{"id":8007,"date":"2024-01-12T14:33:11","date_gmt":"2024-01-12T03:33:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/?p=8007"},"modified":"2024-01-18T12:31:02","modified_gmt":"2024-01-18T01:31:02","slug":"what-i-learned-travelling-in-cuba-for-a-week-solo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/what-i-learned-travelling-in-cuba-for-a-week-solo\/","title":{"rendered":"What I Learned Travelling in Cuba for a Week Solo"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>North America\u2019s enigmatic island country is a kaleidoscope of colours, cultures and bygone charm \u2013 and is notoriously misunderstood. Writer Madeleine Keck unravels some of its secrets.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWho let me do that?\u201d I think as I stand in line to board my flight out of Havana after a week of exhilarating experiences (and a few mishaps) in the Cuban capital. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Caribbean island state is renowned for testing even the most experienced travellers: it\u2019s rich amalgam of cultures and distinct political history uniting to form a country that is entirely unlike anywhere else.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are five things I learnt as a solo female tourist in Cuba.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"lux_UI lux_offer_carousel\">\n\t\n\t<h3>Discover the Caribbean<\/h3>\t\n\t<section class=\"splide lux_offer_carousel_feed\" aria-label=\"Luxury Escapes: Discover the Caribbean\">\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__arrows\">\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button>\n\t\t<button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t<div class=\"splide__track\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide__list\">\n\t\t\t\n<div id=\"offer_e604f7ce-6219-49f0-8434-81d2b8ae9518\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9cdec9187fbb99d9930f8d61d8ac362b\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/the-crane-resort\/e604f7ce-6219-49f0-8434-81d2b8ae9518\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"The Crane Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/zgyx48z7ar07anl2mc3.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Crane Resort, Diamond Valley, Barbados\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Diamond Valley, Barbados<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Crane Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Take time to pamper yourself with a visit to the full-service spa. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 5 outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center, and bicycles to rent. Additional features at this resort include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,086<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0062y00000JMzxNAAT\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_df3e9808b3b647c55fb6ed4479a5856a\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/caerula-mar-club-south-andros-island-bahamas-caribbean\/0062y00000JMzxNAAT\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Caerula Mar Club\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/ez7q31ig1ctzm5byrm5j.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Caerula Mar Club, South Andros, Bahamas\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>South Andros, Bahamas<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Caerula Mar Club<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Tropical Bahamas Oceanfront Suite Escape with Three Onsite Restaurants &#038; Spa<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 suite from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,773<\/span><span class=\"type\"> total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,484<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$1,976<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-7%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_62872aa7-f298-48dc-a505-8786bb69f582\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_d1c945755be1d1dc737c63ed225a0f06\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/the-soco-hotel-adults-only\/62872aa7-f298-48dc-a505-8786bb69f582\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"The Soco Hotel - Adults Only\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/2b3ye41wai1dupagyj7.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Soco Hotel - Adults Only, Hastings, Barbados\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Hastings, Barbados<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Soco Hotel &#8211; Adults Only<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with onsite massages or enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool. Additional features at this Art Deco hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services. Guests can get to nearby shops on the shuttle (surcharge).<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$2,199<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_0e099dc8-98da-441b-b9f4-429e24d8478a\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_68c7dc6c6b9345b60f63919065541f95\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/keyonna-beach-all-inclusive-couples-only\/0e099dc8-98da-441b-b9f4-429e24d8478a\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Keyonna Beach - All Inclusive - Couples Only\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/q07lhuzyjigyp531pfq7.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Keyonna Beach - All Inclusive - Couples Only, Johnson&#039;s Point, Antigua and Barbuda\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Johnson&#8217;s Point, Antigua and Barbuda<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Keyonna Beach &#8211; All Inclusive &#8211; Couples Only<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. Additional features at this property include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding services.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"no_price\">Select your dates<\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_c9edee8a-8c99-4b3f-ad7d-6cb60216d37f\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_3fd5a640ae2af5f815d26d19972a2193\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/secrets-tides-punta-cana-all-inclusive-adults-only\/c9edee8a-8c99-4b3f-ad7d-6cb60216d37f\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/a6v42i5wmkxomq6p8hnr.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Punta Cana, Dominican Republic<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive &#8211; Adults Only<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 3 outdoor pools, a nightclub, and a fitness center. Additional features at this property include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$1,762<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_89a6dd1d-a65c-479b-9449-e8c853ebc9a2\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_554b3f232881d38b5f95881a3bf04c68\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/treasure-beach-art-hotel-barbados-an-autograph-collection-all-inclusive-resort\/89a6dd1d-a65c-479b-9449-e8c853ebc9a2\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Treasure Beach Art Hotel, Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/c08qb1il13r6yr07rad.