{"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=\"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_006RF00000ZY0awYAD\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_7762ed71f093e7ea31bc9d8506daa159\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/hammock-cove-antigua-caribbean\/006RF00000ZY0awYAD\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer Flash carousel LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"Hammock Cove Antigua\" 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\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/rt50osj0z4j98cen4w8.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Hammock Cove Antigua, Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda\" 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>Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Hammock Cove Antigua<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Antigua Adults-Only Private Pool Villas with All-Inclusive Dining &#038; Daily Free-Flow Drinks<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">5 nights, 1 villa from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$5,899<\/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\">$6,049<\/span><\/div><div class=\"value_box\"><span class=\"value\">Valued up to US$13,150<\/span><span class=\"percentage\">-54%<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_28fe0e7e-d063-4bed-8e7c-84991517b123\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_d1b9dc1f8a377fb127b7eb560dfa148e\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/secrets-playa-esmeralda-resort-and-spa-adults-only-all-inclusive\/28fe0e7e-d063-4bed-8e7c-84991517b123\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort &#038; Spa - Adults Only - 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\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/h91sbdwx530094vgqu.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort &amp; Spa - Adults Only - All Inclusive, Miches, Dominican Republic\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Miches, Dominican Republic<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort &#038; Spa &#8211; Adults Only &#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, 2 hot tubs, and a nightclub. This Mediterranean resort also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and shopping on site.<\/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\">$1,755<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_f236c730-24f1-4c7b-a98b-c50d58c75256\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_25f4d3397740242a1aac76be825f54fe\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/live-aqua-punta-cana-all-inclusive-adults-only\/f236c730-24f1-4c7b-a98b-c50d58c75256\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Live Aqua 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\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/g6e2zaidrp8kzw5lubfc.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Live Aqua 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\">Live Aqua Punta Cana &#8211; All Inclusive &#8211; Adults Only<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. After dipping into one of the 5 outdoor pools, you can spend some time at the private beach. 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\">$1,721<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_45c480d7-bacc-4e39-a10e-63e4c50d8399\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_0fc7d89a5d1b53c0f57a441f1d28cd99\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/majestic-elegance-punta-cana-all-inclusive\/45c480d7-bacc-4e39-a10e-63e4c50d8399\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Majestic Elegance Punta Cana - 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\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/o9ybkrefdm0cbqpkdho.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Majestic Elegance Punta Cana - All Inclusive, 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\">Majestic Elegance Punta Cana &#8211; 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 9 outdoor pools, you can spend some time at the private beach. Additional features at this Colonial property 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\">$1,583<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_23ad2380-35e4-4adf-a43b-9de7db545dd5\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_2798ae179f2fd9c87b59ffa89c053f8a\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/mount-cinnamon-beach-and-wellness-resort\/23ad2380-35e4-4adf-a43b-9de7db545dd5\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Mount Cinnamon Beach &#038; Wellness 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\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/n88p5f31tbqsrgxumvbc.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Mount Cinnamon Beach &amp; Wellness Resort, St. George&#039;s, Grenada\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>St. George&#8217;s, Grenada<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Mount Cinnamon Beach &#038; Wellness Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. If you&#8217;re looking for recreational opportunities, you&#8217;ll find an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and an outdoor tennis court. Additional features at this Colonial hotel include concierge services, free babysitting, and wedding services. Getting to the surf and sand is a breeze with the complimentary beach shuttle.<\/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\">$1,903<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_c7163000-3538-4abb-8cd6-234307ddce50\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_5887ea81da4dfefd5eadb9747a2dafdf\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/salterra-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-south-caicos\/c7163000-3538-4abb-8cd6-234307ddce50\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort &#038; Spa, South Caicos\" 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\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/bm1z9u4l6e7yjw88uxh8.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort &amp; Spa, South Caicos, Cockburn Harbour, Turks and Caicos Islands\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Cockburn Harbour, Turks and Caicos Islands<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort &#038; Spa, South Caicos<\/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 fitness center, and 2 outdoor pickleball courts. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and wedding 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\">$4,241<\/span><\/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\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/vqcil1hbzjnvzrgpq2io.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\">$1,723<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_11adde39-cf47-459b-86df-67026fe0033f\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_89d94f994c133e6aa6152ac0ecc05ea6\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/iberostar-selection-rose-hall-suites-all-inclusive\/11adde39-cf47-459b-86df-67026fe0033f\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites - 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\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/l1w4ypn4if4wcnutev.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites - All Inclusive, Montego Bay, Jamaica\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Montego Bay, Jamaica<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites &#8211; 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 4 outdoor pools, you can spend some time at the private beach. Additional amenities 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\">$2,312<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_6678425c-c5e9-479e-a78f-98af216638bd\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_c42691a5023a870f4a77206f7aa4a0b4\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/hotel-riu-palace-antillas-adults-only-all-inclusive\/6678425c-c5e9-479e-a78f-98af216638bd\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Hotel Riu Palace Antillas - Adults Only - 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\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/2q52xxe3khysu07ortog.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Hotel Riu Palace Antillas - Adults Only - All Inclusive, Noord, Aruba\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Noord, Aruba<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Hotel Riu Palace Antillas &#8211; Adults Only &#8211; All Inclusive<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages and facials. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a nightclub, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. 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\">$4,217<\/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_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"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},"lang":"en","translations":{"en":8007,"fr":59908,"de":59911},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Shutterstock_790184866-1.jpg","pll_sync_post":{},"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}]}}