Cuba : Safety by City
Cuba, or officially the Republic of Cuba, is famous for the sensual rhythm, tasty food, good cigars, and nice beaches.
History lovers should visit the Museum of the Revolution and Che Guevara Mausoleum.
Havana and Trinidad are the two most exciting cities where you will feel the essence of Cuba and find out more about these passionate people.
If you like dancing, try Danzón or salsa in one of many bars in Cuba or go see a live performance of salsa performers in Casa de la Música de Miramar.
If you wish to drink daiquiris where Ernest Hemingway used to sit, make sure you visit El Floridita.
Warnings & Dangers in Cuba
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Cuba is generally a safe place for tourists. By following some basic rules of caution, you shouldn't have problems. Even though renting a car is truly easy in Cuba, the recommendation is to use the taxi because it's more convenient.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
The public transport is decent in Cuba, but it is far from being perfectly safe. Busses are usually crowded and because of that the perfect place for thieves to operate. The signs on the roads are sometimes not marked, so driving can be dangerous.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpocketing is common in Cuba. Make sure you put your money in a few pockets, so in case something like this happens you still have enough money to go back to the hotel. Don't resist if you find yourself in this situation, so you don't make things worse.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Cuba is susceptible to tropical storms, hurricanes, tropical cyclones, local storms, droughts, and earthquakes. Make sure you stay informed during your vacation in Cuba, so you can react accordingly in case there is a need to follow the security protocol.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Mugging is not likely to occur often, but there have been such cases in the cities and crowded areas. In case you find yourself in a situation like that, make sure you cooperate because thieves can sometimes turn very violent.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
There were no terrorist attacks in recent history on Cuba, but since there is an increased risk of terrorist attacks globally, it cannot be ruled out. Stay alert and in case you notice anything suspicious going on, follow the government's recommendations.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
A common scam comes from beggers telling some sad stories to get the money. Say no and walk away. Make sure you are careful when exchanging money and buying things. Check your money twice when you get the change to avoid being scammed.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
The risk for female travelers is low and most female tourists won't have any problems. However, some caution is advised. Don't go alone at night and don't attract attention by carrying expensive items. Other than that, there shouldn't be any issues.
How Safe Is Cuba for Tourists?
Even though Cuba is generally a safe country, make sure you familiarize yourself with certain risks and how to avoid them.
If you leave some items and lock them in the hotel’s safety deposit box, make sure you remember or write down just how much money you left there.
This is how you will know if something is missing.
If you realize that there is not everything you left, threaten that you’ll call the police.
That usually solves it.
Your money will appear again.
Also, if you get approached by the gorgeous woman or a man asking you to have a drink, you can be sure that you’ll be the one paying it, so if you are not ready to pay enormous bills, politely decline the offer.
The Internet is not widely available in Cuba because it’s expensive, so warn your family and friends that you won’t be online all the time so they don’t worry.
Being offline may be strange at first, but then it will be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Make sure you enjoy the street food and many tasty meals, just make sure to count your money, so don’t get left with a sour taste in your mouth.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Cuba?
Citizens of 18 countries don’t need a visa to enter Cuba, but the rest will require one.
Before making any further arrangements, make sure you check on which list is your country.
The passport must be valid throughout the stay.
Which Currency Is Used in Cuba?
Cuba’s official currency is the Cuban Peso, but there is one more currency equally used – the Cuban Convertible Peso.
One U.S. dollar equals 1,00 Cuban Peso.
Be careful when exchanging money, so you don’t get the bad exchange rate.
How's the Weather like in Cuba?
Cuba has a sub-tropical climate, so the weather is nice during the entire year.
The average temperature goes around 26°C and the cool breeze makes it even more pleasant for tourists.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Cuba?
There are ten international airports in Cuba.
The biggest one is Aeropuerto Internacional José Martí.
It is located 15 km away from Havana.
It handles more than four million passengers a year.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Travel insurance is recommended for all tourists no matter how long you plan to stay.
Take the basic coverage that includes the medical expenses and coverage in case of theft.
What Are Some Things to Do in Cuba?
When in Cuba, you must try a Cuban cigar and go explore Havana city.
With so many nice beaches in Cuba, you can choose which one will be your favorite.
Is the Water in Cuba Safe to Drink?
Tap water is safe for drinking in some areas, but it is advised to consume bottled water especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
Bottled water is widely available, so you can buy it anywhere.
Is Uber Safe in Cuba?
There is no Uber in Cuba, but there are local taxies that you can use.
Negotiate a price before starting the ride to make sure you don’t pay a price that is too high.
