Do I need to bring an adapter to the resort?
Cuba has a voltage of 110/240V, frequency of 60Hz, and utilizes plug type A/b. This is either A) the same as what is used in Canada and the US with two flat parallel prongs; or B) Two round prongs similar to most countries in continental Europe. You are advised to bring an adapter which will only allow you to plug your appliance into the wall socket; it will not change the electrical voltage.
What currency is used in Cuba?
The currency is the Cuban Convertible Peso. Only Canadian dollars are accepted at in exchange for Pesos. You are not supposed to bring Cuban Convertible Pesos out of the country, so it is advised to only change a little money at a time. Visa and Mastercard are accepted (not American Express; and not Visa or Mastercard from Citybank or MBNA). Travellers checks are not accepted at hotels.
Departure Tax
There is a departure tax of CUC $25 that must be paid in Cuban Convertible Pesos at the airport before departure. You are advised to exchange this money upon arrival and keep it in a safe place with your passport until departure.
What language is spoken?
The native language is Spanish. Many staff at the resort speak passable English, particularly staff responsible for hotel management and entertainment.
Tipping - how much? Is it accepted?
Tipping is widely accepted and appreciated by staff. Most service employees earn little to no base salary, and the tips they earm compirse the vast majority of their income. A few dollars or the equivalent in the local currency, is considered average for tipping service employees each day. Employees also appreciate small gifts like candy, personal hygiene items (i.e., toothbrushes), and other souvenier type items from Canada.
Other Resources and Information
Tourist Board: www.gocuba.ca
Canadian Government: Travel Report
Time Zone is GMT -5 which is 1.5 hours earlier than Newfoundland.
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