In addition to any required license it is advisable to consult your nearest Cuban authority to check current visa requirements. All visitors need a tourist card, though these can be purchased at the airport on arrival. Tourists should carry photocopies of all paperwork--including passport and insurance documents--to minimize delay in the event of any problems or an emergency.
According to the U.S. Department of State, as of May 2010 the Cuban authorities have indicated that they may turn back anyone who arrives without non-U.S.-issued medical insurance, although they will sell a temporary policy to those who don't have any.
Cuba's currency regulations require a sturdy head for figures. There are two currencies in operation: the Cuban peso (CUP) and the Cuban convertible peso (CU$). Most tourist transactions are carried out using the convertible peso, although you can use the CUP to purchase smaller items, according to Lonely Planet. Convertible pesos can only be acquired once you've arrived in Cuba, but as the rules are unfavorable to the American dollar, visitors should take a supply of Euros, British pounds, Swiss francs or Canadian dollars. Credit cards and traveler's checks are unreliable outside of Havana.
Cuba remains a poor country and some items are either hard to find or extremely expensive. Women should pack a supply of tampons and condoms in their toiletry bag if needed, and all visitors should consider taking toilet tissue and soap, especially if they are staying in budget accommodations, as these can be very basic or in short supply. According to Rough Guides, some budget hotels also lack workable plugs in the sink and bathtub, so if you have a spare that is easily portable take it along.
Cuba may be the home of the Montecristo cigar, but if you are a smoker and like to roll your own then remember to pack a supply of rolling tobacco and papers as these can be hard to find even in the most luxurious hotels.
Interaction with Cubans has increased considerably since Raul Castro took over office from his brother Fidel in February 2008. Cubans are now permitted to frequent the tourist hotels, bars and restaurants and are very keen to interact, according to Lonely Planet. A small gift from your homeland can work wonders cementing that newfound friendship, and a supply of pencils is a welcome present for children.
A Spanish phrase book will be invaluable help if you plan to venture outside of Havana or Santiago de Cuba, to some of the lesser explored areas of Cuba. Visitors should try to get a Latin American Spanish edition, as many words differ profoundly from the Spanish spoken in Spain.
