Holla compañeros, compañeras!
Je veux aller à Baracoa à partir de Holguin ou de Santiago de Cuba.
Quel serait le meilleur moyen ? Le taxi, le bus, l'avion, la location de voiture, le chameau...
Mucho Gracias.
Pierre
Original post
Holguin-Baracoa: meilleur moyen de transport?
by Pedrault
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Baracoa, la perle cachée de l' Oriente, est très difficile d'accès pour les cubains, très peu vont dans cette partie de l'ile. Je connais le coin pour l'avoir visité avec les parents, une page de l'histoire cubaine s'y est écrit autour de la Rusa...
1 -a part la location de voiture je ne vois pas trop ?
2 - au départ de Holguin la ville (pas le resort Guardalavaca) possibilité de trouver un taxi particular
les deux devraient arriver au même prix, 200 CUC sur 3 jours avec l'essence incluse
la route via Moa est simplement infernale, la route sud est plus agréable mais plus longue.
1 -a part la location de voiture je ne vois pas trop ?
2 - au départ de Holguin la ville (pas le resort Guardalavaca) possibilité de trouver un taxi particular
les deux devraient arriver au même prix, 200 CUC sur 3 jours avec l'essence incluse
la route via Moa est simplement infernale, la route sud est plus agréable mais plus longue.
Merci de ton aide Chris,
Autres petites questions :
J'ai déjà loué une moto à Holguin jamais de voiture. Je crois que je vais passer par le Sud à partir de Holguin (Santiago-Guantanamo) pour aller à Baracoa. Lors de mes promenades en moto, je me suis cogné le nez sur des stations d'essences qui me refusait de l'essence prétextant que c'était pour les Cubains. As-tu eu ce genre de problème sur ce trajet ? Combien me coûterait la location d'une voiture pour une semaine ?
A part ça, il a fait -25 Celcius tous les matins cette semaine à Montréal mais il me reste six bananes avant mon départ.
Mil gracias.
Pedrault
Autres petites questions :
J'ai déjà loué une moto à Holguin jamais de voiture. Je crois que je vais passer par le Sud à partir de Holguin (Santiago-Guantanamo) pour aller à Baracoa. Lors de mes promenades en moto, je me suis cogné le nez sur des stations d'essences qui me refusait de l'essence prétextant que c'était pour les Cubains. As-tu eu ce genre de problème sur ce trajet ? Combien me coûterait la location d'une voiture pour une semaine ?
A part ça, il a fait -25 Celcius tous les matins cette semaine à Montréal mais il me reste six bananes avant mon départ.
Mil gracias.
Pedrault
oublie la moto pour les longs trajets !! les stations d'essence CUPET vendent, en devises CUC, aux touristes. (extrait info In conjunction with the conglomerate Cimex, it operates a chain of filling stations selling gasoline in convertible pesos.)
les stations cubaines vendent exclusivement aux cubains suivant des methodes qui nous échappent...
pour une location de voiture : caution 200 CUC par carte de crédit (parait il pas obligatoire mais on a toujours fait avec) environ 60 CUC par jour assurance incluse, on paye le premier plein au départ environ 50CUC et on rend la voiture vide ou presque car ce qui est dedans est perdu... donc cout global environ 500 CUC carburant inclus pour ta promenade en une semaine.
(un conducteur only, deux c'est 3-4 CUC x 7 en plus)
Cupet http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cupet un exemple ci dessous du reseau :
http://www.cubaoui.com/essence-cuba.htm
les stations cubaines vendent exclusivement aux cubains suivant des methodes qui nous échappent...
pour une location de voiture : caution 200 CUC par carte de crédit (parait il pas obligatoire mais on a toujours fait avec) environ 60 CUC par jour assurance incluse, on paye le premier plein au départ environ 50CUC et on rend la voiture vide ou presque car ce qui est dedans est perdu... donc cout global environ 500 CUC carburant inclus pour ta promenade en une semaine.
(un conducteur only, deux c'est 3-4 CUC x 7 en plus)
Cupet http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cupet un exemple ci dessous du reseau :
http://www.cubaoui.com/essence-cuba.htm
Le meilleur moyen pour aller a Baracoa c< est l<autobus tu prend un billet holguin Santiago de Cuba et de la tu en prend un autre pour Baracoa.
le voyage prend 5 heures de santiago a Baracoa. et la tu pourras louer une moto facilement.
