Visiting Cuba - Suggestions for holidays, trains, itineraries, day-trips, and sightseeing from someone who has lived and traveled extensively in Cuba
| Beaches of Cuba Varadero >The nicest beaches in Cuba are at Varadero, about a 2 hour drive/bus ride fro... Changing money in Cuba Havana >Currency exchange is a pain. You'll generally need to get convertible pesos (sa... | Transfers at Havana airport >Havana (Jose Marti International) is a regular first-world caliber airport. You s... Getting to Cuba from the US >It's pretty easy to get to Havana from the US, albeit indirectly. The best method for... |
There are two tiers of money in Cuba – convertible pesos (CUC) and national pesos (CUP).
Things used by locals are priced in CUP. Things for tourists in CUC.
It’s a MUCH better deal usually to buy something in CUP if poss. This goes for snacks, some food, drinks and things in local stores as well as *all* tips.
The rate for CUP is about 32:1, so you can give 10 peso tips like candy to those who serve you. This is a great value.
When exchanging money, get about 10 dollars or 10 euro worth of CUP. It is invaluable in saving money on small things and getting good deals.
