6 Tips For Visiting or Travelling to Cuba and Why We Wont Ever Be Going Back!
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- Опубліковано 4 лип 2024
- well, this was our second trip to Cuba and so we thought that we would make a video on some tips that could just make your trip to Cuba even better. Now the last tip is also a reason that we will probably never go back to Cuba. So realize that this was our experience and you may never experience such an event, but for us, it was enough to completely turn us off and away from ever travelling to Cuba again!
Let us know your experiences travelling to Cuba and leave some tips if you have some that you think our viewers would be interested in.
Travel safe my friends.
00:00 - Intro
01:03 - Tip 6 | Explore Your Resort
03:39 - Tip 5 | Join A Facebook Group
05:22 - Tip 4 | Money To Bring
08:30 - Tip 3 | Bug Spray And Lotions
11:05 - Tip 2 | Food Expectations
14:59 - Tip 1 | Cameras and Why We Probably Will Never Go Back To Cuba
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So this is just a video from our personal experience. We have had great experiences in the past travelling to Cuba, but because of this one, we won't be going back. Our worry now is that we are on some list to be checked at all times, for no reason. With so many other wonderful places to check out and travel to, Cuba sadly won't be on our list anymore. Hopefully, your experience is better. (and since making this video we have found a bunch of our adapters were broken due to them shaking my luggage around).
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where are you from?
@@riverwalkyachtsales9243 Nova Scotia Canada
@@gregtoope Its a shame that you have to experience ...Go to Guardalavaca, there direct flights i think. Beaches there are like Varadero.
I have travelled to Cuba, and my experience was bery positive. Canadians are welcome, and are very well received by the warm and generous Cubans. It is a remarkable tourist destination so close by. I would love to return
Hi
I enjoyed your video.
You were a victim of the Cuban regime paranoia.
You have been black listed by the government.
Can tell you were followed in the resort every where you went and people you talked to questioned.
Will suggest don’t go back, and don’t film not even with your cellphone as your video is in detriment of Cuban tourism.
I am Cuban who left my own country years back.
Went back a few years ago and after a bad experience I have decided not to go back until I can travel there with my American passport and credit cards.
You don't go to Cuba for a 5 star dining experience. You go to learn the culture and the history of the country.
That’s why YOU go. A lot go to enjoy the beaches and relax. They definitely don’t go to be interrogated for over 3 hours.
I have been to Cuba more than 8X and never had a problem. Be respectful of your hosts and of the resort . The staff at the resorts I stayed at were very helpful and pleasant. The room's I stayed in had no problems. The beach and pool areas were as expected. I always stay at a 4 star resort or better but not the most expensive resorts . I always research the resort I am interested in through UA-cam and Trip Advisor. A little research ahead of time will help in not having a disappointment upon arrival. All in all I have enjoyed my vacations in Cuba . My favorite spots are Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Coco . Always felt safe at the resorts I stayed at with my wife .
Who wants to tip for evert little thing? Extortion!
Oh yea and what do you think happens awhen we go on a holiday to the US and enter the country? Exactly the same thing.. !!!!!
We have been to Cuba 10 times from Holguin to Havana and never at the same resort, the last time was from Mar 25th to April 2 2023. We have never had any issues arriving or leaving Cuba and I travel with a Canon camera in a pouch attached to my belt. As usual I remove all item including belt and camera and send it through the X-Ray machines with no problems what so ever. One year we even took walkie talkies which a big no no but didn't read the fine print until we returned home but did declare them upon arrival on the documents supplied. We could have been in trouble but noting came of it. We really like Cuba and will be going again next year.
But the food is crappy! Yuk
Sucks you had a bad experience but I've had the exact opposite experience and have been there over 40 times doing photography and I'm also in Canada and literally bring well over 10k in camera gear each trip with one always around my neck as there just no room to fit another body in my bags. Never once had a problem with gear and I never pack valuables in my check in as thats usually the bags that get robbed.
Also a note my sister in law is Cuban and now lives in Canada.
It's a fabulous place for photography from street to landscapes to wildlife. Just came back last weekend from doing street photography all through Old Havana
Thanks for this honest review
Any time!
Man, what a shock! Thank you for your honest sharing.
we have been 9 times never had a problem, its too bad that happened to u guys. love 🇨🇺
Thank you for sharing your experience.
most welcome.
Good tips Greg, Viva 🇨🇺
Cuba’s recent hotel explosion was not an “accident” (in my opinion) regardless of what news agencies report. It was a strategic target on the cusp of reopening and follows a similar pattern used by Cuban ex-patriots in the 90’s: Attack Cuba’s tourism infrastructure and you hit the Communists where it hurts.
Cuba’s airport security or “Aduanas” are on high alert and hyper vigilant at the moment. They are well educated but not only lack requisite people skills but a decent salary as well. As for knowing and understanding high-technological hardware, forget it!
Years ago I brought a box of professional baking pans and gadgets for baking ornate wedding-cakes for a Cuban chef I know. You would’ve thought I tried to sneak in a nuclear device! Thankfully, I speak fluent Spanish and was able to calm them down. I did not become combative.
The dogs can take care of the cocaine and explosives …but the Aduanas often have no clue what they’re looking FOR or AT in your “suspicious” looking bag.
Keep in mind that many unknowing visitors to Cuba bring highly illegal drones and walki-talkies in similar looking camera bags.
When I go to Cuba, I expect things to not work. I go there BECAUSE it’s ass-backwards. Stuck in the past is what I am looking for. YOU, you Canadians go for the sun, the hotels and the Mojotos. You are the soft, overweight, fluffy underbelly of tourism. You bring dollars and high expectations… leading you closer and closer to your pending heart attack or litany of cancers.
Your video is fantastically dishonest since your 6 Tips amount to nothing compared to your admonition to stay away. Yes! Puh-Leez do stay away! For everybody’s sake!
