You might have been told that visiting Cuba is unsafe, but many of these rumours are based on false information. In fact, Cuba is not only one of the safest Caribbean countries but one of the safest destinations in the world! If you’re planning a trip to Cuba and wondering what to expect regarding crime, safety, and risks, you have come to the right place. Keep reading to discover why Cuba is a super safe destination and what to expect while you’re there. Due to Cuba’s universal basic income and strict crime laws, encountering violent crime in this Caribbean country is extremely unlikely. Cuba’s murder rate is only 4.6 per 100,000 people, the lowest in South America and the Caribbean. There are very few guns throughout the country, making violent crime difficult. Muggers may occasionally carry knives, but this is also very rare. You don’t have to worry about getting sick while visiting Cuba; this country has one of the best healthcare systems in the world! In fact, one of Cuba’s most significant exports are the top-notch doctors and healthcare professionals they send to other parts of the world. In addition, everyone who visits Cuba is required to have valid medical insurance. You can purchase insurance at the airport before going through customs. For about $4 per day, your policy will cover treatment for accidents, sudden illnesses, personal civil liability, and repatriation. While some countries can be unfriendly and even hostile toward foreigners, Cubans love meeting new people, especially the British. Cubans tend not to judge travellers by where they come from. Instead, Cuban people are more intrigued by learning about the various cultural and lifestyle differences. Other than tropical storms, which typically occur between late August and October, Cuba’s weather is very safe. Throughout much of the year, the weather is warm and pleasant – but be sure to book your trip outside of the short stormy season. Cuba has a significant police presence, and the authorities keep a close eye on everyone. This is great for avoiding violent crime and ensuring the safety of tourist areas. Whatever your stance on police presence is, remember to be respectful towards them. If you express a strong negative opinion, someone might get the wrong idea about your intentions! While Cuba is a very safe country, it is essential to use common sense, even in secure areas. If you’re wondering what to expect in Cuba’s tourist areas, check out the tips below. Pickpocketing is a problem in tourist areas all around the world, not just in Cuba. However, you are actually less likely to be pickpocketed in Havana than if you were strolling around the Roman Colosseum! It is still important to exercise common sense when travelling around Cuba. Avoid keeping money in your back pocket. If possible, carry a small purse with a zipper, keeping it in front of your body. It’s always a good idea to have some of your money in your wallet, some in your hotel, and some in a hidden pocket. This way, if someone steals from you, they can’t take all of your cash at once. It could also be beneficial to avoid wearing valuable jewellery so that it doesn’t get stolen, although mugging is rare here. You may encounter people trying to sell their services, especially in tourist regions. If anyone approaches you with local advice or offers to take a picture of you, they will expect payment. Don’t accept anything someone tries to shove into your hands if you wouldn’t like to buy it, and feel free to say no. Blackouts and power outages sometimes happen in Cuba’s more remote areas. Many resorts are equipped with backup generators, but it’s always a good idea to bring a flashlight, just in case. This way, if you aren’t at the resort or if there isn’t a backup generator, you won’t be trapped in the dark! No matter where you are, you’ll always want to be extra cautious when going out at night. Bring someone with you when you are out in the evening, be aware of your surroundings, stick to safe neighbourhoods, plan where you’re going, and let another person know where you’ll be. Cuban roads can be confusing to foreign visitors. The streets often have a different layout from what we’re used to in the UK, and the road signs can be confusing. If you plan on driving around in Cuba, don’t expect it to be as straightforward as driving back home. You may want to consider getting a local taxi – these drivers have lots of experience driving on Cuban roads! Like in many Latin countries, Cuban people prefer drinking bottled water over tap water. To avoid nausea, digestive issues, and an upset stomach, don’t drink Cuba’s tap water! Luckily, bottled water is easily accessible, but ensure it is properly sealed before you drink it. You can also bring your own water bottle with a carbon filter, just in case you cannot find bottled water (although this is unlikely). Although Cuba has an excellent healthcare system, your resort might not have the specific medication you use. You can avoid a headache (literally) by bringing your own first aid kit. Bring a kit that you can store in your purse or backpack to carry with you on the go. Pack all the essentials in the kit, like band aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic gel. It is important to exercise caution while exploring the streets of Cuba, as it is with any tourist destination. However, this Caribbean country has plenty of law enforcement, very little violent crime, and is generally quite friendly, so you can rest easy on this safe tropical island. 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.comViolent crime isn’t likely
Healthcare for visitors is required in Cuba
Cubans love meeting British visitors
Natural disasters are few and far between
Law enforcement
What To Expect in Cuba’s Tourist Areas
1. Does Cuba have scammers and pickpockets?
2. Be aware of cultural differences
3. Bring a flashlight
4. Have common sense when going out at night
5. Be aware of road conditions
6. Only drink bottled water
7. Pack your own medications
Final Thoughts
Cuba Is One Of The Safest Countries In The World: Here’s Why
STAY SOCIAL WITH US
Some of our partners
