How to Stay Safe
- Be Smart Most rooms have a lockbox. Use it to store your valuables, passport / visa & tickets.
- Only carry a copy of your passport with you (leave the original in the lockbox)
- Only carry money that you think you will need for the day. Leave the rest in your lockbox. Do NOT depend on locking your suitcases as these can easily be overcome.
- Spread your money around in your various pockets. Men should keep their wallets in their front pocket (never the back). Women who carry purses should make sure the go across the body (never dangle loosely on one side) – same is true for cameras. Money belts are a good idea. Keep your cell phone secured. Wear an inexpensive watch.
- Don’t bring expensive jewelry of any kind.
- Cuba is safe. The most you will likely ever face is attempts at petty theft – particularly when you are in a hurry or distracted.
- It’s much less likely in more rural areas of Cuba than in Havana where you will encounter hustlers who want to lure you to buy cigars or show you a great place to eat or drink. If you do, you should be able to discern pretty easily from a genuine interest. They may start out with a friendly question like “Where are you from”.…then it will quickly turn to something they want you to do. They will say FOLLOW ME. And if you do, they will expect you buy their meal or drink when you get there. Don’t fall for it. It’s best to just say “NO GRACIAS” (polite yet firm) and then ignore them. Again, the further you get into the countryside the less you will see this type of behavior.
- Please note – pedestrians have NO rights in Cuba. Cross the street with caution!
- Do not take pictures of police officers or embassies.
- At nightclubs or bars, be sure to check the receipt thoroughly. Make sure you are only charged for things you consume. Be polite if something you asked for didn’t materialize. You should not have to pay for that on your bill. If the waiter offers you bread, know that this is often a 2-3 CUC charge (bread usually not free like we are accustomed in the US).
- Lastly, Cubans are promiscuous and sexually transmitted diseases are common. Plan accordingly.
Related
Explore more hidden gems and can’t-miss experiences from this region of Cuba.
Clearing Customs
Boarding Pass
Customs Declaration Form
Visas and QR Codes