When people think of Cuba it comes to mind that is the land where people are isolated with no connection to current events or technology. Also, some think that nowadays this island should be up to speed with the rest of the world. Well, there is some truth to both sides. Cuban’s are very much in tune of what is happening worldwide as they have somewhat access to cable and internet (Cubans are very smart and quick to find ways around any official blockage to these). By worlds’ standard this country is a third world country due to the lack of resources. But this is exactly what makes Cuba so special and interesting.
Be prepared to see that Havana is a city where infrastructure is really falling apart. It maybe a shock to you when going from the airport to your hotel. Nevertheless, I urge you to think positive as once you are settled and start exploring the city you will start appreciating what Havana is all about. Coming to Cuba will be an experience like no other and for sure you will want to come back.
Leave your normal life at home and be open to new things!
My advise is to come to Cuba with an open mind. Know that what you may think is the norm and an expectation in any normal travel, in Cuba this probably will not apply. You will soon find out that the pace of life is much slower, people are in no rush. Customer service is good but probably falls short from normal standard. But this will not spoil your stay if you take it with a “grain of salt” sort of speak. Go there and embrace anything that comes your way.
Be aware that there is no such a thing as “free-wifi” and you will not be able to connect anywhere you go. If you plan on travelling and work, you may want to be realistic and have a plan in place before heading there. You will be able to connect in the lobby of the hotel after you buy a card, or you will find several parks or places at random streets where you will see tons of people on their phone. They are connected to internet service by either using a card or paying someone that connected them “illegally” for a lower cost. You just have to stand there, believe me, someone will approach you in no time asking if you need to connect.
Where to stay?
As far a
s accommodation you have the option to stay at a hotel, a “casa particular”(homes of Cubans that are for rent but approved to do so by the government) or use Airbnb. I have stayed at hotels and casas particulares and both were good experiences. Casas particulares will be less expensive, a hotel may start at U$150 where a good casa particular will start at $45 or so, it will all depend on location.
Transportation?
I
f you are thinking how to move around, do not stress! In Havana there is plenty of public transportation such as buses, taxis (official taxis and not), coco taxis (a taxi that is a motorcycle, very fund and useful) and bicitaxis (bike taxis). Another option is to rent a car but I don’t recommend it. In Havana there is really no need for it, the streets have tons of potholes and too many people walking on the street. If you are planning to go to other provinces then, yes, rent a car and enjoy the road trip.
Be kind and sympathetic.
One last thing worth mentioning is to be mindful that Cuban’s are hustlers and their daily life is not easy. Be kind and give tips if you can. Try not to negotiate when buying souvenirs. Know that what for you one dollar may get you nothing at home, for a Cuban it may be the difference of being able to feed their family that day. A professional earn a salary around U$40 per month working full time, yes that is monthly, so someone that is working on the streets with no set income make much less than that. Any other supplemental income such as tips coming from tourist does make a difference in their lives.
For more information on Cuba check my other posts at Theworldmyvillage.com