Planning a Trip

Cuba is probably the most intensely diverse island destination in the Caribbean, offering everything from standard fun-in-the-sun beach resort getaways to colonial city circuits, myriad land and sea adventure opportunities, tobacco and classic-car theme tours, and a wide array of cultural and artistic opportunities. There's a lot to see and do in Cuba, and most travelers will have to carefully pick and choose. This section will provide you with the necessary information and guidance to help you plan your perfect trip to Cuba.

Destination Cuba: Red Alert Checklist

Cuba is one of the few remaining Communist nations in the world, and its international relations are often strained. Be sure to check with your local Cuban consulate or embassy about current visa and travel requirements.

United States citizens are severely restricted in their ability to travel to Cuba. Check the information at the U.S. State Department website (http://travel.state.gov) regarding Cuba, as well as the more in-depth description of entry requirements listed below.

Do you have the address and phone number of your country's embassy or consulate with you?

Do any theater, restaurant, or travel reservations need to be booked in advance?

Did you find out your daily ATM withdrawal limit? Did you check with your bank to see if your credit or debit card will work in Cuba?

Do you have your credit card PINs?

To check in at a kiosk with an e-ticket, do you have the credit card you bought your ticket with or a frequent-flier card?

If you purchased traveler's checks, have you recorded the check numbers, and stored the documentation separately from the checks?

Did you pack your camera, an extra set of camera batteries, and enough film?

Do you have a safe, accessible place to store money?

Did you bring emergency drug prescriptions and extra glasses and/or contact lenses?

Did you leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home?

Did you stop the newspaper and mail delivery, and leave a set of keys with someone reliable?

Do you have the measurements for those people you plan to buy clothes for on your trip?