Going to Cuba

Hi, am off to Havana over Easter for vacation. Has anyone been who can offer any travel tips for Cuba? One of my main questions is what is the best way to travel from Havana to the eastern side of the island. Is there any form of transport other than the domestic airlines or the rickety buses? Are there rental car/ driver service or more comfortable coaches etc? If anyone has been, any travel info on contacts or tips is appreciated even on homestays etc. Cheers.

Hi Pillowtalk,


I visited Cuba (Havana) about 2 years ago. Unfortunately, it was not as great as I expected. They have 2 different currencies, 1 for the 'locals' and 1 for tourists. Unfortunately, you are not able to get the 'local' currency and therefore will be spending a large amount of money on your trip (the 'tourist currently fluctuates every day and is completely inaccurate and very very expensive.) I would recommend you to not stay in Havana too long, as there is not that much to see and do. There is an island, called Kayo Largo, where they have good resorts. You can go there via plane, which will not cost you that much.


I haven’t seen much of the country, even though I stayed there for about 2 weeks. I went to Mexico as Cuba was simply too expensive (because of the ‘tourist’ currency). Note that there are no ATM's in the capital city, so do bring enough currency with you that you can exchange there at the bank.

I haven’t really seen couches or good busses around Havana, but perhaps you can ask the people at the hotel what the best way is to get around. Do be careful of your stuff, you will notice that many people will come up to you and start talking to you for no reason (usually to hustle drugs or get your money). Just use your common sense.

I don't want to sound too negative; the above is just some advice.


Have fun in Cuba!