J'aimerais avoir vos expériences et à quel endroit vous étiez ainsi qu'à quel temps de l'année?
J'aimerais y aller en novembre mais les méduses ne m'enchantent pas trop!
Merci ! 🙂
Original post
Marie-C
Y a-t-il des méduses toute l'année et partout à Cuba?
by Christou29
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour,
Je suis allée 5 fois à Holguin, au Playa Pesquero en octobre, juillet et mars aucune meduse n'a été vu. L'eau est tellement claire qu'on les verrait s'il y en avait.
Bon voyage,
Cuba2008
Je vais à Cuba depuis plusieurs années, à différentes périodes (janvier-février-avril-juillet-août-décembre) et dans différentes régions, je me baigne dans la mer presque tous les jours, et j'ai jamais vu de méduses à part...
... cet été en juillet! À Playa del este (près de La Havane). Il y en eu énormément pendant une seule journée, mais elles étaient inoffensives, on les sentait nous frôler, mais aucune sensation de brûlure ni rien. C'était juste un peu dégoûtant!
... cet été en juillet! À Playa del este (près de La Havane). Il y en eu énormément pendant une seule journée, mais elles étaient inoffensives, on les sentait nous frôler, mais aucune sensation de brûlure ni rien. C'était juste un peu dégoûtant!
Sunrisa
Je suis allée 3 semaines en avril dernier à Varadero et je n'ai pas vu une seule méduse. J'y suis retournée du 17 août au 2 septembre et les 4 derniers jours il y en avait quelques unes. Tu ne peux pas les louper tellement l'eau est transparente on les voit bien elles ont comme des veines violettes. Les gens de l'hôtel nous disaient qu'elles arrivaient souvent en septembre, mais je ne sais pas combien de temps. Une jeune fille a été piqué par l'une d'entre elles et aussitôt le maître nageur qui est sur la plage l'a enmené à l'infirmerie de l'hôtel. Le lendemain, je la revoyais se baigner.
t inquiete il y en a seulement dans la mer
en nvembre il y a aussi de grosses meduses climatiques qui enroulent leurs tentacules cycloniques autour des iles des caraibes
😛 Ça je le sais!! lolll
C'est parce que je fais de très grosse réaction à leur contact et c'est vraiment désagréable....la dernière fois c'était justement en Guadeloupe que ça m'est arrivé.
Marie-C
desole pour toi, mais des meduses, il y en a ds toutes les mers du monde a toute epoque, et d une maniere assez aleatoire, rest la bonne armure en neoprene, qu aucune meduse ne peut percer, et qui protege aussi des brulures du soleil, des coraux urticants...
J'ai eu de la chance à date dans tous mes voyages dans les Caraïbes il n'y en avait pas....sauf une seule fois.
J'ai quand même le droit de demander les expériences des gens avant de faire mon choix non???
J'ai quand même le droit de demander les expériences des gens avant de faire mon choix non???
Marie-C
completement, ca fait partie des trucs que j aime ds ce forum, desole si je t ai heurte. Pour la combinaison en neoprene, c n etait pas sarcastique, ca marche, pour tout ce que je t ai dit
oh la la, les méduses dans les mers chaudes sous les tropiques, mais ce n'est pas sécuritaire, hein.....
quand on a peur des petits incidents de ce style en voyage, faut rester au calme à la maison, c'est trop risqué de voyager !
même en France, sur la cote d' Azur, il y en a (cf le film) L'Année des Méduses : faut cesser d'aller à St Trop, c'est trop dangereux les méduses
http://fr.wikipedia.org/...A9e_des_m%C3%A9duses
au fait à la fin le héros masculin meurt, justement piqué par des centaines de méduses ! beware !
quand on a peur des petits incidents de ce style en voyage, faut rester au calme à la maison, c'est trop risqué de voyager !
même en France, sur la cote d' Azur, il y en a (cf le film) L'Année des Méduses : faut cesser d'aller à St Trop, c'est trop dangereux les méduses
http://fr.wikipedia.org/...A9e_des_m%C3%A9duses
au fait à la fin le héros masculin meurt, justement piqué par des centaines de méduses ! beware !
Merci à tous les gens sérieux qui prennent le temps de répondre quelque chose d'aidant!
Il y a des mois que je n'étais pas venue ici et je vois malheureusement que ce sont toujours les mêmes qui ont du temps à perdre.
Il y a des mois que je n'étais pas venue ici et je vois malheureusement que ce sont toujours les mêmes qui ont du temps à perdre.
