{"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><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>\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>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>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_de19f0bc-e7a5-42eb-82cb-f9f3fa3be4cd\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/w-punta-cana-adult-all-inclusive\/de19f0bc-e7a5-42eb-82cb-f9f3fa3be4cd\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"W Punta Cana, Adult 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\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/0sj72bhbmbwzskc2ncdv.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"W Punta Cana, Adult 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\">W Punta Cana, Adult 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 2 outdoor pools and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional amenities at this Mediterranean 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\">$2,768<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_ece29b53-6f24-4ab8-a6dc-8ce6670b73be\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/dreams-macao-beach-punta-cana-all-inclusive\/ece29b53-6f24-4ab8-a6dc-8ce6670b73be\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Dreams Macao Beach 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\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/x0bkewartuzk900q0xj.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Dreams Macao Beach 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\">Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana &#8211; All Inclusive<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 4 outdoor pools, a complimentary water park, and a health club. This property also features 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\">$1,841<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_2ff36710-9abc-4429-8899-f522f2336c7a\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/royalton-hideaway-saint-lucia-an-autograph-collection-all-inclusive-resort-adults-only\/2ff36710-9abc-4429-8899-f522f2336c7a\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Royalton Hideaway Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort - 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\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/5q50m8r96e52eq6uqs5d.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Royalton Hideaway Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort - Adults Only, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Gros Islet, Saint Lucia<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Royalton Hideaway Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort &#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 health club. Additional amenities at this property 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\">$2,687<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_006RF00000IGliBYAT\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/sls-baha-mar-bahamas-north-america\/006RF00000IGliBYAT\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC carousel    \" data-name=\"SLS Baha Mar\" 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\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/1e3mktizoevsl3b0biho.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"SLS Baha Mar, Nassau, Bahamas\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Nassau, Bahamas<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">SLS Baha Mar<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Stylish Bahamas Beachfront Indulgence with Three Pools, Spa &#038; Night Club<\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">1 night, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$207<\/span><span class=\"type\">total<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_31f397ef-3e35-4c1e-b0f4-a17c2d023ab7\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/the-royal-at-atlantis\/31f397ef-3e35-4c1e-b0f4-a17c2d023ab7\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"The Royal at Atlantis\" 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\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/4ybyqu18a16tx4czmhs.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"The Royal at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\"><\/figure>\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"offer_details\">\n\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Paradise Island, Bahamas<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Royal at Atlantis<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. When the sun is out, a round of golf or a day at the private beach are two great options for taking advantage of the fine weather. 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\">$2,057<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_d5031422-64dc-44d4-bb78-e89b0128f3f8\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/azul-beach-resort-negril-gourmet-all-inclusive-by-karisma\/d5031422-64dc-44d4-bb78-e89b0128f3f8\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma\" 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\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/h88mxz2f1dgx9hle27n3s.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma, 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\">Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma<\/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 7 outdoor pools, a sauna, and a fitness center. Additional features at this Art Deco property 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\">$1,664<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_a93323a3-6384-40d7-b1bd-7cb15b6c7990\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/sandals-grande-antigua-all-inclusive-couples-only\/a93323a3-6384-40d7-b1bd-7cb15b6c7990\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Sandals Grande Antigua - 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\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/kig8bpwgh7bkijm9mpi.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Sandals Grande Antigua - ALL INCLUSIVE Couples Only, St. John&#039;s, 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>St. John&#8217;s, Antigua and Barbuda<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Sandals Grande Antigua &#8211; ALL INCLUSIVE Couples Only<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You&#8217;re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 6 outdoor pools, a 24-hour health club, and an outdoor tennis court. This property also features 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\">$3,093<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_02dfd6b1-1304-4e97-b6b2-adc8479d8823\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/royalton-antigua-an-autograph-collection-all-inclusive-resort\/02dfd6b1-1304-4e97-b6b2-adc8479d8823\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Royalton Antigua, 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\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/kcu2tlh3eijdkq2oaso9.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, St. John&#039;s, 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>St. John&#8217;s, Antigua and Barbuda<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. This property also features 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\">$2,574<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t<\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"offer_08ee3bc9-ece2-441c-8412-4ed0b35cca04\" class=\"splide__slide offer_item type_hotel cacheid_9d438dcac410a72aedec88ab60989085\">\n\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/barcelo-bavaro-palace-all-inclusive\/08ee3bc9-ece2-441c-8412-4ed0b35cca04\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP carousel  \" data-name=\"Barcel\u00f3 B\u00e1varo Palace - 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\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_250\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp 250w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_400\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_600\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_800\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_fill,g_auto,ar_16:9,w_1200\/hit5n4qz6dxl66sgzfua.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 250px, 250px\" alt=\"Barcel\u00f3 B\u00e1varo Palace - 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\">Barcel\u00f3 B\u00e1varo Palace &#8211; All Inclusive<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You can get some exercise with a round of golf or enjoy a lazy day at the private beach. Additional features at this property include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Guests can catch a ride to nearby destinations on the area 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\">$1,461<\/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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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>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\">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>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><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><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":[],"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":[],"_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}]}}