Cuba

[LDC134]

I am off to Cuba in a couple of weeks - a combo holiday of 3 nights Havana and 7 nights all inc in Varadero. I have done my research on Cuba, but does anyone have any tips, places to go / avoid or anything else I should know before I go ? (I will be with my husband, early 40's, no children, like to dance and have fun and enjoy most cultural and educational sites)
Many thanks in advance

[micmak]

Take plenty of $1 bills. In the shops, no one ever has any change. Even the loo costs a dollar. So if you only had a $5 note you don't get any change.

[Paulacrazyplaits]

Mikmak is this just in the markets or even in the touristy places as well?

[micmak]

It is every where, even the airport. Women are outside the loo and won't let you in till you pay $1 and they give you 1 sheet of loo roll. I kid you not. The markets, cafes and shops are all the same. No one has change.

[Paulacrazyplaits]

Well I'm glad is read this, what a great tip! Thanks mikmak I don't plan on going myself but if I do or know anyone that is at least I can help them with your advice. :)

[LDC134]

Thanks Micmak, but I thought they weren't interested in $ there, and it was best to take sterling ?

[dolly-dimple]

it is best to take sterling, but they will only take notes and they will have to be English notes in excellent condition. You are best to change your money at the Cadeca. do not change your money at the reception desk you will not get a good exchange rate. Yes they wait to hand you toilet tissue take baby wipes or hand over coins for the toilet paper at the airport. The cadeca at the airport is outside the building and it is a good place to exchange your money.

Check into the VIP lounge on the return journey it is worth it. If you don,t do this refrain from using the cafe on the ground floor it is covered in flies and boiling hot. go upstairs it is a bit better. Enjoy Cuba the people are great and it is a fantastic holiday we last stayed in the Playa Pesquero brilliant Have a great holiday Dolly

[LDC134]

Thanks Dolly, your advice is much appreciated ! I have been to India, so always travel with tissues and wet wipes and pack a toilet roll !!