Havana travel information

Havana is one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant and exciting cities, and is fast becoming a favourite tourist destination. Cuba is relatively free of international terrorism and there is a lower risk of severe disease than in many tropical countries, but crime is fairly high in Havana, and steadily rising. Healthcare facilities are mediocre in Cuba, and tourists are advised to take out travel insurance when visiting Havana.

• Havana’s best beaches are located approximately 20 minutes driving time east of the city.

• Don’t be surprised if you are approached by a prostitute in Havana, although this almost always happens to male travellers only. In past years, Cuba has been a sexual playground for foreign men, and old habits die hard.

• Although the Cuban climate is good all year round, December to April is the island’s high tourist season and should be avoided. Likewise, July and August are when Cubans take their holidays, and beaches tend to get crowded over this time.

• Don’t be surprised if people frequently ask you the time along Havana’s Malecon – this is the Cuban way of initiating a conversation.

• Beware of pickpockets and muggers in the Old Havana area, on buses and trains, at nightclubs and at major tourist sites.

• Though buses are cheap in Havana, they are overcrowded and slow, and taxis are a better way of getting around the city. If taking an unofficial, vintage car taxi, negotiate the price beforehand so as to avoid being overcharged.

• Men should avoid wearing shorts except on or near the beach.

• The Havana Carnival takes place every year in late February and early March; it features parades in front if the Capitolio and along the Malecon, and this is a colourful, festive time of the year to visit the city.

Useful travel tips resources

Lonely Planet guide to Havana
Incomparable resource on Havana travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
www.LonelyPlanet.com/destinations/caribbean/havana/facts.htm

Iexplore
Dos and don’ts in Cuban society.
www.iexplore.com/dmap/Cuba/Do’s+and+Don’ts

Footprintguides - Havana
Site with useful travel information and advice for a wide range of destinations.
www.footprintguides.com

More topics on this site…
Havana maps and geography
Cuba travel information
Cuba travel tips
Cuba health and safety
Cuba maps and geography

Havana Trip Planner
Havana Accommodation
Havana Arts and Entertainment
Havana Bars and Clubs
Havana Eating And Drinking
Havana Festivals And Events
Havana Gay and Lesbian
Havana History and Background
Havana Shopping
Havana Sports
Havana Tours and Attractions
Subregions of Havana

Essentials

Visas: Not required, however visitors must apply for a tourist card from the Cuban embassy in their country.
Season: November to April
Money: Pesos – ATMs widely available, transactions mostly cash
Language: Spanish – English is limited outside of resorts and hotels
Emergency #: 26811

Cuba