travel tips: cuba

W H AT T O K N OW BE F O R E YO U R

TRIP TO CUBA

U . S . C I T I Z E N S C A N N O W T RAV E L T O C UBA

• Under revised regulations that took effect on January 16, Americans are now allowed to visit Cuba.

• Categories of travel allowed: family visits, professional research, religious activities, humanitarian efforts, performances, sports, journalism and academic among others.

C U R R E N CY A N D C R E D I T C A R D S

• Cuban currency is not traded internationally, so you cannot buy it in advance.

• There are two currencies in use in Cuba - the Cuban Convertible Peso (commonly used by tourists) and the Cuban Peso (the locals currency).

• You can exchange your money at the airport as well as most Hotels and Resorts.

P O W E R C O N V E R S IO N

• The outlets in Cuba use 2 pronged 220V outlets.

• Typical North American plugs will not fit into most Cuban outlets.

• Make sure you purchase a plug adapter and check the power outage before plugging in appliances such as hair dryers and laptops.

I N T E R N E T R E GU L AT I O N S

• Internet is highly regulated in Cuba and can very expensive.

• You are required to have a special permit to access the internet and your usage will be closely monitored.

• Do not expect to be able to get work done that requires the internet while you are traveling to Cuba.

C U BA N T IME

• The island definitely runs on “Cuban time” meaning that the pace of the country is fairly laid back.

• Do not be upset if buses or tour guides are not exactly on time!

D R IN K IN G WAT E R

• While Cuba is a clean and hygienic country, the tap water is not recommended.

• To avoid an running your vacation with an upset stomach, you should opt for bottled water.

D E PA RT UR E TA X

• Upon leaving Cuba you will be required to pay a $25 tourist departure tax.

• The airports only accept cash, so make sure you have the cash on hand.

• You are allowed to bring back up to $400 in goods for personal use but no more than $100 in combined alcohol and tobacco products.