Marie-C
tout est dans la manière de poser la question ! si elle avait été posée de la manière suivante :
à quelle époque les méduses à Cuba.... par exemple !
cela aurait été une question positive, la on fait dans le négatif, on obtient (pas seulement de moi d'ailleurs....) des réponses négatives, l'un proposant la combinaison de plongée pour ne pas s'exposer à ces petites bêtes et l'autre de rester bien au chaud chez soi et surtout ne pas prendre de risques....
la prochaine fois tachez d'exprimer en français votre question d'une manière plus positive, n'est ce pas ?
au fait, des méduses, il y en a dans toutes les mers chaudes de la planête, on ne sait pas comment ou pourquoi cela vient et pourquoi cela disparait : bactéries, température de l'eau, courants....
pour faire dans le positif, justement, un petit sujet qui vous permettra de mieux cerner les méduses : j'ai même appris qu'il y en avait des géantes dans l'hémisphère nord...
Les mers arctiques abritent des méduses de 2 m de diamètre dont les tentacules peuvent atteindre quarante mètres de longueur Certaines méduses pourraient même atteindre trois mètres de diamètre, avec des tentacules de dix-huit mètres (c'est le cas pour la méduse Cyanea capillata).
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A9duse_(animal) rajouter si nécéssaire la fin de parenthèse au lien...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jellyfish
à quelle époque les méduses à Cuba.... par exemple !
cela aurait été une question positive, la on fait dans le négatif, on obtient (pas seulement de moi d'ailleurs....) des réponses négatives, l'un proposant la combinaison de plongée pour ne pas s'exposer à ces petites bêtes et l'autre de rester bien au chaud chez soi et surtout ne pas prendre de risques....
la prochaine fois tachez d'exprimer en français votre question d'une manière plus positive, n'est ce pas ?
au fait, des méduses, il y en a dans toutes les mers chaudes de la planête, on ne sait pas comment ou pourquoi cela vient et pourquoi cela disparait : bactéries, température de l'eau, courants....
pour faire dans le positif, justement, un petit sujet qui vous permettra de mieux cerner les méduses : j'ai même appris qu'il y en avait des géantes dans l'hémisphère nord...
Les mers arctiques abritent des méduses de 2 m de diamètre dont les tentacules peuvent atteindre quarante mètres de longueur Certaines méduses pourraient même atteindre trois mètres de diamètre, avec des tentacules de dix-huit mètres (c'est le cas pour la méduse Cyanea capillata).
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A9duse_(animal) rajouter si nécéssaire la fin de parenthèse au lien...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jellyfish
Pour ton info, en mars dernier a Varadero, on a eu la surprise de voir des centaines de méduses longeant la mer et en quantité industrielle sur la plage, mais ce n'est pas commun c'est la premiere fois que je voyais cela a Cuba (Varadero).
Mais le lendemain le tout était revenue a la normale, sur la plage et dans la mer.
Il faut dire lors de cet évènement, il y avait de fort vent et une température nettement sous la moyenne. Je ne peux dire si cela avait quelquechose a voir avec le phénomène
Un membre de l'animation (en blaque) m'a dit que c'était un nouvel embargo américain qui venait de la Floride, faut bien rire a l'occassion.
Ce n'est pas parce que les choses sont difficiles que nous n'osons pas c'est parce que nous n'osons pas qu'elles sont difficiles
Je suis allée 3 fois à Cuba cette année seulement et je n'en ai pas croisé une seule!
Il est vrai qu'un 3 mm en neoprène protège des brûlure de méduses. Où je vis, il y a des méduses à partir de fin juillet-début août et c'est le wet qui me protège. là où je vis c'est le 7 mm ou plus qui prime! Mais les méduses crinière de lion ne pardonnent pas ... ça brule en ta.....!
Il est vrai qu'un 3 mm en neoprène protège des brûlure de méduses. Où je vis, il y a des méduses à partir de fin juillet-début août et c'est le wet qui me protège. là où je vis c'est le 7 mm ou plus qui prime! Mais les méduses crinière de lion ne pardonnent pas ... ça brule en ta.....!
"Ce qui compte dans une vie c'est l'intensité d'une vie, pas la durée d'une vie". (J. Brel)
J'arrive de Cayo Santa Maria..... il y a des méduses certaines journées,
des journées plus que d'autres, et des fois aucune.
Notre guide Cubain pour Air-Transat me dit qu'il y a des méduses partout à Cuba et toute l'année.
Pour moi, c'est juste à surveillé, même si elles sont transparentes, elles sont bien visibles.
Sur une semaine, seulement une journée il y en avait trop pour se baigner.
