CUBA CHECKLIST

  • BRING CUBAN CUC ONLY!  There are no ATM machines in Cuba and most places do not accept US credit/debit cards.  You must exchange money (in the US for better conversion.)  You can attempt to exchange your money at a local bank or exchange center.  A suggestion of $125 per day is recommended as Cuba is relatively inexpensive.  This will include tours, food, drinks, etc.  Bargain for everything!  If they say $20, bargain for $10.  They want/need tourism dollars.  It is also recommended that you bring small bills ($1, $5 and $10) as oppose to large dollars which will be better when bargaining and tipping.  

  • Everyone MUST apply for a Visa to enter Cuba.  The airline that you will travel should provide you with a link to purchase the visa. The costs is $50 (via Southwest Airline).  So, make sure you inquire about the cost based on your airline. Once your flight is booked, you should receive another email requesting additional information about your travel to Cuba. The reason we are entering Cuba is “TO SUPPORT THE CUBAN PEOPLE.”  The Visa is required to enter the country since they do not stamp our passport book.  If flying Southwest, you can do this in advance OR simply at the ticket counter when you check in on the day of travel.  If you are flying Southwest, please click this link https://cubavisaservices.com/product/sw-visa-card/.  If you are flying American Airlines, please purchase in advance by clicking this link https://cubavisaservices.com/product/aa-visa-card/. 

  • Pack your favorite bottle of liquor (wrap bubble wrap and then your beach towel) and your own snacks (Doritos, chips, cookies).  Cuba doesn’t have all the snacks that we are accustomed to in the US.  Liquor and snacks are for our own private pool late nights when the bars ad food venues are closed.

  • Please, please please make sure you exchange your USD to CUC - CUBAN CONVERTIBLE PESO (not CUP) at least two weeks prior to the trip.  If you are going through your bank to exchange, you should order at least two weeks ahead since it can take up to 7 days.  If you are going to Thomas Exchange Global (or any money exchange store located in the malls), you can walk right up and receive same day.  Remember to have more smaller bills than large ($1, $5, $10 and $20).  Do not exchange at the airport in Cuba as the lines are ridiculously long! 

  • Please make sure you pack the following:

- comfortable walking shoes/sneakers

- bathing suits

- sun block

- sun hats

- long comfortable pants for the Vinales tour

- sunglasses

- snacks for the house/beach

- wrap your favorite bottle of liquor for the house/beach

- beach bag