Cuba dances to its own rhythm—a whirl of <b>charm</b>, <b>vintage cars</b>, and <b>dual economies</b> that baffle even seasoned travelers.

Between the salsa beats and sunset-soaked plazas, this island hides logistical quirks that demand preparation. Arm yourself Lykkers with these 10 insights to swap confusion for confidence.

<h3>Insurance Imperative</h3>

Medical coverage isn’t optional—it’s enforced. Arrive with <b>printed proof</b> of travel insurance or buy a policy from <b>Asistur</b> at Havana Airport ($30). Random checks occur; skip them and face delays. Pro tip: Ensure your policy covers <b>medical evacuation</b>—Cuba’s hospitals lack advanced care.

<h3>Digital Paperwork</h3>

Complete Cuba’s <b>D’Viajeros form</b> online 72 hours pre-flight. This digital declaration includes health and immigration details. Save the QR code—it’s checked upon arrival. Forget it? Expect tedious paperwork queues.

<h3>Tourist Card Rules</h3>

No entry without a <b>tourist card</b> ($25–$85). Most airlines include it (ask when booking); otherwise, buy via <b>Cuban Travel Services</b>. Exception: Travelers from 20 African/Asian nations need full visas. Double-check requirements at <b>consular offices</b> before departure.

<h3>Currency Chaos</h3>

Cuba’s money maze involves:

- <b>Official currency</b>: Cuban pesos (<b>CUP</b>), exchanged at banks (1 EUR ≈ 120 CUP).

- <b>Black market rates</b>: 1 EUR ≈ 200+ CUP—used by private businesses.

- <b>MLC shops</b>: State-run stores pricing goods in virtual dollars (credit cards only).

Carry <b>euros</b> (preferred), <b>CAD</b>, or <b>GBP</b>. Avoid USD—they attract 10% penalties. Pay private B&Bs (<b>casas particulares</b>) in foreign cash; use pesos for tips ($1 = 120 CUP) and museum entries ($5 ≈ 600 CUP).

<h3>Card Caveats</h3>

<b>US-issued cards</b> won’t work. Even non-US cards face hiccups—Mastercard and Visa function sporadically at state hotels. Private businesses? Cash-only. Withdraw euros at <b>Banco Metropolitano</b> ATMs (3% fee).

<h3>Packing Smarts</h3>

Leave formalwear—Cuba’s dress code is <b>beach casual</b>. Men need collared shirts for clubs. Essentials to pack:

- <b>Medications</b>: Pharmacies often lack stock.

- <b>Power bank</b>: Blackouts are frequent.

- <b>Toiletries</b>: Import shortages make basics scarce.

<h3>Language Hacks</h3>

Cuban Spanish drops formalities—use <b>tú</b> (not <b>usted</b>) and expect slang like <b>asere</b> (buddy). Key phrases:

- <b>"¿Cuánto es?"</b> (How much?)—always confirm prices.

- <b>"¿Quién es último?"</b> (Who’s last?)—master the queue hack.

<h3>Street-Name Jumble</h3>

Havana’s <b>Calles</b> have dual identities: maps show new names; locals use pre-Revolution ones. Example: <b>Avenida de Bélgica</b> is still called <b>Egido</b>. Download offline maps (<b>Maps.Me</b>) with both labels.

<h3>Queue Culture</h3>

No lines—just ask, <b>"¿Quién es último?"</b> and note who answers. That’s your placeholder. Roam freely until they’re served. Works at <b>copperías</b> (bakeries), clinics, and bus stations.

<h3>Wi-Fi Realities</h3>

Internet runs on <b>ETECSA cards</b> ($1/hour). Buy them at:

- Hotel lobbies (marked-up prices).

- ETECSA offices (long queues).

- Street vendors (verify legitimacy).

Hotspots cluster in parks like <b>Habana Vieja’s Plaza de Armas</b>.

<h3>Transport Tricks</h3>

<b>Collectivo taxis</b> (shared classics) cost $5–$10 for cross-city trips—bargain hard. <b>Viazul buses</b> book up fast; reserve online for routes like Havana–Viñales ($25).

<h3>Conclusion</h3>

Cuba rewards the prepared. Master its monetary ballet, decode street-name riddles, and embrace the <b>improvisational spirit</b>. Now, dust off that suitcase—your drink under a palm tree awaits.