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Treasure Beach Art Hotel, Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, Paynes Bay, Barbados\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Paynes Bay, Barbados<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Treasure Beach Art Hotel, Barbados, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Take advantage of recreation opportunities including an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Additional features at this property include complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$2,367<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_2eac9510-6062-4b27-adf2-c3c8a3221462\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_409c5d636585807c58c31616eecb54c1\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/o2-beach-club-and-spa-by-ocean-hotels-all-inclusive\/2eac9510-6062-4b27-adf2-c3c8a3221462\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"O2 Beach Club &#038; Spa by Ocean Hotels - All Inclusive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/5eezlg2tjnf0oc48jvh.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"O2 Beach Club &amp; Spa by Ocean Hotels - All Inclusive, St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>St. Lawrence Gap, Barbados<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">O2 Beach Club &#038; Spa by Ocean Hotels &#8211; All Inclusive<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 3 outdoor pools and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$3,247<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_6fa854ec-e9ca-48d8-9a50-fb2bc6b3e7bb\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_05b3e8ceada8fb88d6303e36648074cd\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/couples-negril-all-inclusive\/6fa854ec-e9ca-48d8-9a50-fb2bc6b3e7bb\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Couples Negril All Inclusive\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/60ehy4t2pp191oeri8i.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Couples Negril All Inclusive, Negril, Jamaica\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Negril, Jamaica<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Couples Negril All Inclusive<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. After dipping into one of the 2 outdoor pools or 4 hot tubs, you can spend some time at the private beach. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and an arcade\/game room.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$2,111<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_1a7195bc-aaa1-49eb-bcca-31142e9d437f\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_3a8ad9b27b3491763201f73f21666e72\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/royal-isabela\/1a7195bc-aaa1-49eb-bcca-31142e9d437f\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Royal Isabela\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t<div class=\"offer_preview\">\n\t\t<figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/s4v3etrziaqdzaz98jb.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Royal Isabela, Isabela, Puerto Rico\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Isabela, Puerto Rico<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Royal Isabela<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Treat yourself with massages, body treatments, and facials. After practicing your swing on the golf course, you can dip into one of the 2 outdoor pools. Additional features at this Tuscan-style hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops\/newsstands.<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$2,518<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"offer_x\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Caribbean&#038;destinationId=le_d7bce4d8dbac13945471c343c4973ba3&#038;adults=2&#038;children=none&#038;flexibleWithDate=true\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"See more escapes\">\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"slide_cta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"cta_tag\">Looking for something else?<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View all<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\t\n\t\t<div class=\"cta\">\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/au\/search?destinationName=Caribbean&#038;destinationId=le_d7bce4d8dbac13945471c343c4973ba3&#038;adults=2&#038;children=none&#038;flexibleWithDate=true\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"carousel\" data-name=\"See more escapes\">See more escapes<\/a>\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Bring more cash than you think you\u2019ll need&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It wasn&#8217;t until the third blank stare at the third currency exchange store I tried that I cottoned on; getting my hands on physical Cuban cash in Melbourne might be harder than expected. Unlike travelling to almost anywhere else, I quickly learnt it is not possible to stock up on local Cuban currency before touching down in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead, ensure you have plenty of US dollars and euros in small denominations, which can then be exchanged for the Cuban National Peso at exchange houses at airports and throughout the country. Don\u2019t trade it all: many guesthouses and private restaurants prefer payments in dollars and euros. While the peso is the only legal currency, all three are widely accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It pays (literally) to check with your bank before you travel to ensure your credit and debit cards will be accepted. Some US and select Australian bank cards will not work in the ATMs available, which I learnt while desperately trying to scrounge up enough money to pay my taxi driver 30 minutes before my flight departed.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to note that you cannot exchange your pesos back into dollars or euros at airports. You should also not take pesos out of the country. The solution: spend all your pesos at the end of your stay (souvenir time) or exchange them for a foreign currency before heading to the airport.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Understand visa regulations before you go&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are certainly easier places to access than Cuba, but those who persevere with the extra paperwork are rewarded with architectural marvels, shrines to Cuban sovereignty, colonial-era mansions, reggaet\u00f3n music halls and pristine shores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;ll need a visa, or tourist card, to enter the country, which can be organised through your travel agent, airline or the consulate of Cuba. It&#8217;s also worth noting, if you&#8217;re travelling on to the USA after, that anyone who has visited Cuba after 12 January 2021 cannot enter the country on an easy-to-obtain A$33 ESTA visa. Instead, those heading to the USA must apply for a tourist visa via their nearest USA Embassy or Consulate.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. There is no Australian or New Zealand Embassy in Cuba<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It wasn\u2019t until I was squarely in my seat, 40 minutes after takeoff, that I realised how close I had come to making the biggest rookie travel mistake: losing your passport. While the blunder would be inconvenient anywhere, losing your passport in a country with no Australian Embassy would have been, well, not ideal.