Safety: Cuba is one of the safest tourist destinations in the world. Nevertheless, it is a poor country and petty crime is not uncommon. Use common sense and be careful with your money and valuables. Hotel rooms have safes. 

Water: It is recommended that you drink bottled water. Ice cubes in restaurants are made with treated filtered water.

Money:  The CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) is the currency used by tourists (approximately equivalent to a US dollar). There is a Cuban government charge to convert foreign currency to CUC's . Visa and Mastercards are accepted (provided they are not issued by a US bank)

Tipping:  Many Cubans who work in the tourist industry depend on tips for their income.

Health: There are no vaccinations that are mandatory to enter Cuba.

It is recommended that you carry your own mosquito repellent, aspirin, tooth-paste, disinfecting hand-wipes, band-aids and any medications you think you might need. These are often not available in Cuba. Soap is supplied in the hotels although you may prefer your own brand. There are international clinics and pharmacies available to assist tourists. If you visit a Cuban doctor you will be given an invoice and required to pay. You can submit the invoice to your insurance company for reimbursement.

We ask that all participants be covered with emergency hospital/medical insurance.