This country was my very first trip. I’ve been twice, in 2004 and in 2007. I sound like a dinosaur now. But I was very young, 12 and 15 years old. If you’re Canadian, especially from the East Coast, you know Cuba is a favourite travel destination. For its price, white sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts. Cuba is one of the rare communist countries. Learning about that before going can enrich your experience.
I recommend this Che Guevara book if you have any interest in the subject.
Fun fact: we have a kind of tradition to either leave a daily tip or gifts from Dollarama for the cleaner of the room at the resort. Sometimes pens and paper for children, or tampons and pads for the mothers. These products can be expensive; therefore, it’s a way of saying thank you.
Do you also have special traditions like that when going on vacation? Or is it just us friendly Canadians?
Drop me a comment, I’m curious!
Where To Go?
I have only been to Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo. The package organized transport to and from the airport. From almost anywhere, it was possible to organize a day-trip to Havana or another region you’d like to visit. Expect a long day of driving in a private bus to get there. I also did some catamaran classic snorkeling activities and paragliding pulled by a speedboat. That was fun.
Another fun fact: I was 15 on the latest trip back in 2007. I could enter a nightclub in a cave with no problem. With your parents’ consent, nobody really cares if you have a drink or two. Pretty cool for a teenager!
Havana time-travelled to the 1950s in classic cars, with live music on every corner and the friendliest people despite the hardships.
Varadero is the place for the younger crowd seeking nightlife and parties outside of the resort, I would say. I haven’t been, but so many of my friends have told good stories about this one.
No matter where you go in Cuba, it is all surrounded by white sand beaches and clear aqua water.
Cuba Travel Tips
- Credit cards don’t work.
- The internet has limitations. Embrace being offline.
- If you want adventures and you’re backpacking, you’ll likely stay in casas particulares (local homestays)
- If you want affordable, relaxing vacations, Cuba is a good place. A week camping in your own country can be more expensive than an entire week over there.
- Learn about the dual currency before you go.
- A friend of mine did backpacking and had a totally different experience.
- If you like rum or cigars, stock up! Very nice and cheap!
- If you want excellent food, aim for a five-star hotel.
- In 2026, if you’re from North America, the best all-inclusive deal is probably on Costco Travel. A couple of my friends recommended it. Check it out!
Dog Travel Cuba
Karma was here: No.
Dog-friendly? Not recommended for dog travel for temporary stays. If you are planning to move there, you can consult Pet Travel. I also found the information on this website useful for Cuba’s import and export regulations on animals.
Good luck and safe travels!
Don't be shy!