Varadero, est-ce vraiment Cuba?
by Scaphoide196
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Nouveau sur ce site, je remarque que la majorité des internautes sur ce forum ne connaisent de cuba que Varadero....et bien sur reviennent de cuba ENCHANTES:soleil, belle plage, hotel tout inclus..........MAIS savent-ils qu'à CUBA, les gens n'ont pas le droit à la parole(sauf s'ils vont dans le sens du gouvernement), pas de libertés d'expression, d'informations, de déplacement(par exemple les membres des professions medicales doivent attendre un minimum de 5 années après la date de leur mariage avec un etranger).......qu'à cuba le salaire moyen est de 10 euros(22 euros pour un medecin), faite un tour dans les magasins et vous serez étonner des prix!!!!!!Ne trouvez-vous pas bizarre que presque tous les cubains veulent sortir de cuba......il doit y avoir une raison à cela!!!!!
😉 bravo de jeter un pavé dans la marre ...toi tu dois revenir de cuba pour dire ça?!!
en effet j'ai exactement le meme opinions que toi a ce sujet je rentre de cuba aussi j'ai passe 3 semaine chez mes beaux parents pendant que mes parents etaient en tout inclus ...bizarement ils ne reviennent pas avec les meme photos que moi😉
je connais exactements de quoi tu parle en tous inclus vous manger de la langouste a volonté pendant qu'a un km de là certains mange leur ration de riz alors il y aura encore des gens pour dire " mais il ne meurent pas de faim?!! alors ce n'est pas grave" mais meme si il ne meurent pas de faim grand respect de rester aussi digne face a cette situation mais ne soit pas etonné de ce que tu lira sur le site cuba dechaines les passions et entraine parfois des debats qui derive tres vite en opinions politique le sujet est souvent traité et au finale part toujours en couil....🤪 j'en ai fais les frais sur un post que j'avais lancé sur un simple coup de chapeaux au peuple cubain ça a degenerer en reglement de compte dumoins plutot comique mais comme je l'ai deja dis parfois heureusement que l'acces a internet leur est limité car si ils lisaient ce qui se dis sur eux nos pauvres amis cubains seraient bien triste...
neanmoins certain(e)s ici ne conaissent pas cuba en tout inclus mais en methode routard au contact de l'habitant (ce que je fais) mais je respecte totalement le choix de partir en tout inclus quand on veut se faire plaisir ce qui me gene parcontre c'est que ces meme personne se permette de reagir sur certains post comme si ils avaient passé toute leur vie a cuba un peu style " je suis allé une semaine a varadero alors je connais bien cuba" pffffffff
mais bon comme disait Brassens:" le temps ne fais rien a l'affaire quand on est...."
a bientot et bienvenue sur voyage forum
a
mais bon comme disait Brassens:" le temps ne fais rien a l'affaire quand on est...."
a bientot et bienvenue sur voyage forum
aparfois on a plus de contacts avec un chien pauvre qu'avec un homme riche.........(coluche)
T'inquiète nicodu!
J'ai seulement passé une semaine à Cuba et en tout inclut aussi en plus...
Je ne prétend pas connaître à fond Cuba mais à force de faire des recherche j'en découvre beaucoup...
J'ai aussi l'intentiond e retourner en tout inclu mias je sais pertinament que les Cubains et Cubaines n'ont pas une vie de rêve :/
J'ai seulement passé une semaine à Cuba et en tout inclut aussi en plus...
Je ne prétend pas connaître à fond Cuba mais à force de faire des recherche j'en découvre beaucoup...
J'ai aussi l'intentiond e retourner en tout inclu mias je sais pertinament que les Cubains et Cubaines n'ont pas une vie de rêve :/
Val :)
je ne te visais pas quand je disais ca valerie, je respecte le choix de ce qui vont en tout inclus ca doit etre super agreable a vivre ce que je reproche ce sont les personnes qui n'ont fais que du tout inclus et qui pretende tout connaitre de cuba j'ai vu plusieur de tes interventions et rien ne m'a fais tilté 😉tant que je ne t'agresse pas c'est que c'est bon tu n'a rien dis de mal!!😛lol🙂
parfois on a plus de contacts avec un chien pauvre qu'avec un homme riche.........(coluche)
Hihi non non je ne le prenais pas mal non plus mais voulait seulement souligné ici que même si je ne me passerais pas de mon petit confort je suis tout de même conciente de la réalité!
