There are lots of good guide books about Cuba but we’d like to let you know a little more about this country so you are prepared for some of the challenges you may experience there:
Cuba is a socialist country, and because of this can sometimes seem like another planet. Some things can take much longer there. So to avoid frustration it’s good to moderate your expectations a little.
Because of the relaxed culture which has arisen amongst those who are paid by the State you might find that the service in places, especially banks, shops and restaurants which are run by the State can be more laid back than you’re used to.
Although it is possible to use Euros in Cuba it’s possible that you won’t be able to find some of the products you might be hoping to buy.
Telephone calls from Cuba are very expensive. You should ask your telephone company for the option» (Roaming international).
You can access the internet in all the big cities and big hotels. Prices are about 6 CUC (approx. 5€) for 1 hour connection.
Two currencies circulate throughout Cuba – Cuban convertible pesos (CUC) and Cuban pesos (CUP), also called moneda nacional (MN). Most prices are quoted in (CUC$) and nearly everything tourists buy is in this currency. CUC can only be bought and sold in Cuba with euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars and Swiss francs; these currencies are exchanged at the global exchange rate for the dollar, plus an 8% margin tacked on by the Cuban government. US dollars are also convertible, but exchanging them not only incurs the aforementioned 8% fee, but a further 10% penalty.
Working people in Cuba get low salaries, between 12€ and 18€ per month. Some state workers have to wait 3 months to get their salaries which makes it very difficult for them to earn their livings honorably. Fortunately the people associated with our trip: the driver, equestrian guides, hotel staff and musicians are all honest, nice people who work hard. It’s up to us to show our appreciation of this by tipping them when they’ve done a good job.