Original post
Allo tout le monde, Je vais a Santa- Lucia en janvier et j'aimerais savoir s'il est bon d'apporter des choses utiles aux cubains. Exemple: produits de base, linge, etc etc Merci à l'avance Vanille
Quoi amener aux cubains à Santa Lucia?
by Vanille141
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Salut Vanille,
Ramene du camembert : c'est ce qui fait cruellement defaut. Surtout que c'est noel.
Evidemment le camembert c'est interdit... Faudrait peut-etre se rabattre sur les chaussures. Ay No es facil!!
Comme de toute facon on trouve rien ici, le plus simple c'est peut-etre encore de ramener des stylos et du doliprane : ca t'ecombrera moins et tu seras sure de faire des heureux.
M'enfin, si t'es dans un hotel tout compris de Santa Lucia, t'auras pas le loisir de rencontrer des cubains qu'ont vraiment besoin de qq chose. Desole... Y'aura plus qu'a louer une voiture pour t'eloigner de la plage si tu tiens vraiment a apporter ta pierre a l'edifice.
Bon voyage. DA
M'enfin, si t'es dans un hotel tout compris de Santa Lucia, t'auras pas le loisir de rencontrer des cubains qu'ont vraiment besoin de qq chose. Desole... Y'aura plus qu'a louer une voiture pour t'eloigner de la plage si tu tiens vraiment a apporter ta pierre a l'edifice.
Bon voyage. DA
Et vivent les filles bien faites! La Seine et les grandes chaleurs. Je degueule les jours de fete.
Salut Vanille,
Je suis allé à varadero en avril 2005 et je me suis fait demander des produits de toilette par un Cubain rencontré sur la plage (pâte à dent, savon, etc.). J'avais d'ailleurs apporté une petite trousse de couture, des bonbons, de la gomme à mâcher, des stylos, des voitures miniatures pour enfants, des savons, pâte à dent, jolies bougies, en plus de l'argent sonnant. Notre femme de chambre a beaucoup apprécié mes petits cadeaux emballés dans des sacs cadeaux et papier de soie accompagnés de remerciements en espagnol!
Nous nous sommes aussi fait demandé par des barmans et des agents de sécurité des casquettes et t-shirts. Lorsque je retournerai à Cuba j'en apporterai pour eux!
Salut!
Je suis allé à varadero en avril 2005 et je me suis fait demander des produits de toilette par un Cubain rencontré sur la plage (pâte à dent, savon, etc.). J'avais d'ailleurs apporté une petite trousse de couture, des bonbons, de la gomme à mâcher, des stylos, des voitures miniatures pour enfants, des savons, pâte à dent, jolies bougies, en plus de l'argent sonnant. Notre femme de chambre a beaucoup apprécié mes petits cadeaux emballés dans des sacs cadeaux et papier de soie accompagnés de remerciements en espagnol!
Nous nous sommes aussi fait demandé par des barmans et des agents de sécurité des casquettes et t-shirts. Lorsque je retournerai à Cuba j'en apporterai pour eux!
Salut!
Hasta luego!
Parasolia
Parasolia
Hola Parasolia,
navre d'insister, mais d'apres moi que les gens a qui t'as fait des cadeaux, ce ne sont pas les bons... Une femme de menage dans un hotel tout compris a Varadero se fait au bas mot 10 fois plus d'argent que le meilleur chirurgien de La Havane qui opere les yeux des venezueliens toute la journee ou fait des pontages a ses compatriotes ; sans parler des profs BAC+20 de la fac de sciences appliquees.
Vardero, c'est l'endroit de Cuba ou j'ai vu le plus d'exces. C'est vraiment pas la bas que les gens ont besoin de qq chose... Entre le detournement de TOUS les produits a volontes des hotels tout compris, les pourboires, les cigares au black et tout l"Invento" dont font preuves les cubains malins, la difference avec la "vraie" Cuba est meme pas imaginable.
Selon moi si tu pars a Varadero et que tu veux faire un geste, cet argent tu ferais mieux de le donner a une association qui connait bien son metier...
DA
Et vivent les filles bien faites! La Seine et les grandes chaleurs. Je degueule les jours de fete.
