Monnaie utilisée à Punta Cana: faut-il changer avant le départ?
by Joeldenoisy
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonsoir,
Nous partons à Punta Cana dans huit jours ; faut-il faire du change avant de partir (Euros en Dollars)? est-il plus judicieux et plus pratique de tirer tout simplement de l'argent au distributeur avec sa carte bleue?
Que préfère les commerçants : Euros, Dollars ou Pesos? quel est le + "rentable"?
Prennent-ils les Pesos au retour pour payer la taxe de sortie?
Au plaisir de vous lire
JDN😉
Bjr,
Prennez des euros que vous changerez sur place (en dehors de l'hotel) La cb est a utiliser en depannage car il y a des frais Il est mieux de pay-er ds la devise demander par le vendeur, à pc dollar et pesos et parfois euros. la taxe se paye en dollars, en euro 1=1
bonnes vacances LM
Prennez des euros que vous changerez sur place (en dehors de l'hotel) La cb est a utiliser en depannage car il y a des frais Il est mieux de pay-er ds la devise demander par le vendeur, à pc dollar et pesos et parfois euros. la taxe se paye en dollars, en euro 1=1
bonnes vacances LM
Hola,
EUR ou USD c'est OK et si tu décides de changer en pesos ne fais pas l'échange à l'aéroport car ils font toujous un taux de fous.
Salut et bonnes vacances.
Pablo
EUR ou USD c'est OK et si tu décides de changer en pesos ne fais pas l'échange à l'aéroport car ils font toujous un taux de fous.
Salut et bonnes vacances.
Pablo
Salut,
Amigo si tu faisais une simple recherche, ça éviterait de poser la question sur une sujet déjà discuté 36 fois....
voici ce que j'ai posté dans une autre fil de discussion, confirmé par d'autres voyageurs :
Je confirme, ils ont une fâcheuse tendance à compter 1 euro = 1 $ alors qu'il y a 35% de différence en ce moment. Ex 100 € = 135 $. Le vrai taux avec les Pessos est 1 euro = 54 pesos mais souvent on obtient 50 le reste est la com.
Le plus simple N'EST pas de convertir euros en dollars mais euros en pessos ! On peut arriver avec liquide et convertir à l'hotel, ils ne donneront que des pessos et pas de dollars. certains hotels ont des DAB en pesos et plus rarement en dollars.
Enfin le mieux est d'apporter un peu de liquide en euros (ex.300 €) pour le convertir sur place. Les retraits de Liquide sont généralement fortement commissionés par les Banques en France (4 euros minimum à chaque fois). Donc c'est moins cher de venir avec du liquide..
Enfin pour la taxe de sortie c'est 20$ obligatoires à prévoir (et rien d'autre!) Sauf avec Air-France où c'est inclu dans le billet et ils vous donnent un coupon à échanger.
voici ce que j'ai posté dans une autre fil de discussion, confirmé par d'autres voyageurs :
Je confirme, ils ont une fâcheuse tendance à compter 1 euro = 1 $ alors qu'il y a 35% de différence en ce moment. Ex 100 € = 135 $. Le vrai taux avec les Pessos est 1 euro = 54 pesos mais souvent on obtient 50 le reste est la com.
Le plus simple N'EST pas de convertir euros en dollars mais euros en pessos ! On peut arriver avec liquide et convertir à l'hotel, ils ne donneront que des pessos et pas de dollars. certains hotels ont des DAB en pesos et plus rarement en dollars.
Enfin le mieux est d'apporter un peu de liquide en euros (ex.300 €) pour le convertir sur place. Les retraits de Liquide sont généralement fortement commissionés par les Banques en France (4 euros minimum à chaque fois). Donc c'est moins cher de venir avec du liquide..
Enfin pour la taxe de sortie c'est 20$ obligatoires à prévoir (et rien d'autre!) Sauf avec Air-France où c'est inclu dans le billet et ils vous donnent un coupon à échanger.
Merci Pablo pour ta réponse
J'ai hâte d'être arrivé d'autant plus qu'il fait très froid à Paris ( -2°)...
Bon dimanche
Joël
Merci Eros de m'avoir répondu aussi rapidement...ta petite remarque était fort désobligeante, mais j'avoue ne pas avoir pris le temps d'approfondir ma recherche.
Salut,
tu peux prendre des Euros pour les changer sur place, ou retirer directement des distributeurs, au fur et à mesure de tes besoins. Cela fonctionne très bien, sans mauvaise surprise à ton retour.
