Information & Facts

 
On our holidays in Cuba, we use reasonable hotels with the emphasis on adequate comfort and functionality rather than putting on the Ritz. We use 4 star accommodation as classified by the Cuban Ministry of Tourism. However, please be aware that the 4 star standards throughout Cuba vary greatly and cannot be compared to hotels of a similar standard in Western Europe.
 
Food is not elaborate and although locally produced sometimes lacks sophistication.
Today, Cuba suffers from a severe shortage of quality 4 star hotels. Tourism is relatively constant and the demand for accommodation is often far higher than the supply. With demand being as high as it is, the government and hoteliers are unified in their price increases so much so that Havana is particularly expensive.
 
Also note there is a 25 peso’s tax on departure which is paid directly by the customer at the airport prior to check in.

Time difference / local time

GMT -5 hours

Language

Spanish. English is also spoken.

Currency

• Peso. • US dollars and US traveller’s cheques aren’t as widely exchanged as they used to be. • Traveller’s cheques are mostly accepted, but not all hotels exchange them – go to an international bank instead. • There’s a minimum fee of 8% to exchange

Beaches

Varadero
Often dubbed one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, here you’ll find soft white sand and glimmering clear water.

Guardalavaca
Unwind on pristine white sands and float in the clear blue sea on this unforgettable stretch of coast.

The Cayos
With powdery white sand, warm turquoise waters and endless watersports, Cayos beaches are simply breathtaking.

Casasa
Situated on the northeast coast, here you can go deep-sea fishing and explore three miles of fine white sandy beaches dotted with giant blue crabs and pink flamingos. The clear blue waters are ideal for scuba diving among exotic tropical fish.

Events and festivals

February
Havana Jazz Festival
This renowned festival celebrates Latin jazz with performances across the city.

March
Havana Carnival
See colourful parades, taste rum and listen to traditional music at this vibrant festival.

May
Cubadisco
See local artists perform all over Havana during this wonderful celebration of Cuban music.

November
Marabana to Havana International Marathon
Watch as runners streak past – or have a go yourself!

Baila en Cuba Dance Festival
Immerse yourself in the sensual rhythms of Cuban dance, with workshops and performances.

Flying time to destination

9¾ hours to Havana.

 

Visa                        

 

 

 

Sports

 

A tourist visa card (visa de tarjeta del turista) is necessary for travellers from the UK. This visa, which is really little more than a piece of paper on which you list your vital statistics, costs between £15-20, depending on where purchased. It can be purchased at the Airport in Cuba on arrival, however it should be noted that many airlines will require a valid tourist visa card before boarding flights.

Watersports
Go deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving and snorkelling. You can also go out in a pedalo or catamaran.

Land sports
Your resort may offer tennis, squash, volleyball, dance lessons, archery and more.

Eating/Drinking

Food
In resort
• Our Cuba resorts serve a range of Cuban and international cuisine.

Local dishes
• Tostada is buttered and toasted bread, often dipped in coffee for breakfast.
• The local speciality is pork roasted on a spit and covered in lemon and honey, served with black beans and rice.
• Ropa Vieja is a stew of shredded flank steak in tomato sauce.
• Picadillo is a beef hash with onions, garlic, olives and herbs.
• Moros y Christianos is a dish of black beans and rice flavoured with spices including pepper, cumin and paprika.
• A traditional a stew of chicken, okra and plantains is served with rice.
• Cuban sandwiches are a popular hot snack of Cuban bread with mustard, ham, pork, cheese and pickles.
• Empanada is a chicken or meat turnover, eaten with a side of plantain chips.
• Popular desserts include custard flan and rice pudding.

Drink
• Stick to bottled water.
• Cubans drink a lot of coffee, with milk or in espresso shots. Daiquiris and mojitos are also popular.

Good to know

Religion
Roman Catholic

Dialling code
+53

Tipping

Leave a discreet tip if you're happy with the service.