Varadero et les peits cadeaux au personnel hotelier ...vaste débat
les vrais habitants de l'ile ( et non le personnel du tourisme, bénéficiant d'innombrables avantages, souvent sélectionné sur des critères parfois idéologiques..CdR ... ou copinage pur... et politiquements surs ) se rencontrent dans les petits villages de l'intérieur ou meme à Matanzas pas loin de Varadero, sur les routes au hasard des arrêts refresco et bien sur au hasard des rencontres hors des quartiers touristiques de la capitale ;
ceux du tourisme hotelier dans tous les endroits inclusive revendent souvent (!) les petits cadeaux reçus par centaines, seuls les "verdes" les interessent !!
alors pour voir le peuple "verdadero" et donner utile un peu de courage, une voiture de loc ou un taxi et adelante, sortez de la reserve inclusive mes amis
un rare moment de vie, dans un village de l'interieur, au hasard presque, entrer dans l'école et parler aux enseignants, aux enfants meme, quelques stylos, des savons, des caramelos, ce n'est pas facile c est vrai mais on est toujours bien reçu
pourquoi les diplomés cubains, medecins inclus, veulent ils aller faire de l'accompagnement touristique : c est simple medecin 30 dollars/cuc mois, guide touristique 300 dollars/mois y a pas photo !!
c est un sujet dont on peut parler à l'infini, je connais plus de medecins que de femmes de chambre et ils vivent pas si facilement que cela les médecins !!
les vrais habitants de l'ile ( et non le personnel du tourisme, bénéficiant d'innombrables avantages, souvent sélectionné sur des critères parfois idéologiques..CdR ... ou copinage pur... et politiquements surs ) se rencontrent dans les petits villages de l'intérieur ou meme à Matanzas pas loin de Varadero, sur les routes au hasard des arrêts refresco et bien sur au hasard des rencontres hors des quartiers touristiques de la capitale ;
ceux du tourisme hotelier dans tous les endroits inclusive revendent souvent (!) les petits cadeaux reçus par centaines, seuls les "verdes" les interessent !!
alors pour voir le peuple "verdadero" et donner utile un peu de courage, une voiture de loc ou un taxi et adelante, sortez de la reserve inclusive mes amis
un rare moment de vie, dans un village de l'interieur, au hasard presque, entrer dans l'école et parler aux enseignants, aux enfants meme, quelques stylos, des savons, des caramelos, ce n'est pas facile c est vrai mais on est toujours bien reçu
pourquoi les diplomés cubains, medecins inclus, veulent ils aller faire de l'accompagnement touristique : c est simple medecin 30 dollars/cuc mois, guide touristique 300 dollars/mois y a pas photo !!
c est un sujet dont on peut parler à l'infini, je connais plus de medecins que de femmes de chambre et ils vivent pas si facilement que cela les médecins !!
Salut,
Je suis allée à Santa Lucia en janvier 2005 et j'avais apporté avec moi plein de jouets pour mon fils que j'avais acheter au magasin 1$ ou des jouets que je savais ne lui servirait plus. Lors de notre dernière journée, nous avons tout donné les jouets à notre femme de ménage qui avait de jeunes enfants aussi, elle était tellement heureuse qu'elle en pleurait. Lorsque j'ai quitté ma chambre elle m'a offert un poisson qu'elle a elle-même fait en céramique en guise de remerciement. Les enfants à Cuba n'ont pas de jouets alors c'est toujours bienvenue. Au niveau des médicaments aussi elle était très contente vous pouvez apporter avec vous de la Tylenol ou autre (au cas où vous abuserez des bonnes choses) que vous remettrez à un employé à votre départ. Tout ce qui est tampon (pour les femmes), médicaments, savon, dentifrice, maquillage, teinture pour les cheveux, des rasoirs, vieux vêtements, etc. À Santa Lucia vous avez l'avantage que la plage est également accessible au peuple Cubain. Par conséquent, il y a des Cubains sur la plage, ils n'iront pas jusqu'à vous achaler mais ils apprécient recevoir des cadeaux et à Santa-Lucia j'ai vu des gens qui étaient vraiment dans le besoin qui attendaient patiemment que quelqu'un leur offre quelque chose sur la plage. Ma belle-soeur leur a donné des vieilles paires de jeans et la dame en question était vraiment contente. J'avais également apporter une petite poussette parapluie pour le voyagement de mon fils que j'avais achetée avant mon départ et que j'ai laissé à la réception de l'hôtel à mon départ et le jeune homme m'indiquait qu'il était pour la remettre à une voisine qui venait d'avoir un bébé et m'indiquait qu'elle serait très très heureuse. Les revues, de vieux livres, sont tous des choses très appréciée, avec la sortie des MP3, votre vieux baladeur et quelques disques qui ne servent plus feraient un très beau cadeau.
Je vous suggère de vous abstenir d'acheter des bas de nylon puisque la majortié des touristes apporte ce genre de truc là.