Et aussi pour répondre au premier message... Je peux dire en revenant de cette semaien tout inclut que j'ai adorer Cuba et les Cubain et aussi paysage etc etc... Mais c'Est certain que le fait que les habitant de cette endroit ne peuvent pas exprimés librement leurs pensé politiques sa m'atriste beaucoup! Sa et aussi plusieurs autre aspect de la vie cubaine qui m'atriste... Mais je ne m'empêcherai quand même pas d'y retourner :/
Et aussi pour répondre au premier message... Je peux dire en revenant de cette semaien tout inclut que j'ai adorer Cuba et les Cubain et aussi paysage etc etc... Mais c'Est certain que le fait que les habitant de cette endroit ne peuvent pas exprimés librement leurs pensé politiques sa m'atriste beaucoup! Sa et aussi plusieurs autre aspect de la vie cubaine qui m'atriste... Mais je ne m'empêcherai quand même pas d'y retourner :/
Val :)
😉entièrement d'accord avec toi. Moi j'ai fait les 2 et je peux dire que Varadéro n'est pas Cuba. De toutes façons il n'y a rien d'intéressant à Varadéro à part la mer superbe.2 mondes différents avec la Havane par exemple.J'ai quand meme apprécié mon combiné (visites la Havane, Vinalès....et puis le tout inclus à Varadéro, mais 4 jours à Varadéro étaient suffisants.
Salut
Je suis bien d'accord avec vous, mais je trouve votre façon d'interpeller les gens de ce forum désagréable pour quelqu'un qui c'est inscrit dans la même journées qu'il fait ce commentaire. Sachez monsieur que j'ai lu sur ce forum des débats très intéressants sur Cuba, débats auquels vous auriez sûrement participé avec plaisir. D'ailleur, il y a souvent des cubains qui participent à ces discussions riches d'oppinions. S'inscrire à un forum de discussion est, pour moi, un peu comme être inviter chez quelqu'un qu'on ne connait pas: on commence par observer, poser des questions et apprivoiser ce nouveau milieu avant d'exposer ses critiques et d'offrir ses "enseignement" sans y avoir été invité au préalable. Ceci étant dit, je tiens à répéter que je suis bien d'accord avec votre brève description de "la vie réelle cubaine".
Ethan
Je suis bien d'accord avec vous, mais je trouve votre façon d'interpeller les gens de ce forum désagréable pour quelqu'un qui c'est inscrit dans la même journées qu'il fait ce commentaire. Sachez monsieur que j'ai lu sur ce forum des débats très intéressants sur Cuba, débats auquels vous auriez sûrement participé avec plaisir. D'ailleur, il y a souvent des cubains qui participent à ces discussions riches d'oppinions. S'inscrire à un forum de discussion est, pour moi, un peu comme être inviter chez quelqu'un qu'on ne connait pas: on commence par observer, poser des questions et apprivoiser ce nouveau milieu avant d'exposer ses critiques et d'offrir ses "enseignement" sans y avoir été invité au préalable. Ceci étant dit, je tiens à répéter que je suis bien d'accord avec votre brève description de "la vie réelle cubaine".
Ethan
Bien sur que Varadero n'est pas Cuba! Tout comme Paris n'est pas la France ou Playa Del Carmen le Mexique. Nous sommes tous des individus avec un vécu et des connaissances différentes. Moi-même je me dit maintenant que c'est il y a 20 ans de ça que j'aurais dû effectuer du tourisme social et plus terre-a-terre. On se renseigne comme on peu et souvent sur le tard....
Malgré le fait que j'ai fait la découverte de Cuba cette année avec ma petite famille en tout-inclus (Santa Lucia) j'ai lu assez pour me faire une bonne idée des conditions là-bas. Je prend une semaine de vacances dans le sud par année et il m'est impossible de faire des casa particulares, alors on aide comme on peu. On a l'intention de séjourner encore au même endroit l'an prochain et de venir en aide davantage si on peu. Et souvent je me demande si c'est pas nous qui vivont dans un monde irréel et surconsommateur.