Rule number 1 never speak Spanish to the aduane, rule number 2 never speak Spanish to anyone when your at the airport that has authority. Ask questions in English and remember to have a tip it will get u thru. When u speak in Spanish they are normally worse and try to tax u on items you bring. I bring everything knifes, blenders coffee makers, medical things and I never get taxed because I only speak to them in English. I tried to help another traveler but he decided to speak in Spanish and they sent him to the tax line. When u get to where u get your luggage pay a cuban to grab them and ask them for there help to find the exit and they will walk you to the exit person and explain your a tourist and not bringing things for Cubans. I been there 20 times or more and never had a problem.
@@Juancarlosq676 - Rule #1 is for those who speak no Spanish …and therefore have little choice but to speak English.
@@christopherp.hitchens3902 not really I speak both languages, but in my experience as soon as u speak Spanish you go to the line that pays taxes, I have been going to cuba for the past 10 years for months at a time, and when you speak Spanish to the security they bother you alot more than the normal tourist.. I just got back last Friday from cuba.. the power outages sucked really bad so did the lines for fuel.
@@Juancarlosq676 - I am married to a Cubana from Camaguey and while I do not stay for months at a time, my visits are rather frequent. My wife is a doctor and this always causes a layer of questions which are, at this point, beyond stupid.
Corona and the mandatory quarantine of the time…and the inherent risks regarding documentation, testing and the extraordinary inflation have made these visits less desirable. I only went twice the last 2 years, last February being the most recent. It was not pleasant to see Cuba on its knees.
Still, I have not experienced any of the things you have described. I often bring 2 rather obscenely large check-in bags filled with gifts, clothing and even food items and they never tax me. In spite of my very good Cuban Spanish, I am a pasty-white British man with blue eyes: I would never convince anyone that I am a Cubano coming back with goods to sell on their black market.
I only got in “trouble” once when, on my way back home, they pulled me off the jet and escorted me through a labyrinth of hallways. To be sure, these otherwise bored Aduanas tend to enjoy the escorting of a horribly nervous tourist. They put on a their grim face and answer no questions until you arrive at the room where your luggage is waiting.They found a rolled up painting in one of my check-in bags which I had not declared. They wanted taxes for this rather modest $100 painting.
Cuba is a fascinating culture with mostly extraordinarily good people. The airports are always the most stressful thing about Cuba. Then again…aren’t airports stressful in every country?
Yea 2 days befor I left they finally took down the mask mandate, Cuba is definitely backwards. I try to bring ever ounce possible 2 big bags 1 carryon as big as possible and a briefcase or laptop case because the airline don't charge it, but that's usually full of cell phones or chocolates that they can't get anymore.. the new system with the cards suck as a American it is difficult switching money and having to pay others to charge her card with euros . And the pesos store has almost nothing.. the whole country is on a diet unless foreigners charge the other card so they can go buy things. And I don't go to resorts, I was in a tiny apartment in Pinar del Rio where 75% they had blackouts no running water and mosquitoe swarms. My vacation it to live like normal cuban people outside of the city. I know what it's like and I enjoy life without the phone or internet. I don't mind heating water on a charcoal grill and taking showers with cups of water. But at the same time I appreciate coming home to the usa. My next trip will be the one to bring back my fiance. I only had one problem at the airport ever that was my first trip they asked my why I spent 2 months in cuba. I guess another time they went in and searched my bag and found something for my fiance, they didn't understand it was and they were touching it all over and finally when I told them what it was they put it back in my bag real fast and told me to go lol
woww thanks for Sharing! Now thats Effed up!!!
thank you so much for your time to do video.
I live in Cuba and there is not now or ever has been a US embargo on food or medicine. The cases of chicken that I buy when available come from farms in North Carolina
Thank you for you response about food…I am soon on a trip to Cuba….what do people honestly prefer for tips…American dollars or Canadian ?
@@mhariclare1 both are gratefully accepted
@@georgefoster1468 thank you for your response….can I ask another question?
We have always travelled to the DR…and always brought lots of cash for tip. My policy has always been that if you really wanted to help people, cash is king. But several friends have told me that I should be bringing items…personal care items specifically. We have always believed that if you give people cash…it stays in there economy rather than just giving them stuff they can buy in their own shops….would you advise? 🇨🇦
@@mhariclare1 There is a lot of need there. All will be welcome. Thank you for thinking of helping Cubans.
Thanks for the info...guess I’m not gonna buy an osmo to bring for my vacation there in July
This is pretty insane. I stumbled upon your video. I will be flying to this same resort from Toronto next week!
Hellos Khan I’m Cuban I haven’t been there in 27 years I’m afraid to go ,did you went ,? How was your experience?
I live in USA I left cuba with 23 I’m 50 now
Thanks for the video.
very welcome.
We are going to Cuba in two weeks. This is the first time we are going there and I am doing all kind of research to be prepared. This video is really helpful. I am sorry for your experience. I hope your next trip is more enjoyable.
Good luck and have fun.
how was it? did u enjoy?
My husband is Native (Mohawk in Ontario) and he gets hauled over and accused of being Cuban after a haircut and a week in the sun when it's time to leave , finally let him through when we were boarding the plane ....has happened in Mexico too . We got married in Santiago de Cuba and after more than 30+ trips just to Cuba (it used to be 325.00 A/I for a week so was going 3-4 times every winter ) they would see me in the line and call me by name to the VIP wicket. Stopped going 5 years ago when we noticed the shortages were getting worse . It is hard to enjoy my time knowing they have nothing and are hungry .
Nice video god they certainly put you through the ropes 😎🇮🇪
That they did. Not pleased about our treatment at all.
problems having food from Russia started in 1989 with the fall of the USSR.... it has been going on since... but it is better since Raul Castro opened some market possibilities since 2011.... thank you for sharing your experience
Good to know. My boyfriend wants to bring an expensive camera to when we go to varadero cuba in January. How are they with go pro?