Hotel la Rusa Baracoa
Voici une photo que j<ai prise de la baie de Baracoa et une autre des pluies
intenses que tu rencontreras . Sur la rue tu verras des ruisseaux rouge quant il tombe averse.....
Merci pour vos réponses.
Par le bus, ça me semble le moyen le moins cher mais le plus long puisqu'il faudrait prévoir 2 jours aller et 2 jours pour le retour. Si je ne parviens pas à synchroniser les deux bus plus une couple de journées pour s'en remettre et je viens de me faire la moitié de mes quinze jours.
Je pense finalement louer une voiture question d'arrêter et de prendre des photos en cours de route et hacer pipi dans les faussets des routes à Fidel!
Hasta luego.
Pedro que Ruedo
Par le bus, ça me semble le moyen le moins cher mais le plus long puisqu'il faudrait prévoir 2 jours aller et 2 jours pour le retour. Si je ne parviens pas à synchroniser les deux bus plus une couple de journées pour s'en remettre et je viens de me faire la moitié de mes quinze jours.
Je pense finalement louer une voiture question d'arrêter et de prendre des photos en cours de route et hacer pipi dans les faussets des routes à Fidel!
Hasta luego.
Pedro que Ruedo
en voiture de loc en s'y prenant bien on peut faire le trajet dans la journée par la route sud et en partant au lever du jour, genre 6 h du matin d' Holguin ville (ou de Baracoa au retour) tu peux consacrer quelques heures à la visite de Santiago, ce sera sportif mais jouable.
Guantanamo ne présente aucun interêt notable, on traverse en passant
la route Sud est bonne, la route nord via Moa est excecrable... mais plus courte
avec la famille nous avons fait les deux, arrivée par le sud et repartir par le nord, on en a bavé
on peut aussi viser direct Guantanamo sans passer par Santiago, je ne connais pas cet itinéraire mais sur la carte ce n'est pas une grande route....on tourne à droite 40 km avant Moa, cap au Sud via Bayate
remplis la voiture dès que tu vois une station service Cupet, ne jamais descendre en dessous d'un demi plein dans le secteur sud-est car c'est quand meme très désolé et pauvre :
à Baracoa tu risques d'être une des trois ou quatre voitures du coin avec des plaques touristiques, pour te dire !
l'endroit vaut le déplacement, bon séjour dans l' Oriente. la spécialité de Baracoa c'est le chocolat.
Guantanamo ne présente aucun interêt notable, on traverse en passant
la route Sud est bonne, la route nord via Moa est excecrable... mais plus courte
avec la famille nous avons fait les deux, arrivée par le sud et repartir par le nord, on en a bavé
on peut aussi viser direct Guantanamo sans passer par Santiago, je ne connais pas cet itinéraire mais sur la carte ce n'est pas une grande route....on tourne à droite 40 km avant Moa, cap au Sud via Bayate
remplis la voiture dès que tu vois une station service Cupet, ne jamais descendre en dessous d'un demi plein dans le secteur sud-est car c'est quand meme très désolé et pauvre :
à Baracoa tu risques d'être une des trois ou quatre voitures du coin avec des plaques touristiques, pour te dire !
l'endroit vaut le déplacement, bon séjour dans l' Oriente. la spécialité de Baracoa c'est le chocolat.
Gracias aún para tu respuesta viajecuba!
C'est par le sud que je veux passer, justement pour faire une halte à Santigo de quelques heures ou quelques jours à l'aller ou au retour.
Tant qu'à y être, est-ce que tu connaîtrais une bonne casa particulare à Baracoa, si oui, est-ce préférable de louer d'avance.
Je pourrais amener des choses là-bas. Tu as des suggestions ?
Compris, je n'amènerai pas de chocolat...
Merci.
C'est par le sud que je veux passer, justement pour faire une halte à Santigo de quelques heures ou quelques jours à l'aller ou au retour.
Tant qu'à y être, est-ce que tu connaîtrais une bonne casa particulare à Baracoa, si oui, est-ce préférable de louer d'avance.
Je pourrais amener des choses là-bas. Tu as des suggestions ?