Quand à la politique, c'est vrai que c'est navrant mais les médias "oublient" souvent de mentionner certaines décisions qui aident le peuple cubains. Par exemple, L'état de l'Arkansas vient de vendre pour 30$ millions de denrée (lait-boeuf-blé) à Cuba et la bio-technologie cubaine aidera des milliers d'enfants en produisants des médicaments hautement efficaces contre certaines maladies (Cuba est l'un des plus grand producteur d'interferon au monde). En grattant un peu, on fini par trouver de belle réalisation et un peu d'espoir.
Danduc
Malgré le fait que j'ai fait la découverte de Cuba cette année avec ma petite famille en tout-inclus (Santa Lucia) j'ai lu assez pour me faire une bonne idée des conditions là-bas. Je prend une semaine de vacances dans le sud par année et il m'est impossible de faire des casa particulares, alors on aide comme on peu. On a l'intention de séjourner encore au même endroit l'an prochain et de venir en aide davantage si on peu. Et souvent je me demande si c'est pas nous qui vivont dans un monde irréel et surconsommateur.
Quand à la politique, c'est vrai que c'est navrant mais les médias "oublient" souvent de mentionner certaines décisions qui aident le peuple cubains. Par exemple, L'état de l'Arkansas vient de vendre pour 30$ millions de denrée (lait-boeuf-blé) à Cuba et la bio-technologie cubaine aidera des milliers d'enfants en produisants des médicaments hautement efficaces contre certaines maladies (Cuba est l'un des plus grand producteur d'interferon au monde). En grattant un peu, on fini par trouver de belle réalisation et un peu d'espoir.
Danduc
Bonne réponse :)
En toute humilité: aussi humblement que possible.
En toute humilité: aussi humblement que possible.
Si tu ne changes pas tes plumes, tu ne t'envoleras pas!
🤪Non Varadero ce n'est pas représentatif de Cuba .
Mais n'oublions pas s'il n'y avait pas d'hotels tout-inclus a Cuba le pays serait en faillite et je ne suis pas certain que ce ne serait pas les plus pauvres Cubains même s'ils ne bénéficient pas directement de la manne qu'apportent les voyageurs ne serait pas les premiers a écoper. Je suis certain que ce seraient eux qui seraient le plus touchés car même si on s'offusque des profits des grosses chaines d'hôtels une bonne partie de cet argent revient au gouvernement Cubain qui donne en retour ( Même si c'est peu ) un minimum vital a sa population qui autrement crèveraient de faim .
Je ne veux ici défendre en rien le régime de Castro car pour moi la liberté est le premier grand principe de la vie sur cette planète mais j'espère que personne ne se culpabilise de voyager en tout-inclus a Cuba et que les gens continurons a le faire car c'est une question de survie pour ces gens, en attendant des jours meilleurs peut-ètre.
Mais n'oublions pas s'il n'y avait pas d'hotels tout-inclus a Cuba le pays serait en faillite et je ne suis pas certain que ce ne serait pas les plus pauvres Cubains même s'ils ne bénéficient pas directement de la manne qu'apportent les voyageurs ne serait pas les premiers a écoper. Je suis certain que ce seraient eux qui seraient le plus touchés car même si on s'offusque des profits des grosses chaines d'hôtels une bonne partie de cet argent revient au gouvernement Cubain qui donne en retour ( Même si c'est peu ) un minimum vital a sa population qui autrement crèveraient de faim .
Je ne veux ici défendre en rien le régime de Castro car pour moi la liberté est le premier grand principe de la vie sur cette planète mais j'espère que personne ne se culpabilise de voyager en tout-inclus a Cuba et que les gens continurons a le faire car c'est une question de survie pour ces gens, en attendant des jours meilleurs peut-ètre.
