Location de voiture à Cuba
by Carmarj
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour, nous partons donc 10 jours en décembre 2015 dans 3 semaines à Cuba.
Que des échecs de réponses pour louer une voiture à la Havane (Rex/novela /Havanautos)
On s 'est pris un peu tard même si c'était 1.5 mois avant et vu la période.
Qui pourrait nous dire si louer directement à la Havane est encore possible et où, avant que l'on se tourne vers une réservation bus viazuls.
Est-ce que dans d'autres villes proches de La Havane (Varadero..) y a t-il des possibilités?(nous n'avons essayé qu'au départ de La Havane.)
Enfin, est ce que louer une voiture à Trinadad pour partir vers Zapata.. pour deux jours par exemple, est possible..
Peut-on louer directement à Trinidad , .quelles adresses/ mails à conseiller?
Voilà si vous pouviez avoir de bons conseils, en vous remerciant d'avance
Bonjour,
C est effectivement très difficile de trouver une voiture de location à cuba en ce moment, que ce soit à la havane, à Varadero ou à Trinidad. Essayez les 2 agences les plus serieuses, novela cuba et cubatravelnetwork. Si tout est indisponible chez eux, ce sera tres dur de trouver, même sur place. Surtout faites attention aux sites de location bidon qui fleurissent : vous payez mais à l arrivée, pas de voiture ! Les autorites cubaines mettent particulierement en garde contre 3 de ces sites, dont les noms figurent sur la photo ci-dessous.
Si vous ne trouvez pas de voiture de location, pourquoi ne pas vous tourner vers une voiture avec chauffeur ? Cela ne revient pas forcement plus cher qu une voiture de location.
Mela et Yoe
Mela a raison, la voiture avec chauffeur, système utilisé par nous en 2015 pour la première fois, est la bonne solution
enfin profiter du paysage sans surveiller la route, un vrai plaisir pour un prix comparable à celui d'une voiture de location, les soucis en moins
il y a, au départ de la Havane, de nombreux chauffeurs de vieilles américaines (ce que l on nomme les almendrones) prêts à vous transporter
certaines ont même la clim !
enfin profiter du paysage sans surveiller la route, un vrai plaisir pour un prix comparable à celui d'une voiture de location, les soucis en moins
il y a, au départ de la Havane, de nombreux chauffeurs de vieilles américaines (ce que l on nomme les almendrones) prêts à vous transporter
certaines ont même la clim !
A Varadero, les Résidents des Hôtels louent souvent des voitures pour 2 ou 3 jours pour se rendre en visite à La Havane ou Trinidad. Les voitures tournent beaucoup plus vite qu'a La Havane donc il y en a souvent des disponibles méme en période chargée.
Tous les Loueurs se trouvent dans la rue principale.
Vous pouvez tenter votre chance.
Vous pouvez tenter votre chance.
Pas que je me réponde à moi-même ; ) mais je n'arrive pas à revenir dans ma discussion!!
Voilà c'est pour vous faire un retour de Cuba (enfin, ! le boulot a repris le contrôle du temps depuis..)et que cela puisse être une autre aide pour d'autres voyageurs
Pour éviter de réécrire à chaque message , je copie ma réponse déjà postée sur d'autres discussions, mais pour toute question, n'hésitez pas!!
