Cuba. Ultimate packing list.
Unprepared for a tourist boom in a last few years, Cuba is a challenging destination to go to, especially for USA citizens. I took my parents on a surprise trip for their 30th wedding anniversary in July, 2017. All of us have Russian Passports, so it wasn't a problem for us. However, travelers who want to head to Cuba this year, will be able to do so under the “people-to-people” guidelines. They will need to book such travel through an official U.S. tour group. Also, U.S. authorities have barred citizens and residents from doing business with about 180 companies in Cuba, including multiple hotels and stores (list of restricted businesses). In a mean time, there are still many accommodations, restaurants, bars and shops available to U.S.-passport holders. Don't let details stop you from exploring this beautiful island. Let's get ready and jump on our ultimate packing list.
1. Cash. I understand it's quite obvious and everyone knows that US cards won't work there, I mainly wanted to confirm what kind of cash. Bring Euro. If you are coming from US, you should just buy some European currency there. I've noticed that rates were significantly better and few hotels did't accept USD for exchange. Make sure, when getting your money, CUC is a currency for tourists and has picture of monuments on them, money with national heroes - CUPs, are for locals only.
2. Medical kit, including insects repellent and hand sanitizer. Everything from diarrhea treatment, painkillers, band-aids to contacts lenses and solution. Mosquitoes will kill you there a long with
3. Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Reapply every 30 minutes. No jokes. I was too stubborn and kept saying "I don't burn! Ever!", and ended up as well done lobster condition by the end of the day. Thankfully I brought Aloe Vera with me too.
4. Map of Cuba. You can buy a Travel Guide on Amazon or do what I did and download a Galileo Pro App. It's a map app, where you are able to download a map of the place you are going to, and access it off-line. The app has recordable GPS Tracks and can be used in any language. It comes in handy especially in countries where internet isn't everywhere.
5. Toiletries and cosmetics. Bring everything that you need with you for entire stay in Cuba. You can buy most of the regular stuff like shampoo, soap and toilet paper in a Cuban store yet you will be out of luck trying to find mascara or hair conditioner.
6. Torch. It never happened to us that light went out in Cuba but you never know. Just be prepared.
7. Wetsuit and snorkel gear. Diving in Cuba is one if the must do activities. The unreal turquoise color water, corral reefs, tropical fish and reasonable prices, should make diving on the top of your Cuba to do list.
8. Clothes. I won't tell you how many dresses or tops or shorts to bring because its' totally up to you. I like to over pack. Definitely bring swim suit, flip-flops, comfy shoes for walking, couple sun dresses, shorts and few tops. Hat and beach tote are must essentials as well. Aren't we at the Caribbean ?
9. Lightweight beach towel. While hotels will provide minimum amount of towels, we stayed in Airbnb (same as staying in casa particular), it was a good idea to bring along a fast drying microfiber towel.
10. Portable Charger. We are so attached to our phones, cameras, and other electronics that having a portable charger became a necessity. For my trip to Cuba, I borrowed my boyfriend's Solar Charger, it charges itself while you are charging your phone on the beach. Can't even think of anything cooler.
Important notes: banks, stores, government buildings close at 3pm. Make sure to schedule your day accordingly. Most of the hotels have free wi-fi in the lobby, if they don't, they will be selling Telecom Cards that are pretty easy to use. the price is outrages around $5-$10 for one hour of wi-fi. You might consider unplagging for awhile.
