Travelling alone in Cuba...

by Mónica
(Madrid, Spain)

I got to know about your website through the BBC and it is really better than what they described! I was thinking of travelling through Cuba with a rental car and to lodge at Cuban homes. As I am Spanish, the language wouldn´t be a problem, but is it realistic for a woman to travel like this in Cuba?

Thank you very much in advance for your reply and warm regards from Madrid!

Answer: Thanks for your kind words - I'm glad the BBC mention got you to visit my site!

The answer is YES indeed, Cuba is very safe, possibly one of the safest places on earth for a woman traveling solo.

That said, you should keep the following in mind:
- Men WILL hit on single women wandering around Cuba and offer them everything under the sun. But a firm 'thanks, but no thanks' will usually do the trick and get rid of unwanted advances.
- You may get offers for 'genuine' Cuban goods, like cigars, on the street. They might even suggest that you 'come and see what I have'. The intentions may be fine and as a woman nothing would likely happen to you - except that the goods would probably not be genuine. Moral of the story: same as everywhere else, don't wander off with strange men.
- If you need help, head for the police. They're everywhere, and extremely helpful.
- Use your common sense: don't walk on deserted beaches or cross empty parks alone late at night. You wouldn't do that anywhere else, so don't do it in Cuba.
- There is petty pickpocketing, including bag-snatching from ride-bys. Hang onto your bag on the streets and keep your papers safe.

I spent two months in Cuba a few years ago and I absolutely loved the country and loved the people. I hope you find the same!

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