Merci à l'avance pour votre aide Royo1
Déplacement et hébergement à Cuba
by Royo1
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Nous avons réservé un vol pour Cuba en mars-avril. Au moment d'organiser et de réserver pour notre périple nous nous heurtons au problème du transport : il semble que les réservations faites sur le site des Bus Viazul ne soient pas garanties à l'arrivée, quelle est l'autre solution ...location de voiture, taxi collectif (bien pour des petites distances ?)
Je suis également à la recherche d'un site fiable pour les logements chez l'habitant
Merci à l'avance pour votre aide Royo1
Merci à l'avance pour votre aide Royo1
Viazul ne met qu'une petite partie de ses billets en vente sur internet. Nous sommes partis sans réservation de transport et une fois sur place on n'a eu aucun problème. On a pris des bus Viazul, un bus transtour ou des taxis collectifs quand ça nous arrangeait. Voici le résumé de ce voyage avec photos et adresses de casa.https://voyageforum.com/v.f?post=7694939;#7694939
Les réservations faites par internet sont fiables, comme le dit Jeean Viazul ne met que très peu de sièges en lignes.
Par contre pour les destinations très fréquentées il est préférable de s'y prendre 1 jour avant pour sa réservation sur place.
C'est votre premier voyage à Cuba pour ma part je privilégierai AIrBnb pour la sûreté de la location, mais le site particuba.net est excellent et sérieux
Bonsoir. Nous etions a Cuba en Mars dernier pour 4 semaines.Nous avons reserve tous les hebergements avant de partir pour etre tranquilles sur le site de B...ing.com avec annulation gratuite dans des casas particular.Pas de soucis.Nous avons aussi reserve une voiture par l intermediaire de Booktocuba.com.Nous n'avons pas rencontre de problemes
Bonjour, nous partons fin novembre et devons choisir rapidement notre mode de transport pour 4 jours à 4 adultes (en principe La Havane-Vinales-La Havane) et les 10 jours suivants à 6 adultes et 1 enfant de 3ans (il faut combiner excursions pour certains et plage pour les autres, donc La Havane-Cienfuegos-Trinidad pour terminer à Matanzas ou Varadero-ville (hors presqu'île).
Quel mode de transport privilégier? nous ne trouvons pas de mini-van disponible à la location actuellement. On nous propose soit juste les transferts en taxis privés (+ excursions sur place) soit les "pisicorres" avec chauffeur (et bagages sur le toit). Cher dans les 2 cas, tout comme la location de 2 voitures.
Merci de vos conseils et retours d'expérience si vous avez utilisé ces voitures anciennes en dehors de La Havane.
Bonjour, nous y sommes allés 2 fois et avons loué une voiture à chaque fois.La dernière fois en Mars 2018 nous avions réservé le véhicule via l'agence Booktocuba.Allez sur leur site il y a un N° de Tel, vous aurez une interlocutrice en français normalement, l'agence est basée à Madrid.Nous n'avons eu aucun problème.La personne va vous donner des prix suivant le véhicule et le nombre de personnes.Nous leur avons aussi demandé d'établir la carte touristique, tout a été fait correctement.Ne tardez pas car il me semble que le nombre de véhicules de location est limité et impossibilité de louer sur place..Nous n'avons pas utilisé les véhicules dont vous parlez.Cordialement.
Attention il y a de serieuses restrictions en carburant en ce moment. Surtout dans l'est oú la corruption va meme jusqu'a voler le carburant des transports en commun. Pour maart je serais prudent a ce niveau pour y voyager en independant. C'est notre projet d'y retourner au printemps, mais seulement si la situation s'ameliore.
La pénurie d'essence ne touche pas le super 94 octane dit speciale (pompe bleue ) qu'utilise les touristes pour les voitures de location.
c'est discriminatoire il faut le reconnaitre mais le tourisme est prioritaire, Donc si vous avez de la place dans votre véhicule hors La Havane , n'hesitez pas à prendre des auto stoppeurs vous rendrait un grand service
Prendre des auto-stoppeurs est une bonne idée dans un pays qui connait des pénuries.
Hélas, à Cuba, ce peut être source d'ennui si on n'est pas vigilant. Il faut bien faire attention à qui vous prenez, pas mal de retours négatifs suite à des vols se trouvent dans les différents forums sur Cuba.
