Credit and debit cards issued by US banks will not work in Cuba. Even cards from other countries frequently face issues. Bring all the cash you will need for your entire trip. Euros (EUR) and US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted by locals (often preferred over the local currency). The official currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP), which you can exchange on the island, but be aware of the stark difference between the official government exchange rate and the informal street rate.

Do not expect to be online 24/7. To access the internet, you typically need to purchase a NAUTA Wi-Fi scratch card from an ETECSA telecommunications office or your hotel. You then use the code on the card to log into public Wi-Fi hotspots found in parks, plazas, and major hotels. A VPN is highly recommended before you arrive, as many foreign apps and websites are blocked. Always download offline maps (like Maps.me) before your trip!

For intercity travel (like Havana to Varadero), you have two main options. The Viazul Bus is the official tourist bus—it's air-conditioned, reliable, and must be booked in advance online. Alternatively, you can take a Taxi Colectivo (a shared classic car taxi). These are slightly more expensive but faster, and they will usually pick you up directly from your Casa Particular (local guesthouse) and drop you off at your next destination.