La taxe de sortie se paye en dollar (20). Si tu dois payer celle d'entrée, il vaut mieux le faire en dollars également car on te demandera le même montant, quelle que soit la monnaie que tu utiliseras (c'est 10 USD si j'ai bonne mémoire, mais si tu veux payer en Euro on te demandera également 10 Euros).
tu peux prendre des Euros pour les changer sur place, ou retirer directement des distributeurs, au fur et à mesure de tes besoins. Cela fonctionne très bien, sans mauvaise surprise à ton retour.
La taxe de sortie se paye en dollar (20). Si tu dois payer celle d'entrée, il vaut mieux le faire en dollars également car on te demandera le même montant, quelle que soit la monnaie que tu utiliseras (c'est 10 USD si j'ai bonne mémoire, mais si tu veux payer en Euro on te demandera également 10 Euros).
Faby
Merci Faby pour tes infos ; c'est rigolo de voir un pays qui dispose de sa propre monnaie et qui n'utilise que des valeurs étrangères pour les transactions!
Bonne semaine
Le problème est que nous avons un vaste choix des articles qui se commercialisent depuis le USA d'où l'utilisation du dollar et comme tu te trouveras dans une zone touristique et étant donné que l'EUR comme le USD est une monnaie de forte utilisation, on rend plus facile la vie aux touristes qui viennent nous rendre visite😉.
Salut,
Pablo
Salut,
Pablo
Bonjour
Je reviens de Puntacana la semaine derniere et je regrette de ne pas avoir pris plus de monaie pour les pourboires (1€ ou 2€) .Ne pas oublier de prendre 30€ pour payer les taxes d 'aeroport 10€ a l arrivee et 20 en repartant .(c est 10 et 20 $ si vous changer de l argent avant de partir ce qui est interressant vu le change).
Ne pas revenir avec des pesos , il ne les reprennent pas en france sinon j ai fais les achats de souvenir et escursion avec ma carte (les frais ne sont insurmontable) ne pas oublier d 'avertir la banque que vous partez a l etranger , certain banque bloque la càpour des raisons de surete.
Bonne vacance
Pour répondre aux messages précédents - Les raison pour laquelle le dollar américain est si utilisé en RD sont multiples :
- Historiquement la RD a été très influencée par les USA - Le taux Dollar <> Pessos RD (RD$) est FIXE et ne fluctue quasiment jamais ! Donc on est sur de sa valeur. - Une grande partie de la diaspora vit aux USA - La majorité des touristes sont des américains. - La majorité des échanges commerciales se font en $
donc rien d'étonnant que le dollar est partout en RD. Il n'ont pas l'habitude de l'Euro.
- Historiquement la RD a été très influencée par les USA - Le taux Dollar <> Pessos RD (RD$) est FIXE et ne fluctue quasiment jamais ! Donc on est sur de sa valeur. - Une grande partie de la diaspora vit aux USA - La majorité des touristes sont des américains. - La majorité des échanges commerciales se font en $
donc rien d'étonnant que le dollar est partout en RD. Il n'ont pas l'habitude de l'Euro.
Bonsoir,
Nous partons à Punta Cana dans huit jours ; faut-il faire du change avant de partir (Euros en Dollars)? est-il plus judicieux et plus pratique de tirer tout simplement de l'argent au distributeur avec sa carte bleue?
Que préfère les commerçants : Euros, Dollars ou Pesos? quel est le + "rentable"?
Prennent-ils les Pesos au retour pour payer la taxe de sortie?
Au plaisir de vous lire
JDN😉
Bonsoir et merci à tous ceux qui ont apportés une réponse à ma question.
Voilà, c'est fait...je reviens de Punta Cana avec un peu d'amertume puisqu'Hier il y-avait 30° dans l'air et 28° dans l'eau ; séjour excellent dans un beau décor : cocotiers, mer transparente et sable blanc...le tiercé dans l'ordre!
Maintenant, à mon tour de vous offrir ma petite contribution =
C'est simple, la Rep.Dom est le royaume du Dollar! je n'ai pratiquement vu personne payé en Pesos et les commerçants ne veulent que des Dollars! pour ceux qui sont tentés de payer en Euros, c'est possible mais vous serez inévitablement arnaqués car 1 Euro vaut 1 Dollar.
Le change sur place est très défavorable et les distributeurs ne donnent majoritairement que des Pesos.
J'étais venu avec des Dollars que j'avais échangé à Paris et je ne regrette pas ; je conseille vivement aux Parisiens d'aller dans un des meilleurs Change de Paris non loin de la gare de l'Est ; en ce qui me concerne j'ai payé un Dollar 0,77 Euro (ou 1.30 Euros pour un Dollar), bien entendu ce prix s'entend net (pas de commission!)