Hélas, à Cuba, ce peut être source d'ennui si on n'est pas vigilant. Il faut bien faire attention à qui vous prenez, pas mal de retours négatifs suite à des vols se trouvent dans les différents forums sur Cuba.
La pénurie est prévu seulement jusqu'à l fin septembre. Le gouvernement a affirmé que tous les besoins en carburant seraient couverts pour le mois d'octobre. Donc on se sert l ceinture pour les deux prochaines semaines, mais pas de panique, ça devrait revenir à la normale.
Le vol d'essence (que ce soit celui des transports en commun, des usines, des véhicules étatiques ou autre) a lui depuis de nombreuses années à Cuba, partout. L'est n'est pas pire que l'ouest, quoi que plusieurs Cubains de l'ouest soient très racistes envers ceux de l'est.
À Cuba, il y a toujours une rareté de quelques choses. Les Cubains sont habitués et ont appris à vivre avec.
Le vol d'essence (que ce soit celui des transports en commun, des usines, des véhicules étatiques ou autre) a lui depuis de nombreuses années à Cuba, partout. L'est n'est pas pire que l'ouest, quoi que plusieurs Cubains de l'ouest soient très racistes envers ceux de l'est.
À Cuba, il y a toujours une rareté de quelques choses. Les Cubains sont habitués et ont appris à vivre avec.
J’espère Ggi que cela sera tenu !!!
Pour le détournement de carburant, le GVT en est bien conscient , des mesures ont déjà été prises sur l'alimentation en essence des guagua. Le plus important serait des mesures pour eviter les énormes gaspillages d'énergie
Mais il restera à régler la planification des livraisons de tous les produits, actuellement vous pouvez rester 10 jours sans eaux minérales ou coca ou biére, viande congelé etc.. puis brutalement l a livraison de dizaines de palettes, d'un seul produit, (viandes , boissons , poulet etc..) ce qui entraîne les casa , les restaurants tous les services liés au tourisme à se précipiter pour acheter masse celui ci pour faire des stocks et les revendre ce qui provoque une nouvelle pénurie
Pour le détournement de carburant, le GVT en est bien conscient , des mesures ont déjà été prises sur l'alimentation en essence des guagua. Le plus important serait des mesures pour eviter les énormes gaspillages d'énergie
Mais il restera à régler la planification des livraisons de tous les produits, actuellement vous pouvez rester 10 jours sans eaux minérales ou coca ou biére, viande congelé etc.. puis brutalement l a livraison de dizaines de palettes, d'un seul produit, (viandes , boissons , poulet etc..) ce qui entraîne les casa , les restaurants tous les services liés au tourisme à se précipiter pour acheter masse celui ci pour faire des stocks et les revendre ce qui provoque une nouvelle pénurie
En effet, pour moi, pen principale problème est la planification de l'approvisionnement. Soit on a rien du tout, soit on est noyé sous un produit.
Le temps qu'il faut pour que les items importés apparaissent dans les provinces hors Habana est aussi un problème. Il y a 3 mois, j'ai vu des microonde à L'an Habana. Mais c'est seulement hier qu'ils ont été mis en vente à Camaguey. Même marque, même modèle. Je m'explique mal que la route ait pris 3 mois...
Le temps qu'il faut pour que les items importés apparaissent dans les provinces hors Habana est aussi un problème. Il y a 3 mois, j'ai vu des microonde à L'an Habana. Mais c'est seulement hier qu'ils ont été mis en vente à Camaguey. Même marque, même modèle. Je m'explique mal que la route ait pris 3 mois...
il est symptomatique de voir comment fonctionne les établissements appartenant à Gaviota ou la planification est meilleure.
La pénurie est prévu seulement jusqu'à l fin septembre.
Je crains que cela aille de pire en pire. C'est le Venezuela qui est ou etait leur donateur, et quand on voit ce qui se passe au Venezuela avec Maduro, ou meme a Maracaibo, la ville de centre petrolier, il y a des files d'attente de 24 heures devant les stations service ...
Le vol d'essence (que ce soit celui des transports en commun, des usines, des véhicules étatiques ou autre) a lieu depuis de nombreuses années à Cuba, partout. L'est n'est pas pire que l'ouest.
