Daily blackouts, partial dollarization, real scarcity, and the island still impossible to replicate anywhere else in the world. A guide for those who want to go with eyes wide open.
Daily blackouts, partial dollarization, real scarcity, and the island still impossible to replicate anywhere else in the world. A guide for those who want to go with eyes wide open.
Tarjeta Turística costs EUR 25 when purchased at the airline counter (Iberia, Air France, Copa, Avianca) and grants 30 days extendable for another 30 in Havana.
Americans must fit into one of the 11 OFAC categories and buy a specific Cuban Tourist Card (USD 50-100), with no direct recreational tourism since 2019.
USD and EUR circulate in the informal market at rates 3 to 5 times higher than the official rate; CUP (Cuban peso) is only useful for urban buses and markets.
Casas Particulares cost EUR 25-50 per night with breakfast for EUR 5 and dinner for EUR 10-15, booked via WhatsApp directly with the owner or through Airbnb.
Viazul bus between Havana, Viñales, and Trinidad costs EUR 25-50 per leg and requires booking 48h in advance; collectivos are EUR 15-20 with equivalent time.
Daily blackouts, partial dollarization, real scarcity, and the island still impossible to replicate anywhere else in the world. A guide for those who want to go with eyes wide open.
