to see!
The island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and tropical resorts; the island has become a haven for wedding parties and honeymooners the world over and Santiago De Cuba is popular in this respect.
Also, consider Guardalavaca if you are a family or group, Cayo Guillermo and Cayo Largo are great areas.
At the southern tip of the island, lies the port city of Santiago de Cuba, famous for its coastal fortresses – the Castillo del Morro and the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca – and for being a fantastic location for scuba diving and boat tours.
The Pinar del Rio province at the western tip of the island is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its picturesque mountain regions and white sandy beaches; it is popular with hikers, rock climbers and scuba divers.
Havana, as well as larger cities such as Santiago De Cuba, is renowned for having lively and friendly nightlife.
Many clubs around the city come alive at night, offering the chance to enjoy vibrant Latin music and enjoy a bit of salsa dancing.
Salsa classes are widely available throughout the city, should you fancy learning a few moves during your trip to the city.
Whether you’re looking to explore Cuba’s rich history by touring the city of Havana, follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway on a tour of the island or relax in one of the many luxury resorts along the coasts, Cuba is certainly one to consider for a Caribbean excursion.
