Tips on Traveling to Cuba
There are some useful tips to remember when traveling to Cuba, which will help you make your experience as pleasant and as memorable as possible.
When packing for your trip, you will need to take into account at what time of the year you are going to visit Cuba. Because of Cuba’s warm, tropical climate, cotton and other light fabrics are would be best for your outdoor activities while on the island. Take along light clothing for your Cuba Vacation Package, such as shorts, cotton and flannel outfits and sandals. You shouldn’t worry about being indoors much, as you will find that most hotels, restaurants, tour buses and other public areas are generally air conditioned. For a winter vacation in Cuba, take along a light overcoat, a light jacket or fine wool sweater and comfortable closed shoes, which you will need mainly at night. This is because Cuba tends to be cooler at this time of the year. If you are visiting between May and October, bring along rain gear or an umbrella, as this is Cuba’s rainy season.
Generally, a casual dressing style will fit in well with the style of Cuban people. However, if you intend to do some elegant dining, theater and other sophisticated entertainment, you might want to dress up more formally. Do not forget to carry sunglasses, a bathing-suit and sunscreen to protect you from the harsh Cuban sun whose ultraviolet rays can burn skin.
If you are taking along electrical equipment, you should note that Cuba’s electricity is 110 volts, 60Hz, although most hotels and resorts have 220 volts. Their electrical outlets accept flat plug prongs. Be sure to check whether you will require an adapter or converter if you are taking along an electrical appliance.
As long as you remember the saying – when in Rome… you should be fine anywhere you go, including Cuba. There are some customs and regulations that you should be aware of before traveling to Cuba. No weapons, explosives or pornographic magazines are allowed in Cuba. Also prohibited are any articles, including literature, which go against the security and internal procedure of Cuba.
Visitors entering from the United States, either directly or from a third country are not allowed to bring in videocassette players. Tourist are allowed to bring in two bottles of liquor, one carton of cigarettes, photographic and video cameras, personal belongings and jewels, typewriters, sports and fishing gear – all tax free. You may also take along up to 10 kilos of medicines in their original packaging duty free, as well as gifts of a value of up to $250 US. Of this, $50 is duty-free, while the rest is 100 per cent taxable.
Before you are admitted into Cuba, you will be required to present a valid passport or a trip document stating your name and the corresponding visa or Tourist Card. Visitors from countries that Cuba maintains Free Visa agreements with are exempted from this requirement. You may be required to present your Tourist Card at the consulates.