I've been taking my telescopic Nikon there for over 5 years, they never bothered me
This is the Nikon that can zoom in on Jupiter :)
Thanks for your experience as Americans. I went twice this year for my fiance there and the second time the air bnb wasn't like it said it was. First time havana and really enjoyed it. Second time was in another city to meet family
your attitude is showing. Cuba is for the adventurous . We loved it . Fascinating. The music was wonderful.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am heading to the same resort by myself this week and I was thinking about bring my insta360 camera with me but now i'm hesitant? We do get a lot of questions about the camera when we are out on the bikes with it in general. People still don't know what it is? I think I will leave the cameras at home this time and just enjoy my days in the sun with my sketchbook!
Thanks again for sharing, Bonnie 🇨🇦
Good luck!! Have fun!
Biggest mistake you made was staying at a tourist location. Cuba has some amazing spots for food and such. I go to cuba just to bring back cohibas to the USA lol. I love cuba
location had nothing to do with our experience. we loved where we stayed. It was going through customs and security that was the issue.
Cohibas are over-priced and over-rated cigars anyway. There's way better cigars for less
It’s unfortunate that you had a rough time :(
In Cuba, Professional camera equipment (or even professional-looking equipment) must be declared and tourists are not bothered if they have amateur cameras, and not more than can be carried on the person during normal vacation activities.
If you don’t declare your equipment and its purpose, they take it very seriously and will grill you. Even more so if you walk through official areas with any equipment that is unknown or unfamiliar to most people.
The best thing travellers can do is research the rules of the countries they go to BEFORE packing their bags, and ensuring they are respecting the laws of the countries they are entering so that they don’t get pulled over by customs for their own ignorance. This is why Cuba gives you the customs form on the plane - there is an entire section on the top of the second page for you to declare your items. 🤷🏻♀️
You can’t blame the government or the country for your own mistake as a foreigner.
Can u be more specific on how to declare? I am also thinking of taking gimbal to Cuba.
buddy here is the thing. having traveled to Cuba many many time, your the boss . your the one paying there wage. don't take any carp from them. say whats on your mind. they wont throw you in jail over a camera. and that's me at 21:02 with my friends .
And that’s how you end up in a Cuban jail.
Well that just sucks!! Your parting comments are right on. You could absolutely expect that if you did go back. We gave up on Cuba a few years back but did not have that kind of experience that you had to endure. It is too back as the resort you were at looked nice and pretty new!! For what its worth our week in Antigua was nice and I would go back for sure. Good video Greg and Mary very informative, worth the watch!!
Appreciated. Maybe we should put Antigua on our list. Next year we are heading to Costa Rica so be interesting to see how different we are treated.
@@gregtoope Both my wife and her sis have been to Cost Rica and gave it a thumbs up. I friend of mine (another UA-camr) was in Antigua around the same time we were and they spent a few days at a Sandals resort before one of those sailing charters. He did mention to me that he was told at the resort there was no filming allowed for guest privacy reasons. The resort I was at has no issues but I made sure I was mindful of where I was filming. I actually got asked to take some shots from the drone of this group in the ocean.... maybe 1 to many Pina coladas.
@@BikeBoatandTravel good to know. im always fearful of a place/resort that wont let you film your holidays. Makes me feel like they are hiding something. UA-cam videos is how I choose where I want to vacation next.
I won't go back either
next time I go to Cuba I make sure to take a few mayo ang ketchup packets !
Damn, spit it out.
If you mean, don't take so long to get to the point, I agree.
We have been to Cuba numerous times, both pre-CUC and post-CUC. A little research before returning each time should prepare you. Our first trip back post CUC we easily obtained an MLC credit card at the airport for purchases in stores. They are good for two years so if you don't use the amount you convert, you can save the card for a future visit. Also, not sure where you got info on Cuba not being able to get goods from the U.S., but that's not true. Basic research from our earliest visits tells anyone that the Cuban government is highly suspicious and one should NEVER film Cuban officials, police, military, etc. Even the appearance of possibly trying to take pictures at the airport might not have been a good move.
Some resorts are better then others. Depends on where you stay.
I stop counting how many times I've been in Varadero! NEVER experienced something simillar like that. My two friends are professionals in photography, never had any issues with authorities there. No.1: respect them. They have enough of western countries (especially USAs) "love" for last 60-70 years. They live in the jail all their lives. Never eat decant meal. Never ending story. But they are proud and do not like disrespect.
BTW, sand bugs are called hehenes (jejens in spanish).
We are heading to cuba for our second trip. I'm American (with permanent resident status in Canada) and wife is Canadian. I had to go into a separate room for questioning while entering Cuba. It was pretty quick and they let me continue. I'm bringing my camera with two lenses but the lap top will stay at home. I can edit when I get back. I will make sure to have extra SD cards. They will all be blank when I go and only tourist pictures when I leave. And I've already been told, don't even think about bringing the drone. Maybe I'll make a comment on this video after we get back and let you know how I made out.
sounds great. just make sure to have everything all packed up tight when going through the airport and security.
Oh no what a experience. I understand your feeling.
When we should leave Gran Canaria I got taken at side and they did a drugtest on my stuff even the bankcard. I got a bit angry and askt them why they tested a swedish man at 65 and not all the youngsters that been there and party i 2 weeks they where so hangover so they almost fell to sleepbefore they enterd the plane. There they might have found some things but not on a old tired grayhaird man but yes I hade the camera with me so maybe thats the answer why they boderd. GC is a spanish island outside afrika and they have some special laws that not are in spain.
Thanks for the video.
yeah if i cant bring camera gear to a country then I'm simply not going,
Well first of all when you first mentioned the "issue" i thought you were mugged or something, but this is just as bad. I complete understand not ever wanna go back. And although you gave the ressort a big thumbs-up seeing the food i wouldn't even geive them that. Leaving for Oahu (hawaii) Saterday taking 2 actioncams and a 360 (Qoocqm 4k) i hope i will have not such a trouble (dont think so cause first landing in LAX is already US just like Oahu) i'll let you know.
I realy wished you a nicer stay.
I’m sure you will have no issues flying into Hawaii. All US states are very familiar with people travelling with cameras. So I’m sure your experience will be much better than mine.
