Always wanted to explore Cuba, but got no one to go with? Well, don’t let that stop you. Cuba is the perfect place to explore as a solo traveller. Of course, it may be nerve-wracking to book that plane ticket alone. But you won’t regret it! In this article, we explore why Cuba is the perfect solo travelling destination.
Cuban People Are Incredibly Friendly
It is commonly known that Cuban people love to meet travellers. So, people are going to want to talk to you. Especially, when travelling alone, people are going to approach you more. You’ll never be lonely in Cuba. Cuba is the perfect spot for making friends. As long as you are comfortable and in a safe area, definitely strike up conversations. If for any reason you feel uncomfortable or not in the mood to talk you can simply say ‘lo siento, estoy ocupado’ which means sorry, I’m busy.
You Can Create Your Own Schedule
By travelling alone you get to set your own schedule and timings. Which is perfect, but one thing to note is that you should make a plan beforehand. Get help from an expert who knows Cuba well, to help to map your trip. A Love Cuba specialist can help you with this.
Street Food is Perfect For Solo Travellers
One of the best ways to explore the local culture is to grab Cuban street food on the go. Not only will it save you money but you get to sample some of the finest foods. You can sample a whole host of snacks from the side of the road like fruit and veg, rice and beans and of course, plantain crisps as well as cooling ice-creams. A top tip is, if you see all the locals queuing at a specific vendor, that’s what you want to try.
Drink mojitos with the locals
Just because you’re travelling alone, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a drink at the bar or even dance the night away. A tip would be to keep going back to one place to build familiarity so that you can get talking to people. Cubans are famous for their dancing, so don’t be surprised if you’re led on the dance floor for a spin.
Where Should You Go on Your Solo Adventure to Cuba
You should have a plan of where to visit during your travels in Cuba. Here are some suggestions that are perfect for a solo trip.
Havana
The capital of Havana is a great starting point for travellers as there is so much to explore. The city is charming with stunning architecture, art galleries and museums. Hop in the back of a classic pink Cadillac or get involved in some salsa dancing. This vibrant city is unique with its burst of colour, cobbled streets and enigmatic energy.
Viñales
For a completely different pace, Viñales is the one for you. This small agricultural town is popular with artists and photographers who are looking for solitude and seclusion. The backdrop of the Vinales valley and Los Organos mountains is perfect for those looking for peace. Explore the natural wonders like the limestone hills that are over 160 million years old.
Cayo Coco
For stunning stretches of white sand beaches and clear crystal waters, Cayo Coco is a must-see destination on your solo travels. Explore the natural lagoons and wildlife such as pink flamingos. This is the perfect destination for relaxing on the beach with a cocktail or getting adventurous with watersports like diving and snorkelling.
Trinidad
For a mix of city and beach, Trinidad is the place to be. Visitors flock here for the music, the dancing, the friendly people and the colourful buildings. Just 12km away you will find stretches of white sands to sink your toes in.
Cienfuegos
The industrial city of Cienfuegos is nestled between a natural coast and mountains that provide a backdrop to the city. Full of rich heritage and beautiful landscape, it has often been hailed as ‘Cuba’s most pleasant city’.
Varadero
Not far from Havana is the stunning coastal town of Varadero. For incredible scenery and stunning white sand beaches, it’s the perfect spot for relaxation.
Jibacoa
If you’re looking to escape the city life and enjoy some tranquillity, Jibacoa is the perfect addition to your Cuba itinerary. Whether it’s relaxing on the long stretches of white sand, exploring the coral reefs or immersing yourself in nature in the bountiful greenery, Jibacoa has it all.
Some Solo Travel Tips For Cuba
Here are a few tips that will help you during your trip to beautiful Cuba:
Learn Some Spanish Phrases
You will need to be able to communicate, at least the basics during your visit. So, it’s best to learn some phrases that will help you get by. For example:
- Hola! Que tal?- Hi! How are you?
- Bueno – Good morning/evening/night – you’ll use this a lot
- Permisso – Excuse me
- Como se llama? – What is your name?
- Me llamo – My name is
- Mucho gusto – Nice to meet you
- Me gustaría el _____ por favor – would like the ____please
- Cuanto es – How much is
- Hasta luego – See you later
Find Some WiFi Spots
You’ll need to keep in contact with your friends and family back home, as they’ll want to know you’re safe. Wifi is not the easiest thing to find in Cuba, you can go to to a phone store and get a wifi card to use at your hotel or look for hotels that will allow you to pay for an hour of wifi per day.
Stay on Top of Your Budget
As a solo traveller, you need to be hyper-aware of your money at all times. The ideal way to pay for things is via debit card if you are from the EU. American cards are not accepted. It’s worth taking some money, as it can be difficult to withdraw cash from the ATMs.
Use The Bus or a Bike to Explore
Get around using the bus or rent a bike. You’ll save a lot of money in doing so and it’s one of the best ways to get around and explore especially solo.
Go With The Flow
You may be nervous to head to Cuba by yourself, but remember it’s all an experience and just relax. If things don’t go to plan or you end up on a different path. Just go with it. It will make for an even better story when you get home.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info or call us on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com
