Original post
Bonjour, dois-je apporter de l'argent canadien ou américain? Meilleur endroit ou le changer? Est-ce que la carte mastercard est accepté?
Roxane
Quel argent apporter à Cuba et carte de crédit?
by Roxinette
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour,
Mieux vaut dans votre cas amener des $ Canadiens, la carte "Mastercard" oui est acceptée, dans les banques "banco Metropolitano" et "Cadeca" mais pas dans les distributeurs automatiques. En terme de taux, les deux se valent, l'intérêt étant de choisir là où il y a le moins d'attente.....
Cdlt
Juanito
Mieux vaut dans votre cas amener des $ Canadiens, la carte "Mastercard" oui est acceptée, dans les banques "banco Metropolitano" et "Cadeca" mais pas dans les distributeurs automatiques. En terme de taux, les deux se valent, l'intérêt étant de choisir là où il y a le moins d'attente.....
Cdlt
Juanito
Argent canadien.
Ils le prennent partout, 1$ =.70/.75pesos CUC
"OO"
ps: si vous allez dans un hôtel, ils changent les CDN au comptoir habituellement... Même taux que précédemment. pas de soucis.
"OO"
ps: si vous allez dans un hôtel, ils changent les CDN au comptoir habituellement... Même taux que précédemment. pas de soucis.
"Plus il y a de fous, moins il y a de riz"
Paris, Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Rhône, Alpes, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, Barcelona, Figueres, Belém, Sao Paulo, Manaus, Marajò, Soure, Joanes, Ilha de Mosqueiro, Cambu, Iccoraci, Costa Rica, Corse, México, Cuba, Thaïlande, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodge, Chine...
L'argent américain est "pénalisé" de 10%.
Banque ou cadeca (bureau de change), le taux de change est le même. Mais ça m'a semblé un plus rapide dans une banque.
Carte : à utiliser au comptoir de la banque
Banque ou cadeca (bureau de change), le taux de change est le même. Mais ça m'a semblé un plus rapide dans une banque.
Carte : à utiliser au comptoir de la banque
Pierroro
Quand le moment est arrivé, l'heure est venue! (C.Bobin.)
- et je vous remercie par avance pour votre réponse.
L'argent américain est "pénalisé" de 10%.
Banque ou cadeca (bureau de change), le taux de change est le même. Mais ça m'a semblé un plus rapide dans une banque.
Carte : à utiliser au comptoir de la banque
Est-ce que les banques ou cadeca, il y a en à Varadero ? J'ai entendu dire qu'on pouvait changer l'argent directement à l'hôtel, est-ce que ça coûte plus cher ? Est-ce que je devrais changer mon argent à l'aéroport ?
Banque ou cadeca (bureau de change), le taux de change est le même. Mais ça m'a semblé un plus rapide dans une banque.
Carte : à utiliser au comptoir de la banque
Est-ce que les banques ou cadeca, il y a en à Varadero ? J'ai entendu dire qu'on pouvait changer l'argent directement à l'hôtel, est-ce que ça coûte plus cher ? Est-ce que je devrais changer mon argent à l'aéroport ?
Roxane
Comme je le disais, les hôtels changent les $cdn à .70cents alors que le taux est de .759 aujourd'hui donc pas de soucis, allez-y! Les taux sont ajustés à chaque jour mais pour le peu qu'ils se prennent, ça évite les tracas!
Bon voyage!
"OO" www.xe.com/
Bon voyage!
"OO" www.xe.com/
"Plus il y a de fous, moins il y a de riz"
Paris, Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Rhône, Alpes, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, Barcelona, Figueres, Belém, Sao Paulo, Manaus, Marajò, Soure, Joanes, Ilha de Mosqueiro, Cambu, Iccoraci, Costa Rica, Corse, México, Cuba, Thaïlande, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodge, Chine...
Salut,
Oui, il y a une banque à Varadero et tous les comptoirs des hôtels font l'échange mais avec un pourcentage de profit.Le meilleur endroit est le comptoir de change de l'aéroport.
Gaston
Oui, il y a une banque à Varadero et tous les comptoirs des hôtels font l'échange mais avec un pourcentage de profit.Le meilleur endroit est le comptoir de change de l'aéroport.
