Varadero Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

ETECSA is the state-owned telecommunications company and the sole mobile provider in Cuba, offering "Cubacel Tur" SIM cards.

SIM Card Information

Purchase these at ETECSA offices or upon airport arrival.
A local phone number and access to data packages are included.
An unlocked mobile phone works with a local SIM. Explore Airalo for eSIMs.

Internet Access

Internet access in Cuba has grown but remains limited and can be costly.

Wi-Fi Options

Wi-Fi hotspots in public parks, main squares, and hotels.
Access requires purchasing ETECSA scratch cards (Tarjeta Nauta).
Resort Wi-Fi quality and speed varies. For portable Wi-Fi, consider Solis Wi-Fi.

Postal Services

Correos de Cuba, the Cuban Post Office, operates throughout the island.

Sending Mail

Sending mail, especially internationally, can be slow.
Expect significant delays for international postcards or packages.
Reliability varies; it's generally not a fast option.

Language Support

Spanish is the official language. In major tourist areas, many speak English.

Translation Aids

Offline language packs for Google Translate are extremely beneficial.
Learning basic Spanish phrases truly supports interactions with locals.
Outside direct tourist interactions, English proficiency limits. For learning, Rosetta Stone is an option.

Essential Spanish Phrases

Greetings & Basics

Hello: Hola (OH-lah)
Please: Por favor (por fah-VOR)
Yes/No: Sí/No (SEE/NOH)
Water: Agua (AH-gwah)

Common Interactions

Goodbye: Adiós (ah-dee-OHSS)
Thank you: Gracias (GRAH-see-ass)
Excuse me/Sorry: Disculpe/Perdón (dees-KOOL-peh / per-DOHN)
I do not understand: No entiendo (NOH en-TYEN-doh)

Language Tip:

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases greatly supports your interactions and overall experience.

Operational Hours & Accessibility

Knowing local schedules and infrastructure facilitates your journey.

Shop Hours

Generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. Some smaller shops may close for lunch.

Restaurant Hours

Typically open for lunch (around 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM) and dinner (from 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM until 10:00 PM or later).

Resort Facilities

Operating hours vary greatly. Breakfast services usually start early (7:00 AM), while bars and discos may stay open very late.

Banking & ATMs

ATMs exist in Varadero but can be unreliable. U.S.-issued cards often do not receive acceptance.

Banking Tips

Banks/CADECA (currency exchange) operate Monday to Friday.
Currency exchange is best handled at CADECA offices or resorts.
Always carry small change for transactions and tips.

Holidays & Seasons

Services may see reduction or closure on public holidays.

Seasonal Adjustments

Low season (summer and fall) may see reduced hours.
Always confirm opening times for independent establishments.
Public holidays include Liberation Day, Labor Day, Christmas. For flight issues, try Compensair.

Airport Services & Lounges

Lounge Access

Priority Pass access to independent airport lounges.
Relax and unwind before your flight.
Amenities often include Wi-Fi and refreshments.

Flight Compensation

Compensair assists with delayed or cancelled flights.
Service for pursuing compensation claims.
A fixed commission for successful claims.

Money Tip:

Always carry small change for tips and small purchases; this supports the local economy directly.

Etiquette & Accessibility

Navigate Cuban culture with respect and awareness.

Cultural Etiquette

A simple "Hola" (hello) always finds appreciation. Simple greetings convey politeness.

Greetings & Attire

A handshake commonly occurs when meeting someone new.
Familiar greetings may involve a kiss on the cheek among friends.
Casual wear suits most settings; swimwear is only for beach/pool areas.

Dining & Photography

If dining at a paladar, wait for the host to seat you. Tipping is customary (around 10%) if a service charge is not included.

Guidelines

Do not take food from the table without asking permission.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
Avoid photographing military or police personnel, or sensitive government buildings.

Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing politics or criticizing the government.

Topics to Avoid

Be mindful of the U.S. Embargo and its profound effect on daily life.
Public displays of affection considered excessive should be avoided.
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Cuban society is generally conservative. Varadero, as a major tourist hub, appears more open.

Considerations

Public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ couples might draw attention outside resorts.
Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal in Cuba.
The legal framework supports equality.

Accessibility Challenges

Infrastructure Issues

Infrastructure is generally poor outside newer resorts.
Sidewalks can be uneven, and ramps are rare.
Lifts are uncommon in older buildings and public spaces.

Limited Services

Major, newer resorts may have some accessible rooms.
The Varadero Tour Bus typically does not accommodate wheelchairs.
Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Mobility Travel Tips

Pre-Trip Planning

Confirm taxi accommodation for foldable wheelchairs in advance.
Consult specialized travel agencies for specific recommendations.
Review online forums focusing on accessible travel for Cuba.

On-Site Support

Consider traveling with a companion for support.
Rely on personal aids for visual or hearing impairments.
Always confirm facility accessibility directly.

Accessibility Note:

While efforts continue, Cuba's infrastructure still has challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Planning ahead supports a smoother journey.

Cultural Immersion & Respect

Engage deeply with Cuba's culture through thoughtful interactions.

Local Interactions

Show respect by learning a few Spanish phrases. Even basic words foster connection.

Engaging with Locals

Be patient and understanding with services (Cuban time).
Avoid public displays of wealth, like large amounts of cash.
Ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.

Ethical Photography

Respect privacy, especially of children and within residential areas.

Photography Guidelines

Do not photograph children without explicit parental permission.
Exercise caution when photographing in residential zones.
Avoid photographing military/police or government buildings.

Cultural Preservation

Support Artists

Purchase directly from local artisans at markets or galleries.

Traditional Crafts

This action supports the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

Cultural Tip:

Engage with an open mind and embrace the unique rhythm of Cuban life for a truly enriching experience.

Varadero Travel Tips