The CUBA That Most People Don't See 🇨🇺 Havana 2024

"The Cuba That Most People Don't See" is a phrase that captures the complex, layered reality of the island, beyond the images of colorful streets, classic cars, and vibrant salsa rhythms that often define the country's portrayal in the media. While Cuba is famous for its natural beauty, its colonial architecture, and its revolutionary past, there are deeper, more nuanced aspects of daily life on the island that remain largely hidden from view, especially for tourists. These include the country's economic challenges, political realities, generational divides, and the impact of US sanctions, as well as social issues that the Cuban government often prefers to keep out of the limelight.

This video takes a closer look at the Cuba that most people don’t see—the side of the country that tourists and outsiders rarely experience.

00:00 Intro
00:38 Real Havana Cuba
21:52 Havana Tourist Zone

Top Cuba Travel Tips:

1) Can U.S. Citizens travel to Cuba? Yes.
While flying to Cuba for tourist activities remains prohibited by statute (hence the title of this video), there are 13 other permitted reasons for travel. The main reason most American visitors should choose is: 'Support for the Cuban people'.

2) Do US Citizens require a Visa? Yes
You can easily purchase the visa at a Cuban visa kiosk at your departure airport. The visa costs $50 - $100 depending on the airline. Just arrive at the airport a little earlier to fill out the form and obtain the visa which gives you 60 days in Cuba (with a possible 30-day extension).

Europeans and Canadians can obtain a Cuba Tourist Card which gives you 90 days in Cuba. You can extend your Cuban tourist visa for an additional 90 days, for a total of 180 days.

3) Do you need Health Insurance to visit Cuba? Yes
U.S. Citizens / Green Card holders who fly to Cuba directly via the U.S. are automatically insured because a $25 fee is added to your ticket price. Keep your boarding pass as proof of health insurance and if you do require medical assistance, you present your boarding pass and passport at the hospital in Cuba.

Everyone else (Canada/UK/Germany/Russia etc) can obtain cheap health insurance at Solways Cuba website.

4) Do US Credit and Debit cards work in Cuba? No.
With very few exceptions, U.S. credit and debit cards do not currently work in Cuba. You should bring U.S. dollars to Cuba and exchange them for Cuban Pesos (CUP). Make sure the US bills do not have any marks or tears as these may not be accepted. In addition, you can check the current informal foreign market rate in Cuba on the ELTOQUE website.

European and other debit and credit cards may or may not work in Cuba but you should not rely on this as you will get a very bad exchange rate using your card at the ATM or stores. It is recommended you bring Euros or US dollars.

5) How much cash should I bring? Recommended $50 to $100 a day.
Bring more cash than you will need as it is better to take home the extra dollars you didn't spend than to run out of cash in the middle of your Cuba trip. Many visitors have run out of money in the middle of their trip due to not bringing enough cash.

6) Can I get Internet access on my phone while in Cuba? Yes.
You can purchase a Cuban tourist sim card in advance of your trip and pick it up when you arrive at the airport in Cuba. Visit the SUENA CUBA website to order the SIM card.

7) Do I need a VPN for my trip to Cuba? Yes
Everyone should download a VPN (recommend NordVPN or Express VPN) on both your laptop and mobile phone BEFORE you travel to Cuba. This is because some websites and apps are blocked if you try to access them in Cuba. For example, you cannot book an Airbnb while you are in Cuba without a VPN.

8) How much is a taxi ride from the airport in Havana to the city center? $25
There are taxis outside the airport in Havana into the city and most will charge $25 US dollars. Make sure to ask and confirm the fare in advance.

9) What essential items should I bring with me to Cuba?
Bring all your medication, toiletries (including female hygiene), body spray for mosquitos and sunscreen.

10) Can i stay in a hotel or Airbnb for my trip to Cuba?
Americans can book and stay in an Airbnb in Cuba but are prohibited from staying in certain hotels that are owned entirely or partially by the Cuban government. Choose: 'Support for the Cuban people' when booking your Airbnb. Europeans and everyone else can book both an Airbnb or stay in any hotel you wish.

11) Can I drink tap water? No, Don't do it.
Drink only bottled water and also use to brush your teeth. Also do not consume drinks with ice as they may also have been made from tap water.

12) What should I bring as gifts for the Cuban People?
Over-the-counter medication such as multivitamins, Ibuprofen, Tylenol / paracetamol. Female hygiene products. Bandaids. Personal care products such as deodorant, soap, shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste. Chocolates. Clothing. Shoes. Old spare phones.

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