Travel Cuba
El Caimán
Destination Overview
As a dreamer and professional wanderer, I keep a running of list of places I would like to travel, and I had not thought of Cuba—until I thought of Cuba. It will always hold a special place in my heart as the first international solo trip I went on.
I went for my 25th birthday in 2019 after I had just been diagnosed with uterine cancer. In hindsight, that may not have been my best decision, but ask me if I have regrets.
Often described as a country frozen in time, Cuba is a place where history and rhythm shape everyday life. With a population of just over 11 million people, Cuba’s identity has been forged through revolution, restriction, creativity, and an unmistakable sense of pride. Like much of the Caribbean, this island operates on its own rules and pace. I spent my time in Cuba in Havana, Viñales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Varadero, where I experienced the country through local homes, family-run businesses, tobacco farms, and shared meals.
Ultimately, these were moments that revealed how connection, ingenuity, and hospitality sustain daily life beyond what most visitors ever see, and this experience shaped how I would think about travel from then on.
Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cuba is November through April. Personally, I visited in March, and it was wonderful, especially in terms of weather. It’s an ideal time for wandering Havana’s streets, relaxing on the beach in Varadero, or exploring other cities across the country.
May through October is hotter and more humid with higher chances of rain. Remember that hurricane season also officially runs from June through November.
Currency
Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP). While some hotels and larger businesses accept major credit cards issued outside the U.S., it’s still wise to carry cash. As for me, this is one destination where I exclusively used cash, and it’s the only destination to date that exchanged money in the states before arriving in Cuba.
Language
Spanish is the official language of Cuba. English is spoken at many hotels and tourist attractions, but it’s less common in local restaurants, markets, and smaller towns.
Getting Around
Transportation in Cuba requires a little more planning than many destinations. Official taxis are easy to find in larger cities, and classic vintage cars often operate as taxis and are a memorable way to experience Havana. Ride-sharing apps are not widely available, so consider arranging transportation through your hotel, a tour operator, or a licensed taxi driver.
More from Cuba
Before I actually began traveling, I had a running list of places I wanted to visit, mostly international. I had not thought of Cuba…until I thought of Cuba. I found an article that listed places off the east coast with relatively inexpensive flights and Cuba was one of those places.