Compris, je n'amènerai pas de chocolat...
Merci.
le breton (francais) marié à une cubaine que nous connaissions est parti faire "casa" au Costa Rica, je n'ai pas d autres pistes mais il y en a pour sur !
Baracoa, fin du monde à Cuba, se sent un peu oublié de tous, d après la sensation que nous en avions eu de la part des cubains... tout fera plaisir ; il y a une permanence des peintres et intellectuels de la région, nous avions parlé avec eux ; un livre "classique", une revue en francais fera toujours plaisir
et puis tu pourras entendre parler de la Rusa, quasiment une légende de la révolution !
Baracoa, fin du monde à Cuba, se sent un peu oublié de tous, d après la sensation que nous en avions eu de la part des cubains... tout fera plaisir ; il y a une permanence des peintres et intellectuels de la région, nous avions parlé avec eux ; un livre "classique", une revue en francais fera toujours plaisir
et puis tu pourras entendre parler de la Rusa, quasiment une légende de la révolution !
Bonjour Chris,
Je suis finalement revenu de mon périple de deux semaines à Cuba et des mes émotions mais il m'en reste encore dans mes valises...
Je te raconte un peu le voyage, ça peut servir à d'autres.
J'ai loué une voiture (avec une réservation de 2 jours d’avance) à Holguin à 58$ CUC pour une semaine avec possibilité de prolongement si on avise 24 heures d’avance. Attention le numéro de téléphone est sur une ligne payante et si vous ne faites pas l’appel d’un hotel vous ne pourrez pas. Je crois que les numéros pour les problèmes mécaniques ou accidents ont la même propriété.
Première journée, je pars pour Santiago de Cuba, je prends des Cubains qui attendent l’autobus ou un camion. Souvent des femmes, des ouvriers, je mélange un peu qui je prends questions de sécurité. Ils sont gentils, aiment rire, certains hommes veulent me payer le passage surpris que je les aie pris.
Bayamo. Je prends une jeune femme avec d’autres passagers. Les autres passagers descendent à leur destination, la jeune femme me demande si elle peut continuer jusqu’à Santiago. Elle m’amène jusqu’à une casa particular, on va dîner et prendre un verre dans un bar de Salsa. Je n’ai pas pris la voiture mais je ne l’ai pas garé dans l’entrée protégée de la casa, je l’ai laissé sur la rue devant la casa.
On revient vers deux heures du matin, la serrure de la voiture a été forcée et la radio et le lecteur de CD se sont envolés. Demain, je vais appeler l’assurance et la police. Je pense fortement que je vais payer cette radio. La nuit se passe bien.
Le lendemain, j’appelle l’assurance. Un gars arrive en moto, c’est le gars de l’assurance. Bonne nouvelle, il semble que je ne suis pas responsable parce que l’auto était garé devant la casa. Si j’avais été en ville, comme au parc Cepédes comme on m’a posé la question à plusieurs reprises, j’aurai payé la radio et les réparations de la serrure. C’est certains que les 230 pesos CUC laissés en dépôt ferait partie de mes frais de voyage…
Ensuite, arrive un policier du ministère de l’Intérieur, qui prend toutes les empruntes digitales sur la voiture. Ensuite, arrive deux autres policiers qui m’ont interrogé sur la soirée du vol, ou j’étais allé (m’ont pas demandé si j’étais seul, mais c’est sûr que là j’aurais menti pour la sécurité de la jeune femme), sur ce que je faisais dans la vie, si j’étais marié, où je travaillais, combien de temps je suis à Cuba et combien de fois, etc. Trois pages. Ensuite, arrive deux autres policiers, qui eux interrogent le propriétaire de la casa particular. Trois pages également. Ce qui fait 6 pages de rapport, 5 policiers mobilisés et le représentant de l’assurance pour une radio-cd. J’ai adoré cette expérience parce qu’il pleuvait un peu et que ça me faisait faire du tourisme bureaucratique mais si cela se produisait une deuxième fois, je ne sais pas si je trouvais ça si intéressant…
Finalement, l’agence RENT CAR VIA, me déniche une autre voiture à leur agence de Santiago puisqu’il y a trop de réparation à faire. Je suis chanceux c’est la seule qui est en ordre. Les autres capout!
