So this is a story about how a girl from Vancouver ended up falling in love with the people and land of Cuba. If you are, or have been interested in going there, but have reservations for whatever reason, I understand. I often hear of people complaining about the food, services, supplies, and many other things. The problem with these complaints is that they come from people like us. We are used to hot water on demand. Some people want their bedding and towels washed and changed every day (WHO DOES THAT AT HOME?) What??? You ran out of ice??
Our journey to Cuba started in 2012, my cousin had gone to Varadero a year prior and was planning on returning so I gladly joined in. Since then we have been 10+ times, and are going back in late August of this year. I'm writing this to enlighten anyone who is interested in going, because I've been asked many questions over the years. :-)
Cute monkey!
Now, for the nitty gritty.
You can not convert your money until you get there. Thankfully it is one of the countries that does not participate in the central banking system. Lucky for you... they accept your cash, whatever it may be. When you get there you have a few options. You can convert your money into CUC (not CUP) at a local bank, your hotel, or airport. CUC is like monopoly money, only used for tourists. CUP is for residents. If you go to a bank, you will need your passport, and what hotel (etc) you are staying at, that is the standard practice in Varadero. In Cayo Coco, we were able to convert money at the hotel since the nearest mainland town was Moron or Ciego which was an hour plus away by cab.
Bring bug spray. It's a tropical place, need I say more? Although I can say I've seen more bugs here sometimes in the summertime... Many people avoid the beach at sunset and sunrise because of this, we've had no problems. (Probably because we are in the lobby drinking cervasas until past 2am and don't get up until 9am lol)
Sunscreen... who could see that advise coming?
Food? .... Ok, here's where it gets tricky. I am a 'foodie' of sorts. I love good food, love cooking good food. If you are a PICKY eater, this may be a challenge for you. YOU have to REMEMBER they live on an island on the ocean. Seafood is
abundant but they still have chicken, pork and beef. You will not starve if you are hungry, and most of the time they get it right, but if you find your meat undercooked, all you have to do is ask them to put it on a little longer and they will. If you have a preference for a certain condiment, bring it. Heinz, Worcestershire, balsamic vinegar, tabasco or others. If
you NEED a particular brand. I know, such an inconvenience when travelling, luckily we have not had these problems.
Must haves:
Immodium we take just in case and leave it for the maid or workers
Aspirin, motrin, advil .... whatever you take for pain
Benadryl because you never know, you might get bit by something and have an allergic reaction. We've never used it and always give it away.
Sunscreen - DUH
Bring your own beach towel, seriously. People bitch about this so much... no people or available towels etc.
If you're picky about your pillow, vacuum seal and bring your own.
One thing I must say about the must haves.... is that if you require (like I do) certain things, like contact solution and other toiletries like that, BRING THEM.
I love Cuba, it is my home, but when we travel there.... we bring all the essentials. There is no WalMart or SuperSave or DollarStore to gather all the things that we have from home.
Place your towels and such in the tub if you want them changed, oh and by the way... get to know your maid and appreciate her.
We've been so many times that it just seems obvious to us what we need to bring... and what we can expect.
OH! and bring lots of your favorite bug spray..... think of summer and the lake/river/ocean.
The Cuban people are beautiful, caring, loving and giving. We've never felt more safe than there, and they will go out of their way for you. We have many people there that we consider family now. If you have any inquires for me I welcome them.
Got to bring the kids to Hotel Playa Coco in Cayo Coco to get married :-)
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LOVE FELIX!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Quite a wedding it was! I have to admit, I wouldn't have it any other way.
