| Most tourist visitors to Cuba do not experience
problems. Normal security precautions should be observed while in
Havana and other cities.
Roads are not in good condition. You must be very careful with
cyclists on the streets as well as cattle in rural areas of the
country.
Reports of tourist being the victims of pick pocketing and theft
are increasing, especially in the neighbourhoods of Centro Havana,
Old Havana and Vedado and on the beaches of Playa del Este and Varadero.
Theft of items from checked baggage at Cuban airports, particularly
in Havana and Varadero, is frequent. Bags, including locked suitcases,
are being opened, and items removed. Do not pack valuables in your
checked luggage. All bags are routinely X-rayed on arrival and departure
as part of normal local procedure.
Ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents
are secure at all times. Avoid wearing jewellery or showing signs
of affluence.
Unscheduled electric power surges and outages are common. Most
tourist resorts are equipped with generators.
Telephone communication is a problem. International calls are extremely
expensive. Calls are often not answered, even at major institutions.
Technical problems also exist. It often takes persistence to place
a call to another city (particularly after rain). Reliable cell
phone service is available in most major cities. You may arrange
for cell phone service by contacting Cubacel at 820-2222. |