Trois jours plus tard, je quitte pour Baracoa. Tout se passe bien, sauf qu’il y a beaucoup de contrôles policiers sur les routes. Les Cubains que j’ai pris, sont terrifiés à chaque fois. Les policiers prennent un air austère, certains crachent par terre avant de m’adresser la parole. Je ne me sens pas menacer par contre, mes passagers oui. On m’explique qu’un Cubain qui n’est pas dans sa province surtout si elle est cubaine avec un étranger fait mieux de n’avoir été enregistrée dans une Casa particular avec un autre étranger dans l’année même si elle est majeure.
Pour le reste, tout se passe bien, il ne fait pas très beau mais j’aime mieux ça comme ça pour faire de la route. Baracoa, c’est gentil, mais il y a beaucoup de touristes qui sont attirés par son isolement tellement qu’on se croirait dans une destination touristique normale. La maison de la Culture est intéressante, les jeunes le sont un peu moins, du genre à te demander une gorgé de ta bière si t’a accepté qu’ils s’assoient avec toi…
Finalement, avec un retour tout aussi amusant à prendre des Cubains sur la route et les non moins amusants contrôles policiers, le reste du voyage c’est super bien passé après avoir revu la jeune femme et maintenant mi amiga à Bayamo.
Voilà tu sais tout, on presque.
Pedro que ruedo como una piedra que ruada sobre la carratera.
Un petit tour d'horizon http://www.enter-net.com/~plegaul1/cuba/DSCN1858.MOV
Je suis finalement revenu de mon périple de deux semaines à Cuba et des mes émotions mais il m'en reste encore dans mes valises...
Je te raconte un peu le voyage, ça peut servir à d'autres.
J'ai loué une voiture (avec une réservation de 2 jours d’avance) à Holguin à 58$ CUC pour une semaine avec possibilité de prolongement si on avise 24 heures d’avance. Attention le numéro de téléphone est sur une ligne payante et si vous ne faites pas l’appel d’un hotel vous ne pourrez pas. Je crois que les numéros pour les problèmes mécaniques ou accidents ont la même propriété.
Première journée, je pars pour Santiago de Cuba, je prends des Cubains qui attendent l’autobus ou un camion. Souvent des femmes, des ouvriers, je mélange un peu qui je prends questions de sécurité. Ils sont gentils, aiment rire, certains hommes veulent me payer le passage surpris que je les aie pris.
Bayamo. Je prends une jeune femme avec d’autres passagers. Les autres passagers descendent à leur destination, la jeune femme me demande si elle peut continuer jusqu’à Santiago. Elle m’amène jusqu’à une casa particular, on va dîner et prendre un verre dans un bar de Salsa. Je n’ai pas pris la voiture mais je ne l’ai pas garé dans l’entrée protégée de la casa, je l’ai laissé sur la rue devant la casa.
On revient vers deux heures du matin, la serrure de la voiture a été forcée et la radio et le lecteur de CD se sont envolés. Demain, je vais appeler l’assurance et la police. Je pense fortement que je vais payer cette radio. La nuit se passe bien.
Le lendemain, j’appelle l’assurance. Un gars arrive en moto, c’est le gars de l’assurance. Bonne nouvelle, il semble que je ne suis pas responsable parce que l’auto était garé devant la casa. Si j’avais été en ville, comme au parc Cepédes comme on m’a posé la question à plusieurs reprises, j’aurai payé la radio et les réparations de la serrure. C’est certains que les 230 pesos CUC laissés en dépôt ferait partie de mes frais de voyage…
Ensuite, arrive un policier du ministère de l’Intérieur, qui prend toutes les empruntes digitales sur la voiture. Ensuite, arrive deux autres policiers qui m’ont interrogé sur la soirée du vol, ou j’étais allé (m’ont pas demandé si j’étais seul, mais c’est sûr que là j’aurais menti pour la sécurité de la jeune femme), sur ce que je faisais dans la vie, si j’étais marié, où je travaillais, combien de temps je suis à Cuba et combien de fois, etc. Trois pages. Ensuite, arrive deux autres policiers, qui eux interrogent le propriétaire de la casa particular. Trois pages également. Ce qui fait 6 pages de rapport, 5 policiers mobilisés et le représentant de l’assurance pour une radio-cd. J’ai adoré cette expérience parce qu’il pleuvait un peu et que ça me faisait faire du tourisme bureaucratique mais si cela se produisait une deuxième fois, je ne sais pas si je trouvais ça si intéressant…
Finalement, l’agence RENT CAR VIA, me déniche une autre voiture à leur agence de Santiago puisqu’il y a trop de réparation à faire. Je suis chanceux c’est la seule qui est en ordre. Les autres capout!
