Travel Vaccinations for Cuba

Further Travel Health Advice for Cuba

Cuba has many resorts and an endless choice of beaches to draw millions of holiday makers every year. Those who come with sand, sun and surf in mind usually find themselves running into a cultural and historical treasure trove. In Havana, gleaming colonial palaces combine with a city that literally pulsates with nightclubs, salsa music, and excitement. 18th century Fortaleza de San Carlos still stands guard over Havana harbour, and the museum is well worth a visit.

Parque Almendares is an oasis of greenery, with a promenade along the river. Among some excellent museums in Havana is the Museo Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway’s estate, which he donated to the people of Cuba. Before you start packing, your first stop on your way to Cuba should be a visit to our Travel Health Clinic, four to eight weeks before departure, so that you will be completely safe and up-to-date with the Vaccinations you need for Cuba.

Heat and Humidity
Cuba has a tropical climate, with temperatures up to 27C, although there are cooling breezes from the trade winds. You will need a good sun block lotion with SPF 20 or higher. Apply liberally and often, especially after swimming. Seek shade where possible, and wear a hat. Remember that the sun can burn you even when you are in the sea. At the beach, and on tour, drink plenty of fluids. Alcohol dehydrates, and it is wise to limit your intake.

Drinking Water
Tap water in Cuba is not safe to drink. Be safe and drink only spring water or purified water which you can buy just about anywhere. Bring lots with you to the beach and on tour. Avoid ice cubes unless you know they are made with purified water.

Food and Drink
Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African and Caribbean so expect to taste many familiar spices and ingredients. Rice and beans, as in most Caribbean countries, are a staple which you are likely to find on your plate with many main courses, like Ropa Vieja, a shredded beef dish simmered for hours in tomato sauce, or another favourite dish, boliche, a beef roast stuffed with chorizo and hard-boiled eggs. And, it follows that seafood has prominence on most menus since Cuba has a virtual rainbow of fish and shellfish in abundance. Don’t leave Cuba without tasting the signature medianoche grilled sandwich. When you think Cuba, think rum. Some of the world’s most famous rums are distilled here, one of the best being Havana Club.

Seeking Treatment Abroad
The standard of health care in Cuba is very good, and clinics are well staffed for the most part, but it is important that you arrange in advance to have enough money with you to pay for any health care you might need.

Travel and Health Insurance
Protect yourself, and your family, with comprehensive travel health insurance which will cover your intended itinerary and any potentially risky activities.

Personal Safety
Resorts and beaches are generally safe, but it follows that in the Caribbean’s largest and busiest city, Havana, special care should be taken, especially when strolling into certain non-tourist sectors of the city. Don’t wear flashy jewellery, and avoid carrying large sums of money. Check with your tour operator or hotel before leaving on a sightseeing trip.