I want to go to Cuba

[adic88]

Its a dream of mine to visit Cuba some day (soon). Before the embargo ends and the Americans ruin everything with their stinking capitalism (lol j/k i'm a devotee of Adam Smith just as much as the next guy).

But, i need some help.

Based on my own research, the best way to get there is Malaysia -> London -> Havana (Virgin has flights every other day).

If i wanted to go by way of Australia, is there another way to Cuba?

Some advice from the old hands who've been is most appreciated.

1. When is the best time to go?
   
2. What's the weather like?
   
3. Where's the best place to stay (while on a budget)?
   
4. How many days is recommended?
   
5. What is there to do and see besides cigars?
   
6. What's the living expenses per day?
   

Any other general info about the place would be great!

Thanks!

[hoyopr]

Its a dream of mine to visit Cuba some day (soon). Before the embargo ends and the Americans ruin everything with their stinking capitalism (lol).

But, i need some help.

Based on my own research, the best way to get there is Malaysia -> London -> Havana (Virgin has flights every other day).

If i wanted to go by way of Australia, is there another way to Cuba?

Some advice from the old hands who've been is most appreciated.

1. When is the best time to go?
   
2. What's the weather like?
   
3. Where's the best place to stay (while on a budget)?
   
4. How many days is recommended?
   
5. What is there to do and see besides cigars?
   
6. What's the living expenses per day?
   

Any other general info about the place would be great!

Thanks!

As for your route, I can't help you, but would expect your looking at a lot of travel time so I would suggest taking 10-14 days. A travel agent could look at doing a split with 1 week at a resort in varadero and 3 - 7 days in Havana. Havana is an interesting city with some very interesting architecture, as it is your first trip probably suggest you speak with a local or concierge. Perhaps Ken or Rob could make a suggestion of a contact to show you the sites. Jan through March can be nice, probably want to avoid hurricane season (Sept - Dec). The resort area is really about reading, cigars and coffee, some of the better resorts will have some good entertainment. Shopping at LCDH at 63rd in Varadero is nice, I forget the rollers name but it was good to watch him work.

[Tarks]

Personally, I would NOT recommend Varadero if you want to see Cuba. Varadero is a tourist trap, beaches and resorts are average at best, especially considering you are coming from an area of the world with fantastic beaches. I have spent 1 week in the area and will never go back. If I want a beach trip I would choose another Caribbean island.

Traveling to Cuba in mid to late Nov is the best time IMO for various reasons. For one, it is cheaper as this is not the high season and the weather in Cuba is great in Nov with moderate temps in the mid 20's Celsius. Otherwise, Feb is a great month. I have been to Cuba twice in Jan and the weather was sketchy so I now choose to go in Nov or Feb.

I would recommend spending at least 1 week in Havana and perhaps 3 days in the Pinar Del Rio region, perhaps Vinales. Stay in a Casa during your travels. It is really cheap (approx 30 cuc/night) for a room. A Casa is basically a bed & breakfast. It is a great opportunity to stay with a local family, get home cooked meals and take in the culture! Here is a link to get you started. http://www.cuba-junky.com/

I usually budget about $100 USD per day when there. This includes, Casa, food, alcohol and cigars for the day. Of course you could spend less or more but $100/day will give you a great trip.

I will be in Havana in Feb and Nov 2011. If you plan on going during this time perhaps we could meet up! There are a few of us from another forum meeting in Havana.

[bassman]

Varadero is a waste of time if you want to see Cuba. You could easily spend several days in Havana just visiting museums & enjoying the ambiance. Cienfuegos & Santiago de Cuba are well worth a visit too.

[Blackham]

I followed Tark's advise and I had a great time in Cuba back in May.

Strongly recommend you hire a guide in your first day, ask about Jorge the guide on tripadvisor.com, his guides speak fluent English and know their way around Havana inside out. The rates are very reasonable too.

If you want to save some $$ on accomodation you could try staying in a casa particulares, do a research before you book though some are very nasty.

[jackohalloran]

Cuba aint going to be what u expect... it's 10 times better

[Ken Gargett]

many different ways to get there depending on time, cost and if you want to go through the states - unlikely to be problems but can be.

as for -

1. When is the best time to go? soon as you can.
   
2. What's the weather like? hot to very hot. are you serious?
   
3. Where's the best place to stay (while on a budget)? depends where you are but the rooms run by families is usually cheap and often more fun. you'll need to consult guide books etc to find the latest and best.
   
4. How many days is recommended? long as you can take. long way to go so make the most of it.
   
5. What is there to do and see besides cigars? again, are you serious? fishing, music, rum, the people, the sights, history, great fun.
   
6. What's the living expenses per day? how long is a piece of string?
   

[Tarks]

LOL @ Ken!!! Priceless!

