2016
16
November
Can I bring a cell phone with GPS to Cuba without it being confiscated?
16
November
Question:
Humans say...
James
The phone is fine. Don’t take American take Canadian. Can’t help with the hotel sorry
Yannick
The cell should be fine even though it says no gps device.
There's many hotels in havana, from garbage to luxury. Check the Transat last minute deal page, it will list a bunch. Or a google search, as always.
Bring Canadian and exchange there. (you cant exchange outside cuba anyways) US dollars has a 10% surcharge on top of exchange rate.
Brennan
Is the Castro departure bribe/tax still a thing? If so, don't forget your 25 USD.
Yannick
No more $25 charge
Amanda
It’s added to your flight now, the airline pays it.
Jendelle
Cell is fine. Exchange funds at the airport there or at a bank in town. Just be prepared the banks in town share one internet line and usualky only have one teller that speaks some english.
Shauna
We stayed at the National in Havana....
Brenda
For hotel, loved Iberostar Parque Central. You’ll have to change your cash to CUCs there.
Cynthia
This is my dad’s airbnb it’s awesome and he and his Cuban family are amazing! https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/16533543?locale=en
AIRBNB.CA
CASA EL REMANSO - King Suite with Private Bath - Bed & Breakfasts for Rent in La Habana, La Habana, Cuba
Jean
Don’t do anything specially if your not Spanish they can make up some crap and take you in you will never leave Cuba
.
Jean
Cuba is very sensitive over many things immigration once you get their is an interview place they check you up and well let’s just say is not your regular visit as a tourist. Besides they have no internet network sucks and above all if they see you come with any such device they can really make a stinker over it unless you are a diplomat or work in oil base from their country
Yannick
When's the last time you visited??? I had two phones, walked around with them all the time. They have multiple locations with Wi-Fi, all you need is the password or a time card.
Why would they make crap and keep someone in Cuba? Most of the money there is from Canadian tourists. They would not want to sour that relationship. Even most beef is for the tourists and not the locals.
What you describe above sounds a lot more like Mexico.
Jean
8 months ago saw a poor fella pulled on the side for a stupid phone
Jean
They arrested him for the phone.
Peter
Maybe he was taking pictures in the airport. There are signs all over saying not to do that.
Jean
Perhaps after that I travel often but don’t take my phone it was scary for me I was shocked
Amanda
Sounds like an isolated incident. Their security and airport is pretty standard when arriving internationally. Internet sucks but is existent.
Jean
So just leave your phone and be a regular visitor
James
What on earth are you smoking? It’s a great place!
Anna
Melia Habana, in the Miramar district is fabulous. Hop on hop off bus right across the street...to the right. Breakfast across the street in the little plaza was only 1.80 , eggs, fresh baked croissants, toast, excellent coffee/lattes. Grocery store in the plaza shopping area next door for. rum, juices etc. great pool, ask for ocean view room, balcony. Google them for Room info.
Amanda
Cell phone is fine but don’t expect good wifi. Do NOT take USD, Cuba didn’t even allow Americans until 2015. You will get charged like crazy converting back to CAD. You will have to order Cuban pesos from your bank or exchange at the airport or in Cuba. Look very hard on tripadvisor for hotels. If they say it’s a 5 Star it’s a 4 and so on.
Yannick
Can we get pesos at the bank now? As far as I know it is illegal to have cuban money outside Cuba and you could not get money outside the country, so nothing at the banks in Canada.
Amanda
You’re correct sorry. Cuban you can’t Mexican you can. I don’t think it’s illegal just not traded internationally
Yannick
Reading on it right now and it seems you are still not allowed to take CUC out but CUP is fine. If you're Cuban or a foreign citizen. Not ssure about tourists. Quoting: "However, it is no longer permitted to take Convertible Pesos (CUC) out of the country"
I always hide mine a bit just in case. Looks like last time I hid it too good as I cannot find it anymore. lol?
Sandra
We stayed at this airbnb last year - in Old Havana - great location, beautifully clean, awesome hosts, walking distance to everything! https://abnb.me/EVmg/o76JRia9lJ
No issues at all with using cell phones... you cannot legally take CUC out of the country - we accidentally did (long story) with no issues but it’s worth nothing in Canada - banks won’t take it... I gifted it to a friend who was visiting later...
ABNB.ME
Check out this great place to stay in La Habana
Sandra
LOVED Havana by the way!
A.I. says...
Traveling to Cuba: Cell Phones, Hotels, and Currency
If you're planning a trip to Cuba, you might have a few questions about what to bring and how to handle certain logistics. Here's some advice to help your friend prepare for their upcoming visit.
Cell Phones with GPS Tracking Devices
It is generally okay to bring a cell phone with GPS tracking capabilities to Cuba. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Cuba has strict regulations regarding the use of GPS and mapping technologies, as they are considered "sensitive" equipment.
- Upon arrival, Cuban customs officials may inspect your phone and other electronic devices.
- As long as the GPS feature is for personal use and not intended for activities like mapping or surveying, it should not be an issue.
- However, it's recommended to disable any GPS-related apps or features before entering the country to avoid any potential complications.
Havana Hotel Recommendation
For a two-night stay in Havana, you might consider the following hotel:
Hotel Parque Central
This historic hotel is located in the heart of Old Havana, close to many popular attractions and restaurants. It offers comfortable accommodations, a rooftop pool, and a beautiful interior courtyard. The hotel is well-regarded for its excellent service and prime location.
Currency and Cash in Cuba
When it comes to currency in Cuba, there are a few options to consider:
- Canadian Cash: Canadian dollars are widely accepted in Cuba and can be easily exchanged at banks, hotels, and exchange bureaus (known as "cadecas"). This is a convenient option for your friend.
- American Cash: While U.S. dollars are technically accepted, they are subject to a 10% penalty fee when exchanging them in Cuba. This makes it a less favorable option.
- Exchanging Currency in Cuba: It is possible to exchange other currencies, such as Euros or British Pounds, at cadecas or banks in Cuba. However, the exchange rates may not be as favorable as exchanging Canadian dollars.
It's generally recommended to bring a mix of cash (Canadian dollars or another widely accepted currency) and credit/debit cards to Cuba. Be aware that many U.S.-issued cards may not work in Cuba due to the ongoing trade embargo.
With proper preparation and awareness of local regulations, your friend should have a wonderful and hassle-free trip to Cuba.
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Ronda
Asking on behalf of a friend who is going to Cuba:
Is it ok to take a cell phone with a GPS tracking device to Cuba? Or will they confiscate it?
Any advice for a Havana Hotel name? Need it for 2 nights.
Should I take a sum of Canadian cash? American? Or just change it there? Thanks a bunch!