Cuba, formerly known as the Republic of Cuba, is the largest Caribbean Island nation with a population of about 11 million people. It lies about 93 miles south of the United States - its nearest neighbors. Others are the Bahamas to the north east, Mexico to the west (120 miles away), Caymans and Jamaica to the south, Haiti and Dominica Republic to the south east. The country is made up of the main island of Cuba, the Isla de la Juventud, and several archipelagos. For those who want to tour the country, you will need to know the following:

Cuba, formerly known as the Republic of Cuba, is the largest Caribbean Island nation with a population of about 11 million people. It lies about 93 miles south of the United States - its nearest neighbors. Others are the Bahamas to the north east, Mexico to the west (120 miles away), Caymans and Jamaica to the south, Haiti and Dominica Republic to the south east. The country is made up of the main island of Cuba, the Isla de la Juventud, and several archipelagos. For those who want to tour the country, you will need to know the following:

1. Cuban Currency is not traded internationally
If you are planning to go to Cuba, you will have to hold your horses until you are well within the country to change your dollars into Cuban Convertible Pesos - the currency that any tourist will use. The locals use the Cuban Pesos, but these too are not traded internationally.

2. Get Vaccinated
You may want to get vaccinated against diseases such as Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Diphtheria, Tetanus and Typhoid. Although this is not a legal requirement when entering the country, it is advisable you get vaccinated to avoid contracting the diseases while in the country.

3. Medical Insurance
Canadians must have valid out of Country medical insurance to enter Cuba and carry ‘proof of coverage” while in the country

4. Shed the stereotypes -
Most Cubans will avoid discussing the strained relationship between their government and the AmericanState Department. They would rather talk to you about Hollywood and such kind of topics. As long as you veer clear of politics, you will have a nice holiday experience in Cuba.

5. Going to Cuba for the Cohibas?
As Canadians, during your visit to Cuba, you can smoke all the Cohibas and Montecristos you want. You can carry CDs, books, posters and artwork home and the prices are very reasonable

Cuba is a country of good natured people - well, until politics are mentioned. They will invite you to their homes, they will entertain you, give you tours and club with you. Make sure you get the most out of your travel. It is a rare occurence,