Travel | Cuba
Cuba is visited by millions of foreign tourists every year. And although it is considered a safe destination compared to other countries in the region, it is advisable to put some safety tips into practice.
In Cuba it is advisable to leave your passport in a safe place and travel with a photocopy of it. Getty Images.
06/18/2024
By Editorial.
Every year, millions of people plan travel to cuba. To talk about the Caribbean island is to talk about a destination that in 2023 counted more than 2.4 million international tourists. And what do you expect to receive? 3.2 million foreign visitors in 2024. If you plan to visit Cuba, it is important that you schedule your visit in advance and put into practice the following security advice.
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Traveling to Cuba: safety recommendations
In general terms, traveling to Cuba can be considered safe. We are talking about a destination that does not present major problems of citizen and personal security. However, it is recommended Do not let your guard down and take extreme precautions:
- In Cuba they usually commit thefts and robberies. And sometimes, criminals act violently.
- In particular, it is important be careful on the beaches, since theft of bags and other personal belongings occurs in them. Above all, on the beaches near Havana and tourist towns such as Cienfuegos and Trinidad.
- And they also register robberies at gas stations. According to the authorities, these crimes target, above all, rented cars with a tourist license plate (T) that go to the keys (Santa Clara). And they are perpetrated by Cubans who request to be transported or offer to guide tourists. Therefore, picking up hitchhikers is discouraged.
Likewise, it is suggested leave your passport in a safe place and only carry a photocopy of the page of said document where the photograph of the holder and their personal data appear. and it is recommended Do not display photo or video cameras or cash in significant quantities.
Likewise, when traveling to Cuba it is advisable to keep in mind that any foreign citizen who is subject to police or judicial investigation may be held by local authorities until his involvement in the investigated case is clarified. In this sense, being severely penalized, It is not advisable to be in possession of or sell drugs in the country.
Related content: Safety tips for traveling abroad: 10 tips to prevent theft and unforeseen events at the destination
Do you have to take out insurance before traveling to Cuba?
Another aspect to consider before traveling to Cuba is that its authorities require having hired a travel insurance in advance. Specifically:
- It is mandatory to have valid insurance in the country that covers the health expenses of a possible infection by COVID-19
- And also the repatriation of a corpse in the event of death, regardless of the cause.
Without a doubt, taking out travel insurance is of utmost importance, since medical care in Cuba is expensive and it has to be paid in advance. Furthermore, a foreigner is not allowed to leave the country if he has an outstanding debt for that concept. And beyond medical coverage, Comprehensive travel insurance provides protection against possible theft and theft. Good to know!
By the way: before traveling to Cuba it is recommended to visit the website of the General Customs of the Republic.