Il a un tout recent excellent article du Monde a ce sujet. Et l'on revient (nous y etions pour la Biennale) d'un voyage de 3 semaines, et nous avons un ami ecclesistique cubain qui vient de Camaguey, effectivement c'est surtout dans l'est que les vols de carburants sont les plus nombreux et plus penalisant. Ces provinces etant les plus desheritées.
... plusieurs Cubains de l'ouest sont très racistes envers ceux de l'est...
À Cuba, il y a toujours une rareté de quelques choses. Les Cubains sont habitués et ont appris à vivre avec.
Je n'entrerais pas dans ce debat, mais c'est vrai que l'on sent parfois un prejugé, peut etre l'eloignement, peut etre la composition de la population un peu differente, peut etre le passé de l'histoire ...
Et dire que les Cubains ont l'habitude de vivre avec ... C'est qu'ils ne peuvent pas faire autrement. On a vu dans chaque ville des queues : pour avoir 2L d'huile, pour avoir une douzaine d'oeufs, pour avoir un carton de poulets congelés Hallal, pour avoir 1 bouteille de lait ... C'est peut etre vrai le fatalisme, Puisque l'on m'a repondu au Slogan sur les autoroutes "El Socialismo o la Muerte" .... ¿ Porque ? Hay una diferencia ?
Je crains que cela aille de pire en pire. C'est le Venezuela qui est ou etait leur donateur, et quand on voit ce qui se passe au Venezuela avec Maduro, ou meme a Maracaibo, la ville de centre petrolier, il y a des files d'attente de 24 heures devant les stations service ...
Le vol d'essence (que ce soit celui des transports en commun, des usines, des véhicules étatiques ou autre) a lieu depuis de nombreuses années à Cuba, partout. L'est n'est pas pire que l'ouest.
Il a un tout recent excellent article du Monde a ce sujet. Et l'on revient (nous y etions pour la Biennale) d'un voyage de 3 semaines, et nous avons un ami ecclesistique cubain qui vient de Camaguey, effectivement c'est surtout dans l'est que les vols de carburants sont les plus nombreux et plus penalisant. Ces provinces etant les plus desheritées.
... plusieurs Cubains de l'ouest sont très racistes envers ceux de l'est...
À Cuba, il y a toujours une rareté de quelques choses. Les Cubains sont habitués et ont appris à vivre avec.
Je n'entrerais pas dans ce debat, mais c'est vrai que l'on sent parfois un prejugé, peut etre l'eloignement, peut etre la composition de la population un peu differente, peut etre le passé de l'histoire ...
Et dire que les Cubains ont l'habitude de vivre avec ... C'est qu'ils ne peuvent pas faire autrement. On a vu dans chaque ville des queues : pour avoir 2L d'huile, pour avoir une douzaine d'oeufs, pour avoir un carton de poulets congelés Hallal, pour avoir 1 bouteille de lait ... C'est peut etre vrai le fatalisme, Puisque l'on m'a repondu au Slogan sur les autoroutes "El Socialismo o la Muerte" .... ¿ Porque ? Hay una diferencia ?
J'habite à Cuba, à Camaguey justement. Je fais la cola aussi pour acheter des les biens dont j'ai besoin.
Je ne comprends pas pourquoi vous dites que les provinces de l'est sont les plus déshéritées, c'est faux. Il y a beaucoup plus de denrées alimentaires dans l'Est que dans l'ouest, nous avons déménagé de Santa Clara à Camaguey entre autre pour ça. Et il y avait encore des raretés d'huile, de poulet ou de pain à la Habana alors que c'était réglé à Camaguey. Et Trinidad cet été était passablement dégarnie. Pourtant, c'est moins dans l'Est que Camaguey. De plus, la vie est beaucoup plus chère à l Habana qu'ailleurs.
On ne peut pas généraliser, à Cuba comme ailleurs. Chaque province est differente:
J'aimerais voir les liens aux sources que vous avez consultées pour dire qu'il y a plus de vols dans l'Est.
Quant au préjugé, on va nommer les choses par leur nom: les Cubains sont très racistes. Ceux qui se considèrent "blancs" principalement, mais aussi plusieurs métissés et même des Afro-Cubains.