Bien amicalement
Bonsoir et merci à tous ceux qui ont apportés une réponse à ma question.
Voilà, c'est fait...je reviens de Punta Cana avec un peu d'amertume puisqu'Hier il y-avait 30° dans l'air et 28° dans l'eau ; séjour excellent dans un beau décor : cocotiers, mer transparente et sable blanc...le tiercé dans l'ordre!
Maintenant, à mon tour de vous offrir ma petite contribution =
C'est simple, la Rep.Dom est le royaume du Dollar! je n'ai pratiquement vu personne payé en Pesos et les commerçants ne veulent que des Dollars! pour ceux qui sont tentés de payer en Euros, c'est possible mais vous serez inévitablement arnaqués car 1 Euro vaut 1 Dollar.
Le change sur place est très défavorable et les distributeurs ne donnent majoritairement que des Pesos.
J'étais venu avec des Dollars que j'avais échangé à Paris et je ne regrette pas ; je conseille vivement aux Parisiens d'aller dans un des meilleurs Change de Paris non loin de la gare de l'Est ; en ce qui me concerne j'ai payé un Dollar 0,77 Euro (ou 1.30 Euros pour un Dollar), bien entendu ce prix s'entend net (pas de commission!)
Bien amicalement
Bonjour,
Tout au long de notre voyage en février nous n'avons payé qu'en Pesos même les hôtels quand on a utiliser la carte visa. Seule la carte d'entrée a du être payée en dollars (ou euros). Nous n'avons pas payé de taxe de sortie (Air France ????). Dans un seul hôtel (tout inclus) les prix étaient affichés en dollars pour les souvenirs. Nous avons payé à notre départ nos achats dans cet hôtels avec ce qui nous restait en Pesos.
Tout au long de notre voyage en février nous n'avons payé qu'en Pesos même les hôtels quand on a utiliser la carte visa. Seule la carte d'entrée a du être payée en dollars (ou euros). Nous n'avons pas payé de taxe de sortie (Air France ????). Dans un seul hôtel (tout inclus) les prix étaient affichés en dollars pour les souvenirs. Nous avons payé à notre départ nos achats dans cet hôtels avec ce qui nous restait en Pesos.
Bonsoir,
Cela me paraît tout à fait normal compte tenu que vous aviez des Pesos et que c'est la monnaie nationale ; mais si vous ne disposiez que de Dollars, vous n'auriez eu aucun soucis de paiement.
Toute les excursions proposées par l'hôtel étaient mentionnées uniquement en Dollars et dans les petites échoppes du quartier, les vendeurs ont manifestés un nette préférence pour les Dollars ; quand aux pourboires pour les serveurs et les femmes de ménage, ils acceptent les Dollars avec un grand Sourire!
En ce qui concerne les taxes d'entrée et de sortie, ils ne veulent que des Dollars (ou des Euros mais au même taux que le Dollar) au point que je me demande pourquoi les Dominicains n'abandonnent-ils pas leurs Pesos!
Bien cordialement
JdF
C'est simple, la Rep.Dom est le royaume du Dollar! je n'ai pratiquement vu personne payé en Pesos et les commerçants ne veulent que des Dollars! pour ceux qui sont tentés de payer en Euros, c'est possible mais vous serez inévitablement arnaqués car 1 Euro vaut 1 Dollar.
Par acquis de conscience, je viens de regarder ma carte d'identité consulaire, j'habite bien en RD. Je ne connais pas toute la RD, mais je paie en pesos, on ne m'a jamais demandé des dollars. Quand je paie en €, c'est quand je réserve une chambre via la France, de ce fait, je ne paie pas la taxe locale comme les touristes. Idem pour certains magasins. Pour l'hotel pas de frais de commissions, la banque en France prend en moyenne 3,6% pour les magasins.
Le change sur place est très défavorable et les distributeurs ne donnent majoritairement que des Pesos.
Il faudra m'indiquer l'endroit d'un distributeur à pesos en France. C'est vrai qu'aux distributeurs, il y a un frais fixe de 112 pesos à la banco popular et 192 pesos à la banco reservas qui s'ajoutent au 3,6% de la banque française, donc éviter de retirer 500 pesos.
J'étais venu avec des Dollars que j'avais échangé à Paris et je ne regrette pas ; je conseille vivement aux Parisiens d'aller dans un des meilleurs Change de Paris non loin de la gare de l'Est ; en ce qui me concerne j'ai payé un Dollar 0,77 Euro (ou 1.30 Euros pour un Dollar), bien entendu ce prix s'entend net (pas de commission!)