Il est vrai que les employés du complexe sont plus choyés mais un guide touristique nous indiquait que puisqu'ils travaillent au complexe, ils n'ont pas le temps ou l'endroit pour cultiver ou élever des bêtes alors la majorité du temps ces employés vont remettre un cadeau offert en guise d'échange contre de la nourriture pour sa famille ou si un voisin est malade il lui offrira des médicaments qui lui ont été offert. Les cubains vivent tous en communauté et chaque petite communité (appelée CDR) survie grâce au partage des gens. Je suis entièrement d'accord à aider les gens à l'extérieur du complexe mais les gens du complexe on également besoin d'éléments essentiels qui seront distribués à leur famille.
À Holguin l'année passée je me suis faites insultée par un touriste parce que j'ai donné 2 pesos à un cubain pour m'avoir servi un verre d'alcool il me traitait d'imbécile et que ça n'avait pas de bon sens de lui donner tant d'argent, il y a aussi un serveur à un buffet lorsque nous lui avons remis 2 pesos de pourboire pour son service qui s'est précipité pour nous serrer la main et à voix très haute pour que les autres touristes comprennent, nous faisait part que nous étions les seuls ce matin là (et nous sommes allés déjeuner près de la fermeture du buffert) à lui avoir remis un pourboire. Je comprends que nous sommes dans un complexe tout inclus mais lorsque vous allez au resto dans votre ville est-ce que vous oseriez quitter sans laisser un pourboire? Les gens dans les complexes ont bien des cadeaux mais bien des gens qui travaillant dans le complexe n'ont absolument rien ou très peu. Regardez autour de vous, vous serez étonné de constater que la très grande majorité des gens n'offrent aucun pourboir au serveur après leur repas. Ce que vous devez également savoir est que tous les cubains qui sont en contact avec des touristes doivent payer une taxe à l'état. Cette taxe est déterminée en faisant une moyenne des gens que l'employé aurait été en contact avec donc selon l'achalandage de l'hôtel. Donc si aucun des touristes lui offre d'argent, il devra débourser de ses propres poches une somme d'argent à l'état. Alors soyez généreux, vous êtes bien content d'avoir quelqu'un qui débarasse votre table et qui vous sert de l'eau, du café ou autre, ça vaut bien selon moi au minimum 1 pesos de pourboire à chaque repas.
Je suis allée à Santa Lucia en janvier 2005 et j'avais apporté avec moi plein de jouets pour mon fils que j'avais acheter au magasin 1$ ou des jouets que je savais ne lui servirait plus. Lors de notre dernière journée, nous avons tout donné les jouets à notre femme de ménage qui avait de jeunes enfants aussi, elle était tellement heureuse qu'elle en pleurait. Lorsque j'ai quitté ma chambre elle m'a offert un poisson qu'elle a elle-même fait en céramique en guise de remerciement. Les enfants à Cuba n'ont pas de jouets alors c'est toujours bienvenue. Au niveau des médicaments aussi elle était très contente vous pouvez apporter avec vous de la Tylenol ou autre (au cas où vous abuserez des bonnes choses) que vous remettrez à un employé à votre départ. Tout ce qui est tampon (pour les femmes), médicaments, savon, dentifrice, maquillage, teinture pour les cheveux, des rasoirs, vieux vêtements, etc. À Santa Lucia vous avez l'avantage que la plage est également accessible au peuple Cubain. Par conséquent, il y a des Cubains sur la plage, ils n'iront pas jusqu'à vous achaler mais ils apprécient recevoir des cadeaux et à Santa-Lucia j'ai vu des gens qui étaient vraiment dans le besoin qui attendaient patiemment que quelqu'un leur offre quelque chose sur la plage. Ma belle-soeur leur a donné des vieilles paires de jeans et la dame en question était vraiment contente. J'avais également apporter une petite poussette parapluie pour le voyagement de mon fils que j'avais achetée avant mon départ et que j'ai laissé à la réception de l'hôtel à mon départ et le jeune homme m'indiquait qu'il était pour la remettre à une voisine qui venait d'avoir un bébé et m'indiquait qu'elle serait très très heureuse. Les revues, de vieux livres, sont tous des choses très appréciée, avec la sortie des MP3, votre vieux baladeur et quelques disques qui ne servent plus feraient un très beau cadeau.
Je vous suggère de vous abstenir d'acheter des bas de nylon puisque la majortié des touristes apporte ce genre de truc là.