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Australians requiring consular assistance can speak to the Canadian Embassy in Havana \u2013 so I wouldn\u2019t have been left entirely in the dark. For those wondering, I left my passport in an ATM on the lower floor of the airport while trying, to no avail, to take out cash to pay my taxi driver. Twenty minutes later, after I\u2019d retraced my steps, it thankfully was still there. Miracle.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_412724059-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Downtown Havana, the enigmatic and magical capital city of Cuba. \" class=\"wp-image-8015\" style=\"width:840px\" width=\"840\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_412724059-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_412724059-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_412724059-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_412724059.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Havana, Cuba.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. The locals are incredibly friendly<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the enduring memories many travellers have of Cuba is the warmth of its people. Vibrant and expressive with a flair for dance (it is the home of salsa, after all), most locals welcome a good chat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I was personally so enchanted by their friendliness that I forgot, like any destination in the world, not to be overly trusting. There is no confusing administrative process or cultural difference to blame here, but a na\u00efve approach to making friends while solo backpacking. It was my second day in the country when a local came up to me on the street, struck up a conversation and invited me to come back to their house for tea and traditional Cuban cigars.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How lucky was I? Less than 48 hours into my trip I\u2019d already met and befriended a local.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Alas, this was an attempt to get me to purchase, at an exorbitant price, their collection of cigars and teas \u2013 which became obvious two minutes after I first stepped into their home. The lesson? Catch up with your new friends in public and purchase those famous cigars from the source at official stores.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5.<\/strong> <strong>It\u2019s wonderfully off-grid<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cuba is famous for vintage cars, delicious rum, outstanding beaches and questionable internet access. However, while once considered one of the least connected countries in the world, internet access in Cuba has improved dramatically over the past decade, with tourists able to connect to the net (albeit often patchy) in most hotels, some private guesthouses and public hotspots like parks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-contrast-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\">Accessing the internet in public can be done via a NAUTA card, purchased through the nation\u2019s state-owned telecommunications company ETECSA, which provides users with a one-hour access limit in select locations. A one-hour card costs around A$1.50.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 2020, Cuba\u2019s phone carrier, Cubacel, introduced a tourist sim card, offering visitors 1GB of data across 30 days for around A$38. What worked for me, however, was pre-downloading all city maps and doing plenty of research on restaurants and activities before entering the country, then using the patchy guesthouse Wi-Fi as a backup.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Travel information is correct at time of publishing and subject to change.<\/em> <em>For the latest information, click <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartraveller.gov.au\/destinations\/americas\/cuba\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Looking for more inspiration? Check out <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/the-best-things-to-do-in-the-bahamas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>The Best Things to do in The Bahamas.<\/strong><\/a><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>North America\u2019s enigmatic island country is a kaleidoscope of colours, cultures and bygone charm \u2013 and is notoriously misunderstood. Writer Madeleine Keck unravels some of its secrets. \u201cWho let me do that?\u201d I think as I stand in line to board my flight out of Havana after a week of exhilarating experiences (and a few [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":8018,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70],"tags":[21,12,6,26,13],"location":[],"customertype":[],"class_list":["post-8007","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-caribbean","tag-arts-culture","tag-bucket-list","tag-city-break","tag-islands","tag-outdoor-adventure"],"acf":{"enable_partner_branding":false,"brand_name":"","brand_logo_top":null,"brand_logo_footer":null,"brand_snippet":"","brand_website":"","brand_sidebar_banner":null},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"lux_id":8007,"lux_link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/what-i-learned-travelling-in-cuba-for-a-week-solo\/","lux_title":"What I Learned Travelling in Cuba for a Week Solo","lux_excerpt":"North America\u2019s enigmatic island country is a kaleidoscope of colours, cultures and bygone charm \u2013 and is notoriously misunderstood. Writer Madeleine Keck unravels some of its secrets. \u201cWho let me do that?\u201d I think as I stand in line to board my flight out of Havana after a week of exhilarating experiences (and a few [\u2026]","lux_excerpt_trimmed":"North America\u2019s enigmatic island country is a kaleidoscope of colours, cultures and bygone charm \u2013 and is notoriously misunderstood. Writer Madeleine Keck unravels some of its secrets. \u201cWho let me","lux_image_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1.jpg","lux_image_url_medium":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1-350x233.jpg","lux_image_url_large":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1-1024x683.jpg","lux_image_url_square":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1-500x500.jpg","lux_categories":[{"label":"Caribbean","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/caribbean\/"}],"lux_tags":[{"label":"Arts &amp; Culture","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/arts-culture\/"},{"label":"Bucket List","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/bucket-list\/"},{"label":"City Break","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/city-break\/"},{"label":"Islands","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/islands\/"},{"label":"Outdoor &amp; Adventure","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/outdoor-adventure\/"}],"lux_locations":[],"lux_customer_types":[],"lux_read_time":"6 min read","lux_read_time_minutes":6,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8007","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8007"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8007\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8018"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8007"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8007"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8007"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=8007"},{"taxonomy":"customertype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/customertype?post=8007"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}