Bonjour, j'avais posé la même question, car nous sommes parties à deux à Cuba du 21 au2 janvier 2016, (La Havane, Vinales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, La Havane) à une période chargée de touristes .Nous nous étions renseignées pour une voiture auprès d'amis de retour de Cuba, nous avions contacté les bonnes agences de location de Cuba (rexcuba , havanatour, novela, etc.) ainsi que pour les bus viazul(c'était le dernier recours.).et donc échec pour tout .. nous avons parcouru les forums pour avoir des conseils et avis pour :"louer une voiture ou passer par les bus.." les retours sur les forums pour la voiture, c'était mitigé (problème à l'arrivée pas de voiture, mais les sous encaissés, de pannes, de pneus crevés, de route.;etc...bon, on est un peu baroudeuses, on voulait se le tenter mais pas de voiture. le bus il était précisé souvent des problèmes d'attente, de trajet sans s'arrêter ..etc puis sur les forums, nous avons vu la solution avec chauffeur, et là on s'est dit que cela allait être trop cher, mais les avis étaient positifs.. Nous avons remarqué un lien "je pars à cuba" et Mélanie qui proposait une solution de chauffeur en expliquant avec bon sens leurs prestations. beaucoup d'internautes se posaient des questions sur ce site, mais pas de mauvais avis, juste "est-ce que c'est sérieux ou non?" Bon , eh bien à défaut de solution de transport, l'idée était plaisante, nous nous sommes mis en contact avec Mélanie. Un super contact, des explications claires, des recommandations des conseils pour le trajet, pour les chauffeurs, un contact intermédiaire à Cuba.Nous avons signé!! Et LE TOP: Arrivées à Cuba, un intermédiaire francophone nous attendait avec un taxi réservé , paiement normal d'une course..Le lendemain mis en lien avec notre chauffeur, sa géniale voiture une Chrysler, du tonnerre et nous sommes parties.. nous nous sommes rendues compte que c'était la formule la plus top à Cuba pour une période très courte ! Nous remercions Mélanie , son mari et les cubains en lien car c'était nickel..respect du voyage et du trajet par notre chauffeur, discrétion de sa part, il nous laissait et nous reprenait à l'heure que nous lui demandions, que ce soit en journée ou pour le lendemain Nous voulions nous arrêter, prendre des photos, trouver des fruits, direct il nous trouvait des solutions. Il a toujours été autonome, d'une grande gentillesse et toujours avec le sourire, nous avons énormément échangé sur tous les sujets, il nous a montré des détails sur des sites que nous n'aurions jamais vu avec nos guides ..Tous les jours, il était en lien avec notre intermédiaire à Cuba qui se tenait au courant avec discrétion, pour savoir si tout se passait bien, pour tout.A savoir qu'on avait pris des adresses de casar particular par des amis allant à Cuba régulièrement..(Mélanie pouvait nous en proposer mais nous avions réservé avant de la contacter) et que c'était un peu l'inconnu.. Nous aurions eu le moindre problème technique et ils auraient été là pour nous aider, rassurant!! De plus les routes à Cuba , peu de panneaux indicatifs et des nids de poules !! même supers conductrices que nous sommes on aurait galéré dans le temps, c'est clair quand nous croisions les voitures arrêtées , qui avaient claqué, de touristes perdu avec pneus crevés ou autre, ou de locaux avec leur voiture capos ouvert..) , notre chauffeur, là un maître de conduite.. par contre, la nuit, conduire faut pas trop y penser sur les routes pas d'éclairages, les chevaux rentrent , les pauvres, à fond de train, car on ne voit rien, les cubains déboulent au dernier moment ..faut pas penser conduire troprisquer de renverser quelqu'un!!
Résultat des courses louer une voiture aurait couté vraiment plus cher car il faut compter la location, l'assurance, il faut une bonne carte routière achetée en France et (encore y pas de panneaux, il faut tout le temps demander quand on ne connaît pas et souvent la voiture louée n'est pas celle que l'on a réservée) et l'essence!! , les pompes n'ont pas l'air très faciles à trouver, en espérant , ni se perdre, ni tomber en panne..
Pour le bus, nous avons croisé à Trinidad une amie (voyageuse à Cuba depuis des années )adepte du bus Viazul et cette année, pour la première fois elle n'est pas partie dans l'Oriente car tout était saturé, elle nous a dit que nous avions la meilleure formule, les trajets en bus étant souvent longs, l'attente , des plombes et les réservations pas sûres(et il ne faut pas être malade!) Donc pour conclure, franchement , "Je pars à Cuba" c'est vraiment nickel, car en plus du chauffeur, nous avions la sécurité à la moindre galère d'avoir une vraie aide, et sur un séjour très court , le temps est précieux!! Voilà, vraiment nous vous conseillons d'aller sur leur sit!.avec tout l'enthousiasme et les sourires d'un très beau séjour , riche humainement et de paysages magnifiques.
