Spanish is Cuba’s official language, but English is often spoken near tourist areas.
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Cuba’s official currency is the Cuban Peso, which is divided into 100 centavos. The Peso Convertible is the tourist currency, which replaces the US dollar as currency in tourist establishments. US dollars are no longer accepted, and you’ll be charged 10 per cent to exchange US currency. Places often expect only one currency or another. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are usually accepted if they haven’t been issued by a US bank.
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Cuba’s international country code is 53. To call another country, dial 119 followed by the appropriate country code. Havana’s city code is (0)7. The main town and cities have internet cafés.
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Tips of 10 per cent are appreciated in restaurants and taxis. Service staff always appreciates small tips.
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Cuba has an increasing rate of crime, especially during baggage handling. Never pack valuables in your suitcase. Watch your surroundings in public places or on public transit, as pickpockets and bag snatchers tend to hang out. Catch a cab after dark and don’t walk. Utilities and communication can be disrupted for weeks after hurricanes. Avoid political gatherings.
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There are no official vaccination requirements, but if you’re planning to travel to rural areas, you should take precautions against typhoid. There can be occasional outbreaks of viral meningitis and dengue fever, even in urban areas. Guard against mosquitoes by wearing suitable clothing and mosquito repellent. Hepatitis A can be common. Use bottled water for at least the first few weeks of your visit. Medical facilities can be mediocre, so make sure to bring enough prescriptions for your entire stay. Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s letter to get through customs.
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Older buildings use 110-volt power, while the newer ones use 220 volts. The most common plugs are flat, two-pinned and round.
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