Things to know before traveling to Cuba

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IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK A TRIP TO CUBA

1.           You must meet one of the 12 ways to enter Cuba or you can be fined. Cuba is still restricted. You will fill out paperwork as to why you are going to Cuba prior to your departure.
2.           Your passport must not expire within 6 months prior to travel. Check your passport expiration date, make a copy of your passport and bring it with you.
3.           You will need a Visa; if you meet one of the requirements for travel. They usually cost $25.00 the airlines sell the Visa. You will get two Visas one for entering and for your exit to Cuba.
4.           You will need travel insurance
5.           The United States money is not accepted in Cuba, so you will need to exchange your money for Euros (European money) or Canadian money prior to arrival in Cuba
6.           The Cuba currency is in two forms: Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) which has monuments on the bill. This is the currency you will use. The other is called Cuban National Peso (CUP) this is for the Cuban Nationals they has faces on the currency. Be sure to make sure you are getting the correct money.
7.           Euro or Canadian money can be exchanged at the airport. BE SURE YOU COUNT YOUR MONEY, get a receipt, and ensure it is CUC.
8.           Our debit and credit cards DO NOT WORK in Cuba
9.           During your stay you will not have internet or WIFI. You can buy Wi-Fi cards at the airport or some hotels for $2CUC per hour.  PUT YOUR PHONE IN AIRPLANE MODE.
10.         Learn some phrases in Spanish; this can be extremely helpful
11.         Be sure you have toilet tissue and hand wipes on you at all times; many places do not provide tissue paper or have soap for hand washing. It is customary to place tissue in the trash can not the toilet. Many places do not have toilet seats so be ready to hover.
12.         Photographing military or police installations or personnel, or harbor, rail, or airport facilities. Is ILLEGAL!!!!!!!!
13.         Most electricity in Cuba is 110V/60Hz, although 220V is available in many hotels. Power outlets are mostly of the flat two-pronged type used in the United States.
14.         Please note that if you take pictures with some of the Cubans, they may ask you for a “donation”.  Just keep this in mind.
15.         Good websites for information:   http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/17/how-to-travel-to-cuba_n_6489024.html       http://www.cubatravelnetwork.com/en/cuba_information/cuba_information.asp        https://www.state.gov/travel/    http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/destinations/south-america/87360816/tips-and-things-to-do-in-cuba-the-ultimate-guide-for-firsttime-visitors-to-postfidel-cub
16.         Website for booking rooms if you want to stay with the locals: http://www.monkibo.com/havana/  Sergio was extremely helpful a really good source.
17.         Download the Mobile Passport App from US Customs and Border Protection it is free and helpful upon your return. You can bring back cigars and 4 bottles of rum.

Contribution from Angie White, follow her on IG Mzenergy84

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