HERE ARE FIVE THINGS I DID TO PREPARE FOR CUBA: Safety Safety should always be a concern, although it shouldn’t stifle how you live. Taking time to actively be aware of your surroundings, research destinations, and share your daily itinerary with a trusted source should bring peace of mind. A huge key while traveling solo is sharing your location in real time via cell phone with a friend/loved one back home. Proper Documentation You will need a passport. In addition, you’ll need a visa, which can be purchased at the airport.
Lanisha Porter in Cuba during her solo vacation.
Try a
Solo trip By Lanisha Porter
28
January 2020 / TodaysWomanNow.com
Political Awareness Many believe that Americans can’t travel to Cuba. This is incorrect. As of June 2019, U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba, but the reason must satisfy a travel category such as “Support of the Cuban people.” Photo submitted
“At first you feel awkward...then after a while you just begin to live.” At 24, I've traveled alone twice journeying to Mexico and — most recently — Cuba. Traveling alone means that in the most practical ways, you don’t have the luxury of depending on someone familiar to you. Simple things like having your picture taken or needing a trustworthy eye to keep sight of your belongings, make you get creative or devise a strategic plan ahead of time. Traveling alone may also bring about unsolicited remarks from others pondering why you are solo. You may notice a tinge of judgment in instances where you’re dining out and the waitress questions, “Oh… just one?” The question — and sympathy settling on her face — confirm what you already suspected: eating alone in public is…awkward. While traveling alone can seem scary or uncomfortable at first, it can also be a transformative experience.
Currency Exchange Take cash! Cuba doesn’t recognize American credit or debit cards. Research currency rates and decide which conversion will be most inexpensive. I exchanged my American dollars (USD) to Canadian money (CAD) in the U.S., and then upon arrival to Cuba I converted to Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). Lodging My lodging was accommodated through Airbnb, and it made my experience a breeze. My host provided me with airport pick-up/ drop-off, a cell phone, breakfast, and walking tour. Additionally, through Airbnb I was able to book group trips and sightseeing experiences — such as spending the day in Viñales, overlooking a breathtaking valley while having lunch with other travelers. This is a great way to naturally socialize with others. Traveling alone doesn’t mean traveling isolated. As I played water frisbee at the Santa Maria beach with my newfound friends, I felt content. There I was all alone immersing myself in a new culture unbothered by the noise of my high-pace life awaiting me back home.