Il est vrai que les employés du complexe sont plus choyés mais un guide touristique nous indiquait que puisqu'ils travaillent au complexe, ils n'ont pas le temps ou l'endroit pour cultiver ou élever des bêtes alors la majorité du temps ces employés vont remettre un cadeau offert en guise d'échange contre de la nourriture pour sa famille ou si un voisin est malade il lui offrira des médicaments qui lui ont été offert. Les cubains vivent tous en communauté et chaque petite communité (appelée CDR) survie grâce au partage des gens. Je suis entièrement d'accord à aider les gens à l'extérieur du complexe mais les gens du complexe on également besoin d'éléments essentiels qui seront distribués à leur famille.
À Holguin l'année passée je me suis faites insultée par un touriste parce que j'ai donné 2 pesos à un cubain pour m'avoir servi un verre d'alcool il me traitait d'imbécile et que ça n'avait pas de bon sens de lui donner tant d'argent, il y a aussi un serveur à un buffet lorsque nous lui avons remis 2 pesos de pourboire pour son service qui s'est précipité pour nous serrer la main et à voix très haute pour que les autres touristes comprennent, nous faisait part que nous étions les seuls ce matin là (et nous sommes allés déjeuner près de la fermeture du buffert) à lui avoir remis un pourboire. Je comprends que nous sommes dans un complexe tout inclus mais lorsque vous allez au resto dans votre ville est-ce que vous oseriez quitter sans laisser un pourboire? Les gens dans les complexes ont bien des cadeaux mais bien des gens qui travaillant dans le complexe n'ont absolument rien ou très peu. Regardez autour de vous, vous serez étonné de constater que la très grande majorité des gens n'offrent aucun pourboir au serveur après leur repas. Ce que vous devez également savoir est que tous les cubains qui sont en contact avec des touristes doivent payer une taxe à l'état. Cette taxe est déterminée en faisant une moyenne des gens que l'employé aurait été en contact avec donc selon l'achalandage de l'hôtel. Donc si aucun des touristes lui offre d'argent, il devra débourser de ses propres poches une somme d'argent à l'état. Alors soyez généreux, vous êtes bien content d'avoir quelqu'un qui débarasse votre table et qui vous sert de l'eau, du café ou autre, ça vaut bien selon moi au minimum 1 pesos de pourboire à chaque repas.
Salut,
en fait ça fait quand même juste 20cuc c'est pas énorme parceque les cubains doivent acheter en argent cuc donc un set de chaudron qui coute 25cuc est long à économiser. Moi je suis allée 3 fois à Santa-lucia cette année et je doit dire que c'est pas la place que les touristes sont très généreux, ils y a oui qui sont généreux mais a voir l'expression des cubains quand tu leurs fait des cadeaux ils ne sont pas aussi habitués qu'on pourrait le croire. Je serait porté à dire aussi que pour les femmes de chambre elles aiment aussi recevoir des produit de beauté et oui des choses pour enfant c'est toujours apprécié. Si vous voulez vraiment donner au cubain dans le besoin marchez sur la plage de l'autre coté du Brisas il y a des petites familles très aimables. Et toi vanille tu part quand en janvier? moi j'y serai le 16 janvier pour 2 semaines. eloangel
en fait ça fait quand même juste 20cuc c'est pas énorme parceque les cubains doivent acheter en argent cuc donc un set de chaudron qui coute 25cuc est long à économiser. Moi je suis allée 3 fois à Santa-lucia cette année et je doit dire que c'est pas la place que les touristes sont très généreux, ils y a oui qui sont généreux mais a voir l'expression des cubains quand tu leurs fait des cadeaux ils ne sont pas aussi habitués qu'on pourrait le croire. Je serait porté à dire aussi que pour les femmes de chambre elles aiment aussi recevoir des produit de beauté et oui des choses pour enfant c'est toujours apprécié. Si vous voulez vraiment donner au cubain dans le besoin marchez sur la plage de l'autre coté du Brisas il y a des petites familles très aimables. Et toi vanille tu part quand en janvier? moi j'y serai le 16 janvier pour 2 semaines. eloangel
Salut. moi j'y serai du 10 au 17 janvier!!! domage.................
merci pour l'info..
Vanille
Merci pour tout les infos..............
J'apprécie grandement.....
Vanille
Salut, comme tu as pu le lire plus haut je part le 10 janvier...tu seras deja là?
Vanille
salut Mariemich,
Au plaisir de se rencontrer....je serai avec mon conjoint.
a+🙂 Vanille
Au plaisir de se rencontrer....je serai avec mon conjoint.
a+🙂 Vanille
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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.
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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.
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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