Je viens de taper achat vente dollars sur google, j'ai pris le premier site. En divisant le prix de vente par le prix d'achat, ça fait 1,0615. Ca fait donc 3% de frais de change, ça c'est euro>dollars. Je suppose que le change du dollars en pesos, les frais de change doivent être de 3% aussi, ça fait 6% au total. Et 3% sur le change dollars>euros pour l'argent qui reste au retour. Il faudra qu'on m'explique. Je veux bien les 30$ pour les taxes d'aéroport si ce n'est pas pris en compte par la compagnie, ça fait gagner 9€, pardon 8.73€, jai oublié les frais de change et je ne pinaille pas avec les frais de déplacement pour aller à la banque.
Bonne journée.
Par acquis de conscience, je viens de regarder ma carte d'identité consulaire, j'habite bien en RD. Je ne connais pas toute la RD, mais je paie en pesos, on ne m'a jamais demandé des dollars. Quand je paie en €, c'est quand je réserve une chambre via la France, de ce fait, je ne paie pas la taxe locale comme les touristes. Idem pour certains magasins. Pour l'hotel pas de frais de commissions, la banque en France prend en moyenne 3,6% pour les magasins.
Le change sur place est très défavorable et les distributeurs ne donnent majoritairement que des Pesos.
Il faudra m'indiquer l'endroit d'un distributeur à pesos en France. C'est vrai qu'aux distributeurs, il y a un frais fixe de 112 pesos à la banco popular et 192 pesos à la banco reservas qui s'ajoutent au 3,6% de la banque française, donc éviter de retirer 500 pesos.
J'étais venu avec des Dollars que j'avais échangé à Paris et je ne regrette pas ; je conseille vivement aux Parisiens d'aller dans un des meilleurs Change de Paris non loin de la gare de l'Est ; en ce qui me concerne j'ai payé un Dollar 0,77 Euro (ou 1.30 Euros pour un Dollar), bien entendu ce prix s'entend net (pas de commission!)
Je viens de taper achat vente dollars sur google, j'ai pris le premier site. En divisant le prix de vente par le prix d'achat, ça fait 1,0615. Ca fait donc 3% de frais de change, ça c'est euro>dollars. Je suppose que le change du dollars en pesos, les frais de change doivent être de 3% aussi, ça fait 6% au total. Et 3% sur le change dollars>euros pour l'argent qui reste au retour. Il faudra qu'on m'explique. Je veux bien les 30$ pour les taxes d'aéroport si ce n'est pas pris en compte par la compagnie, ça fait gagner 9€, pardon 8.73€, jai oublié les frais de change et je ne pinaille pas avec les frais de déplacement pour aller à la banque.
Bonne journée.
Philippe
L'inconnu engendre la peur et la peur engendre le rejet. Avant de partir envoyez un mail à votre adresse mail avec les copies de vos papiers (passeport, permis...) cela prend 5 minutes et peut vous faire gagner beaucoup de temps.
L'inconnu engendre la peur et la peur engendre le rejet. Avant de partir envoyez un mail à votre adresse mail avec les copies de vos papiers (passeport, permis...) cela prend 5 minutes et peut vous faire gagner beaucoup de temps.
Bonjour,
Je vois que vous n'êtes pas vraiment un touriste, puisque vous habitez la Rep.Dom ; cela me paraît donc cohérent que vous ayez une autre vision et que vous réglez en Pesos la plupart du temps.
Sachez que le seul billet de Pesos que j'ai vu est celui d'un ami qui venait de retirer de l'argent au distributeur de l'hôtel (non, il n'y-a pas de distributeur de Pesos à Paris!)
J'ai testé le site Google avec comme recherche "change à Paris"...et j'ai trouvé le change que je connais et maintien donc ce que je vous ai indiqué : 1 Dollar est égal à 0,77 Euro
La publicité étant interdite sur ce forum, je m'abstiens donc de vous donner nom et adresse du site mais si vous retournez sur la première page, vous devriez y trouver votre bonheur.
Le tourisme en Rep.Dom est concentrée à l'écrasante majorité dans les hôtel-clubs de très grande capacité (beaucoup sur Punta Cana) : à part les excursions proposées dans ces complexes (Saona, visite de St Domingue, baignades avec des dauphins, ...), peu de touristes visitent l'île ; ils sont surtout venus pour la trilogie soleil-cocotiers-sable blanc...rares sont ceux qui viennent faire un circuit.
J'ai apprécié mon séjour à Punta Cana et y reviendrais.
Prochaines étapes, l'Estonie en juin, la Turquie en août et la Namibie en octobre : je ne sais pas encore si je pourrais utiliser les Dollars qu'il me reste!