Dubegil
Un bel article de Jacques Hébert (ancien sénateur canadiens, journaliste, éditeur, président fondateur
de Jeunesse Canada Monde et de Katimavik) vous attend au lien suivant. De bonnes réflexions à faire.
http://www.cyberpresse.ca/article/20060426/CPSOLEIL/60426052/5287/CPOPINIONS
Danduc
http://www.cyberpresse.ca/article/20060426/CPSOLEIL/60426052/5287/CPOPINIONS
Danduc
Merci beaucoup pour nous avoir fais part de cet article je l'ai lu avec attention et maintenant je sais que je uis pas seule d'avoir eu le coup de foudre pour Cuba😉
le bonheur c'est comme le sucre à la crème, quand on en veut on s'en fais
bjr,
de retours depuis hier soir de VARADERO, je pense évidemment que ces 15 jours ne m'aurait absolument pas permis de connaitre les conditions de vie des cubains,
c'est pourquoi je n'y suis pas allé pour"faire" CUBA mais simplement pour passer 15 jours au soleil en dehors de toute considération on va dire politique avec les mêmes exigences matérielles que si j'étais allé dans n'importe quelle partie du globe proposant les mêmes prestations ..........
de retours depuis hier soir de VARADERO, je pense évidemment que ces 15 jours ne m'aurait absolument pas permis de connaitre les conditions de vie des cubains,
c'est pourquoi je n'y suis pas allé pour"faire" CUBA mais simplement pour passer 15 jours au soleil en dehors de toute considération on va dire politique avec les mêmes exigences matérielles que si j'étais allé dans n'importe quelle partie du globe proposant les mêmes prestations ..........
D'autres articles le premier est sur les cyclônes mais continuer plus bas le deuxième est sur un discour de Castro
http://www.terresdumonde.com/cuba/actus_dumois.php
http://www.terresdumonde.com/cuba/actus_dumois.php
Val :)
Si je peux me permettre d'exprimer mon opinion. Je ne souffre pas de sentiment de culpabilité parce que je vais à Varadero (qui se situe à Cuba en passant).
Il y a plein de pays où la population est plus pauvre que les enclaves touristiques. Tout le monde sait cela. Il y 30 ans que je fais des voyages autour du monde. Il faudrait alors que l'on regrette d'être allé en Égypte, au Pérou, en Afrique, etc. Je passerai ma vie à me culpabiliser.
Aller à Cuba dans un lieu touristique comme Varadero ou Cayo Coco est souvent un choix libre qu'un individu fait pour voyager parce qu'il n'a qu'une semaine de vacances et veut aller vers cette destinatiuoin tout-compris sans se préoccuper de tout et de rien. C'est tout à fait légitime! Je ne vois rien de mal à cela. Et cela ne va pas en contradiction avec ceux qui ont choisi de vivre dans les cabanes avec les Cubains. Je sais ce que c'est, autant à Cuba qu'à plein d'endroits dans le monde, et ce n'est pas ou ce n'est plus ce que je veux vivre aujourd'hui.
Il n'y a pas de leçon à donner à personne. Les touristes sont intelligents. Vouloir imposer son mode de voyage ressemble à de l'endoctrinement. Je sais ce que c'est que voyager avec sac-à-dos, une méthode que j'ai pratiquée dans ma jeunesse avec la connaissance du mode de vie des habitants d'un pays pauvre, et je pourrais vous en raconter des vertes et des pas mûres avec des expériences de rébellions, guerres, etc, mais jamais je ne me permettrais d'inciter qui que ce soit à faire comme moi.
Je crois que la plupart des touristes savent également très bien que ce n'est pas la vraie vie cubaine que l'on connaît dans ces enclaves touristiques. Et ce n'est pas ce qu'ils veulent connaître!
Tout est question de choix et de liberté. Mais qu'on ne prétende pas détenir la seule façon de voyager et tenter de l'imposer à ceux qui ont choisi de voyager dans le confort dans un pays qui offre pareille possibilité de le faire, comme c'est le cas à Cuba.
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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.
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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.
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Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
The vegetation is lush but not tropical, and you’ll be served apples and oranges for breakfast because there are very few exotic fruits.
As for the climate in March, there was no humid atmosphere, and the heat was very manageable (26°C). It was very pleasant. The seawater, however, is definitely cooler than in the Indian Ocean, for example.
There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
In conclusion: beautiful beaches, sand as fine as flour, and a very pleasant climate. But honestly, for the same cost, I’d prefer the Seychelles, for example.
Best regards.
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I 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…
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!