Cuba right now truly sucks. Walk in town? Good luck finding a place with beer, mojito or even juice or coffee! Go to D. Rep. or Mexico.
I appreciate this review.
I will say however Transat Holidays (who I booked with myself this time), and also my travel agent (when I went years ago) says all over the place to watch high value items and cameras should be in checked luggage or avoid bringing all together. So out of habit I only bring my phone now.
actully high value items should NEVER be checked unless you want to arrive and have them stolen from your bag.
Great review...I am Cuban myself but being living abroad for quite some time already....I do share most of your opinions...As for the food...the one in the pictures looks nicer that we I had last September in 2 different Varadero Hotels....Food is not the main reason you may be travelling for...but it has all the potential to make your days miserable during your vacation and even make you sick...the food in the 2 hotels I visited was inedible...I mean it to a point that I will be possibly never visiting a Cuban hotel till the whole dictatorship falls and there is a serious motivation to do business in the country....
Besides…we do not pay cheap for our hotels, it is the result of hard work and we should not lower our expectations to the point that we say…Ok…I paid the same like in Mexico, Dominicana but it is Cuba…I am fine with half of the quality…because it is just Cuba…We should not accept that otherwise they will never improve…
My recommendation, go somewhere else like the same Mexico, Dominacana, etc…Cuba is NOT worthy at least you just want to drink, make tours and have really low expectations from the service and the food…I repeat...it is just not worthy….Of course not to mention Hygiene, anti-epidemic measures in those hotels, and better not to talk repression to the Cuban people who think differently, the poverty they are submitted to live in, censorship, brainwash since early age.....Supporting Cuban tourism is supporting all that at the same time, cause all hotels or 80% are owned by the government (in joint-ventures but they have the majority of the shares), and they use that money to keep doing all this to the Cuban people...So, if you or any of your viewers also care about those facts...there you have some other reasons not to go to Cuba....but that is already another set of issues….However just looking at what you get in those hotels for the money you pay….it is just a robbery…once again, good interesting and informative video
Took my nikon and two lenses when we went. Didn't worry about my camera gear, it was in a knapsack, part of carry on. They were more concerned about my insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor, and if all things, hearing aid. (I was in contact with Bond at all times I guess.) Slowed me down a little (10 extra minutes.) No issues on the way back with their security.
It is a communist country though. Their rules rule at all times. Problem is you never quite know what they are.
Glad you got back safe and with all your gear.
Thanks. Glad we got home as well. The biggest relief was when the plane finally got in the air coming home.
So you got treated the way foreigners to the US get treaated at US airports
ive never been treated like that entering the US or any other country ive entered. so no.
A rocky beach is the best cause that's where all the tropical fish hang out!
I've heard bloggers have similar experiences because they suspect them with all there gear possibility making adult film.
well thats reason enough for me to not go back.
Asking questions in English or Spanish?
What a traumatic experience! I hope you will recover...
You’re joking … right ?
@@johnfrias5187 no, being sarcastic 😜
This was a great travel advisory, in the areas where there were reasons for problems you encountered you mentioned them to be fair. I.E. food shortages.
I think you were extremely fortunate not to have all of your gear permanently confiscated, and I suspect you were close to seeing the inside of a Cuban detention center for a few days while they kicked your case "upstairs" for further review.
I guess your crime was in standing out (camera gear) so your advice to only bring a cell phone so you don't stand out is spot on.
Hope the next trip goes better.
yeah me too. this kind of experience is reason enough for me to not go back to a country like this. Sad as we really did like the resort and the people working there.
Been to Cuba many times , I like it there so food is not a problem and I bring bug spray and things I need and one of the things I need is my camera which is expensive and I do not need it tossed around. Not sure if I will visit there again.
What a dumb comment - detention centre !! Confiscated !? You watch too much TV !!
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 wow, Canadian ehh. You crack me up!!
Hi, I came across your video. Most of the stuff that bothered you from your trip seemed superficial. I wouldn’t even mention have mentioned them. If they had happened to me. The food part, well yeah it’s understandable the USA makes it impossible for Cuba to have closer suppliers. Now I found truly hilarious of course me being from the Caribbean is the fact that you said there was no seasoning. Meaning that the food was bland. I fell into a deep laugh two individuals who come from from a well known culture in which the food is bland. I mean the whole world knows. Talking about the lack of seasoning on the food that was hilarious. To end I do feel sorry for your airport experience it’s something that has never happened to me before but know several people who have gone through it. Well at least see the silver lining you came through unscathed and you are home. So, everything worked out at the end. Good luck on your travels and keep making videos don’t let the bad experiences sour or stop you from achieving your goals.
Very good video. Sorry you had that experience. I have been to Cuba 18 times. I am aware that a 4 or 5 star rating is not the same rating system as other countries. If you educate yourself before heading to Cuba you will be more prepared and will know what to expect. The saying goes " you don't go to Cuba for the food, you go for the incredible beaches". I have never had issues entering or leaving Cuba but I always have issues leaving Canada. Every time I go through airport security, I beep then I am x-rayed, patted down and sometimes I am taken away and my hands are scanned but once I'm in Cuba, I just walk through, no problem. This is a communist country, they are serious about their laws. I go because it is affordable...cheapest place for an all inclusive sun holiday. I also go because I support the beautiful people of Cuba, bringing in essentials, clothes, hygiene products, children's things, medicine ect and give to the church or schools in the area. I understand you not wanting to go back, if that happened to me, I too would not go back....
I’m sorry but what was “ very good” about the video- the way he knows nothing and has to ask his wife for help on everything he says or the part where they explain how sunscreen works?
I just came back and stayed at Melia las Dunas in Santa Maria and the food was awesome !
What happens if i don't tip!?
@@FS02012 you may be labeled as cheap and next time you eat there ,… they will spit in your food
Nice video very informative in the beginning the video then gets very opinionated in a humble fashion. Ty for the video I have family that says the stuff about money and such and cremes the rest is a bit different on my end since my culture is very tight and friendly with Cuba I guess. I am going soon if someone asks me in a while to come back here and say what I had like experience there I will reply.