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There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
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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.
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Best regards.
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I need your help!
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I initially planned to rent a car to get around the main island and then take the ferry from Trois-Rivières to Les Saintes, from Pointe-à-Pitre to Marie-Galante, and finally from Saint-François to La Désirade, following that route.
But when I look at it, the car would sit unused for at least 5 days—that’s paying for nothing🙁.
Is it possible to go from LES SAINTES to MARIE-GALANTE and then on to LA DÉSIRADE? We’d only rent a car once we arrive in Saint-François to continue exploring Guadeloupe. What do you think—is that doable?
This trip is planned for April.
Thanks so much for your help
Hi there,
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Hi! We’re visiting Guadeloupe for the first time in January. We’re looking for accommodation near Deshaies to start our trip. A quiet spot, not too far from the sea so we can walk there. Any suggestions are welcome!
Have a great day!
Have a great day!
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
Hi,
Several comments recommend bringing mosquito repellent. Got it. Are there a lot of them during the day? And by the seaside? Or are they more present (and voracious) in the evening? Thanks.
Hi everyone,
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
Hi!
I’m heading to Havana for a week in February. I’m looking for a casa particular that’s affordable, clean, and cozy. Since I’ll be traveling alone, I’d love a place where people are welcoming!
Also, I really want to stay in Habana Vieja...
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Hi fellow travelers,
We're heading to Martinique for a month from mid-January to mid-February.
Our plan is to explore the island by staying in three different spots for 10 days each, on both sides of the island...
Could you share some great tips on where to stay for an authentic experience and what we absolutely must see?!
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Hi there,
In March 2026 I’ll be at the Club Med in Sainte-Anne and I’m thinking of heading to Les Saintes at the end of my stay.
Do you know what the most convenient way to get there is?
Thanks so much!
Hi everyone.
For those traveling to Cuba and then planning to go to the USA, you won’t be able to get your ESTA for the United States (same applies) if you’ve been to Cuba after 2021 due to a law passed by Donald Trump (a law that Biden later repealed).
You’ll have no choice but to apply for a visa, which costs 200 € (and approval isn’t guaranteed even after payment).
If you’re in this situation, the process to get this visa will be a real hassle—you’ll need to book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. It’s the only embassy in France authorized to handle your application after you’ve filled out the visa request on the official website.
If you try to cheat by applying for an ESTA for the USA, just know that the American administration has ways of finding out if you’ve been to Cuba. 😉
What would you recommend at the airport to get to Ste Anne... Taxis or rideshares?
Can you point me to a good one?
I'm looking for information on the islands of Puerto Rico, St. Barthélemy, and St. Martin for March 2026.
What is there to see, and if possible, prices or tips, please?
Thanks, Michel V.
Hi everyone,
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I’m planning our upcoming trip to Guadeloupe. We’re looking for a place to stay where human contact is a priority, with air conditioning, close to the beaches, and clean.
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
Hi,
I’ll be staying at Playa Pesquero in Holguin and I’d like to rent a bike or scooter to explore the area. Do you know how I can do that? Thanks
Hi there,
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
hi
need some info—I’m torn between Martinique and Guadeloupe for April.
also, which island is bigger in terms of trip length?
thanks in advance
Hi,
When booking the tickets to Martinique for our family, I must have made a mistake, and on one of the tickets, the third first name is wrong. Michel instead of Joel...
CORSAIR Airlines is telling me I have to buy a new ticket for 1200 € (Christmas period). I think that’s outrageous and, above all, impossible for us.
I’m desperate—I feel like Corsair is really overdoing it.
Is there any recourse? How can I get out of this?
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
Hi
On a layover in Pointe-à-Pitre—where’s a good place to stay for one night?
Thanks
Hi, I'm looking for a car rental for January 2020 in Guadeloupe. There are several agencies I've seen reviews for—has anyone dealt with Autolagon before?
Thanks!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
I’m heading to Bayahibe this winter. It’ll be my second time in this country, where I feel so at home. I’d love to bring back some Larimar jewelry... the real deal.
I saw some at a shop in the Iberostar Dominicus hotel, but I’m guessing I can find it cheaper elsewhere. Maybe in La Romana?
If anyone has any tips on this, I’d really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance!
Since the DR is right next to Haiti, I was wondering if voodoo is also practiced there? And how can you attend these ceremonies?
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Hi,
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks
Some wholesalers are canceling trips to Cuba, but I still want to visit my favorite country. For those who went there in November, what’s the situation like at all-inclusive hotels?
Thanks