Gaston
Cuba:1997;1998;1999;2002;2003;2004;2005;2008;
République Dominicaine:2000;
Nicaragua:2001;Venezuela:2002
Mexique:2006;2009;Floride:2010;;Myrtle Beach 1995;1996;2011;
Bonjour, dois-je apporter de l'argent canadien ou américain? Meilleur endroit ou le changer? Est-ce que la carte mastercard est accepté?
Argent canadien, une carte de crédit d'une cie canadienne. La meilleure place pour changer l'argent aéroport, pas toujours le temps, demander le reçu de transfert pour éviter un faux dons.
Argent canadien, une carte de crédit d'une cie canadienne. La meilleure place pour changer l'argent aéroport, pas toujours le temps, demander le reçu de transfert pour éviter un faux dons.
Pas de problèmes avec les €uros
Bonjour,
Est-il exact qu'il y a une taxe sur toutes les transactions faites avec une carte de crédit (donc aussi bien les paiements que les retraits d'argent) ?
Est-il exact qu'il y a une taxe sur toutes les transactions faites avec une carte de crédit (donc aussi bien les paiements que les retraits d'argent) ?
Le CUC n'étant pas reconnu au niveau International toutes les transactions par carte bancaire se font sur la base du $ US donc pour compenser la différence de valorisation entre le CUC et le $ US, ils rajoutent 3% lors de toute transaction avec CB, quelle que soit la CB sauf bien sûr à avoir un compte bancaire ouvert à Cuba et utiliser la CB distribuée par la banque Métropolitaine "Red" mais c'est une autre histoire....
Une fois la transaction réalisée, sur votre bancaire la somme vous sera débitée selon la taux de change en vigueur entre l'Euro et le $ US. Donc l'opération est blanche au niveau des 3%, par contre votre banque vous facturera des frais pour avoir réalisé une opération hors zone €uro, souvent de l'ordre de 1% du montant.
Juanito
Une fois la transaction réalisée, sur votre bancaire la somme vous sera débitée selon la taux de change en vigueur entre l'Euro et le $ US. Donc l'opération est blanche au niveau des 3%, par contre votre banque vous facturera des frais pour avoir réalisé une opération hors zone €uro, souvent de l'ordre de 1% du montant.
Juanito
A Cuba pour déterminer le taux de change du CUC, la monnaie de référence est le $ US. La commission prise sur taux de change dans le cas des espèces (banque / Cadeca) est "rendue" en quelque sorte lorsqu'il s'agit d'une transaction avec un carte bancaire car dans ce cas la monnaie utilisée pour la transaction est le $ US et ceci est bien précisé sur le ticket (USD). Les 3% rajoutés ne sont donc pas des frais de transaction, vérifiez sur votre compte bancaire lors d'une prochaine transaction avec votre CB ou alors allez demander à une banque elle vous expliquera, notamment la banque Métropolitaine.
Cordialement
Juanito
Cordialement
Juanito
Désolée, mais mon explication est exacte. Les 3% sont les frais de transaction, que ce soit ceux chargés lors de l'échange de la monnaie ou lors d'une transaction sur carte.. Car il n'est pas besoin d'ajouter 3% pour aligner avec le US comme vous le.mentionnez puisque les deux monnaies ont la même valeur.
Libre à vous de diffuser une information erronée, renseignez vous sur place et vous rectifierez de vous mêmes ou allez sur le site de la banque métropolitaine : http://www.bc.gob.cu/Espanol/tipo_cambio_METROPOLITANO.asp
Le CUC et le $US ont la même valeur en théorie, car en pratique vous savez bien qu'il est taxé à hauteur de 10% lors du change à Cuba. Pour les autres monnaies, si le CUC et le $ US avait réellement la même valeur, dans le cas de l'€uro, la parité serait la même qu'aux USA lors du change à Cuba ce qui n'est pas le cas, justement parce qu'une commission est prise par l'Etat Cubain, aujourd'hui de 3% mais jusqu'en 2012 c'était même 8% + 3 %, soit 11%. Voyez cet exemple concret, hier 25 septembre, 1€ = 1.1196 $ US et à Cuba 1€ = 1.08843 CUC, où est passée la différence ?? C'est justement les 3% en question.......