Been to Cuba nine times and this resort we stayed in 2019 was hands down the worst for food. I lost weight (5 pounds) the first of two weeks there. Best resort was Paradisus Rio de Oro. Amazing food there.
Well I rather lose some weight than my camera equipment.
The main thing is not worry about getting ripped and enjoy my vacation . There are other places to visit .
We went to Cuba twice. The experience was interesting at the airport our camera battery and sd card was taken from our camera from inside our locked checked luggage. We had been taking photos in the town of Varedaro. I am a picky eater but found the food in Cuba better than Mexico. I would not rush back to Cuba as tipping was a must not an option.
thats crazy that it was taken from inside locked luggage, that just makes me feel even more uncomfortable about travelling there. If they can take stuff out of your bag, they can very well put things inside your bag. The biggest issue was them searching my bag with out me being there.
Mexico literally has 100x more options on food. I disagree on cuba having better food.
Mexico has Waaaay better food
I would not rush back to Cuba as tipping was a must not an option
Tell that to Young Canadians and Americans that have sent the over the top and absurd tipping culture into the stratosphere around the world.
Always pack battery operated devices (even an alarm clock) in your carry on because of risks of fire in airplane luggage storage. According to sources from Google, UA-cam, etc, that's one of the rules for flying everywhere nowadays.
I don’t blame you. I don’t know how much I could take before I’d snap and probably end up in Cuban jail. So I better go somewhere a little more tourist friendly, thanks for the heads up I thought they treated Canadians better than that.
once in cuba ive always had a great time. but for some reason this time all went downhill. Enough so that i wont risk going back and experiencing this again
The US has the highest number of prisoners in the world ;)
My father is going to Cuba starting the 5th of December, 2022, and I am very worry about his safety during his trip in Cuba, so I think this video might help him, and I made a video for him as well.
Your father is safer in Cuba than wherever it is that he lives.
Very,very safe inCuba …. No worries
@@Dutchy-1168 He is back now
A war in Europe….covid … lack of fuel …. Flip Floping on their currencies …. Explosion in Matansas fuel depost …. You name it ‼️
It’s been a tough year in Cuba …. No thanks to communism as well
Cuba can buy food from US and in fact they do buy almost all the chicken from there. The issues is Cuba does not have credit because they don’t pays so US does not extend credit terms to them. They need to pay in advance and since almost all the money is keep by the government officials they do not invest money on better foods options.
Chicken in US is chlorinated
It's banned for import in most countries
Cuba is not a place to go on vacation. If you go to Cuba, it must be as an adventure.
So you really never went to Cuba you went to a resort. have been so many times going back in a few months because I can't get enough I stay with families in Casa particular
Take this video with a grain of salt however unfortunate and accurate this information is.
Sorry to hear your feelings were hurt.
OMG that’s insane! I wouldn’t go back either. That would ruin my whole vacation.
yeah it took me days to stop stressing out. And then the day we were going back I was stressing. We even paid for a VIP service hoping that would help. But it was wasted money as I spent the whole time in a room being questioned and searched. Not ever going back.
@@gregtoope I hate that you guys went through that. Glad you two made it home safe and sound!
@@gregtoope never go on a vacation as, essentially, a sheep. It seems like a good idea to go a big resort but that’s not necessarily true. You can get ripped off anywhere you go as a sheep being herded around with other sheep. Go as independent travelers and actually see the country you are visiting through your own lens.
Typical Canadian sorry for tipping 🤧 I recognize the waitress in your video
I won't be going. Thanks.
I had this happen in Cancun Mexico... They have a random red/green light and my family went through and it turned red for me. Same kind of experience and almost missed the plane. So is the reason never going back there again. Thanks for the video.
mine was not a red light green light. I was picked from the line gong in and out. They were searching for something! As soon as my passport was scanned they were all over me.
@@gregtoope Agree not a fun experience... Hawaii has always been a good experience for us and our kids.... Was to Nicuragua once too beautiful but too many soldiers with big guns... Kind of like Mexico. Thanks for the heads up.
@@zooedca yeah we have a couple of places that we have on our list to hopefully travel to next year.
It's not random
sorry you had this experience but speaking from a security point of view, the rescanning of your equipment is mandatory and is totally protocol each and every time you leave the sterile area whether it be with an officer or on your own you are subject to additional screening , yes each time ..doesnt matter if you just went through it or not, if you touched your belongings it is subjected to additional screening procedures. now because they did it so often Im thinking that their x-ray machine is not the best image quality and they needed to be certain of what they saw...also the shaking of your bag leads me to believe that too many things grouped together and the image was not clear enough to see items inside properly. they needed to shake things up in order to release the way things were packed to see all items clearly. and yes if someone seen you taking pictures at the airport(outside or in) then that is cause to pull you over into secondary for questioning. those are the rules. travelling with camera gear is iffy at best because of the x-ray image they are super dense and x-ray have troubling seeing through it so to be honest Im surprised they didnt tear apart all your luggage to see all the equipment that you had packed. Hopefully this gives you a few answers as to why you were singled out . Dont blame Cuba they are just following the security rules they are imposed at each and every airport , some follow and are more strict than others.
Interesting read ,I also am interested in photography and I never have had a problem. I do not want to go through what you went through so I might not ever go there again. Tks
if it had only happened going in or out I would have just thought i was a random person, but they definitely had me flagged for some reason as i was pulled going in and out. And thats why im not going through that again. Sadly ill never go back.
Sounds like they were suspicious of you, for some reason. More than likely, you are on their look-out list (or in their system). They have your info. Most definitely, you should never go back.
Well, if they were suspicious once and nothing really happened why would they insist with the baseless suspicions multiple times ?
This is not Saudi Arabia where you make a joke about MBS once and you go missing but they are paranoid at the US sending agents in there and for good reasons.
