6 things you need to know before going to Cuba

Praised by tourists from all over the world, Cuba is a destination not to be missed this year. Here’s what you need to know before packing your suitcase.

Fill in useful information before your trip to Cuba

His name is on the brochures of all travel agencies and on the lips of all adventurers. Since the historic visit of the President of the United States in March 2016, Cuba continues to attract tourism professionals. Corsair will open its wings to the island in 2017, the Starwood group plans to open two new hotels here, Celestyal Cruises has decided to charter the island all year round… If Cuba is on your shelves for your next vacation, here are some things to consider before you buy your ticket.

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

Cuba’s openness to the world has not yet caused it to lift the formalities of entering its territory. there are travelers you need a visa (or tourist card) is valid for a maximum stay of thirty days and can be renewed on site. You can obtain your visa at the Cuban embassy in France, but specialized agencies remain the fastest and easiest solution to obtaining your visa: Apply to RapideVisa.

If these steps can be carried out by post, the embassy then requests a supplement that must be paid by bank-approved check. Note that you must already have your return ticket in hand to get the tourist card. Another precaution to take before leaving is to bring a proof of insurance in case of illness or returning home.

MORE INFORMATION : Our complete article on entry formalities and visa to Cuba

2. When is the best time to visit Cuba?

The high (dry) season is short from November to May. If the sky is blue and the temperatures are very pleasant, the high prices of this ideal period can be a disadvantage. The year-end holiday season tends to push prices up a bit.

The other solution is to select July/August. However, Cubans are on vacation… and you probably won’t be the only ones supporting this era.

CLIMATE : Check the climate forecast of the year to find out which month is ideal to go.

3. Is “specific home” a reliable accommodation solution?

Cubans take tourists in this equivalent of “Bed and Breakfast” or “homestay” so practiced in Asia. Economical, this formula makes it possible Living closer to the Cuban population. Thanks to the signs on the houses, you can identify the features of the houses. These usually have two or three rooms and often offer an inexpensive meal.
Casas properties have all the qualities, including price. more attractive than hotels. But be aware that hot water is not guaranteed and toilets may be outside.

We must act quickly before modernity gets in the way of this Cuban symbol, whose export is prohibited. The easiest solution is to call a taxi informal person with whom you must set the price of the race for short or long distance. Be warned, not all American-Cuban cars are convertibles, and 1950s shock absorbers were generally absent (note your hips or head resting on the ceiling). Therefore, the journey will not be easy.

These old Chevrolets or Cadillacs are also suitable for circuit games reserved for tourists. Agents are interested in offering you packages.

5. Where to buy real Cuban cigars?

Cigars are the other symbol of Cuba and make a great gift idea. It is better not to succumb to the so-called attractive prices imposed by street vendors. The safest – but not the most affordable – way to buy real Cuban cigars, go to a factory.

6. Which beaches to choose in Cuba?

Ideally located in the Northern Antilles, Cuba offers idyllic views of the Caribbean. For lounging or a beach-to-beach route, north coast will largely fulfill its contract:

• Varadero beach, a 1:30 drive from Havana, is a famous destination.
• Farther afield, Playa Pilar is still a pristine area where you can enjoy wildlife.
• Still, Playa Los Pinos, on the eastbound route, can be a good base, thanks to the hotels it offers.

on the south coast : Recommended in Trinidad. For snorkelers and divers, several destinations are recommended, such as Maria la Gorda, Isla de la Juventud, Cayo Largo, Cayo Coco and even at the end of the island, in the east, Santiago de Cuba.