Frequently Asked Questions
What is support for the Cuban people travel?
Support for the Cuban People Travel is not only a legal way for Americans to visit Cuba, but a transformational way of traveling, forging intimate and special connections with local Cuban residents. The opportunity to share a smile, make a friend, and gain real insight into the destination is what gives travel to this incredible country its meaning.
Travel with insightCuba provides guests with unique access to people and places the average tourist rarely sees. Our travelers discover Cuba through its people, from a local’s perspective. You’ll get to know extraordinary people who will inspire you, share their stories and they will enthusiastically listen to yours. We’ll take you to the heart of what makes this country so fascinating and you’ll walk away with memories you’ll cherish forever.
On Support for the Cuban People tours, you’ll not only visit Cuba’s most sought-after sites, you’ll meet the people who make this country so special.
What items should I pack for my trip to Cuba?
Seasons in Cuba correspond to the seasons in the United States. Weather is similar to Florida. During the summer months (May through September), pack light clothes, as it will be very hot. During the rest of the year, it’s advisable to bring a long-sleeved shirt or light sweater for the evenings.
Casual walking shoes or sneakers are recommended, as you’ll be walking from place to place throughout your stay. Dress can be casual, but should be presentable. You may also want to pack a nicer outfit for evening dining if you choose.
Reasonable laundry and dry-cleaning services are often available at hotels in Havana and Santiago de Cuba. Bringing a bathing suit is wise if you want to go swimming, as some hotels feature pools.
Sundries
In Cuba, goods aren’t as readily available as most travelers are accustomed to. As a result, it can be challenging to find specific items in a pinch. When traveling to Cuba, you should bring what you need in daily life. That way, the comforts you regularly enjoy and require will be at hand.
Some items to consider bringing are:
- Walking shoes
- Hat for sun
- Sunblock
- Shaving cream
- Razor
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Contact lens solution
- Toothpaste
- Cigarette lighters
- Light rain jacket
- Dental floss
- Bandages, creams & ointments
- Toothbrush
- Reading materials
- Toilet paper or tissues for public restrooms
- Compact umbrella
- Feminine hygiene products
- Over-the-counter drugs
- Hair dryer
As is the case with most international destinations, we advise bringing prescription drugs in their individual, original, pharmacy-issued bottles.
Can I use my cell/smart phone or tablet in Cuba?
Some U.S. carriers, such as Sprint and Verizon, may offer international roaming services for customers in the United States traveling to Cuba. If your carrier offers a roaming plan and your mobile phone is capable of roaming in Cuba, you should ask your carrier about any additional charges for voice calls, data, roaming, and outgoing text messages that you may incur during your trip. We advise that you contact your current carrier for the most up-to-date information on usage before leaving.
WiFi
Although your mobile phone or device may not have international mobile service or signal in Cuba, many guests, including our staff, bring phones, tablets, and other devices to access their address or contact lists, and for email and text usage when connected to WiFi. Other smartphone functions, including camera, alarm clocks, music storage, flashlight, and apps not requiring internet, will work.
Smart Phones in Cuba
You may purchase WiFi access by the hour or day at certain hotels. This will allow your smartphone—but not mobile phones—to access email and instant messaging applications. When connected to WiFi, our team recommends WhatsApp for phone calls and video calls, and instant messages. Be sure to set up your account and connect with your loved ones before you depart for Cuba.
What is the weather like in Cuba?
Swept by northeasterly trade winds, Cuba enjoys a tropical climate, with year-round temperate weather. The advice of many of our guests is to travel to Cuba when you can and worry less about the weather in Cuba. There are benefits of traveling to Cuba during any month or any season. Ultimately, you can’t go wrong.
Winter / Spring
Cuba’s tourist high season is typically during its drier season from December through mid-April. Temperatures average 69.8 °F in January. Needless to say, prices are a little higher during the winter and spring, and since it’s high season, there are generally more crowds than other times during the year. In the end, it’s all worth it.
Keep in mind that weather in Cuba can get cool at night during December, January, and February so be sure to pack a sweatshirt, sweater, or light jacket for your trip.
Summer
Temperatures are only moderately higher during the summer, with the warmest month being August (similar to our weather here at our headquarters in New York!). The benefit is that summer visitors enjoy less crowds and traveling to Cuba is often less expensive.
Fall
Temperatures begin to cool slightly and the peak season crowds still haven’t arrived. Meaning you’ll have more of Cuba to yourself.