Je ne comprends pas pourquoi vous dites que les provinces de l'est sont les plus déshéritées, c'est faux. Il y a beaucoup plus de denrées alimentaires dans l'Est que dans l'ouest, nous avons déménagé de Santa Clara à Camaguey entre autre pour ça. Et il y avait encore des raretés d'huile, de poulet ou de pain à la Habana alors que c'était réglé à Camaguey. Et Trinidad cet été était passablement dégarnie. Pourtant, c'est moins dans l'Est que Camaguey. De plus, la vie est beaucoup plus chère à l Habana qu'ailleurs.
On ne peut pas généraliser, à Cuba comme ailleurs. Chaque province est differente:
J'aimerais voir les liens aux sources que vous avez consultées pour dire qu'il y a plus de vols dans l'Est.
Quant au préjugé, on va nommer les choses par leur nom: les Cubains sont très racistes. Ceux qui se considèrent "blancs" principalement, mais aussi plusieurs métissés et même des Afro-Cubains.
L'Oriente est moins touché par la pénurie alimentaire que les grandes villes du Centre et de l'ouest; La raison est simple , il existe de nombreux cultivateurs qui revendent la partie de leurs productions qui leurs accordées.On les trouvent sur l’autopiste et les routes, ou dans des petites baraques en bois dans les petites villes. Dans la petite ville ou je réside , tous les samedis vous avez un marché sur le bord de mer ou on trouve des malanga , des Yucca du porc, des tomates, des haricots toutes la nourriture de base du cubain.
Quand au vol par les gens de l'Oriente, je suis d'accord avec Gigi, il y a un racisme latent des blancs de la Capitale qui remonte à loin par rapport à la population noire ou métissé et leur mode de vie de l'Est du pays. Aucune statistique démontre ce fait.
Quand au vol par les gens de l'Oriente, je suis d'accord avec Gigi, il y a un racisme latent des blancs de la Capitale qui remonte à loin par rapport à la population noire ou métissé et leur mode de vie de l'Est du pays. Aucune statistique démontre ce fait.
On comptait y retourner ce printemps. Chose remise ...
https://www.letelegramme.fr/_amp/765/12418765.php
https://www.letelegramme.fr/_amp/765/12418765.php
On comptait y retourner ce printemps. Chose remise ...
https://www.letelegramme.fr/_amp/765/12418765.php
Cet article ne reflète pas la réalité actuelle et est sensationnaliste, voir propagandiste.
Le pétrole fait son retour. Les autobus locaux et interprovincial sont encore réduits jusqu'au 1 novembre, après on ne sait pas. Mais aucun problème pour trouver des taxis.
Quant à la nourriture, la situation n'est ni pire que par le passé, et certainement meilleure qu'il y a 6-8 mois. On trouve beaucoup plus facilement du poulet, même s'il faut faire la file. Et on trouve facilement viande hachée, saucisses, poisson, etc.
Ce qui disparaît rapidement ces temps-ci sont les boissons gazeuses, mais c'est loin d'etre une nécessité. À Camaguey, on manque de purée de tomate et le pain n'est pas aussi abondant qu'avant. Mais aucun problème pour le reste.
Vous n'aurez pas plus de problème à voyager à Cuba maintenant que l'an passé, et Cuba accueillera avec plaisir les devises étrangères qui l'aideront à garnir les étagères dans les épiceries.
https://www.letelegramme.fr/_amp/765/12418765.php
Cet article ne reflète pas la réalité actuelle et est sensationnaliste, voir propagandiste.
Le pétrole fait son retour. Les autobus locaux et interprovincial sont encore réduits jusqu'au 1 novembre, après on ne sait pas. Mais aucun problème pour trouver des taxis.
Quant à la nourriture, la situation n'est ni pire que par le passé, et certainement meilleure qu'il y a 6-8 mois. On trouve beaucoup plus facilement du poulet, même s'il faut faire la file. Et on trouve facilement viande hachée, saucisses, poisson, etc.
Ce qui disparaît rapidement ces temps-ci sont les boissons gazeuses, mais c'est loin d'etre une nécessité. À Camaguey, on manque de purée de tomate et le pain n'est pas aussi abondant qu'avant. Mais aucun problème pour le reste.
Vous n'aurez pas plus de problème à voyager à Cuba maintenant que l'an passé, et Cuba accueillera avec plaisir les devises étrangères qui l'aideront à garnir les étagères dans les épiceries.
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There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
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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.
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!




