Daily Life

Time Zone

The time is the same as U.S. Eastern Time.

Weather

The following are average temperatures, not extremes. As in the United States, weather patterns can vary. We recommend checking weather sites on the internet for the time of year you will be traveling. 

From November to May, the temperature averages 75-85 F. From June to October, the range is about 85-90 F. Rainy season is May-October. Bring a light sweater or jacket for the occasional cool evening or air-conditioned building.

Money

Most participants find $200-$400 to be sufficient spending money for a two-week program in Cuba. Of course, how much you bring should depend on your personal spending habits. Remember that all scheduled group activities are covered in your program cost. Depending on the program, most or all meals are covered. In those instances when you need to pay for a few meals, this information will be shared with you before departure.

Exchange

U.S. dollars are now accepted in Cuba in some restaurants, artisan markets and by private vendors. You may still want to exchange some U.S. dollars to Cuban pesos (CUP) after arriving to Cuba. This can be done at a money exchange upon entry at the airport, authorized banks, CADECA offices,  or at most hotels. Money changers in Cuba do not accept dollar bills with writing, stamps, tears, or rips. Do NOT exchange money with someone on the street (in the black market). We strongly encourage you to use a money belt while traveling. U.S. credit cards are not accepted anywhere in Cuba, so you will NOT be able to use a debit or credit card during your time in Cuba. For current information concerning exchange rates from USD into CUC, visit http://www.xe.com 

Shopping

U.S. citizens are prohibited from making any direct financial transaction with any entity listed on the USDOS List of Restricted Entities and Subentities Associated With Cuba effective January 8, 2021. It is important to review this list, particularly the sections on “Stores in Old Havana” and “Hotels in Havana and Old Havana.” 

U.S. government regulations permit you to bring Cuban-origin merchandise as accompanied baggage back with you to the United States. Cuban-origin goods must be imported for personal use. Normal limits on duty and tax exemptions will apply.

When departing Cuba, Cuban officials may ask to see a receipt, showing the purchase price for items that you acquired on the island. Generally, this occurs for items valued at more than $20, particularly artwork, antiquities, and anything deemed important for Cuba's national heritage.