J'ai été brûler une fois ou deux, tu mets du sable chaud de la plage sur la brûlure et c'est Ok. L'idéal est du vinaigre.... avec du vinaigre l'effet de brûlure disparaît tout de suite. (Tu peux t'apporter des sachets genre ceux des restaurants dans tes bagages)
Je joins 3 photos.
p.s.: il est des fois plus dangereux de marcher sur la plage sans regarder au sol, parce que les gens font des concours qui en sort le plus de l'eau sur la plage. (voir 3ième photo)
A +
Notre guide Cubain pour Air-Transat me dit qu'il y a des méduses partout à Cuba et toute l'année.
Pour moi, c'est juste à surveillé, même si elles sont transparentes, elles sont bien visibles.
Sur une semaine, seulement une journée il y en avait trop pour se baigner.
J'ai été brûler une fois ou deux, tu mets du sable chaud de la plage sur la brûlure et c'est Ok. L'idéal est du vinaigre.... avec du vinaigre l'effet de brûlure disparaît tout de suite. (Tu peux t'apporter des sachets genre ceux des restaurants dans tes bagages)
Je joins 3 photos.
p.s.: il est des fois plus dangereux de marcher sur la plage sans regarder au sol, parce que les gens font des concours qui en sort le plus de l'eau sur la plage. (voir 3ième photo)
A +
Voici un lien explicatif .
http://monde-animal.over-blog.com/article-533034.html
Aller au bas de la page.
A +
http://monde-animal.over-blog.com/article-533034.html
Aller au bas de la page.
A +
J'ai eu la chance de ne pas en avoir près d'où je me baignais lors de mes voyages à Manzanillo de Cuba mais j'en ai vu en bateau, donc loin de la plage. J'y suis allée au début décembre et à la mi-juillet.
Par contre mon copain revient d'un voyage à Cayo coco et il en a vu lors de ses plongées en apnée mais elles étaient assez espacées pour ne pas les toucher à ce qu'il dit et son frère en a fôlée une avec son pied mais n'a pas été incommodé.
Voici 2 images de méduses rencontrées à Cuba.
La première est une méduse de lune, 
(moon jelly fish) espèce assez comune semblerait-il, vue en mer à Manzanillo et également à Cayo coco par mon copain.
L'autre est une photo de mon copain d'une méduse échouée à Cayo coco.
Il a demandé s'il y en avai toujours là-bas. On lui a dit que ça dépendait des jours...
Je trouve ces animaux vraiment beaux malgré le danger qu'ils peuvent représenter.
Quelqu'un connait le nom de cette espèce?
(moon jelly fish) espèce assez comune semblerait-il, vue en mer à Manzanillo et également à Cayo coco par mon copain.
L'autre est une photo de mon copain d'une méduse échouée à Cayo coco. Il a demandé s'il y en avai toujours là-bas. On lui a dit que ça dépendait des jours...
Je trouve ces animaux vraiment beaux malgré le danger qu'ils peuvent représenter.
Quelqu'un connait le nom de cette espèce?La première photo de méduse : on en retrouve dans la région de l'Île Bonaventure à Percé (Québec) très tôt au printemps alors que l'eau est plus froide (avril - mai) ensuite on ne les vois plus de l'été.
La seconde photo : ce qui m'impression est l'aspect de ses "épines" qui semblent plus rigides et d'un bleu marine... je fais des recherches et vous reviens là dessus. Beau spécimen
La seconde photo : ce qui m'impression est l'aspect de ses "épines" qui semblent plus rigides et d'un bleu marine... je fais des recherches et vous reviens là dessus. Beau spécimen
"Ce qui compte dans une vie c'est l'intensité d'une vie, pas la durée d'une vie". (J. Brel)
Je me souviens d’avoir vu lors d’une traversée en atlantique nord en direction des Açores, des bans de méduses à la surface de l’eau qui s’appellent je crois ‘’man o’ward’’ ou encore méduses portugaises.
Spectacle haut en couleurs mais qui ne donnait aucunement le goût de se tremper les pieds.
Pour avoir fait beaucoup de plongée dans les Caraïbes ce qui était le plus désagréables malgré une combinaison en néoprène était un genre de puces-marines ou encore de petites crevettes microscopiques qui s’introduisaient partout sur votre corps et qui donnaient l’impression équivalente d’être piqué par des mouches noires.
Malgré ces désagréments quels plaisirs pour les yeux et la bouche.🙂
Spectacle haut en couleurs mais qui ne donnait aucunement le goût de se tremper les pieds.
Pour avoir fait beaucoup de plongée dans les Caraïbes ce qui était le plus désagréables malgré une combinaison en néoprène était un genre de puces-marines ou encore de petites crevettes microscopiques qui s’introduisaient partout sur votre corps et qui donnaient l’impression équivalente d’être piqué par des mouches noires.
Malgré ces désagréments quels plaisirs pour les yeux et la bouche.🙂
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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.
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.
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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…
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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