Cuba

what2do

Off to Cuba for 2 weeks in Oct and looking for some advice on what to see and do - flying into Havana and realistically have to choose either east or west due to time restrictions.

Currently think Havana- Vinales - Trinidad maybe taking in Cienfuego and Santa Clara.

Is this realistic and anyone any other suggestions?!

Thanks!!

shanagarry

I was there about 3.5 years ago and did pretty much that route, with the exception of Santa Clara. We had a bit less than 2 weeks, about 12 days or so I think, but even still, getting Santa Clara in too might be pushing it.

If I could do the trip again I would spend more time around Vinales, it's really, really nice out there and we rushed it. If you're going to Trinidad anyway I'd definitely go to Cienfuegos as well as it's so close. There isn't too much to do there, but it's very scenic.

How are you travelling around? The roads are pretty bad, so expect journeys to take you longer than you anticipate.

How long are you planning on spending in Havana? You would easily fill 5 or 6 days, there is a lot to do.

what2do

Hmm we arrive in the evening time so were thinking three nights so 2 full days in Havana - perhaps we need a few extra ones.

No definite dates or bookings made as we plan to play it by ear. Might rent a car or else get the bus - Another option is a few days in a resort in Varadero - is this worth it?

PKen

We went in 2001 and loved every minute. We had 14 nights. Did the western half too. Havana 3, Cienfuegos 1, Sancti Spiritus 1, Santa Clara 1 and Varadero 8. Hope to do the eastern half someday (Santiago de Cuba).
Like shanagarry said, Vinales is worth going to. Havana justifies longer than 3 nights. Trinidad is a must (1/2 nights). Sancti Spiritus didn't impress me much (maybe 1 night). Try to do Santa Clara (1 night) - Che's tomb is there. Varadero is good for relaxing at the end of a tour. But it's a bit bland - you could be anywhere in the world. The only thing "Cuban" about the place is the staff in the hotels.

shanagarry

We didn't bother going to Varadero at all. It wouldn't be my scene at all - we wanted to experience the real Cuba, whereas from what I've heard you could be at any beach resort anywhere when in Varadero.

I'd definitely allow more time in Havana and I would also say that it's a country that you do need to plan in. You don't need everything booked rigidly, but I would suggest that you decide how you're going to get around and a rough intinerary. As I said above, the roads aren't great, and there is no way you should drive after dark, so you do need to plan out your travelling fairly well.

decrrrrrr

Off to Cuba at the weekend and looking for up-top-date answers from those of you who have been previously..

(1) Flying Paris to Havana with Air France. Does this plane have 'in-seat' entertainment? Didn't realise the flight was as long :rolleyes:
(2) Did your Visa Card work okay? (if you have one)
(3) Did your Laser Card/Debit Card allow you to withdraw money?


Cheers,

Dec