Juanito
Le CUC et le $US ont la même valeur en théorie, car en pratique vous savez bien qu'il est taxé à hauteur de 10% lors du change à Cuba. Pour les autres monnaies, si le CUC et le $ US avait réellement la même valeur, dans le cas de l'€uro, la parité serait la même qu'aux USA lors du change à Cuba ce qui n'est pas le cas, justement parce qu'une commission est prise par l'Etat Cubain, aujourd'hui de 3% mais jusqu'en 2012 c'était même 8% + 3 %, soit 11%. Voyez cet exemple concret, hier 25 septembre, 1€ = 1.1196 $ US et à Cuba 1€ = 1.08843 CUC, où est passée la différence ?? C'est justement les 3% en question.......
Juanito
Merci pour ces infos précises, Juanito.
J'avais lu sur ce forum un message disant qu'il y avait une taxe de 12%, ce qui correspond, je suppose, à la situation que vous évoquiez avant 2012. Je ne sais plus de quand date ce message; je pense qu'il devait être ancien. 3%, c'est un peu plus raisonnable... même si cela reste, encore et toujours, une taxe!
J'avais lu sur ce forum un message disant qu'il y avait une taxe de 12%, ce qui correspond, je suppose, à la situation que vous évoquiez avant 2012. Je ne sais plus de quand date ce message; je pense qu'il devait être ancien. 3%, c'est un peu plus raisonnable... même si cela reste, encore et toujours, une taxe!
Juanito, dans votre premier message à ce sujet, vous disiez qu'ils chargeaient 3% pour 'compenser la différence de valorisation avec le dollar américain', ce qui était inexact. Peut-etre vous êtes vous mal exprimé, mais ce sont les mots que vous avez utilisés et soulignés.
Maintenant, vous dites qu'ils facturent une commission de 3 % sur les échanges, ce qui est exactement ce que je dis aussi. Maintenant, nous disons LA MÊME CHOSE!
Je ne.comprends donc pas comment vous pouvez prétendre que mon explication est erronée quand, dans les faits, vous reprenez la même.
Sur ce, comme nous disons maintenant la même chose, je ne sens plus le.besoin d'intervenir à ce sujet.
Au plaisir
Maintenant, vous dites qu'ils facturent une commission de 3 % sur les échanges, ce qui est exactement ce que je dis aussi. Maintenant, nous disons LA MÊME CHOSE!
Je ne.comprends donc pas comment vous pouvez prétendre que mon explication est erronée quand, dans les faits, vous reprenez la même.
Sur ce, comme nous disons maintenant la même chose, je ne sens plus le.besoin d'intervenir à ce sujet.
Au plaisir
Non c'est vous qui m'interprétez ainsi mais je dis la même chose depuis le début et mon exemple vous prouve clairement que sur le change des espèces ils prennent une commission de 3%, par contre lors d'une transaction avec une carte bancaire, cette transaction se fait sur la base du $ US (USD) donc pour rattraper la commission prise sur le taux de change ils rajoutent 3% (compensation), ce n'est pas pareil que "charger" 3% comme vous dites au Québec.
Cordialement
Cordialement
Une chance que la question n'était pas;
"Quoi apporter dans sa valise en soute et bagage à main pour Cuba?"
Merci Roxinette! 😉
"😎😎"
Merci Roxinette! 😉
"😎😎"
"Plus il y a de fous, moins il y a de riz"
Paris, Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Rhône, Alpes, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, Barcelona, Figueres, Belém, Sao Paulo, Manaus, Marajò, Soure, Joanes, Ilha de Mosqueiro, Cambu, Iccoraci, Costa Rica, Corse, México, Cuba, Thaïlande, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodge, Chine...
Le sujet à la base traitait de paiement avec carte bancaire, s'il y a bien une commission prise à l'heure de changer des espèces, ce n'est pas le cas lors d'une transaction avec une CB car la monnaie utilisée est le $ US.
Juanito
Juanito
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Good evening,
We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
I should mention that we’ve been traveling to islands for 20 years, so we have points of comparison when it comes to prices, hospitality, and landscapes.
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.
We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
I should mention that we’ve been traveling to islands for 20 years, so we have points of comparison when it comes to prices, hospitality, and landscapes.
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.
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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