Lol The resort ran outta sprite and pina coladas
Sadly that's how Cuba works and things with cameras are complicated, imagine for me to be as a content creator here. It's crazy complicated. Hopefully you had not drones
I've been there several times with a telescopic Nikon and used all the time
It makes them uncomfortable but they don't harrass anyone
Generally speaking, when travelling anywhere these days, don't expect the trip to be flawless
Some common sense and patience is required
I visited Cuba just 2 weeks ago and I had a wonderful time. You hear all these things about Cuba...you should do this, or you shouldn't do this. If you want to know what Cuba is like, then...go! Yes, there are very poor parts but there are also well-to-do parts. You will see old structures being refurbished; they are rebuilding Cuba. Yes, some neighborhoods have lines for the mercados and rations and some don't. The U.S dollar is very well received and much preferred, you will even see some places with prices in U.S. dollars. The CUC...convertible is no longer used or in circulation, it was decommissioned for 8 months now. Yes, they prefer nice crisp foreign currency because when they deposit it the banks, the banks will not accept if in worn condition. Also, go on free walking tours that are offered every day, you will learn an in-depth history of Cuba. (When you first arrive in Cuba, customs will take a picture of you, ask the address of place of stay and will enter in your phone a stay of entry form...I told them my phone didn't work, so they wrote down my info instead. Also, I have my pink tourist card as a souvenir as Cuban customs didn't even care for it but still get one in case.) JUSTGOTOCUBA
Hey guys! I’m so sorry to hear you guys had a horrible experience. As a fellow Cuban, you guys have 100% reason to worry about being on the list. This happens all the time, ALL THE TIME. When people, especially bloggers, come to cuba and make it obvious (as easily as holding the camera) they are viewed as a threat. There is an actual list that they put people of concern on, and they will make sure to look for you guys. Luckily they didn’t take your stuff because they do that as well. This is exactly what the Cuban government does, they try to make your life a living hell. Anyone reading this comment, be careful when going, don’t flash any items of high value, try to fly under the radar as much as possible!
no need to fly under the radar when i wont be flying there ever again. So many other places in the world that welcome those with cameras.
@@gregtoope I agree but that is just what happens when you go to a communist country, they make up their own rules. You’re right tho, so many other beautiful countries with no hassle 👍🏼
@@isabellecp4545 yup. thats where ill be heading next. To many other places that are more welcoming.
Cuba is going through a major recession and food shortages - i definitely wouldn’t go now
👏 bravo
25:55 Sorry you had a bad experience at the airport, didn’t your travel agent warn you about the food shortage in Cuba? I research before I go to any country, I enjoy getting Cuban peoples point of view on UA-cam the good and the bad. Resorts aren’t for me, I just came back from the best Cuban experience of my life going to Havana, Pinales then Varadero. We stayed in Airbnb between $33 to $43 a night with breakfast included for a small fee. Our dinners were less than $30 for two and the food was excellent. Total for the trip less than $3000 including air fare. Maybe this is the best thing to do and immerse yourself with the culture not the touristy part. Photography would of been out of this world.
Did you have a drone? That's a no no.
Nope. No drone.
Hello again, you forgot about most important ...I guess you don't drink that much...Alchool is abysal!!! french word to say very bad, I bring 5 spirits one spirts per day amen :)
To take all those photo and video equipment you need a permission or something like that . At the security in the airport they think you are a journalist or someone willing to make videos for some sort of independent journalist. As many things has happened in the last year...
Cayo Guillermo and other Cay in Cuba are know for the mosquitos and bags , i am sorry you got bitten. You should have gone to Guardalavaca in Holguin!!
Also its better stay in a private house, B&B, Its cheaper and you probably can pay cash.
Been to Cuba many, many times, and carry my camera bag and gear separately as the personal item on the plane, is quite obviously a camera bag, and I never had a problem . My sister who has hers in backpack has been re scanned almost everytime and all taken out and examined. ha Not a big deal. Having your gear and luggage possibly checked is part of travel and it doesn't sound like you were treated rudely or lost anything but a bit of time for security. Tip is to always check the list of items prohibited to bring into your destination country. I been through many airports worldwide and would list Cuba security high for friendliness and efficiency. Sounds like it was a pain, but if that turned you off enough not to visit the beautiful country of Cuba again, than I wouldn't recommend you travelling through some of the major international airports where they really check you and you wait forever. And as another tip is ask for a room closer to the beach if that is what you want. And another tip Avon skin so soft doesn't totally work but help with sand fleas on the beach and take garlic pills. Positive tips are good. And you have no idea what your luggage goes through when you travel, I find incredible your adapters were broken by shaking them around.
this wasn't just an inconvenience. They were banging our luggage around and yes some of my gear was actually damaged. I have travelled all over the globe and this was the worst experience i have ever had. they were looking for something. This was not just a random check and the fact is that i was checked going in and out. And no one else. I was pulled aside as soon as i approached security. I wasnt just checked but checked multiple times each direction. And ive been randomly checked multiple times at different airports, but nothing like this. Over an hour in a private room where not even my wife was allowed to be in. This would not fly in many countries. And my adapters are not just cheap adapters. They are adapters that cost upwards of 50-100 dollars a piece and are not designed to be banged around. So yes they were damaged. They worked at the hotel and once I got home they didn't work. Plain and simple.
@@gregtoope Sorry Greg, I didn't mean to offend. I guess I got defense as I am so looking forward to going back to Cuba, now that Covid isn't so bad , and I have had nothing but good experiences. I have always been lucky everywhere, ya been checked and sniffed by dogs but it didn't take very long. I even had my pants examined very closely going into the US as I had a little metal clip on the end of the waist string ties I had tucked inside that I didn't realize and they had me going in and out of the scan machine and then going over me by hand scanner and by hand physically as they couldn't figure it out and that was right in middle of everywhere and everyone lined up there and there pulling away at my middle and in my pants. ha My sister has been days and hours and hours in airport in Europe for completely innocent inspected luggage that got moved - she was out of pocket having to keep going back, and time lost on holiday. And I was looking out window once here in Toronto and saw with my own eyes , my luggage falling on the ground from top of an overstack cart going to the plane. Between us so much damaged luggage. It is not treated nicely in big airports for sure. I hear you it is not nice to come home with things damaged , there is no need for that. I am lucky, my checked luggage has never been opened , my sisters so many times it happens to her, when we get there all her stuff has been gone through and in a mess,, make up case broken etc. Not a big deal but not nice someone trashing everything.
