Going to Cuba isn't like flying down to Cancún or the Bahamas. You have to plan more, and a few things that work everywhere else simply don't work here — your cards, for a start.
I just got back from a week of walking around Havana. It's loud. The air smells like diesel fumes, salt and roasted coffee. People hang out on their balconies all day yelling down to their neighbours, and yes, you really do hear music everywhere.
Here's what I'd tell a friend before they booked.
Quick answers:
- Best time to go: November to April. December is close to perfect.
- How long: four full days minimum.
- Where to stay: a casa particular in Vedado, around $35 a night.
- Money: bring cash. Euros. Indian and US cards do not work.
- Safe? Yes, unusually so.
- Indian passport holders: no direct flights, tourist card needed, travel insurance is mandatory at immigration.