Trois jours plus tard, je quitte pour Baracoa. Tout se passe bien, sauf qu’il y a beaucoup de contrôles policiers sur les routes. Les Cubains que j’ai pris, sont terrifiés à chaque fois. Les policiers prennent un air austère, certains crachent par terre avant de m’adresser la parole. Je ne me sens pas menacer par contre, mes passagers oui. On m’explique qu’un Cubain qui n’est pas dans sa province surtout si elle est cubaine avec un étranger fait mieux de n’avoir été enregistrée dans une Casa particular avec un autre étranger dans l’année même si elle est majeure.
Pour le reste, tout se passe bien, il ne fait pas très beau mais j’aime mieux ça comme ça pour faire de la route. Baracoa, c’est gentil, mais il y a beaucoup de touristes qui sont attirés par son isolement tellement qu’on se croirait dans une destination touristique normale. La maison de la Culture est intéressante, les jeunes le sont un peu moins, du genre à te demander une gorgé de ta bière si t’a accepté qu’ils s’assoient avec toi…
Finalement, avec un retour tout aussi amusant à prendre des Cubains sur la route et les non moins amusants contrôles policiers, le reste du voyage c’est super bien passé après avoir revu la jeune femme et maintenant mi amiga à Bayamo.
Voilà tu sais tout, on presque.
Pedro que ruedo como una piedra que ruada sobre la carratera.
Un petit tour d'horizon http://www.enter-net.com/~plegaul1/cuba/DSCN1858.MOV
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Best regards.
We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
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First, the flights: we now live in the Luberon, so we flew out of Marseille. We took British Airways, which we’ve used several times before for trips to the English-speaking Caribbean and which offers flights via Heathrow. We had an overnight layover in London on the way out, then a flight to Nassau. After that, we took a connecting flight (we had a 2h20 layover in Nassau, which was more than enough) to George Town with Sky Bahamas. We had initially ruled out Bahamasair based on very negative reviews. Immigration and customs were very quick.
When we arrived, we took a taxi to our hotel, Augusta Bay. Cost: $30.
We rented a car through Sure and Shore. It was delivered to our hotel the day after we arrived, and we kept it until we left for Stocking Island. For 9 days, we paid $470 (which is a great price) for a small Honda that wasn’t very new, but we didn’t have any issues with it. One thing we’d never experienced before: they’d put newspaper sheets on the floor, and we were told not to get any sand in the car if we went to the beach!
We stayed 5 nights at Augusta Bay. A 5-minute walk away is the beautiful, uncrowded Jolly Beach, perfect for swimming. We visited the southern part of the island to see the beaches of Little Exuma, especially Tropic of Cancer Beach and the one next to Santana’s restaurant. We also went to Hopper Bay Beach, where you can see a group of about ten turtles near a small boat dock. We went kayaking from the hotel.
Then we stayed at Paradise Bay in the north. While we hadn’t encountered the sandfly problem before, here it’s important to know that the beach is infested with them. The hotel’s restaurant, which is very good otherwise, even provides repellent for guests— that’s how bad it is! From there, we visited Coco Plum Beach, Three Sisters Beach (where you can snorkel), and others. We also went kayaking again.
We ended our trip with 3 nights on Stocking Island at Saint Francis Resort. If we were to do it again, we’d spend 4 nights there. The island has many trails, snorkeling spots, and you can get around by kayak. We saw rays, turtles, and even a harmless shark, as well as some beautiful beaches. Plus, the welcome at Saint Francis was the warmest we experienced.
Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
The vegetation is lush but not tropical, and you’ll be served apples and oranges for breakfast because there are very few exotic fruits.
As for the climate in March, there was no humid atmosphere, and the heat was very manageable (26°C). It was very pleasant. The seawater, however, is definitely cooler than in the Indian Ocean, for example.