I hope you have much better travel experience in the future. I think an hour of hassle is worth a days in the sun on the beach.
Going to add a few things as your video was call tips
More than one of anything
In an austere country like Cuba, the convergence of more than one of the same item may be disconcerting and, sometimes, costly or illegal. For instance, bringing a single laptop as a personal item is free, but a second one requires paying an import fee for a second one ($250, or $100 for a mini-laptop). Similar limitations apply to other devices. By law, bring with no more than:
2 cameras
3 flashlights
2 tents
2 thermoses
2 external hard drives
2 cell phones
1 Jacuzzi (no, really)
and
But in June 2021 the Cuban government announced US dollars would no longer be accepted anywhere and you couldn’t even deposit them to Cuban bank accounts.
This means tourists coming to Cuban resorts who want to tip in international money should use Canadian dollars, British pounds or Euros. Bills only, not coins.
those tips are copied and paste, I didn't write them
Wow, imagine, you were lucky to get somebody speaking english and you and your wife speak english, but imagine, I'm a photo and video with all kind of gear, something like that happend to me and my wife... My wife doesn't speak english, on my side I can speak, but it's not my first language because we live in Quebec, imagine the stress on my wife and finaly on me with 4 or 5 peoples speaking spanish... I went one time in Cuba and the system they have at the airport to split our couple in two differents direction to pass true the security, it was the signal for us to never go back to Cuba!
Oh my goodness that’s a horrible experience
Yeah. Bad enough for me to make this video. I’ll never go back.
Hey Greg,
Kinda crazy watching this, and your previous vid leaving to go there. I say this because I recognized the highway heading to YHZ immediately. We too are from Halifax. In addition to that coincidence, we just returned from riviera maya may 01 with 15 family members we took along to our favourite resort, hotel marina el cid. And my sister in law returned from the Muthu a few days after we got home. They always say they love Cuba but I think most people say that because it’s affordable , because let’s face it, the food sucks! Anyway we usually pay around 1300-1400 for El cid, and have been there 19 times. This last one a few weeks ago was busy as we took our 4 grandchildren and two daughters along with other family members. When we returned home may 01 we said “ let’s look for a reasonable resort in Cuba, something inexpensive just to have a quiet trip. So, my sister in law bragged this place up and of course I did the UA-cam thing to have a look and came across your vids. After watching it we said “ nope, let’s spend the extra , if we decide to go away again , and return to marina el cid. It’s crazy expensive so we still didn’t book anything as of yet. We visited Cuba 2006,2007 and 2008 but when we went to Mexico in 2009 we said never again for Cuba. That’s just us, we watched your follow up vid this morning and feel as if you were speaking for us. Anyway thanks for the vids, we will avoid Mexico because even at 925 per person, we feel food is one of the experiences we go away for , and obviously there isn’t that at Muthu!
Thx again!
No not because it's cheap but very safe we have been there 14 times so 14 years and I feel safe.
It seems like an “All inclusive Resort” and Cuba are oxymoronic. This is really a cultural experience over relaxation type of location. Vacationers should stay away, and travelers should make sure they do their research. Good video
We can say the same for our Canadian government. Just because you had a bad experience not cool to give Cuba thumbs down.
Don' t try to confuse people here and be realistic . Cuba tourrims is not a match at all for Mexico or Dominican Republic . Please wake up from that frncy dream of Cuba being a worry free vacation . I can tell you that now not even a water bottle you can buy from local stores . Thank you.
Yea same thing happened to me when I went on a Holiday to the US..
Costa Rice will be much better. I have friends that moved there to do missionary work. Their parents recently came a visit. No problem getting in or out.
That’s great to hear.
I hate traveling. I do not know why this is in the suggested video list. The airliners, hotels, rental cars or taxis, the disorientation, food, strangers, I hate it all, especially the strangers.
you poor man - out of the entire experience in Cuba, you spent half the video on one TOTALLY irrelevant thing - the unpleasant experience at the airport security check. It seems that you have never read a report from a communist country in your life. Police checks are quite common in these countries, and a smart person would find it an interesting experience typical of such regimes. There was absolutely no danger for you, it was just one small hassle, which could have become a charming detail on the way to a communist country. But you experienced it so dramatically that you decided never to return to Cuba. It's really a shame that you let it spoil your entire experience of such an interesting country.
Let’s see I almost missed our bus. Paid for a service that I couldn’t use as we were stuck in a room being harassed, got pulled into security going in and out of Cuba and they broke some of my gear while going through all my luggage. Plus constantly be called a liar when I tried to explain the camera gear and why I was in Cuba. You call that an interesting experience? I’ve travelled all over the world and have never been treated like this.
On a final note, you should go again, maybe a pricier resort, because sometimes canada weather to cold, you worked hard and you need absolutely a vacation but ...you are tight on a budget, Cuba is unbeatable, *** for food, morning omelette is done fresh you choose ingredients to add to, lunch rice and beans are healthy and they have chicken too, dinner pasta. see like you said we never go hungry... depending on the resort, you can have a great week and the nice thing is that no one bothers you unless you start a conversation with them...***IMPORTANT*** I will not bring expensive equipement like camera (dslr) with lens etc... even tough you maybe a professional photographer...there are some people that are on the lookout for quick money...
Sad to hear you had such a bad experience. You evil photograph smuggler you!
I thought it was bad enough having to take my wife to a dentist while we were there.
I really have no idea why I was targeted. But they are never gonna see me in their country again.
It is a comunist country. That's what they do.