[Ken Gargett]

LOL @ Ken!!! Priceless!

i really wasn't trying to take the piss.

[Baldy]

Previous posts offers good advice.

If the purpose of your trip is to eat (average eating), drink and generally do nothing then Varadero. Can't help you there as I've never been and don't want to go. If you want to possibly see the real Cuban and meet real locals, then your best chance is at a casa particular. How long? Not long enough. I've spent anywhere from 5 days to 2 months there and each time the worse part of my trip was the drive back to the airport. Cuba is like a multi-layer cake, there is a lot of depth, substance and nuances that can only be appreciated over time and must be experienced.

Warning: Cuba is highly, as in crack cocaine, highly addictive. Many people I know have been caught in this trap. Myself included.

[Tarks]

Previous posts offers good advice.

If the purpose of your trip is to eat (average eating), drink and generally do nothing then Varadero. Can't help you there as I've never been and don't want to go. If you want to possibly see the real Cuban and meet real locals, then you best chance is at a casa particular. How long? Not long enough. I've spent anywhere from 5 days at 2 months there and each time the worse part of my trip was the drive back to the airport. Cuba is like a multi-layer cake, there is a lot of depth, substance and nuances that can only be appreciated over time and must be experienced.

Warning: Cuba is highly, as in crack cocaine, highly addictive. Many people I know have been caught in this trap. Myself included.

Did you book your flight yet Dave? And I'm not talking about Nov, I'm talking about Feb!

[Baldy]

Did you book your flight yet Dave? And I'm not talking about Nov, I'm talking about Feb!

I was but realized you'll be there. Thinking Sibera, Chernobyl, or Afghanistan might be better.

[adic88]

Personally, I would NOT recommend Varadero if you want to see Cuba. Varadero is a tourist trap, beaches and resorts are average at best, especially considering you are coming from an area of the world with fantastic beaches. I have spent 1 week in the area and will never go back. If I want a beach trip I would choose another Caribbean island.

Traveling to Cuba in mid to late Nov is the best time IMO for various reasons. For one, it is cheaper as this is not the high season and the weather in Cuba is great in Nov with moderate temps in the mid 20's Celsius. Otherwise, Feb is a great month. I have been to Cuba twice in Jan and the weather was sketchy so I now choose to go in Nov or Feb.

I would recommend spending at least 1 week in Havana and perhaps 3 days in the Pinar Del Rio region, perhaps Vinales. Stay in a Casa during your travels. It is really cheap (approx 30 cuc/night) for a room. A Casa is basically a bed & breakfast. It is a great opportunity to stay with a local family, get home cooked meals and take in the culture! Here is a link to get you started. http://www.cuba-junky.com/

I usually budget about $100 USD per day when there. This includes, Casa, food, alcohol and cigars for the day. Of course you could spend less or more but $100/day will give you a great trip.

I will be in Havana in Feb and Nov 2011. If you plan on going during this time perhaps we could meet up! There are a few of us from another forum meeting in Havana.

I'm thinking November next year or Feb in 2012 (for the Festival).

The only thing that concerns me about the Festival is how to get mysefl invited to all those great events. From what i can see, it seems like an exclusive arrangement, and if you're "not in the know" then you won't be allowed to participate. Any feedback about this?

Tarks, where are you from geographically, what is your route to get to Havana?

[adic88]

many different ways to get there depending on time, cost and if you want to go through the states - unlikely to be problems but can be.

as for -

1. When is the best time to go? soon as you can.
   
2. What's the weather like? hot to very hot. are you serious?
   
3. Where's the best place to stay (while on a budget)? depends where you are but the rooms run by families is usually cheap and often more fun. you'll need to consult guide books etc to find the latest and best.
   
4. How many days is recommended? long as you can take. long way to go so make the most of it.
   
5. What is there to do and see besides cigars? again, are you serious? fishing, music, rum, the people, the sights, history, great fun.
   
6. What's the living expenses per day? how long is a piece of string?
   

Haha, great reply! There are only two things i really enjoy, and that's cigars and scuba diving. Are there any good dive sites of Havana itself?

[Wil]

I was there in July last year for two weeks. Flew from London with Air France, which was the cheapest at the time. The weather in July was great. Spent a few days in Old Havana at the beginning and end of the trip - fantastic place. Also visted Trinidad and Vinales - both are definitely worth the trip.

Next time I'll head further East, toward Santiago de Cuba and Baracoa. As Ken said, take as much time as you can. Two weeks wasn't nearly enough time.

[Baldy]

A good friend of mine owns a dive shop here in Calgary. She's been there. Her assessment is Cuba is awesome. Better get there before it's over run by Americans. She was in Havana for a few days then was out at sea on a guided dive trip for 10 days. Cost was $250 CUC for boat and guide rental (food included) but you are expect to give a big tip. She gave the guide $400 CUC tip plus gave a bunch of dive gear. She's a good friend so I consider her a reliable source and fantastic mule.