Bonjour, j'avais posé la même question, car nous sommes parties à deux à Cuba du 21 au2 janvier 2016, (La Havane, Vinales, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, La Havane) à une période chargée de touristes .Nous nous étions renseignées pour une voiture auprès d'amis de retour de Cuba, nous avions contacté les bonnes agences de location de Cuba (rexcuba , havanatour, novela, etc.) ainsi que pour les bus viazul(c'était le dernier recours.).et donc échec pour tout .. nous avons parcouru les forums pour avoir des conseils et avis pour :"louer une voiture ou passer par les bus.." les retours sur les forums pour la voiture, c'était mitigé (problème à l'arrivée pas de voiture, mais les sous encaissés, de pannes, de pneus crevés, de route.;etc...bon, on est un peu baroudeuses, on voulait se le tenter mais pas de voiture. le bus il était précisé souvent des problèmes d'attente, de trajet sans s'arrêter ..etc puis sur les forums, nous avons vu la solution avec chauffeur, et là on s'est dit que cela allait être trop cher, mais les avis étaient positifs.. Nous avons remarqué un lien "je pars à cuba" et Mélanie qui proposait une solution de chauffeur en expliquant avec bon sens leurs prestations. beaucoup d'internautes se posaient des questions sur ce site, mais pas de mauvais avis, juste "est-ce que c'est sérieux ou non?" Bon , eh bien à défaut de solution de transport, l'idée était plaisante, nous nous sommes mis en contact avec Mélanie. Un super contact, des explications claires, des recommandations des conseils pour le trajet, pour les chauffeurs, un contact intermédiaire à Cuba.Nous avons signé!! Et LE TOP: Arrivées à Cuba, un intermédiaire francophone nous attendait avec un taxi réservé , paiement normal d'une course..Le lendemain mis en lien avec notre chauffeur, sa géniale voiture une Chrysler, du tonnerre et nous sommes parties.. nous nous sommes rendues compte que c'était la formule la plus top à Cuba pour une période très courte ! Nous remercions Mélanie , son mari et les cubains en lien car c'était nickel..respect du voyage et du trajet par notre chauffeur, discrétion de sa part, il nous laissait et nous reprenait à l'heure que nous lui demandions, que ce soit en journée ou pour le lendemain Nous voulions nous arrêter, prendre des photos, trouver des fruits, direct il nous trouvait des solutions. Il a toujours été autonome, d'une grande gentillesse et toujours avec le sourire, nous avons énormément échangé sur tous les sujets, il nous a montré des détails sur des sites que nous n'aurions jamais vu avec nos guides ..Tous les jours, il était en lien avec notre intermédiaire à Cuba qui se tenait au courant avec discrétion, pour savoir si tout se passait bien, pour tout.A savoir qu'on avait pris des adresses de casar particular par des amis allant à Cuba régulièrement..(Mélanie pouvait nous en proposer mais nous avions réservé avant de la contacter) et que c'était un peu l'inconnu.. Nous aurions eu le moindre problème technique et ils auraient été là pour nous aider, rassurant!! De plus les routes à Cuba , peu de panneaux indicatifs et des nids de poules !! même supers conductrices que nous sommes on aurait galéré dans le temps, c'est clair quand nous croisions les voitures arrêtées , qui avaient claqué, de touristes perdu avec pneus crevés ou autre, ou de locaux avec leur voiture capos ouvert..) , notre chauffeur, là un maître de conduite.. par contre, la nuit, conduire faut pas trop y penser sur les routes pas d'éclairages, les chevaux rentrent , les pauvres, à fond de train, car on ne voit rien, les cubains déboulent au dernier moment ..faut pas penser conduire troprisquer de renverser quelqu'un!!
Résultat des courses louer une voiture aurait couté vraiment plus cher car il faut compter la location, l'assurance, il faut une bonne carte routière achetée en France et (encore y pas de panneaux, il faut tout le temps demander quand on ne connaît pas et souvent la voiture louée n'est pas celle que l'on a réservée) et l'essence!! , les pompes n'ont pas l'air très faciles à trouver, en espérant , ni se perdre, ni tomber en panne..
Pour le bus, nous avons croisé à Trinidad une amie (voyageuse à Cuba depuis des années )adepte du bus Viazul et cette année, pour la première fois elle n'est pas partie dans l'Oriente car tout était saturé, elle nous a dit que nous avions la meilleure formule, les trajets en bus étant souvent longs, l'attente , des plombes et les réservations pas sûres(et il ne faut pas être malade!) Donc pour conclure, franchement , "Je pars à Cuba" c'est vraiment nickel, car en plus du chauffeur, nous avions la sécurité à la moindre galère d'avoir une vraie aide, et sur un séjour très court , le temps est précieux!! Voilà, vraiment nous vous conseillons d'aller sur leur sit!.avec tout l'enthousiasme et les sourires d'un très beau séjour , riche humainement et de paysages magnifiques.
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Hi, I’m leaving soon for Punta Cana—what kind of money should we bring: Canadian dollars, US dollars, or are we forced to exchange once we arrive?
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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.
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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.
But when I look at it, the car would sit unused for at least 5 days—that’s paying for nothing🙁.
Is it possible to go from LES SAINTES to MARIE-GALANTE and then on to LA DÉSIRADE? We’d only rent a car once we arrive in Saint-François to continue exploring Guadeloupe. What do you think—is that doable?
This trip is planned for April.
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Hi there,
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
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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!