You went to Cuba without seeing Cuba. The camera is because they want to know if you are a journalist. You need permission to report from Cuba. This scan happens to me every-time. Its cuba. First you cannot experience Cuba from a resort. I never go to the resort, to experience cuba you need to start in Havana. There are endless opportunities for photography in Havana… endless i come back with thousands of images. Im sorry you were not prepared for Cuba im going in a few days. Just a short trip 10 days. I have really good friends in Havana one owns a photography school in Havana. Go again get ahold of me i ll help you set up a trip , get you a guide, you guide can do anything even arrange models for photo sessions. You need at least 10 days 3 weeks is better. There is no way to see everything in Havana in a month. If you want take a bus or car to a couple cities. You did not see Cuba, your video title should be title Cuba resorts. I promise you there is so much more if you go back and do it correctly you will understand. I love Cuba the people are the best. The photography in Cuba rivals Africa for opportunity
I bring pro gear spares lenes flash laptop ipad 50lbs in just my camera bag. Sure the question me it delays me 20 minutes but now as soon as they look at my file the mood changes to “ welcome to Cuba “.
One last thing didnt you look at photos of Cuba before you went ? Why didnt you ask someone where to go. I would have left the resort you can get a nice casa for $25 a night in havana.
It’s what you get for traveling to a communist dictatorship. Why anyone would go there and support that evil regime with their tourism dollars is beyond me.
Going to a resort....you are never going to see the country
I'd like to catch up with you as we're going for a month.
We have no plans yet and we'll be avoiding resorts as much as possible.
I’ve been to Cuba a couple of times myself, but not sure I’d call these tips so much as an anecdotal account.
Thank you for telling people that it is dangerous to go to Cuba. No travel to Cuba!!!!
One issue is you were carrying your camera through the airport/security out in the open. I know in other Cuban Airports they have "no Camera's or video recording devices" signs in the airport.. Especially going through security... Then you have a you tube channel, which could also be a form of being a reporter/journalism in their eyes. I looked up your UA-cam channel and the first video that pops up is "spy camera" So you had a lot of red flags in their eyes. Sure they didn't have to maybe go the extent of that they did, but you're in another country not abiding by their rules. I've been there 6 times with gear never had an issue, but I knew not to take my camera out to respect their rules in the airport. Sorry dude.. that one is on you.
We are going next week for the first time And comone everything is better then this one minus -45 edmonton alberta Just don't be too much piki
Visit San Juan, Puerto Rico if you want to see how Habana is supposed to look.
Or Haiti
The delay was probably due to someone searching your online profile while they were delaying you with scans and rescans....
why are you people so dunce?.
He had 4 -6 cameras and even two of the same type of camera plus lens and camera accessories.
Plus he also exited the the plane and entered the airport terminal with one of the camera in his hand.
It had nothing to do with your camera gear.
than what was it?
Wow, so you wanted a Cuban experience but you wanted to be in Canada and suggest brining Mayo, Sprite maybe….seriously? Sad and sensationalist review I’d say! You brought camera gear that was probably worth more than the annual salary of the average Cuban, flaunting it before customs and you wonder why they’re asking you for more info upon entering the country that’s associated with a country that were at war with??? And you pack a bottle of rum with photographic gear??? Doesn’t sound too smart to me! I’m sure Cuba never wants to see both of you again either…and if I was any holiday destination, I would really hope that you don’t come and visits me either!
PS, the food in Cuba is extremely tasty but simple. Their chicken tastes better than most chicken that you can get in Canada unless you buy free range organic.
wow you really didnt watch or understand anything that was said. Number 1. I didn't flaut anything. All my camera gear was in a camera bag. i had a small action camera in my hands. So I'm pretty sure every cuban that we met had a cell phone that takes better photos and videos than the camera that i had out. So No i wasn't flauting anything. Nice try. And since when is Canada and Cuba at war with each other. Pretty sure we arent. So again nice try with your trolling. And again i didn't pack Rum with my camera gear. All cameras were in my back pack. Rum was in my checked bag which did have chargers and small tripods. You can go troll somewhere else. Just like we said when the video started ... This was OUR experience and we have had great experiences before. Sounds like you just want to complain. So go do it somewhere else.
Nice video, thanks. , I guarantee that you where essentially a victom of timing. That is, most likely sometime before you arrived someone with a lot of camera gear was caught trying to leave Cuba with illegal footage / exploitation (think child porn) for distribution and sale in North America. For that reason anyone with advanced camera gear would be detained. Unfortunately, the easiest way to enter Cuba as a predator is as a tourist - arrive in Cayo Coco, then make the trek to a near city like Moran as a "tourist" and so-forth . Also unfortunate is that this type of fake tourist activity, with lots of camera gear, takes place in Mexico, Dominican, and even Costa Rica. I would bet a paycheque that was the reason for your struggle.
that may very well be the case, but we will never know for sure. And I'm not willing to risk going through that again. So for me and my wife we wont be going back.
I concur, A while back a child sex buyer from Toronto was caught and convicted. Every single male was sent into secondary at Canada customs. Per another comment, making adult films. I wouldn't quite call it prostitution but paid sex is very available in Cuba according to many news sources and videos. This man was very uninformed.
Want this comment to be honest. Having a camera out in an airport in any country is typically a very bad idea. So much more so in a communist country. The unintended consequences of your innocent, “mistake” could have been so much worse and often is for many people. My wife is a photographer so can appreciate your desire to document your travelling experiences. In Cuba, taking photographs of any military, police or other government personnel, “yes including airport and airport staff” will land you in hot water. Glad you got through the experience relatively unscathed. Sorry it put a blemish on your holiday
I get it if I was actually taking pictures but I wasn’t. I was just holding my GoPro. Plus if I actually wanted to take pics or video I’d just use my phone. Which is much better quality. I saw plenty of people taking pics with their phones in the airport. We just got back from 2 international vacations and zero issues with me holding a camera in the airport. As of now to much of a hassle going back. To many other countries I’d rather see.