Tarks is from Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada. Flights to Cuba is faster but not that much cheaper.

As for the festival and most things Cuba if you show the $$$ you have lots of invitations (in all it many variations). Been in Havana twice during festival time and don't care for it that much. Highly overrated and mucho $$$. AFAIK all the festival events are open to the public so long as you pay. Expect to pay around $1600ish CUC for all festival events + cigars + diving stuff + food + drinks + accommodation + travel + airfare + miscellaneous = not cheap. That's not including the parties, nights out and bail money.

[Ken Gargett]

Haha, great reply! There are only two things i really enjoy, and that's cigars and scuba diving. Are there any good dive sites of Havana itself?

not a diver myself but i have heard that there is some great stuff. i suspect you'd need to bring your own gear but someone like toby will have the facts for sure. rob will have his details.

[adic88]

A good friend of mine owns a dive shop here in Calgary. She's been there. Her assessment is Cuba is awesome. Better get there before it's over run by Americans. She was in Havana for a few days then was out at sea on a guided dive trip for 10 days. Cost was $250 CUC for boat and guide rental (food included) but you are expect to give a big tip. She gave the guide $400 CUC tip plus gave a bunch of dive gear. She's a good friend so I consider her a reliable source and fantastic mule.

Tarks is from Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada. Flights to Cuba is faster but not that much cheaper.

As for the festival and most things Cuba if you show the $$$ you have lots of invitations (in all it many variations). Been in Havana twice during festival time and don't care for it that much. Highly overrated and mucho $$$. AFAIK all the festival events are open to the public so long as you pay. Expect to pay around $1600ish CUC for all festival events + cigars + diving stuff + food + drinks + accommodation + travel + airfare + miscellaneous = not cheap. That's not including the parties, nights out and bail money.

Looks like there is little reason to hit Cuba in Feb, given the extra costs. Is November suitable for diving, i wonder? The seas can't be calm all year around, certain months are probably better than others. Can you PM me your friend's email address? so i can talk to her about the diving portion of the trip.

Great tips, especially about the diving. A couple of days out diving from Havana, would be perfect. That means i don't have to go far from Havana, i can make that my base of operations.

1.00 USD = 0.925900 CUC

1.00 CUC = 3.35741 MYR

Gulp, that's a nasty exchange rate.

There is the CUC and there is a Cuban Peso. What's the difference between the two? are they different currency notes?

[Tarks]

Yup. Cuba has 2 currencies. (cuc) is the the currency for tourists and (cu) is the local currency.

[Tarks]

Feb is not all bad for $$$, just stay clear of the week of the Festival as prices can increase unless of course you really want to be a part of it!

[Baldy]

Not comfortable about giving my friend's email addy. Sorry no offense. However I'd be more than comfortable to forward your request to her. Having said that, she's super helpful, extremely knowledgeable and can't imagine her not helping out. She has a local contact in Havana that she does a lot of business with her dive shop. Email me.

Like buying cigars, be careful where you get your money exchanged in Cuba. I've seen tourists who got a "deal" and got cu (local currency 1/24th the value of a CUC) instead of CUC.

[adic88]

Not comfortable about giving my friend's email addy. Sorry no offense. However I'd be more than comfortable to forward your request to her. Having said that, she's super helpful, extremely knowledgeable and can't imagine her not helping out. She has a local contact in Havana that she does a lot of business with her dive shop. Email me.

Like buying cigars, be careful where you get your money exchanged in Cuba. I've seen tourists who got a "deal" and got cu (local currency 1/24th the value of a CUC) instead of CUC.

Sure, mate. I understand completely. Please do ask her if she is ok if i contact her, hopefully she'll say yes. The brother/sisterhood of divers is as strong as the bond we share for cigars! We're always looking out for one another.

[Baldy]

Sure, mate. I understand completely. Please do ask her if she is ok if i contact her, hopefully she'll say yes. The brother/sisterhood of divers is as strong as the bond we share for cigars! We're always looking out for one another.

100% sure she'll say it's no problem. Unless it's that time of the month, then you'll have to wait a few days before hearing from her.

[adic88]

Stumbled across this great guide by accident.

Check it out fellas.

http://www.phoenicia.com.cy/Articles/Tips_on_Havana.pdf

[adic88]

Oh, blow my eyes. This is EXACTLY what i'm looking for.

http://travel.incloud9.com/itinerary.php?itin_id=89

*apologies to mods if this linking is not allowed. There is a good deal of cigar information here valuable to everyone wanting to visit Cuba for "cigar tourism".