There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
In conclusion: beautiful beaches, sand as fine as flour, and a very pleasant climate. But honestly, for the same cost, I’d prefer the Seychelles, for example.
Best regards.
Hi everyone,
I need your help!
We’re planning to visit Guadeloupe and take the opportunity to explore the islands La Désirade, Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes.
I initially planned to rent a car to get around the main island and then take the ferry from Trois-Rivières to Les Saintes, from Pointe-à-Pitre to Marie-Galante, and finally from Saint-François to La Désirade, following that route.
But when I look at it, the car would sit unused for at least 5 days—that’s paying for nothing🙁.
Is it possible to go from LES SAINTES to MARIE-GALANTE and then on to LA DÉSIRADE? We’d only rent a car once we arrive in Saint-François to continue exploring Guadeloupe. What do you think—is that doable?
This trip is planned for April.
Thanks so much for your help
Hi there,
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Hi! We’re visiting Guadeloupe for the first time in January. We’re looking for accommodation near Deshaies to start our trip. A quiet spot, not too far from the sea so we can walk there. Any suggestions are welcome!
Have a great day!
Have a great day!
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
Hi,
Several comments recommend bringing mosquito repellent. Got it. Are there a lot of them during the day? And by the seaside? Or are they more present (and voracious) in the evening? Thanks.
Hi everyone,
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
Hi!
I’m heading to Havana for a week in February. I’m looking for a casa particular that’s affordable, clean, and cozy. Since I’ll be traveling alone, I’d love a place where people are welcoming!
Also, I really want to stay in Habana Vieja...
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Hi fellow travelers,
We're heading to Martinique for a month from mid-January to mid-February.
Our plan is to explore the island by staying in three different spots for 10 days each, on both sides of the island...
Could you share some great tips on where to stay for an authentic experience and what we absolutely must see?!
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Hi there,
In March 2026 I’ll be at the Club Med in Sainte-Anne and I’m thinking of heading to Les Saintes at the end of my stay.
Do you know what the most convenient way to get there is?
Thanks so much!
Hi everyone.
For those traveling to Cuba and then planning to go to the USA, you won’t be able to get your ESTA for the United States (same applies) if you’ve been to Cuba after 2021 due to a law passed by Donald Trump (a law that Biden later repealed).
You’ll have no choice but to apply for a visa, which costs 200 € (and approval isn’t guaranteed even after payment).
If you’re in this situation, the process to get this visa will be a real hassle—you’ll need to book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. It’s the only embassy in France authorized to handle your application after you’ve filled out the visa request on the official website.
If you try to cheat by applying for an ESTA for the USA, just know that the American administration has ways of finding out if you’ve been to Cuba. 😉
What would you recommend at the airport to get to Ste Anne... Taxis or rideshares?
Can you point me to a good one?
I'm looking for information on the islands of Puerto Rico, St. Barthélemy, and St. Martin for March 2026.
What is there to see, and if possible, prices or tips, please?
Thanks, Michel V.
Hi everyone,
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I’m planning our upcoming trip to Guadeloupe. We’re looking for a place to stay where human contact is a priority, with air conditioning, close to the beaches, and clean.
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
Hi,
I’ll be staying at Playa Pesquero in Holguin and I’d like to rent a bike or scooter to explore the area. Do you know how I can do that? Thanks
Hi there,
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
hi
need some info—I’m torn between Martinique and Guadeloupe for April.
also, which island is bigger in terms of trip length?
thanks in advance
Hi,
When booking the tickets to Martinique for our family, I must have made a mistake, and on one of the tickets, the third first name is wrong. Michel instead of Joel...
CORSAIR Airlines is telling me I have to buy a new ticket for 1200 € (Christmas period). I think that’s outrageous and, above all, impossible for us.
I’m desperate—I feel like Corsair is really overdoing it.
Is there any recourse? How can I get out of this?
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
Hi
On a layover in Pointe-à-Pitre—where’s a good place to stay for one night?
Thanks
Hi, I'm looking for a car rental for January 2020 in Guadeloupe. There are several agencies I've seen reviews for—has anyone dealt with Autolagon before?
Thanks!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
Since the DR is right next to Haiti, I was wondering if voodoo is also practiced there? And how can you attend these ceremonies?
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Hi,
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks