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Havanaman,
Thank you very kindly. Do appreciated.
Alboroto
El Cubanito
07-31-04, 16:56
I recently called Marazul here in the states to check about the new travel requirements for Cuban-American to travel to Cuba. The Marazul Rep said that as long s you have a Cuban Passport, you do NOT have to file for the Cuban-American Visa, But he said that you still had to file some red tape. The person on the phone did not explain it to me very well. Does anybody know of where I can get info on the new travel requirements for Cuba on Cuban-American travelling into Cuba with just their Cuban passport? The website for the Cuban Interest Section that was station in Washington DC has been pulled down or move. Does anybody know the new website address is, phone numbers or where it has been moved to? Any help would be most welcome, thank you.
El Cubanito
Hi everybody,
I'm from Italy and since a few days I discovered this forum.
I think to know enough Cuba and Cuban people. If someone needs info, particularly of the west and central part of the island, email me.
Greetings for the forum, it's fantstic
Lugano
Rabo Verde
08-12-04, 00:19
What's the Cuban National Anthem?
"Row, Row, Row Your Boat"
Justgolfing
08-21-04, 17:44
Hi All,
Does anyone have any knowledge of a non-cubano national purchasing a casa on the island?
I am non-technical and I cannot figure out how to search these archives for past discussions.
I know that title must be held in the name of a local, but I am very concerned about the process and if it is possible.
Please feel free to PM me if you have info. I would like to have the discussion off this board.
Truth Seeker
08-25-04, 01:53
Property in Cuba cannot be purchased or owned by foreign nationals. Some individuals have "purchased" houses for their girlfriends, but title rests with the girl friend. If she decides to end the realtionship, you are out of luck. There is no legal recourse for the foreign national. What is one going to do, tell the Cuban authorities you broke the law? IMHO, stay away from property transactions.
As a foreigner you are allowed to own up to 49% of any property in Cuba. In practice that may as well be 2% or nothing at all, since you have no controlling interest in it. That with the fact that the government can take or do whatever thay want with "your" property at any time makes it a bad idea.
So, to return to an old and still valid topic, how are my fellow Americans going to Cuba these days? Or are you just not going in the present climate? Or do you throw caution to the wind and hope you're one of those that don't get caught? Or are you finding ways to go legally (not easy!).
I have friends who recenly went through Jamaica. They were questioned a litttle about the extra (Jamaican) stamp on their passport but got lucky and pleaded ignorance, the line was long, so they let them go. My sources tell me that now all airlines in Mexico, Cayman, Jamaica, Bahahmas and maybe more are passing on passenger lists to the authorities, which means that you may (or may not) get a notice of fine for $7500. Hearings are now officially in place to hear the arguments about the notce.
Bottom line, you won't know you got caught until you've been home for some time
Doc Bill,
I went through Cancun last month with no problems. It's always been a big crapshoot but I really haven't noticed anything new. Security at US airports are very tight but that has nothing to do with us. I'm fairly sure Cubana airlines does not furnish their manifests to OFAC if you're really paranoid. I have no plans to go back til next year as cuba is a mess at the moment.
I just booked a trip. When it's said, and if it's done, the fine amounts to no more than a traffic ticket. Provided you know how to negotiate. If you're really nice to the adroit Customs agent, he will send you on your way to traffic school.
I really think it comes down to how you conduct yourself. Cool people get the breaks, and assholes get fucked with. It's a yes sir, no sir situation with the Customs or Aduana, as it is with the ticket agent at the airline counter when you're overloaded with weight. Amazing how you get freebies when you're pleasant to deal with, and say hello with a smile.
I'm convinced the people getting caught are assholes and deserved a cavity search by Customs. Some of these people have bad experiences everytime they hand over the passport for inspection on return.
I have less of a risk getting caught than in my daily jaunts of 95mph on the freeway.
Cuba was on my to do list for long time. Now there are last minute flights from germany to Cuba for only about 300 Euro.
Is Cuba worth a trip if you want to have girls,sun,beach and good food? From the postings I have read that it is not easy to find nice girls and it is more expensive than in south america and asia which are my mongering destinations. How much are the chicas? Are there cheap private acommodations? I heard that the have an own gringo pricing system?
Gringo Loco
09-05-04, 18:43
Guys,
As far as the whole US Customs problem goes, I just follow former President Clinton's advice -- "deny, deny, deny." How long were you in Mexico? 10 days. Nice hotel, but the weather was a little on the humid side. Did you visit any other countries besides Mexico. NO (emphatically). Remember, only you can incriminate yourself. Make sure you have no evidencia (ticket stubs, dinero cubano, car / moto rental contracts), keep your cool, and deny & divert the question.
I hardly consider $7500 to be just a "traffic ticket," and now a lot of very nice people are getting those bills. Not worth the risk.
Since you're asserting the positive, the rules of logic dictate for you to show me where unlicenced Americans have been fined $7,500.
Who are they?
Are you American? Or just using scare tactics to keep Americans from going to Cuba?
You sound similar to to this guy who runs this weBLOG. http://www.babalublog.com/
He wants Americans to go to Jamaica instead of Cuba. Or to any other Caribbean island. What's really funny about this is, all the white or off-white boys I know in Cuba have distain for Jamaicans, with the the right index finger rub motion to the left forearm.
I don't think I need to show you anything. Like anything else on this board, you can take it or leave it. I only try to contribute what I know based on my own personal experience in return for all the great info I've gotten here which has helped me immensely on my travels.
There's where you're incorrect. You cannot propagate false statements on a public board without the risk of being called out on them.
No American is getting fined $7,500 for illegal travel to Cuba. With your suggestion that there are, discourages the right type of free-thinking Americans from venturing to Cuba and spreading Americana.
I ran into a guy who settled for a Lee Iacocca one year salary, settlement fine with the OFAC fine of $1. They sent him a letter proposing a pretrial settlement offer figure of several hundred dollars. He wrote back, cashing this check for $1 will settle the current monetary balance owed, and any future financial obligations related to my personal, noncommercial travel to Cuba. Check was cashed.
I can say whatever I want to say, guy, and readers can take it or leave it. Those who read this board know about my expertise on Cuba and I'm not about to defend anything I say to the likes of you. You don't want to believe me? Fine, you are free to your own opinions, and so am I. The hostility is not necessary. Good luck to you with yours, and may we all enjoy the pleasures of Cuba!
When you mentioned your expertise, you meant the expertise you demostrated getting duped by the putana-fiance who strung you along, for how long?
There are a lot of sportfuckers who could be in Tijuana, Bangkok, Sosua, San Jose or Rio and be just as satisfied, as long as the bollo buffet table is set. They don't give a shit about the country except how the politics determine the ease for their orgasms for the week.
I have little interest in the Oscar Mayer Variety Pak of counties. My stomping ground is Cuba, and to be more specific Havana. My choice in women is just as narrow. Something you would have learned before the hacer a pala you experienced, if you were an expert. I would be laughed out of the house and committed to the Mazorra extra looney wing of the psych unit, if my choice in the ladies was careless.
If you're a Cuba expert, tell me where can I get a ST Cubana for $5 and a 20 peso <$1 room?
Doc Bill,
You are correct. My own personal point is that as much as I do
wanted to travel to Santiago for the carnaval, did not wanted
to take a chance ... Even my intimate-friend dumped me, but
thats okay with me.
Organicgrowth
09-08-04, 09:49
Gentlemen,
Enough already! Lets get back to discussing and sharing information about the place we all love: Cuba… This tittle-tattle gets everyone nowhere.
Regards, Havanaman
Hello Gentlemen,
I'm considering taking my first trip to Cuba sometimes soon. I've been reading these forums for about a year now, which are simply a wealth of information. I've been reading the Brazil section frequently. I have a few questions about Cuba for my up-coming trip that I'd like to have answered and given any pointers, tips and other advices on it from the experts in here.
1) Which is the best city to visit Cuba for a first timer? A while back while reading these forums, one would get the idea that Santiago was the best place for fun with girls. However, reading the recent reports from Havana make it look very interesting as well. So gentlemen, where would you recommend for meeting nice ladies to have fun and hot steamy sex with, preferably GFE?
I do understand Spanish and speak it I'd say, moderately as I understand Portuguese.
2) Since it's going to be my first time in Cuba, would it better for me to get into one of those all inclusive package deals? Or just get an air plane and then, find my own Casa Particular? Are these casas safe?
3) Do Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Cuba?
4) When is a good time to visit and enjoy Cuba? I'm thinking of somewhere either in mid-late October or around Christmas/New years. If I were to go during the Holidays of the end of the year, are prices down there going to be hiked up like say in Brasil?
5) A couple of easy questions:
Jiñetera: is that the equivalent what is called in Brasil a GDP (Garota de Programa aka provider)?
While reading the Havana section, I saw a lot mention of the Malecon. Is that the main joint's name in Havana just like Copa is in Rio? (well, at least for tourists as Rio is simply A LOT more than just Copa but that's another story...;) ).
6) Money matters: should I exchange my $$$ into the local currency before getting to Cuba or once i get there? What's the current exchange rate of the Cuban Peso with the US $? And how do the prices compare there? Am I right to assume that things should be a lot less expensive in Cuba?
That's my questions for now. Hoping to get as much valuable feedback from the experts in here.
Jacaré
Jacarè,
I've been to Cuba 10+ times, so maybe I can help.
1) Best city. There is no best city, but I'd suggest La habana for a first timer. Simply walk up and down the Malecon (the seaside road) or in Calle Obisbo, and make eye contact with the one u like, follow her, and speak to her where Roscoe and Enos cannot spot u. Try to stay under 30$.
2) Don't get one of those package. They'll end up with jailing u in one of those heavens with no *real* cuban sex available, only hard pro's available for 50$ and up (see Varadero, or Cayo Coco)
3) I don't know, but I bet u need a yellow card (25$)
4) Best time in my opinion is March through June/July. Other periods are too hot, or rainy (as now). Well, it's Cuba anyway, not London, so if ur dates are already scheduled, don't worry.
5) Jiñetera = girls who tries to get tourists for living (yes, It's the same as Garota de Programa in buttland).
Malecon = every sea city of Cuba has one. It's the (usually) main road directly on the sea. Usually full of "life" we all are looking for.
6) Go down with US$. They'll do the trick. Don't bother with cuban pesos unless you want to go a level up and play the camajan role (camajan = tourist who knows everything about Cuba and its "mechanica")
Have fun and stay out of Roscoes down there.
Bye.
Jacare go to the Havana section and read Petrolero's last post. All your questions are very basic so just keep reading past posts in this forum.
1) Visiting Havana is a must, but most people make the mistake of not taking the one-hour flight over to Santiago for a few days. The two cities are like two different countries, and both in their own ways are wonderful. For mongering, I believe Santiago is your best bet right now, in terms of price and quantity. There is less police hassle there. All sex with Cubans, in my experience, has been GFE, so no need to worry about that. As for Spanish, even fluent speakers have trouble with Cuban spanish, so brush up as best you can before you go. Your Portuguese should help you learn Spanish fairly easily.
2)Depends on the experience you want to have. If you want to be closer to the locals and have a real Cuban experience get your own casa. There are many, and if you want recommendations feel free to pm me and I'll give you some names.
3) I believe you'll need a visa, but I'm not sure on this. If you do need one you'll need to get it before you leave for Cuba. This can be done at the airport or the nearest Cuban embassy or consulate.
4) I went last year for Christmas and New Years and it was great. The weather is just perfect then too. Anytime is good, except the months of July and August, too hot for me!
5) Jinitera literally means "jockey," but its common street usage means prostitute, and it is perjorative, so be careful how and where you use it. Main gathering spots are the Malecon, Prado and La Rampa.
6) Cuban pesos are worthless. You have to use US Dollars or Euros. Euros are pretty new in use so you're safer with dollars and can use them anywhere. In general things are not less expensive, particularly for the newbie who doesn't know how/where to shop. Dollar stores are not cheap.
I hope this helps. Cuba is a wonderful country. Crime is almost nonexistent, but false friendships abound, so take care.
Lap Dancer
09-14-04, 15:14
Doc,
I think saying that Havana/Santiago is a one hour flight is a little misleading. Internal travel in Cuba can be a bit of an adventure. Flights can be delayed for many reasons. Some of the flights Santiago Havana are piggybacking off international flights like Ailitalia. When I went to Santiago it was a full day both ways. On the way there my original flight was rescheduled for 6 hours later and stopped in Holguin for two hours. On the way back to Havana I sat in the airport for 4 hours.
My recommendation for internal flights is to book them through the travel desks (like Cubanacan) in the large major hotels (e.g. Hotel Nacional or Habana Libre) when you get to Cuba. I had my best experience doing this. I booked my flight to Santiago from Canada so that could have been my mistake.
Lap Dancer,
You're right, delays in Cuba can and often do happen. I was once stuck in Santiago at the airport for four hours waiting for a later flight back to Havana when my original one was cancelled. Other times, though, it was a breeze, an hour each way. I always buy my ticket at the Cubana/Aerocarribe desk at the foot of La Rampa, and never had a problem there.
Organicgrowth
09-15-04, 09:33
Lap Dancer , Doc Bill:
The Havana/Santiago journey can be a nightmare: it's just pot luck. Hitching (piggybacking off international flights) serves the majority of this route. This builds into the journey not only expectations of delays but also potentates them. Sadly we have to live with these possibilities, but then pot-luck means one man may get a trouble free journey, and the other may get a serious stop-over…
Agree with you Doc Bill, the best ticketing office is the main office at the end of La Rampa. In fact, as it is set along a line of other airways you really can not go wrong… I personally do not like the hotel booking office scenario. I used the main office in the Habana Libre (and it is an excellent office), however the staff are so busy doing multiple jobs mistakes can occur. I prefer “personal attention”.
Just my euros worth.
Regards, Havanaman
Thank you gentlemen for your feedback. Much appreciated.
Tastase,
What is/who are Roscoe and Enos ? Do you mean the local cops?
Is it still a problem for local girls to be seen with tourists? I remember reading on these boards a while ago that girls are hassled and even at times can be arrest if they are seen with foreigners. Is that still the case? If yes, how does one cope with it?
As far as getting a private casa, is that something you would suggest to a first timer? Isn't it a bit dangerous when you don't konw the area? Or is it ok for me to just get the air plane and then once I get there, look for a casa. And how easy is it to find a casa once I get there? What are the price ranges for that that I should be looking at?
That's all for now. Thanks for your feedback.:)
The cops sometimes hassle the girls if they are with you, and sometimes they don't. Your chances are higher of them hassling her if you're white and she's black. As for a casa, don't worry about danger, there is very little crime in Cuba and foreigners are a lot safer than Cubans anyway.
You can simply ask the taxi driver for a casa when you arrive. Don't feel obligated to take the first one you see. You should pay between 20-40 US per night for a really good casa. PM me if you want referrals for some excellent casas in Habana. Good luck!
Thanks Doc Bill for the info. I'll certainly PM you before my trip.
Cheers.:)
I am going to Cuba in October . One week in Varadero and one week in Havana . I would like to be in contact with locals (girls in particular) What is the best way to get in contact with some girls ?
Chat rooms I presume. Which ones?
Are there any websites for single cubans that have proven results. There are so many but they all charge and it looks like hit and miss.
John Jr
Jacaré,
Roscoe and Enos are the two cops from the old series "Hazzard". At least here in my country.
Yes, it meant local police.
Bye.
Yes, absolutely. Ignore all the girls on the street and use the internet at your hotel, find all the Cuban escort websites, then just order out whoever strikes your fancy.
(Just kidding....no internet, no chat rooms and no escort service...The best way to "get in contact with some girls" is to TALK to them!)
Organicgrowth
09-22-04, 08:46
LOL.
Excellent Doc Bill!
Regards, Havanaman
PS. Going to Havana in next couple of weeks, I will ask about the escort services!
Hey, and don't miss out on the massage parlors and strip clubs!
needlovin001
09-23-04, 00:00
Want to visit Cuba and need some advice from those of you in the States as to the best way to get there and the best place to stay (hotel or apartment) and the best way to flavor the local talent.
Thanks
needlovin001
09-23-04, 00:07
Want to visit Cuba and need some advice from those of you in the States as to the best way to get there and the best place to stay (hotel or apartment) and the best way to flavor the local talent.
Thanks
El Cubanito
09-23-04, 17:56
Havanaman,
I just sent you a pm. Please check your PM
El Cubanito
Well seems like it is humour before the facts in here.
Lucky for me that im only going in Cuba at the end of October.
Anyone that does not mind giving info on Cuba please pm me.
John Jr
Van Fenchel
09-24-04, 09:27
John Jr,
Humour is important!
Especially in Cuba. But if you think you need more info before you go there, just read all the previous reports on this forum.
Private internet access is rather rare in Cuba, therefore there are no Chat-rooms and the Contact-Websites are not really fruitful for the Cuba section, as very few girls frequent them regularly. Forget them you don’t need it. Just go there and take your humour with you and everything will happen by itself.
BTW. I will be in Havana from 29. October for approx. one week and for the rest of November in Santiago. If any fellow-monger feels like having a beer and a chat there, just PM me.
VanFenchel
AlLostInSpace13
09-24-04, 22:30
Hi John Jr, you have to forgive us. Most of the American posters are not comfortable to offer any details. This board has been quiet ever since the US-Cuban travel policy change.
Hey, I will be in HAV the 1st week of Nov. May be we could hook up and roam together.
I have a steady casa that I normally stay at, but this time I'm looking for a change. So I've been combing the web for cp's. I've narrowed my selection down to 6-7, I'll start sending email to them soon.
This trip is going to be special, because I've invited a "female" friend to go with me. We're strictly friends and I only asked her tom join me because I know she works too hard and doesn't get to have any fun. I hope this doesn't hinder my regular monger activity.
A relatively new Cubano aquintence I met by the way a friend's introduction, mentioned something interesting to me. He said three years ago, he quit thinking fear of his Cuban government.
If he can see through the fear of his government, I say book a trip to Cuba now. I will be there shortly for a month.
Organicgrowth
09-25-04, 15:36
AlLostInSpace13
This trip is going to be special, because I've invited a "female" friend to go with me. We're strictly friends and I only asked her tom join me because I know she works too hard and doesn't get to have any fun. I hope this doesn't hinder my regular monger activity.
Serious? Unless your “female” friend is really special as far as women are concerned then you may have some explaining to do to her… I wish you the best of luck man.
Regards, Havanaman
Organicgrowth
09-25-04, 15:41
John Jr,
VanFenchel is 100% right: Humour is important, especially in Cuba. No insult was intended.
You will see exactly what we mean when you get there.
I give you a guarantee that you will not have any problems meeting regular, amateur and professional chicas in Cuba. Just keep a good sense of humour in your character and a few dollar in your pocket and you will have an excellent time.
For specific information please read the back-pages or just ask. I’m away to Cuba in the next couple of weeks just as soon as I can get a day off work to organise a visa…
Regards and wishing you a fun stay, Havanaman
Does anyone have a clue how to send your girl a few bucks. Western Union does not allow transactions to Cuba they say from Canada because of the limit restrictions as part of the embargo. Is there a European company that will due it? The banks say they don't do wire to wire to Cuban banks. Can't see the harm in sending $30 or whatever. At least she could afford to email you more often.
Any info appreciated.
Once again thanks gents for the helpful feedback.
I have found so far what I believe to be a good deal I believe from Toronto to Havana for 580 Canadian Dollars for the flight alone for the end of October. Is that a good deal? Or can I get even better elsewhere and if yes, please direct me to that place.
Also, based on the advices of the experts in here, I will just get the flight tickets and no package deals, I would probably need a casa once I get there. Speaking of casas, would the taxi drivers know of them or do I need to arrange it before going there? What is the best way to approach this, specially for someone going there for the first time.
I'll stay in Cuba for between 10 days to 2 weeks. Knowing this, what is the budget I'd be looking at to take with me? Would $500 of spending money be enough for that duration there? For those familiar with Cuba and Havana, what are the typical prices for things like casas, restaurants and clubs at nights? If you could post the typical cost for these places, it be very helpful.
Thank you.
Jacaré.
AlLostInSpace13
09-26-04, 14:10
Havanaman, I have a tiny bit of regret for asking my female friend to go with me. But I'm hoping that when I take her to a disco, we would both find a date and have a good time. She's quite attractive, so I doubt she would have any problem.
Organicgrowth
09-26-04, 21:49
AlLostInSpace13,
That sounds cool. In fact you will probably be able to use the fact that you are with a chica to get noticed by others there. Once you are “free” of your friend (I mean that in the nicest possibly way!) the chicas will be all over you as they will have seen you effectively leaving an attractive women… This double-play works.
Best wishes to you. Regards, Havanaman
Screwed Up
09-27-04, 20:52
Something else now.
Is it true that medical papers in Cuba are destroyed after a couple of years (like 5 or so) when the person doesn't frequent that hostpital anymore?
Sounds ridiculous to me.
Jacaré,
What airline is the price from? grupotaca.com, aircanada, or cubana? If that's when you want to go, hop on that price. The only time to price shop is when you can gamble on a last minute flight, such as to Varadero for $350 Canadian. I bought a ticket for less than $400 USD for October.
If you arrive during the day and your luggage is on wheels, pick an area, choose a street and take a look on the insides and over the balconies of the casas. Shoot for $15 a night if you are going to stay at the same casa for 2 weeks. Bargain at $1 increments, not $5 increments.
I paid $2 for entry of these discos.
From canalcubano.com
Tokío Club
This old club, located in Guanabo East Beaches, has regained its glory. It has different entertainment every day and, on weekends, it is crowded with Cuban people.
5ª avenida y 470, Guanabo
Scherezada
It is one of the oldest Havana clubs. Billard players stay outside; salsa music and many people almost every day inside. The ambience is not aristocratic.
M e/ 17 y 19, Vedado
Atelier
This is one of the most thriving night-clubs in Havana nights with a good ambience every day and much more weekends. People going there are mostly Cuban. Next to this club, there is the statue of John Lennon, inaugurated in december 2000.
17 esq. 6, Vedado
Tel: (7)306808
Club Tropical
This classic club in Havana is recovering its atmosphere, especially on weekends. The top floor is quieter and the main floor livlier.
Línea esq. F, Vedado.
Tel: (7)327361
Another was Turf Club in Vedado.
Paid $5 here a zillion years ago.
Cabaret Las Vegas
It is quite near El Malecón; a place with sigular ambience and a little destroyed. It closed late at night. Customers are mostly Cubans. The place offers salsa music; musical and humorous performances every day.
Infanta entre 25 y 27. La Habana
Went here about the same time ago, paid a couple of bucks.
Cabaret Palermo
This is an old cabaret located in the very centre of Havana. It is regained more and more ambience and people. There are performances of female singers whose age is difficult to guess. Then, it changes into a disco. For lovers of Havana kitsch.
Aramburo e/ San Rafael y San José, Centro Habana
Restaurants vary from .99 cents type menus to high end entries of $9-12 to $20, depending where you go.
I always take a lot more money than I need, or will spend. Never know if you'll run into a motorcycle sale from someone who is saying luego to paradise.
Jacaré,
The airfare prices at Air Canada from Toronto to Havana have been great lately. How about that Canadian dollar value too. $580 is still a good price but you may save a little bit more at Destina.ca. By the way, Air Canada has a great schedule. You will get there in plenty of time to get settled in, and still have time to go out and get laid that night.
If you book a casa before you go they will email you a comfirmation form so you can get through Cuban customs to get into the country. They asked me for mine the last time I went through Cuban customs.
I am not rich. I plan my daily Havana budget at $100 US per day not including casa, including girls. I keep hearing guys talk about getting chicas for $20 US on this Cuba forum. I suspect these guys are young, charming and attractive getting these prices. I would at least plan on spending around $40 US for a girl. Note - I don't always spend $100 US a day, I just plan on it. Have a good trip.
Well, the price I first quoted I got it from Air Canada for $580 Canadians. This morning, while checking the destina.ca site, I found an even better one at $555 Canadian including taxes and fees. :) It's with this airline LACSA. Which airline is that?
Don Rab,
When you say that customs asked you for your casa info, is that something new or does one absolutely need to have one to get through customs? What if I don't have yet and I get a casa once I get there?
I have not decided when to go, whether by the end of October of in December. My heart and head is hesitating between Cuba and Brasil. So which one would you suggest is best to have a blast?
Jacaré.
Jacaré,
I believe LASCA is a Costa Rican airline. I found that buying Air Canada tickets at Destina.ca is cheaper than buying directly from Air Canada.
You have to show Cuban customs that you have reservations for a place to stay in Cuba for at least 3 days. You need to show them a hotel reservation printout or a casa confirmation printout. They don't always ask but you still need to have some sort of destination to put on your tourist card. If you don't have one, the customs guy will think you are going to live in the jungle for free. All you need is 3 days accommodations to get you in. After that, you can move around every couple of days if you want. (Actually that's a good idea if you plan on having alot of girls).
Unfortunately I can't help you with the Brazil question. I've only done Havana. I will say though that you should definetly do it at least once and soon.
Truth Seeker
10-02-04, 01:37
LASCA is a part of Gupo Taca, a partnerhsip of Central American countries and their airlines. Lasca is the Costa Rican partner. They fly Toronto, Havana and onwards to Central America. They use new A32O's. Onboard service is good.
El Colorado
10-02-04, 01:57
LACSA is the Costa Rican Airline. After the plane stops in Cuba, it goes on to Costa Rica.
I have found an even better offer. I have found a one week all inclusive in Santiago de Cuba from Toronto for about 550 canadians for the last week of October. :)
I might take this one, right now, i'm pondering sa to whether go for one week at the end of this month to Cuba or wait till December and go for a month to Brasil. Tough choice if you ask me. :D
Jacaré.
Hello,
I have been to Cuba several times in the past three years. Great time to say the least. I was ready to go again last month, but chickened out. I read the US feds are down in Cancun at the aipropt checking very carefully anyone coming out of Cuba. Can't afford to have my bank accounts closed and credit cards seized by uncle sam. Saw a guy in Cancun last january in trouble when he charged airline tickets to cuba on his visa card. Immediately his credit cards were closed along with his bank accounts. Don't know what happened to him after that. That would scare anyone. Anyway, have the urge to go back to Cuba, (there is nothing like Cuba). Have been throughout Europe, Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela, and Argentina. Cuba is the best. Going to Brazil for the first time in November. Have any US citizens been to cuba since January. Any problems? What is your advice? Got to go back, maybe January. My fellow americans, please help me.
JoebCuba,
Yours is the most suspicious post I've seen in this forum. You sound like a federal agent looking for info on how US citizens sneak into cuba or ascertain if anyone is getting caught at customs. Please tell your agency to concentrate on terrorists and stop wasting taxpayers money detaining tourists.
Cuerno,
Right on! The mail really sounds suspicipous to say the least.
Anyway, did you know that there is ( at least was until July 2004 ) a scheduled semiweekly flight from Havana to Miami ( I think its even on AA ) for special people like Exil Cubans and others who do business with Cuba and have a special permit !!
[Political Commentary deleted by Admin]
Enjoy Life
Kiko
EDITOR's NOTE: Posting of this report was delayed pending removal of political commentary in the text. Please remember that the purpose of this Forum is to provide for the exchange of information between men on the subject of finding women for sex. To avoid delays in future reports, please do not post political commentary in the Forum. Thanks!
Kiko,
I was aware about the flights to Havana if you mean the ones originating also from los angeles, new jersey etc. I wasn't sure if these were suspended or not but I guess they were. It's no big surprise these were used for business as well since the US and Cuba DO trade in agriculture (as long as Cuba pays cash). I'm dissapointed you were censored in the rest of your post as this is a supposedly "cuba politics" forum. I sincerely hope Kerry wins the election as he will at least lift the travel ban.
Guys, I am thinking about visiting Cuba for the first time.
I'm wondering how much hassle it will be for me a US citizen. Will I have to go through Mexico? Tell me how it works.
Thanks
Brent Gort
10-15-04, 20:19
I would fly through toronto. You will have no problem with Canada or Cuban customs. Just tell the cuban customs not to stamp your passport and they won't.
That is the best way. I have been there with many americans.
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20041026/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/cuba_dollar_summary_box_1
http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20041026/ap_on_re_la_am_ca/cuba_dollar_summary_box_1
So much that trip to Cuba
Justwatching
10-26-04, 16:59
I would not fly via Toronto, because the flight manifests are often shared. Would be safe to fly via Mexico.............
Yossarian 99
10-27-04, 06:53
Hey Lucky,
You don't work for the US State or Treasurey, do you?
Yos
Cuba Music
10-27-04, 11:04
Wow, I read the news. Let keep each other informed about how we pay for our fun out there.
Hello Justwatching,
Since its my understanding that you work for the State Department,
you should know that "ALL" airlines the fly into the US handled the
pax manifest to the State Department; therefore, even Mexico handles
the manifest. Yes, with a US$ 20.00 bill they do not stamp your passaport;
however, your name is given to the State Department by the airline that
fly you into.
Alboroto
Justwatching
10-27-04, 19:11
Yossarian99
Regular Member Posts: 27
"Tell me how it works"
Hey Lucky,
You don't work for the US State or Treasurey, do you?
Yos
Hello Alboroto:
Maybe you should watch the board a little closely before you start suggesting that I work for the State Dept. It was Lucky that was referred to.
Gosh..I was'nt born yesterday to know that if you fly to the US, any country would be required to provide the manifest. However, my understanding is that manifests are provided also for flights from canada to cuba for US persons (based on some understanding between the two countries - US and Canada).
I am only trying to help based on what I know. Feel free to make your own decisions..........
Quifhunter
10-29-04, 22:29
Here is a press release passed on from my travel agent which spells out how to pay for services in Cuba after November 8. I hope it helps.
Press Release: Currency update in Cuba.
Starting on November, 8th , 2004 all the services and goods in Cuba will be priced in Convertible Pesos only (stores, hotels, restaurants, bars, taxis, car rental services, etc).
The Convertible Peso keeps its value as one US dollar (according the exchange rate of the day).
Still the US dollar would be accepted, but after Nov. 8th ,04 any exchange from US dollars into Convertible pesos will be subject to an exchange commission charge of 10% . The Canadian dollar, Euro, UK pounds or Swiss Francs will not be taxed when changed into Convertible pesos.
Credit card transactions, with credit cards accepted in Cuba (Visa & MasterCard issued by Non American banks) will remain the same, they are not subject to 10% tax.
The currency exchange service will be provided at the airports, hotels, banks and Exchange Houses.
"We believe this policy will favor the Canadian market, says Mr Carlos Zambrano, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto, since Canadians don't need to bother any longer with getting American dollars before traveling to Cuba, they should take Canadian dollars and exchange them locally into Convertible pesos, and the 10% charge will not apply. At the end of the holidays if they have some Convertible pesos left over they can exchanged them back into Canadian dollars at the airport".
For further information, please contact Cuba Tourist Board
TL: (416) 362 0700
FX: (416) 363 6799
E-mail: info@gocuba.ca
Website: www.gocuba.ca
I just came back from Cuba and here are some observations. My main reason for going was to see my girlfriend in Santiago. Because of this, it was not a mongering trip, but some of the information might be helpful to some of you.
This is my third trip going to Cuba. I fly from L.A. to Cancun, Cancun to Havana. Since I live in L.A., I buy my air tickets in Tj.. Usually the flight from Cancun to Havana on Aero Caribe stops in Cozumel. In Cozumel we deplane and they stamp your passport for departing Mexico. Which means two stamps on one day. The entry and departure stamp. This time the flight went directly from Cancun to Havana and they didn't stamp or collect the Mexican visa, which was good news. With one stamp it looks like I spent the whole time in Cancun.
Since I had to fly to Santiago de Cuba, I went to the hotel Havana Libre to make reservations. There system is a joke. I couldn't get a flight because they said everything was booked up. I left and came back later. When I came back they checked the flights again. Now there was a flight going out but nothing coming back. The only flight was a day after I was suppose to leave to Cancun.
The lady asked me if I wanted to reserve the flight down and I wouldn't have to pay for it until the next day. I told her yes and returned the next day. There was another lady at the counter. I told her I wanted to pay for my flight but could she check on any flights coming back from Santiago to Havana. She checked and said there were seats availiable for the return trip. No time to get mad, I was just grateful I had roundtrip tickets and not returning on bus. A 10 hour plus busride.
I flew down on Cubana at a cost of $108. The return trip was on Aero carribean at a cost of $105. Cubana was a jet, Aero Carribean was a prop plane. No complaints here, both got me safely where I wanted to go. For any newbies going to Cuba, every airport I went to, they searched you twice. Just when you pass the first inspection, before you get to the boarding area, there comes a second inspection.
From Havana to Cancun, there is a $25 departure tax. Do not forget this, otherwise you will be spending more time in Havana then you would like. I will be writing a little on Havana and Santiago, but like I said before, this was not a mongering trip, but it was probably the most fun I have had so far.
Quackup
I am confused...if people are stressed about having to explain the mexican visa in and out on same day why do they just not fly out of TJ and on return just fly back to TJ and walk across the border?
Please forgive my ignorance...
I've been away from this board for awhile, but I'm wondering how fellow Americans are getting in these days. Have things changed, for better or worse, since the US elections?
I drive so my risk is inherently lower compared to flying. I had a new license plate, and had harder, in depth questioning in Oct. than July. He was doing his job as a investigative prick, so I pulled out pictures of my friends in Toronto, and turned on my computer for our daily activity log, and start to show him digital camera photos. If they want to play, I'm ready to play, on the most respectful terms, BTW. I think they let me go so easily most of the time because of my perceived military background.
Does he really think everyone is a mindless, nervous stupid ass, without a plan for every possible question? I have 4 hours, more if I'm sleepy, to think out the angles. They are so predictable. Stick with the stories that work for you.
The Canadian Customs pretend to be secondary ball busters. WTF does it matter to them if I'm going to Cuba. For what reason and what I'm doing there. Screw them and their false moral superiority over my red, white, and blue ass. I've got my stories down so well with them, I even believe my own lies.
Nothing changed for me, but I got back ON election day.
Also have been away from this board for a bit..but just got back, things seem to be "business as usual", except for the change to cuban "convertibles" which did not seem to affect business. I guess it will slap dollar carriers with a 10% conversion fee. One good thing is that when departing, one can change all cuban convertibles back into dollars without any commision. Also, people with Transcards don't get hit with the 10% commision.
I used to fly in from TJ, but the service I used stopped a couple of years ago. Is there still a flight from TJ to Havana? Any info?
Sup Doc? Long time no see. I take it you've been enjoying the fruits of Brazil your last few outings. Have you posted any reports in the Brazil section? Well as far as I know the TJ flight to Havana is still running but I could be wrong as it's been about a year since I checked. Wasn't it a mexican airline. Probably won't be island bound til next March.
Hey Cuerno,
No, ever sine the forum has been "upgraded" it's become a pain in the ass to use. You're right, though, I have been in Brazil & Buenos Aires recently, and posted extensively (In Brazil on Recife). I'm going to Colombia and Recife in February.
But I miss my beloved Cuba, so if anyone knows about that flight from TJ please let me know!
Grenada 79
12-14-04, 13:15
How are you guys.
As usual, reading, and speaking to contributors to, this site has been the most helpful source in planning a first-time visit. In this case, the goal is Havana. The tricky part is that I am a US citizen hoping to spend a week in Cuba on my was back to the US from Costa Rica. The least expensive, most feasible way to travel inconspicously from Costa Rica to a connecting country, to Cuba, back to connecting country, back to the US is the challenge - while it to appear on my passport that I spent the week in that connecting country. I'm hoping someone has some expereince in this area. Which would be the best airline(s) to travel, which country the best to fly from? DR? Jamaica? TJ (looks amon the least affordable)? Perhaps traveling by sea to and from connecting country would be best? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for all great posted information, and another in advance for any potential advice.
Grenada
You can fly from SJ, CR directly to Hav with Taca/Lasca; then to Cancun, and back to the USA.
Grenada,
I've pondered and researched this question for the last 5 months. I think the safest route is through Venezuela--Chavez is not on the Bush administrations' Christmas card list and I believe he is not now nor in the near future will be cooperating with handing over airline manifests (as Mexico, Canada, CR, Panama, etc. are likely doing.)
Further, according to a pilot acquaintance of mine, their airline "Aeropostal" is known to be extremely uncooperative to airline companies based in America. Aeropostal has 2 or 3 flights per week to Havana for about $345US rt. So, I really doubt that Venezuela will be tattle-taling on American island hoppers to Cuba.
You'd have to lay over in Caracas on the outbound and return; not a bad place itself according to reports.
The other thing you need to consider is your response to the U.S. immigration person's possible question of why your passport is stamped twice in Venezuela ("possible" because he/she may or may not notice.) To avoid this question, you could return to the USA via Mexico or Canada and use your birth certificate instead of your passport to get through immigration.
Best of luck. I hope this helps.
Hiya,
I suggest you could track down aerocaribbean and it's destinations. Sure as hell they aren't going to share their passenger manifests with the Great Satan and his minions.
I agree, how dare that Great Satan Fidel punish the balseros after getting caught trying to flee paradise.
Hey fellas,
My second trip to Cuba is coming up next month and I had two questions for the pros here
1) Is there a safety deposit box you can rent in any of the reputable Havana hotels? I'll likely be moving around various casa particulares depending on where fancy takes me (in addition to La Habana, I thought about going to Santa Clara and maybe even Camaguey in search of different types of chicas), and want someplace to safely store some funds.
2) Is it even worth going to Santa Clara or Camaguey, or is the housing/chica situation untenable in these areas?
Thanks!
Guevon
Hello,
I'm going to Cuba in March, first I'm going to spend a few days in Havana meeting a couple of girls I met on the internet, later I'll meet with this other girl from Santiago who is coming to Havana to meet with me, we are going to rent a car and drive to Pinar Del Rio and Maria La Gorda, possibly Trinidad, too.
I was just wondering, since we'll spend almost a week together and obviously have to stay at hotels, how is the situation with such things right now, will we have any problems, will she allowed to stay at the better hotels, I try to reserve them on the net, so it would be good to know before. And what about Havana, you can take a local girl for dinner to a restaurant? I mean they are not jineteras, but nice smart girls with university education.
Thanks for your help!
Delusio,
I went to several restaurants in Havana with a Cuban girlfriend just recently without any problems and there is no mistaking that we are a Cubana/tourist couple. Any Cuban girl seen with a tourist by the police is probably assumed to be a jinitera until she or you can prove otherwise. Be prepared to get stopped.
University girls do seem to get some sort of relaxed treatment from the police. I asked my girlfriend what happens if we get stopped. She says no problem, I'm a student. I can only guess that throwing a University student into jail would be a waste of the money that the government puts out for their free education. Can you imagine where Cuban society would be if every University girl seen with a tourist got sent to jail.
You would probably have a better chance at getting a Cuban girl into a worse hotel than a better one. And the chances of that are still probably next to none. Anyone try greasing a bellboy at the Hotel Libre? There's no way. That's the first time I ever saw a Cuban not interested in making money.
Getting a casa is the way to go. Good luck.
The situation is bad. Forget about staying in a hotel with your girl unless you're married. Casa particulares are your best option but I don't know about Pinar del Rio. Anything small towns outside Havana or Santiago is iffy. Best of luck.
Hello,
So I have began my research.
It looks as if I may hit the isla for 4-5 weeks in a year from now.
TY to all who have posted the reports I will make sure to read them carefully and make a summary sheet that I will be happy to post if allowed to do so.
My question today for the veteranos:
I know that a casa particular will set me back from $20-35 day...say I was renting for 25/day can one get a discount if one stays for a whole month? I will be travelling there in off peak, likely May/June.
Second question: I do want to throw at least one big party (maybe joining w other mongers around there) and for that it would be nice to have a house.....what kind of $ are we looking at per day? Let's say something with at least a pool and some yard to chill and party at. What are the issues with damages if any?
TIA.
Q: How do we know that Adam and Eve were Cuban?
A: Because they people had no privacy, no clothes, no shoes on their feet, nowhere to go, couldn't eat the good food, and yet the leader kept telling them that they were in Paradise.
Tijuana--The last casa I rented on the Guanabo beach cost me $13 a day for three-four weeks. An Italian attorney rented it recently for 6 months for $15 a day.
I don't know what size house you're looking for, for the bash; however, you could probably get a family to retreat the dwelling for $40-50. Find a house you like and make a proposal. It's the way Cubans trade homes, door to door, knocking on doors. Pretty much the way a lot of items are sold, going into neighboorhoods, yelling what is for sale. Brooms, fruit, ect.
I need to ask favor of the WSG forumites. Jackson posted a short video clip sometime between July and December, 2001 of a hot Cuban girl dancing in a bar to an amazing Afro-Cuban song. It was very disturbing (in a good way) with its raw, visceral beauty and beat. The girl was wearing an orange top and the name of the group had "Mexicano" or something like that in its title. I am writing to see if anyone downloaded this video clip and could send it to me. I'm sure today's forumites would also enjoy it immensely. It is a true classic. Any help with this greatly appreciated. Arecho66
Poor Howard
03-11-05, 18:17
Hey everyone,
I'm planning my trip to Cuba and I wondered if anyone knew what the money situation is like right now. I'm Australian, so I'll have aussie dollars. Does anybody have a clue what I need to convert them to?
Also, how's Castro's health? Do I need to go sooner rather than later before he snuffs it and someone else screws the whole place up?
Member #3200
03-12-05, 21:41
he looked good early this week when he gave a 5hr speech,but the man is 78 years old so anyhting is possible. i would go sooner than later b4 the americans fuck it up even though raul-his brother & successor. will keep the status quo there.
you will have to exchange your money into cuban pesos down there as that is the only currency being used down there.
Maybe to Food Network is in the works for a fifth Cuban TV channel.
So your premise is Cuba isn't fucked up now.
The man sounds like an old woman, and as if he's grasping for air when he speaks.
Time for a daisy pushing power vacuum.
I don't mind taking a leak in the streets of Havana -- certainly no fear of making any sex offenders list; however it's time for Cuba to join the civilized world with multiple MD bathrooms to take a [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) or shit.
And a 24h Walgreen's every 8 blocks for late night Tums.
Hi everybody,
i'm flying to Havana to join my friends there. I just wondering, can we rent a motorhome in Havana? And how much it's going to cost for a day? Thanks.
Hi,
Does anyone know the current situation for an American visiting Cuba?
Is it safe to fly from Jamaica (on Air Jamaica)?
When I say safe I mean to visit Cuba without getting fined by the US government.
Thanks,
Any Info. would be greatly appreciated.
Hey guys,
Ive been thinking about going to Cuba, i know all about Casa Familiares, The peso, but the one thing that Im still clueless about is how to fly into cuba.
You see even though i live in Puerto Rico I am an american citizen. I have heard i can fly via Dominican Republic but as a American Citizen how do i fly into cuba without breaking any laws? Also what are the real dangers of doing this that i should watch out for?
Just got back from seeing my girlfriend in Cuba. Here are some updates regarding prices for flights. From Cancun to Havana on Aero Caribe $305. Up about $10 from last year. From Havana to Santiago De Cuba on Aero Carribean $ 208. Up about $13 dollars from last year.
Exchanging money is a breeze. You can do it at the airport, there is a cashier right by the baggage claim. If not any bank will give change and also the big hotels like the Hotel National.
A good restaurant to go to if you want to hear English being spoken is Gringo Vieja. I have been there twice and heard people speaking English. They kind of looked like government people so I did not start a conversation with them. Entries here run about $10.00 and the food is excellent.
Hope this helps,
Q
CUBA FAQ
This is not a detailed trip of my sex romp, party trip in Cuba, but answers to questions you may have.
Cuba is one of the most beautiful cities I've ever been to, from the architecture to the people to the women. If it wasn't for the expense and inconvenience of traveling there, I would be in Cuba every 6-10 weeks, and not the Dominican Republic.
So much to explore and so little time (well not really for me :).)
BTW: If you have further questions, please feel free to PM me.
Helpmann
LOGISTICS:
1. Cubana airlines flys between Havana and Santo Domingo (SDQ) on Thursdays and Sundays. [SDQ->Havana: Thr/Sun: 1:35pm - 3:30pm; Havana->SDQ Thr/Sun: 9:55am - 12:05pm]
2. COST: US$409 + US$20 (tourist card) + US$20 (departure tax) = US$449.00 cash
3. The round-trip ticket was bought at the Cubana airlines check-in desk at Las Americas 2 hours before the flight (the Cubana SDQ desk is only open the day of departure, 2-3 hours before the flight lifts off.)
4. The ticket was purchased by a man working out of his suitcase, standing next to the check-in desk (I was directed by a Cubana employee at the check-in desk to purchase my ticket from him.)
5. I checked-in approx. 90lbs of luggage (2 suitcases) and brought one carry-on. On the return flight, I could only check-in 30 Kilos of luggage. I was 13 Kilos overweight and was charged approx. US$4.50/lb (cost of US$60.)
6. Flight time: 2 hours on a Russian Jet (a meal was served, it was not very good :(.)
7. While passing through customs, I was questioned about my reasons for being in Cuba (leisure)
8. My passport was not stamped (it's a given that Cuban officials will not stamp US passports.)
9. Taxis cost all tourists US$25 from the airport to the city.
10. Once in the city, taxi rates are equivalent to the rates in New York.
GENERAL/ADVICE:
1. There is 10% tax on the dollar
2. Business will only accept Convertible Pesos (CP) from tourists (Dollars/Euros can be exchanged for CPs at major hotels)
3. There are 2 types of currencies in place in Cuba. Cubans use the peso. Tourists use the Convertible Peso (the FX rate of the peso to the Convertible Peso is 26:1)
4. Cubans cannot enter the hotels.
5. Cubans are not to associate (be seen) with tourists.
6. Travel w/ a mongering buddy (it's a big city and you may get lonely, you also need someone to share expenses with)
7. In the privacy of your car, apartment, or disco, Cubans and tourists can mingle.
8. Rental car rates are approx. $100/day for a compact automatic car.
9. Invest in rental car. Taxis can become expensive. It's the best way to avoid police problems (for the girl.) It's the easiest and most efficient way to pick-up the prettiest women (due to car rental expense, split costs w/ friend.)
10. Noticeably more English speakers in Cuba
11. Plenty of opportunities for S-T, no hassle sex.
12. Best to monger and arrange something in the daytime
13. Local phone numbers are 6-digits
14. GSM cellphone service is available in Cuba, but SIM chips (I hear) are US$100.
15. Do not stay in a hotel, book an apartment (casa particulare) 2-4 weeks in advance. It takes time to make these arrangements (unless you want to stay w/ a family), because the Cuban resident, must leave their home for you to stay in (believe me you want the privacy and a separate entrance.) There are several sites listed on WSG, I can also provide (for people I know well) some personal contact info (English speaking 'travel agent') for those looking for a casa particulare.
16. Cuba is expensive. Taxis are expensive, food is moderately priced, hotels are expensive, cigars are expensive ($3-10 a piece), rental cars are expensive ($80-120 a day)
17. Cuba can be cheap. Casa particulares are cheap ($20-40), women ($20-40), rum ($5).
18. Realize that areas (neighborhoods) have been designed specifically for tourists, to keep them separated from the Cuban people.
19. No ATMS
20. The cash you bring in is the cash you'll have.
21. US credit cards (credit cards under a US bank) cannot be used in Cuba.
WOMEN:
1. Much more variety in Havana (blondes, redheads, brunettes, blancas, rubias, morenas)
2. Cuban women take much better care of their bodies and appearance (no post-pregnancy bellies, no motoconcho scars, soft skin, thin bodies, nice clothes)
3. They have many more beautiful faces than in the DR. I have never seen so many available beautful women in my life.
4. On average, Cuban women do not have the knock-out bodies of Dominicanas. You won't see as many round asses and plump titties (on slender bodies) in Cuba.
WHERE ARE THE WOMEN?
1. The Malecon (a bit overrated, like much of Vedado, but plenty of hookers on this strip, beware the TVs)
2. Old Havana (Any park in the area, the flea market near the Malecon, Obisicpo St.)
3. Miramar - 5ta Ave. (where all the embassies are. This is the BEST place for young beautiful girls on the street.)
4. I have read about more, but have yet to experience it (Playa del Este, Santa Maria Playa, Mantanzas)
US Customs
1. 5 second interview at JFK, after receiving my bags. I was asked if I traveled to another country during my visit to the DR. I told him I went to Haiti for a day (my passport contained 2 back-to-back DR entry stamps on it--oops.)
I posted in wrong section so I post again here..
Hello fellow mongers, two friends of mine will go to Cuba, they asked me if I know something about the possibility to find vit V in Cuba. I never was here so I guess if someone here can answer me?
I know no problem in Russia where I was but it is possible to buy V in every pharmacy in Cuba? I mean without prescription? What about the price?
Thanks in advance and happy hunting down there!
Ok, it's about time for me to start planning what will be my 11th trip to Cuba pretty soon, and apparently a couple of things have changed since I was last there about a year ago. To those who have gone more recently: Has the latest crackdown on Cubans associating with foreigners affected things much? Is it actually more difficult to be with Cubans now, both women and just Cubans in general? Second, is there any way around that exhorbitant 10% fee on the dollar? Does the airport and the hotels charge the same fee?
Finally, I have so far been to Havana, Santiago, Guantanamo, Trinidad (boring!), Matanzas and Baracoa. Would some of you other Cubaphiles recommend venturing into any other cities/towns?
Thanks a lot guys, for your help, as always!
Doc Bill,
I was there in March to be with my girlfriend down there. Although I wasn't mongering there, the scene looked just about the same as last year. I spent most of my time in Santiago and we weren't bothered at all. I'am asian so I stick out as a foreigner big time. In Havana there seemed to be less of a police presence in the Vedado area than last year. Maybe it was just the timing, but to me, it looked the same.
It will be hard to get around the 10% fee unless you know someone down there with a bank account. My girlfriend sister's mother in law has a bank account there and she said that next time I go down there, I could give her the dollars and she would convert them for me without the 10% fee. By the way she lives in Havana but works for a company based in Spain.
You can change your dollars at the airport where you claim your baggage. In the city you can try a bank like I did, but the line was so long I took off and went to the Hotel National with no lines and changed it there. At both places the 10% fee were in place.
Hope this helps,
Q
Doc Bill,
I'm not aware of a way to avoid the 10%, however now there is an additional 11% (8% + ~3%) to convert, so the USD is at about USD$1000 = CUC$805
If you convert to Canadian before going, it will be worth more like about $854 for the same $1000.
Even though the CUC was revalued by 8%, they also added a commission fee of almost 3%. That's on top of the 10% fee. Reading on other forums, the electronic transfer options that used to avoid the 10% fee, now charges it. I have a detailed calculation in the Havana section.
Either way, it's to line the pockets of el presidente. But the mongering is still a good value with incredible looking women, even though the policy sucks.
Average Tycoon
04-17-05, 00:25
Can anyone point me in the direction of the best sites dedicated to renting a casa particulare in cuba?
Thanks Sparky and Quackup for the info. That fee (19%!) is really pissing me off. Almost enough not to go. Cuba has always been more expensive than other Latin countries to begin with, and it is definitely not a great mongering destination. Seems to me Fidel is shooting himself in the foot with this one. Anyway, I appreciate the info. Sparky I saw your post in the Havana section. Very helpful, thanks! Did you figure in the fees associated with changing from American to Euros or Canadian?
Average Tycoon
04-19-05, 02:04
I am going to Cuba in June and I am wondering about the currency situation. Is the Canadian Dollar converted at the same rate as the US dollar? And it seems that Cubans are eager to be paid in dollars, is this still the case? And are they just as happy to receive Canadian dollars as American ones?
All help much appreciated.
Doc Bill,
I'm not aware of a way to avoid the 10%, however now there is an additional 11% (8% + ~3%) to convert, so the USD is at about USD$1000 = CUC$805
If you convert to Canadian before going, it will be worth more like about $854 for the same $1000.
Even though the CUC was revalued by 8%, they also added a commission fee of almost 3%. That's on top of the 10% fee. Reading on other forums, the electronic transfer options that used to avoid the 10% fee, now charges it. I have a detailed calculation in the Havana section.
Either way, it's to line the pockets of el presidente. But the mongering is still a good value with incredible looking women, even though the policy sucks.
Willie Large
04-25-05, 23:27
I am going to Cuba in June and I am wondering about the currency situation. Is the Canadian Dollar converted at the same rate as the US dollar? And it seems that Cubans are eager to be paid in dollars, is this still the case? And are they just as happy to receive Canadian dollars as American ones?
All help much appreciated.Hey you guys, there's a currency that you all seem to be missing!!!!!
That's the Euro!! I'm going there this week and have been told by my travel agent that the Euro is not subject to the 10% levy!
Maybe you should consider this!
Hi,
Since we are talking money, does anyone know if there is a fee for exchanging Mexican pesos into Cuban pesos? Last time I was down there, I used usd, but since I usually fly from Mexico into Cuba, maybe this time I will take Mexican pesos.
Thanks in advance,
Q
Newenglander
04-28-05, 16:28
Going to the island want to know how the chica action is and how their english is.
My spanish is bad, but I have game! I want to know how are things there I am staying in a casa in the Plaza de Revolution. It seemed like a good area with a great casa. Any thoughts do you recommend a guide or just go solo and what are the rates?
Thanks
Newenglander
04-28-05, 16:37
Wanted all info on how much chicas are getting. I am converting everything to cucs.
Also my spanish is horrible, but my game is good! Would you guys recommend I get a guide or just go solo? Also, where are all the hotties on the Malceon or elsewhere? All I want to do is screw, drink and eat, in that order.
24- 7 already have a casa, but its in the Plaza de Revolution. Is that a good area?
Thanks for your advice.
G
G,
When are you going to be in Havana?
KW Kids
I was in Havana until yesterday. I posted my report in the Havana thread an hour ago, but don't see it. Your gonna get dinged on the exchande, no matter what currancy. I exchanged $500 Cdn and received $350 CUC (after all chages). Plaza de la Revolución is Vedado. By 24 & 7, I think you mean Calle 24 and 7ma (Calzada) and that in far west Vedado. It is an upper middle class area, but relatively few bars and restaurants. There is chica action near you centred around Club 1830 at the end of the Malecón, both inside the club and around the surrounding streets.
The place to be now is Centro around the Casa de la Música.
Member #3200
04-30-05, 17:29
I have been to Cuba many times,but I need some info for a friend of mine who asked me questions I couldn't answer so I'm asking 4 your help.
I live in Toronto,Canada & my friend wants to send medical supplies(pharmachuetical drugs) to a Cuban family,does anyone know of a humanitarian aid agency that will deliver this package to the intended destination because as we all know most letters or packages sent to cuba don't end up in the proper hands if sent by mail.
My friend wants to stay in a gov't run casa particular or a friend's home on her next trip to Cienfuegos,the proprietor of the casa & the family she might be staying with said she is going to need a special visa to stay there.I have never heard of such a thing as a special visa to stay anywhere other than a resort or hotel.If this is true or not please let me know how does a person acquire such a visa & how much this visa would be.
Many Thanks,
Member 3200
I don't know about the medical supplies. I once hung out with people from an American social justice organization (Global Exchange from San Francisco) and they were mostly doctors touring hospitals and brought medical supplies with them. You might want to try e-mailing them about Cuban regulations or the local Cuban consoliate about carrying them yourself. Be careful as some medications are may contain narcotics and you could have major problems with Cuban customs.
There are no gov't casa particulares. They are private residences licensed to rent lodging to tourists. The translation of casa particular is "private house". I think that they mean that they want to stay in the home of a Cuban family that is not licensed as a casa particular. In that case there is a lot of redtape, including I believe registering at the local police station and the family getting official permission beforehand. It can be done, but as a hobbyist, it ain't my bag. Cuban Americans often stay with their relatives. I hope I was of some help to you.
Member #3200
05-01-05, 08:13
You were of some help, not alot as there different rules for Americans & Canadians when it comes to Cuba. I know what the term casa particular is, but my female friend has friends down there & I'm just passing along the info she told me. I'm still perplexed about this special visa, as in my years of experience I've never heard of such a thing.
I'm still looking 4 info from anybody with 100+ posts who will know of such info I'm looking for especially from a non-us resident who will know more about the shipping of medical supplies.
Newenglander
05-01-05, 12:40
I am going to be there in July. I mean to partying 24-7 just want to have a great time. My spanish is not good, so hoping I can overcome the barrier!
This is my first time to Cuba, all the reports have me wishing I was there now! I hope to have a blast any advice would be great anyone who might be there to it would be fun to meet up!
G
Digital Curry
05-18-05, 05:13
The safest way is with legal permission, obviously.
I have gone 6 times through Cancun and 1 time through Toronto.
I used my birth certificate on the USA/Mexico trip and my passport on the Cuba trip.
I thought this kept me safe. But I now believe that Canada and possibly Mexico are
sharing the "flight manifests." That is some experienced people are saying.
I want to return to Cuba. Should I go through Mexico or Canada or a third country -- perhaps Central America.
PS - I live in Los Angeles.
If I lived in LA, I would get to SD, cross to TJ and catch the weekly charter through DF, and over to HAV.
No way in hell would I feel a frozen day in Canada, if I lived in LA.
I imagine going through Caracas is pretty safe.
San Salvador with TACA was listed for $500. Not very cost effective.
Digital Curry
05-20-05, 08:01
What does "DF" stand for?
And where do I find the weekly charter?
And can I get to Oriente?
Mexico City. I think the flight is on Sat. Try doing a search for a travel agent in TJ.
Your can get to the east by internal plane or Viazul bus.
DC,
Try this website.
http://www.tainotours.com.mx/of_habana.htm
http://www.tainotours.com.mx/QUIENES.htm
The new money situation in Cuba is driving everyone nuts, finding the best way to handle cash.
Here's my way, but it's not for everyone, like when the Canadian $ tanked from Dec-Feb. Losing 5-7 cents on the USD, confronts the question of why I even changed money at all.
I monitor the xe.com site, and I usually lose at least a 1.5 to 2.5 cents off the market rate USD-CAD.
This is the site that indicates what my exchange rate is.
http://www.casinowindsor.com/main.cfm?s=4
The rate doesn't fluctuate from Friday AM to Monday AM. Currently I would lose 2.6 cents. There was a time years ago, I was getting 50% on the USD. I wasn't in the market for CAD money then.
Should you use Euros instead? What spread are you giving the seller for buying the Euro? My bank doesn't carry them, nor would I know where to go to get an attractive rate. Europe maybe. Maybe the airport, but I see ripoff written on that contract.
Whatever money you choose to exchange in Cuba, use your cell phone calculator, and always ask for a paper receipt.
Digital Curry
05-22-05, 15:38
If I lived in LA, I would get to SD, cross to TJ and catch the weekly charter through DF, and over to HAV.Petrolero,
Weekly charter. Do you mean Mexicana airline, or what carrier?
Truth Seeker
05-23-05, 12:43
The site below will give up to day (sic) rates.
http://www.banco-metropolitano.com/tasasn.htm
Member #3200
05-27-05, 06:26
I hate to ask the same dumb question, but Castro has made it very difficult for tourists / the country's bread & butter to figure out what currency to bring down to exchange for his overhyped/valued convertible peso,i'm sure tourism is down this year due to his new exchange laws.
I'm one of the lucky Canadians to have a US account & is able to get US $$ at par or 10%. Am I right thinking that it's cheaper to take down my US dollars & get it exchanged at the Cienfuegos airport or Rancho Luna hotel during the week of June 3-10th?
Is my US dollars the better move or is Canadian $$$ the better move thanks for the help & replies. Ilook for my trip highlights of Cienfuegos in the Cienfuegos section when I get back.
I hear that even if one goes legally, which I am, you can no longer bring back anything at all. Does anyone know about this?
Member #3200
05-28-05, 14:53
That news is unwelcome with me as I bring back cigars legally every trip for friends.
Any info regarding this topics would be a great help as I leave for Cienfuegos June 3rd.
I just checked on the US Customs & Border Control Website. It appears that it is indeed illegal to bring ANYTHING back, whether you're going legally or not or whether you're actually coming from Cuba or any other country with Cuban goods. There is a section on cigars, specifically, which states that it is completely prohibited in all cases.
Ojos Grandes
05-29-05, 22:02
The OFAC regulations on Cuba were changed drastically last summer and one of the changes was that licensed travellers could no longer bring $100 of Cuban products. The loophole that some tourists and Cuban Americans were using to go and study Santeria is about to be shut down also.
Member #3200
05-29-05, 22:47
Thanks 4 the info Doc Bill, I guess that means it is a US problem? Issue only & as a Canadian I don't have that problem. I still hoping to get a reply regarding which currency is the best 2 exchange into Cuban pesos as I need to know ASAP as I leave June 3rd.
Many thanks fellow mongers/hobbyists.
I'm going from Canada in mid June and I'm bringing $CA. From my research that will be a fair bit cheaper than changing to $US first. I'm not clear about fees and if it's cheaper to exchange at the airport or a local bank.
Methos
Hi all,
I just returned from Cuba and believe it's best to exchange $ in the airport. For $800 CDN I got $564.xx CUC. Also my bank card didn't work in cuba nor did my Mastercard until I called the cc to get it unblocked for Cuba so something you may want to do before hand.
Member #3200
06-02-05, 17:34
I'll be leaving for Cienfuegos tomorrow afternoon. Ddoes anybody know where I can get the fairest exchange rate from both US & CAN dollars into Cuban pesos? Is it the airport or the Rancho Luna resort, & if so, what is the most current up to dats exchange rate for BOTH currencies as I have both & I need to know which one would give me the most BANG for the buck. (my US dollars I paid 0% exchange on so I desperately need to know if bringing solely US is best option as I didn't pay anything for it, or do I exchange it here in Toronto back into Canadian then exchange it 2 peso when I'm down there)
Many thanks to all replies,
ASAP would be greatly appreciated.
IMHO I think Castro has lost his fucking mind with his greed,us tourist are his golden goose & his actions the past year with the US & now all other currency devaluation is making rethink about Cuba as a tourist destination.By the looks of the Cuba section here,there's less reports on here=less mongers in cuba=less tourists=less money being spent in cuba.This currency rip-off better end soon or cuban tourism will suffer,I know i will go elsewhere!
Is it a problem to exchange travellers cheques in Havana, or should one just bring cash? I would presume that Canadian dollars or Euros would be the best currencies? And what brand of cheques would you recommend? Are there any brands (like American Express) that they will not accept?
Nibu Raphael
06-10-05, 20:06
Hi I keep on changing my plans for my next trip. Sorry I am worse then Johan 007 on changing plans but I am not a Rich Man. I wanted to go in October to See Carnaval in Puerto Limon in Costa Rica the second week of October but now I am thinking of changing my plans again. My friend From Holguin Cuba sent me Snail Mail the other day and has been bugging me for almost 10 years to visit Cuba. Maybe I might do it. I will have a place to stay at his mothers Place in Centro Holguin Area. He even said in Holguin is a Western Union but I will bring enough money not to have any evidence of a money trail from the US since I am a US Citizen. Shit My parents are Polish maybe I should apply for a Dual Citizenship of Polish Idenity. Not Sure on that. Anyways What would be the best way to come to Cuba? I am thinking of Cancun Mexico but am scared to have my name put on the flight list for US Citizens to US Customa maybe Merida Mexico would be better since Cancun is more touristy. I am scared under Gestapo Bushs Administration. Sorry Jackson I disagree with you a 100% on him. But I need Monger info here not Political info. Guys Help Me out on this. Post Back here or PM Me back,Thanks a lot,Nibu Raphael.
Member #3200
06-11-05, 03:21
The best method of bringing down currency would be the CDN $ over the Euro,what ive seen & heard from other mongers while I was in Cienfuegos last week, I just got back 2hrs ago is they really do a [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) poor exchange rate on the Euro compared to the CDN $.
If you are an American or a Canadian with US $ at par-the best option just might be bringing down the US $s & QUICKLY change into Pesos at the airport, at the Cienfugos airport TODAY the rate against the Peso versus the US $ was extremely fair.
To the poster below asking about traveller's cheques.
Forget them and bring euro's or Cdn $. Also at most cambio's you can use your credit card (visa or mastercard) but with a surcharge - I brought enough Cdn to last me for the week and then as I blew my budget went to a cambio and used my CC (note it has to be issued from a bank outside of the US).
Hope this helps.
Average Tycoon
06-11-05, 13:29
I am off to Cuba next weekend, those of you who have been recently, can you tell me, are US dollers completely out, a girl wouldnt accept them?
Can i also ask, its been stated that travellers cheques are not a good idea, can someone expand on this, as taking in large amounts of cash seems to be asking for trouble??
And finally, can people tell me if thay found cuba safe, especially staying in private apartments? What do people usually do with all there cash, any tips of where to keep it safe?
All help much appreciated, i hope to post a really good report when i am back, I am intending on touring the whole island.
Thanks
Grand Pollo
06-12-05, 01:18
I am off to Cuba next weekend, those of you who have been recently, can you tell me, are US dollers completely out, a girl wouldnt accept them?
Can i also ask, its been stated that travellers cheques are not a good idea, can someone expand on this, as taking in large amounts of cash seems to be asking for trouble??
And finally, can people tell me if thay found cuba safe, especially staying in private apartments? What do people usually do with all there cash, any tips of where to keep it safe?
All help much appreciated, i hope to post a really good report when i am back, I am intending on touring the whole island.
Thanks
US are out. Bring Euros or Canadian cash. Don't bring AMEX travellers cheques as it is a US company. I am not sure where one would even cash them. Since the penalty for robbery and burglary is about 100 years theft is not as big a risk as you'd think.
Average Tycoon,
Most legal casa particulars are very secure. You will see multiple locks on doors, bars on doors, balconey locks, cage doors in apartment hallways etc. Anything to make you feel secure so it should be OK to leave some money LOCKED in your suitcase rather than carrying it all with you. Casa owners are usually honest people and don't want no trouble but they sometimes bring cleaning people or friends over so the lock on the suitcase should keep them from being tempted. However the biggest threat to your money is when you bring a girl to your place. Make sure you watch her like a hawk. Don't get too drunk. Even if you trust her, don't. It's nothing personal if she tries to steal from you. It's just business.
Willie Large
06-12-05, 12:18
I exchanged Euros in the Cadeca, Casa de Cambio, €200.00 and exchange rate was 1.1381 so I got 227.62 pesos into my hand.
dran reb is right. the girls are the biggest robbery risk. not just money, but anything you might have lying around, from jewelry right on down to deoderant, gum, anything. i had one girl practically demand that i go take a shower after we had sex. i just laughed at her. that one's a common ploy, so they can go through your things while you're in the shower. i had a girlfriend who i'm almost sure went into my money belt and took a few hundreds on one trip. now i keep all the cash under multiple locks. many casa owners have their own hiding places and i never met one that couldn't be trusted (although i'm sure they exist).
now, speaking of money, are you guys saying that you are able to actually spend canadian in cuba? or are you americans that change to canadian and then change the canadian to pesos? some people are telling me to just change my us dollars and others are saying to get euros or canadian first. considering that there's going to be a cost for both exchanges, i would really appreciate some more feedback on this. i'm leaving next week, can't wait!
finally, i was told by my travel agent in miami (i go legally) not to bring any hundred dollar bills in, that the cuban authorities temporarily "confirep001e" them to check for counterfeits. anyone have any experience with this?
I always travel to Cuba with a small safe in my luggage. When in the casa, I ask the Casa owner to keep my luggage in their room. So when I invite a girl, she has no access to money-key-passport. Also a good idea is to hide the key of the casa. If she spend all the night. So she cannot walk outside when you sleep.
Member #3200
06-29-05, 16:04
I find it very strange that a once very active/popular destination for mongering such as Cuba has gone very quiet the past 2 weeks-not 1 single post, I wonder if the new surcharges on currency has finally caught up to Fidel and he is losing tourist & hobbyists by the 1000s which in turn is costing himself & his country millions.If anyone from the Cuban government reads this board,it's time for you to tell Fidel to get rid of the currency surcharges or lower to a reasonable rate which is now comparable to mafia %s.
I find it very strange that a once very active/popular destination for mongering such as Cuba has gone very quiet the past 2 weeks-not 1 single post, I wonder if the new surcharges on currency has finally caught up to Fidel and he is losing tourist & hobbyists by the 1000s which in turn is costing himself & his country millions.If anyone from the Cuban government reads this board,it's time for you to tell Fidel to get rid of the currency surcharges or lower to a reasonable rate which is now comparable to mafia %s.Geez get some education.
Fidel profits from european and canadian tourists who stay at 100 hotels. He never made money off protitution and hes trying to drive the casa particulares out of business by charging them 400 dollars a month because he basically controls all the hotels in Cuba and wants to eliminate the competition.
Check out products by pacsafe. This might help you. If you need some advice just ask and I'll tell you what I know.
Gentlemen,
I intend to go to Cuba on an adventure trip sometime in october or november. Would like to rent a car and wonder around a bit. Anyone interested, preferably from north of the border, please PM me. Thanks!
Member #3200
07-10-05, 04:20
As a monger north of the border & hoping to make it back to Cienfuegos in the autumn( Oct or Nov),is there any hobbyists down there at this current time to give us all a damage report of Havana or Cienfuegos from hurricane Dennis.If the damage is extensive at the Rancho Luna in Cienfuegos or Hotel Tropicoco in Havana/playa de este,does anybody know when the repairs might be finished.
I am not a Cuba expert.
But things you have to know about Cuba are:
1) Summer is very hot. I wouldn't go in august, begin september. Take care that wherever you go there is an A/C at night.
2) You can not get a girl into a hotel. Pratically impossible.
3) Best is if you rent a casa particular that is independant. That has an entrance for itself. A casa is also much cheaper as a hotel and the comfort is the same or bigger.
Look on the internet for casa's. Take a good one with room, bedroom, balcony, kitchen, hot/warm water, privacy/entrance, A/C.
Just write in your e-mail before you reserve that you want to invite guests and if that is a problem. If they write that it is no problem then take this printed mail with you. If they write that it is a problem find something else.
If you arrive at the casa DO NOT PAY IN ADVANCE!
If you pay in advance and you get a quarrel with the owner and you want to go then you NEVER get your money back.
Price should be something like $25 - $35.
4) Prostitutues are being chased by the police. If they get caught a few times they go to jail (for a few years). That is unless the girl is known by the police. In that case she has a deal with the police. For money or for services the police let her go.
5) Tourists that uses prostitutes are left alone. However before going with a girl ALWAYS check her age. All Cubans have an id-card. It is called "carnet". The first numbers of their id shows the year in which they were born. Format YYYYMMDD. So idnr 19800124 stands for a 24 year old girl. If the girl is a minor or if she has no idea or if she has borrowed the id of her sister then don't go with her. If you get caught with a minir that can cost you 20 years of jail!
6) Cuba is a police state. You are under constant control. When you rent a hotel or a casa particular your info is put in a database. Also if you take a girl to your casa most of the time the house owner will insist that the girl is registered. And here name will be linked to your name in the government database.
I don't like that policy. Not for the girl not for myself.
Also the people in the neighboorhood will spy on you (Comite Defensar de la Revolution)!
So I always smuggle the girl in the house (not so easy) and I let the owner promise not to register the girl (also not that easy).
The advantange of Cuba being a police state is that it is pretty save. Much saver than Brazil/Rio. You can walk at nights on the street. Still be carefull like you would be at home.
7) On your visum you do need to write the adress of the place where I will be staying the first 2 nights. The adress of a casa is sufficient. It doesn't have to be a hotel.
8) Learn some spanish
9) First time best go to Havana. Take a casa in the region Vedado near the Hotel Havana Libre.
Places to pick up chicks: La Rampa (near Havana Libre), Malecon (boulevard near the ocean), Prado (center).
Prices are about $25-$30 (excluded $5 for a cab).
10) About half of all the girls do not shave their pussy. I find this a disgusting habbit.
11) A good website with info on Cuba is thorntree.lonelyplanet.com
12) Take your own condoms with you.
13) Find out how to get money when being in Cuba. There are not many ATM's and the ones that can't be found are not safe.
14) For the taxi from the airport to Havana don't pay more than $15.
15) Have fun.
There are not any flights out of Toronto until July 29, and there are not any bookings for the area hotels until Aug 5, package deals.
The reports I've been hearing, is there has been a ton of damage on the southern coast.
Tropicoco can be booked for July 15.
You should be in good shape for sex in the bushes in Oct/Nov, unless a series of storms zoom through during those months.
Be aware of some non-cuban guys living almost all year in Havana, Europeans or Americans. They are often linked with Cuban gangsters and you can get trapped. They will or try to help you to find girls. A common way to get robbed is, when having a drink in a bar or disco, is to drink a beverage where the criminal, girl or guy, have put a sleeping product, you fall in sleep and you get robbed.
All Cubans have an id-card. It is called "carnet". The first numbers of their id shows the year in which they were born. Format YYYYMMDD. So idnr 19800124 stands for a 24 year old girl.
19800124 means that the girl is now 25 not 24.
Fido Dido,
Good information. It would be good to know whether the Cuban people actually do spy on each other (Comite Defensar de la Revolution). I just can't imagine a Cuban ratting out his neighbour for allowing a tourist to bring a girl in the casa without registering her. I am starting to find more casa owners are willing to just take the girls information and only using it if she causes trouble or if an inspector shows up, but not actually registering her after she leaves and everything is OK. I still think the best thing to do is to sneak her in late at night when everyone is asleep.
Well Dran,
Thanks for your reaction. I am not a cuba expert but I do think the Cuban society is complex. People do watch each other. Just notice how much guards there are everywhere. Also civilian gards. I once had a casa opposite an old deserted hotel. Whole day there was sitting a guy doing nothing else then sitting and watching beside the deserted place. I have heard about Cubans who get a shit job from the government like guarding whole day a plaza. Also there is a lot of gossip in Cuba.
I think if someone betrays its neighboors depends on the relations they have. I can imagine that people do betray others because they are jealous on their neighboors, who make big money for renting their casa to tourists. I have also heard of stories in which casa owners payed the CDR's money to keep their mouth shut. Not much money, something like $1 or $2 an occasion.
Like you say "the best thing to do is to sneak her in late at night when everyone is asleep". But I still don't like all this sneaking around. Good to hear that the habbit of a "temporary registration" gets more common.
Fido Dido,
Good information. It would be good to know whether the Cuban people actually do spy on each other (Comite Defensar de la Revolution). I just can't imagine a Cuban ratting out his neighbour for allowing a tourist to bring a girl in the casa without registering her. I am starting to find more casa owners are willing to just take the girls information and only using it if she causes trouble or if an inspector shows up, but not actually registering her after she leaves and everything is OK. I still think the best thing to do is to sneak her in late at night when everyone is asleep.
Hi,
Overall, this is a great report, and I agree with almost everything. There are ATM's that are fine, in Havana Libre Hotel and Hotal National. There's also one in Havana Vieja, on Calle Obispo, down a few blocks from Hotel Florida, which is heavily guarded.
For some reason, I got lucky with my apartment a few weeks ago. All of the neighbors knew that I was staying there, and that I would be bringing in girls, so I never was bothered.
Guys, things I NEVER leave home without are condoms, "baby wipes" / moist toweletts, and hair/beard trimmer. That will solve any unshaven female problems, and will likely get you a new reputation. I am now "el barbero" in havana vieja.
Later,
Tom
I am not a Cuba expert.
But things you have to know about Cuba are:
1) Summer is very hot. I wouldn't go in august, begin september. Take care that wherever you go there is an A/C at night.
2) You can not get a girl into a hotel. Pratically impossible.
3) Best is if you rent a casa particular that is independant. That has an entrance for itself. A casa is also much cheaper as a hotel and the comfort is the same or bigger.
Look on the internet for casa's. Take a good one with room, bedroom, balcony, kitchen, hot/warm water, privacy/entrance, A/C.
Just write in your e-mail before you reserve that you want to invite guests and if that is a problem. If they write that it is no problem then take this printed mail with you. If they write that it is a problem find something else.
If you arrive at the casa DO NOT PAY IN ADVANCE!
If you pay in advance and you get a quarrel with the owner and you want to go then you NEVER get your money back.
Price should be something like $25 - $35.
4) Prostitutues are being chased by the police. If they get caught a few times they go to jail (for a few years). That is unless the girl is known by the police. In that case she has a deal with the police. For money or for services the police let her go.
5) Tourists that uses prostitutes are left alone. However before going with a girl ALWAYS check her age. All Cubans have an id-card. It is called "carnet". The first numbers of their id shows the year in which they were born. Format YYYYMMDD. So idnr 19800124 stands for a 24 year old girl. If the girl is a minor or if she has no idea or if she has borrowed the id of her sister then don't go with her. If you get caught with a minir that can cost you 20 years of jail!
6) Cuba is a police state. You are under constant control. When you rent a hotel or a casa particular your info is put in a database. Also if you take a girl to your casa most of the time the house owner will insist that the girl is registered. And here name will be linked to your name in the government database.
I don't like that policy. Not for the girl not for myself.
Also the people in the neighboorhood will spy on you (Comite Defensar de la Revolution)!
So I always smuggle the girl in the house (not so easy) and I let the owner promise not to register the girl (also not that easy).
The advantange of Cuba being a police state is that it is pretty save. Much saver than Brazil/Rio. You can walk at nights on the street. Still be carefull like you would be at home.
7) On your visum you do need to write the adress of the place where I will be staying the first 2 nights. The adress of a casa is sufficient. It doesn't have to be a hotel.
8) Learn some spanish
9) First time best go to Havana. Take a casa in the region Vedado near the Hotel Havana Libre.
Places to pick up chicks: La Rampa (near Havana Libre), Malecon (boulevard near the ocean), Prado (center).
Prices are about $25-$30 (excluded $5 for a cab).
10) About half of all the girls do not shave their pussy. I find this a disgusting habbit.
11) A good website with info on Cuba is thorntree.lonelyplanet.com
12) Take your own condoms with you.
13) Find out how to get money when being in Cuba. There are not many ATM's and the ones that can't be found are not safe.
14) For the taxi from the airport to Havana don't pay more than $15.
15) Have fun.
Organicgrowth
08-16-05, 17:32
Gentlemen,
I just saw this site: http://www.cuba-junky.com/
It contains excellent information on many aspects / issues in Cuba. There is a section on all the provinses and also a potential to contact specific representatives... For new visitors to Cuba, I would say its an excellent starting point for information up to an including, but not restricted to, places to stay...
Regards, Havanaman
PS. No, I do not have anything to do with this site...
Digital Curry
08-26-05, 08:18
Thinking of bringing my Cubana to the USA.
I know it is crazy. Please don't remind me of the obvious.
What a joke to say, "my girl is different," ha ha ha.
If I bring her here on a fiance visa, am I finacially liable?
For how long? What if I don't marry her? And she applies for political asylum? And we continue to be a couple? Do I still remain liable? How much? How long? She has a kid, how does that effect the deal?
Please recommend resources.
Please be constructive and don't ridicule me.
Cuban are special, actually. Once they're in the US on dry land, citizenship is automatic, no questions asked. This rule only applies to Cubans not anyone else.
What you could do is get her a flight from Havana to Monterrey, Mexico. Rent a car and head for the border. At the border, when you guys stop @ immigration, all she has to do is get out of the car with a cuban passport and *run* for US soil. Even if they catch her, her citizenship is automatic.
I could be wrong, so others are invited to correct me.
Grand Pollo
08-27-05, 14:55
Cuban are special, actually. Once they're in the US on dry land, citizenship is automatic, no questions asked. This rule only applies to Cubans not anyone else.
What you could do is get her a flight from Havana to Monterrey, Mexico. Rent a car and head for the border. At the border, when you guys stop @ immigration, all she has to do is get out of the car with a cuban passport and *run* for US soil. Even if they catch her, her citizenship is automatic.
I could be wrong, so others are invited to correct me.
I think the running to US soil is a Florida specific remedy for the refugees in boats, I suspect from Mex she'd be deported back to Mex where it still safe.
Rebel Monger
08-27-05, 21:47
Cuban are special, actually.Well, I know we are great, but special!?
Maybe you really wanted to say that "Cubans receive special immigratory treatment" in USA.
Once they're in the US on dry land, citizenship is automatic, no questions asked. This rule only applies to Cubans not anyone else.Not really. What we get, after applying for, is a permit that allows us to legally work in USA; and after one year and one day, apply for permanent residency.
What you could do is get her a flight from Havana to Monterrey, Mexico. Rent a car and head for the border. At the border, when you guys stop @ immigration, all she has to do is get out of the car with a cuban passport and *run* for US soil.What you're recommending is illegal, and the Cuban might be allowed to stay, but the gringo could be prosecuted for smugglying illegal immigrants into the country.
Even if they catch her, her citizenship is automatic.Nope, she'll be taken to a processing center and after a few days, she might on her way to Miami to meet her Cuban boyfriend, while the gringo might still be in jail!
I could be wrong, so others are invited to correct me.Big time my friend, big time!
Rebel Monger
08-27-05, 22:11
Thinking of bringing my Cubana to the USA.Good for her!
I know it is crazy. Please don't remind me of the obvious.
What a joke to say, "my girl is different," ha ha ha.What's so obvious?
If I bring her here on a fiance visa, am I finacially liable?In theory yes. You must provide an "Affidavit of Support" for her, but like anything else in this country, that's just a formality. All Cubans coming here on a visa need one, but once here, they apply (and get) financial support from the government.
For how long?Fiance visas are for 90 days.
What if I don't marry her?Probably it won't happen anyway, as she might be living with her Cuban boyfriend already!
And she applies for political asylum?That's a joke, but yes, she can do that!
And we continue to be a couple?Well, don't bet on that. Remember that once she is in USA, what "attracted" her to you won't be there anymore, unless you are young, very good looking, have a "big one" down there and know how to use right....and frequently!!!
Do I still remain liable?In theory, yes.
How much? How long?Anything she (and her kid) needs for five years.
She has a kid, how does that effect the deal?He'll be included (and would accompany her) in the "Fiance visa"
Please recommend resources.See a good immigration lawyer!
Please be constructive and don't ridicule me.I hope I did and didn't!
Rebel Monger
08-31-05, 03:22
...Anything she (and her kid) needs for five years.Oops, according to the instructions in Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support) it's (3) years!
I've been though this, and unless it's been very recently changed the affidavit of support is for 40 QUARTERS - that's 10 YEARS.
Hello,
I am going to Havana soon, is it posible to find a casa were I can live totaly alone? Not together with a family, I have surfed the internet a lot but have not find any yet, in all the casas it seems to live a family as well!
Thanks,
Buttlover
Buttlover,
Based on my experience and what I've been told it is against the law for the casa owners to not stay in the same house or apartment as you. There are Cuban inspectors that make random inspections of the casas to make sure of this. However many casa owners try and separate the room where you will be staying from the rest of the house so as to give you privacy and your own private entrance so you can bring girls in without them seeing it. This is more common in Havana. Just look for casa that advertise that the room has it's own private entrance.
Willie Large
09-05-05, 23:07
I came across quite a few casas on Calle O'Reilly, it is on the opposite side of the block from Ambos Mundos. Find Ambos Mundos and then walk straight out the entrance on the corner, up the street facing you and take 1st left. You will see signs "Rent for Rooms" (yes it is "Rent for Rooms!!") over the doors and you are free to inspect them before deciding if they are suitable. Most of these have their own entrance with security gate direct from the street with the owners living downstairs. This is a busy area so if you see a girl you like just smile at her and say hello. If they are interested they will come over to you. The rest is up to you!
QUOTE=Dran Reb]Buttlover,
Based on my experience and what I've been told it is against the law for the casa owners to not stay in the same house or apartment as you. There are Cuban inspectors that make random inspections of the casas to make sure of this. However many casa owners try and separate the room where you will be staying from the rest of the house so as to give you privacy and your own private entrance so you can bring girls in without them seeing it. This is more common in Havana. Just look for casa that advertise that the room has it's own private entrance.[/QUOTE]
However many casa owners try and separate the room where you will be staying from the rest of the house so as to give you privacy and your own private entrance so you can bring girls in without them seeing it. This is more common in Havana. Just look for casa that advertise that the room has it's own private entrance.[/QUOTE]Mostly the girl will have to leave the passport at the house owner/security guy. 1 girl, over 18, will never be a problem and in the end it's more safe for you...
Never the less, I like to stay seperate from the family and there are some nice houses you are on your own, e.g. 1st floor for you with living room and kitchen.
It will cost a little bit more (normally I pay up to 80 CUC a night for 2 rooms plus living room and kitchen in a better area (Miramar or Nuevo Vedado))
If your looking for such a house PM me.
Revolution Doc
09-08-05, 18:01
Dear Friends,
I'm planning to return to Cuba (third visit).
I would like to rent a car and live some kind of adventurous road movie.
I've been to havana twice so I'd like to travel to other cities.
I'd like to rent a car to do the trip and stay at casa particulares.
The main reason for travelling is mongering.
I'd like to see the countryside too and score some girls there (not really looking for pro action but rather GFE with young, pure, but of course legal girls.)
I'm a very open minded young male. I'm from Europe, I'm 34 years.
I speak English, French, Dutch and of course I'm studying Spanish.
I'd like to find a friend who likes the idea of travelling through cuba and have lots of fun with the local chica's.
We could share the costs of the car / gasoline/ casa's / chica's.
This would be my third trip to Cuba so I have some experience with the country. If you speak spanish fluently and have some experience with mongering then you'd be my ideal travel partner.
Please PM me if the idea appeals to you so we can talk some more.
I'd like to spend 7- 12 days there.
Revolution Doc
Organicgrowth
09-09-05, 19:38
Mostly the girl will have to leave the passport at the house owner/security guy. 1 girl, over 18, will never be a problem and in the end it's more safe for you...
Never the less, I like to stay seperate from the family and there are some nice houses you are on your own, e.g. 1st floor for you with living room and kitchen.
It will cost a little bit more (normally I pay up to 80 CUC a night for 2 rooms plus living room and kitchen in a better area (Miramar or Nuevo Vedado))
If your looking for such a house PM me.
Mighty67,
80 CUC is a bit on the expensive side...
Any casa on Calle O'Reilly is a great location because you will have power, except when there's a major storm.
Originally Posted by Mighty67
".....Never the less, I like to stay seperate from the family and there are some nice houses you are on your own, e.g. 1st floor for you with living room and kitchen.
It will cost a little bit more (normally I pay up to 80 CUC a night for 2 rooms plus living room and kitchen in a better area (Miramar or Nuevo Vedado))
If your looking for such a house PM me........."
Normally a casa like that in Vedado is 25-30 CUC.
Even in Miramar don't pay more then 30-35 CUC for such a casa.
On Lonely Planet I was told that Amigo Card is the way to go to avoid that 10% charge. Anyone have any thoughts? I think I understand how it works. Deposit the money, get charged a one time fee for the card and 2.50 for each withdrawal.
I have gone to cuba with cash, but because of the new 10% hit, I am looking for ways to get an even trade.
Willie Large
09-16-05, 02:10
Maybe rent a camper van, good for picking up hitch hikers!
Sorry but now in Praque, travelling about for a month or so, otherwise I'd hit the road again in Cuba!
Dear Friends,
I'm planning to return to Cuba (third visit).
I would like to rent a car and live some kind of adventurous road movie.
I've been to havana twice so I'd like to travel to other cities.
I'd like to rent a car to do the trip and stay at casa particulares.
The main reason for travelling is mongering.
I'd like to see the countryside too and score some girls there (not really looking for pro action but rather GFE with young, pure, but of course legal girls.)
I'm a very open minded young male. I'm from Europe, I'm 34 years.
I speak English, French, Dutch and of course I'm studying Spanish.
I'd like to find a friend who likes the idea of travelling through cuba and have lots of fun with the local chica's.
We could share the costs of the car / gasoline/ casa's / chica's.
This would be my third trip to Cuba so I have some experience with the country. If you speak spanish fluently and have some experience with mongering then you'd be my ideal travel partner.
Please PM me if the idea appeals to you so we can talk some more.
I'd like to spend 7- 12 days there.
Revolution Doc
Can someone please tell me the current laws on sending money to Cuba? Can we still do it, or is it only for family members? And what are the current limits in terms of frequency and amounts? Thanks much!
Cabana Man
09-29-05, 03:08
Does anyone have any NEW information on the effort by the current American administration (I am too contemptuous to even name those idiots) to prevent Americans from traveling to Cuba? I read an article in Yahoo news today by an official from the Cuban Foreign Affairs Department lambasting the Americans for their travel restriction policy. I do not want to pollute the board with political garbage so if someone has information please PM me or post it here.
Thanks
I am looking 4 a way to travel to CUBA, from US, can someone please assist.
Best route?
Organicgrowth
10-04-05, 21:26
Liucio
1. Go for a trip to Mexico, say Cancun: buy your tickets to HAV from there: pay in cash if possible.
2. Go to Canada: same story.
3. Go via any number of other S.A countries… but I guess the further you go the more expensive…
4. Try to spend as much as you can using cash for getting there... Once there its cash anyway...
Regards, Havanaman
PS. Have a look at the Cuba and US Politics thread for an interesting article… This administration is getting very close to another one I recall in Europe some years back….
Were you nervous when you when. I am nervous about planning this thing. This administration is serious about fines and punishment.
I 'm researching all this stuff before I buy my ticket. Is 17days there too long?
I would strongly recommend AGAINST going through most third countries now, ESPECIALLY Mexico and Canana. Americans are getting caught and fined, minimun fine US$7500. This is now being heavily enforced at this time. Consider yourself warned.
And I'm still waiting if anyone can tell me how to send money to Cuba right now.
Organicgrowth
10-06-05, 07:59
Liucio,
I should tell you that I travel out of Europe so I have non of the arse-hole administration problems which my American brothers have.
You have one of just 2 choices: go legally (and it be for ever known that you have visited the “forbidden zone” on your record) OR, go surreptitiously (and have the possibility that you will NOT be caught like thousands of others before you, BUT still have the risk).
Many people go legally: I’m sure they can best advise you on that.
Even more go via other countries. If you have 17 days: (wow! Excellent) then I would spend 2 days either side of the Cuban visit in the “hop” country. So for example: go via Canada, have a couple of nice days there, fly out to HAV, stay for 10 – 11 days, return to Canada and spend another couple of days to freshen up before returning to the States. Another tried and tested route is via Europe, but that hikes the costs.
I personally see no reason in not using a third country. In fact a couple of buddies use Buenos Aires as the “hop”: mongering being particularly excellent there and a chance to meet our esteemed leader Jackson. I personally have used this route a few times.
Regards, Havanaman
PS. If do manage to go for such a long period of time: travel around the country, you will love it.
Organicgrowth
10-06-05, 08:03
Doc Bill,
Sorry I cannot help you with this. I tend to send money via trusted third parties if I need to.
Regards, Havanaman
Doc,
Like cash2cuba you can use Caribbean Transfers Debit Card, it's faster and cheaper.
Havanaman
T hink we're talking about different style casas, but: chaqu'un à son goût ;-)
What airlines travel to Cuba? I am in the lower part of the states and would like to know the airlines that travel to Cuba. Do I have to fly to like Puerto Rico and then to cuba. I guess what I am trying to find out is what route is needed to get there?
Truth Seeker
10-14-05, 11:40
The only flights from the USA to Cuba are for those whose a permitted under OFAC rules.
You alternative is to fly from Mexico, Canada, Bahamas etc etc.
Please, Please, do some more research work on Cuba before you go.
Grand Pollo
10-15-05, 03:11
What airlines travel to Cuba? I am in the lower part of the states and would like to know the airlines that travel to Cuba. Do I have to fly to like Puerto Rico and then to cuba. I guess what I am trying to find out is what route is needed to get there?
Note: Puerto Rico IS part of the USA. For a while now.
How can I go legally?
I'm not into politics, so what do I care if they know I went LEGALY 2 a forbidden country.
How do I go LEGALLY?
There are legal ways for US citizens to make LEGAL trips to Cuba. You need to check out the OFAC regulations. Trips from a third country to Cuba would be still be illegal for a US citizen and thereby be subject to sanctions.
There are legal ways for US citizens to make LEGAL trips to Cuba. You need to check out the OFAC regulations. Trips from a third country to Cuba would be still be illegal for a US citizen and thereby be subject to sanctions.
Hi guys,
I don't know...but when I was on the airport in Santo Domingo (DR) I saw some Americans waiting there for a Cubana airways to Fly to habana....
Because they were at the terminal next to mine I could watch this.(SD airport is NOTthat big you know...)
I don't know exactly about the costs but from the DR you can fly in easely into Cuba...the flight would not take more then 1 hour and 30 or so minutes.
However you have to enter twice in the DR...whcih will cost 10 US at a time.
I paid nothing to get out the DR.
just a thought.
Johan
Grand Pollo
10-20-05, 01:58
It is around US$400 R/T cash only from a guy literally with a suitcase who is next to Cubana check in 3 hours before the flight.
Keep in mind that you get stamped in AND out in the DR so if INS looks at your passport you have an arrival and a departure and another pair during the time you left the US. They might wonder where you went, since almost anywhere you'd fly from the DR would stamp you in and out (at least in) -Panama, Caracas, Aruba. Leaving Cuba as the obvious suspect.
They might wonder where you went, since almost anywhere you'd fly from the DR would stamp you in and out (at least in) -Panama, Caracas, Aruba. Leaving Cuba as the obvious suspect.
What about Haiti???
-Helpmann :)
--------------------------------------------
CUBA FAQ
3/2005
LOGISTICS:
1. Cubana airlines flys between Havana and Santo Domingo (SDQ) on Thursdays and Sundays. [SDQ->Havana: Thr/Sun: 1:35pm - 3:30pm; Havana->SDQ Thr/Sun: 9:55am - 12:05pm]
2. COST: US$409 + US$20 (tourist card) + US$20 (departure tax) = US$449.00 cash
3. The round-trip ticket was bought at the Cubana airlines check-in desk at Las Americas 2 hours before the flight (the Cubana SDQ desk is only open the day of departure, 2-3 hours before the flight lifts off.)
4. The ticket was purchased by a man working out of his suitcase, standing next to the check-in desk (I was directed by a Cubana employee at the check-in desk to purchase my ticket from him.)
5. I checked-in approx. 90lbs of luggage (2 suitcases) and brought one carry-on. On the return flight, I could only check-in 30 Kilos of luggage. I was 13 Kilos overweight and was charged approx. US$4.50/lb (cost of US$60.)
6. Flight time: 2 hours on a Russian Jet (a meal was served, it was not very good :(.)
7. While passing through customs, I was questioned about my reasons for being in Cuba (leisure)
8. My passport was not stamped (it's a given that Cuban officials will not stamp US passports.)
9. Taxis cost all tourists US$25 from the airport to the city.
10. Once in the city, taxi rates are equivalent to the rates in New York.
GENERAL/ADVICE:
1. There is 10% tax on the dollar
2. Business will only accept Convertible Pesos (CP) from tourists (Dollars/Euros can be exchanged for CPs at major hotels)
3. There are 2 types of currencies in place in Cuba. Cubans use the peso. Tourists use the Convertible Peso (the FX rate of the peso to the Convertible Peso is 26:1)
4. Cubans cannot enter the hotels.
5. Cubans are not to associate (be seen) with tourists.
6. Travel w/ a mongering buddy (it's a big city and you may get lonely, you also need someone to share expenses with)
7. In the privacy of your car, apartment, or disco, Cubans and tourists can mingle.
8. Rental car rates are approx. $100/day for a compact automatic car.
9. Invest in rental car. Taxis can become expensive. It's the best way to avoid police problems (for the girl.) It's the easiest and most efficient way to pick-up the prettiest women (due to car rental expense, split costs w/ friend.)
10. Noticeably more English speakers in Cuba
11. Plenty of opportunities for S-T, no hassle sex.
12. Best to monger and arrange something in the daytime
13. Local phone numbers are 6-digits
14. GSM cellphone service is available in Cuba, but SIM chips (I hear) are US$100.
15. Do not stay in a hotel, book an apartment (casa particulare) 2-4 weeks in advance. It takes time to make these arrangements (unless you want to stay w/ a family), because the Cuban resident, must leave their home for you to stay in (believe me you want the privacy and a separate entrance.) There are several sites listed on WSG, I can also provide (for people I know well) some personal contact info (English speaking 'travel agent') for those looking for a casa particulare.
16. Cuba is expensive. Taxis are expensive, food is moderately priced, hotels are expensive, cigars are expensive ($3-10 a piece), rental cars are expensive ($80-120 a day)
17. Cuba can be cheap. Casa particulares are cheap ($20-40), women ($20-40), rum ($5).
18. Realize that areas (neighborhoods) have been designed specifically for tourists, to keep them separated from the Cuban people.
19. No ATMS
20. The cash you bring in is the cash you'll have.
21. US credit cards (credit cards under a US bank) cannot be used in Cuba.
WOMEN:
1. Much more variety in Havana (blondes, redheads, brunettes, blancas, rubias, morenas)
2. Cuban women take much better care of their bodies and appearance (no post-pregnancy bellies, no motoconcho scars, soft skin, thin bodies, nice clothes)
3. They have many more beautiful faces than in the DR. I have never seen so many available beautful women in my life.
4. On average, Cuban women do not have the knock-out bodies of Dominicanas. You won't see as many round asses and plump titties (on slender bodies) in Cuba.
WHERE ARE THE WOMEN?
1. The Malecon (a bit overrated, like much of Vedado, but plenty of hookers on this strip, beware the TVs)
2. Old Havana (Any park in the area, the flea market near the Malecon, Obisicpo St.)
3. Miramar - 5ta Ave. (where all the embassies are. This is the BEST place for young beautiful girls on the street.)
4. I have read about more, but have yet to experience it (Playa del Este, Santa Maria Playa, Mantanzas)
US Customs
1. 5 second interview at JFK, after receiving my bags. I was asked if I traveled to another country during my visit to the DR. I told him I went to Haiti for a day (my passport contained 2 back-to-back DR entry stamps on it--oops.)
Grand Pollo
10-22-05, 03:40
What about Haiti???
-Helpmann :)
So in the DR, out to Haiti - INS might ask, where are the in and out stamps for Haiti? I am not sure I'd want to tell them hey I bribed the border guards not to stamp me in and out. And unless you had new bullet holes in you they might not believe that is where you went.
I feel sorry for the fact you US guys have all this hassle with regards to Cuba. I am fortunate to be able to get on a Air Canada non stop business class daily flight from Toronto to Havana, don't even need to use Cubana from here. Or I can go from SDQ etc.....
I think until passports are mandatory that an American should come to Toronto, even get a massage parlor visit in, leave non stop to Havana, fly back here, use the passport to get one into Canada stamp, then leave to the US after a day and say you were here for a weekend.
Member #3200
10-24-05, 22:01
It skirted the island late last week near cienfuegos & havana yesterday-how bad is the damage
So its going to be hard to get to Cuba. The closest place to go is DR and then to Cuba then DR and back? How do you get past customes Cuba dosent stamp your passport? But the DR will stamp right. I was in PR and this dude I partied with told me he had been to Cuba, DR etc and had no problems. But he was puerto rican. Would that make a differance? PR is us territory owell if from the states has more info for me let me know I would like to visit. I could just go to miami but been there the girls arent friendly at all unless you are in the click ( know someone they know). Any info will be good.
Going to check out DR also if anone has been there to give tips that would be cool.
Thanks
GermanBoy 2
10-30-05, 15:22
Dear gentlemen
Will arrive in havanna at November, 21 in the evening. Unfortunally my "old" casa in vedado is out of work. So maybe anybody with a good suggestion. I am searching a appartement with balcony and independent, sure you know why. I feel more compfortable if it is really independent, not with a host who is full of understanding. Last time, when I was sitting at balcony, girls from the house near by have seen me and came. Really nice evening with them. So if this will happen again, I do not worry, but its not a must. Would be great if anybody couls send me a link (from casa, not from the girls: -).
Thanks a lot
Germanboy
Ps: and if there is anybody in hav at this time who wants to meet for a beer, give me a hit too: -)
I have read on other boards that to avoid getting you passport re-stamped by Mexican custom when you return from Cuba is to present your birth certificate and drivers licensee instead of passport. Has anyone tried this?
Mexican immigration will accomadate you if you tell them your circumstance in regard to stamping passport from Cuba.
Gringo Loco
11-02-05, 15:26
I have read on other boards that to avoid getting you passport re-stamped by Mexican custom when you return from Cuba is to present your birth certificate and drivers licensee instead of passport. Has anyone tried this?Tommy,
I transited through Cancun twice. One time I presented my lic. & birth cert. while entering from both The States and Cuba without incident. Another time, my 2 travel partners and I were singled out in line and told to put our licences & birth cert.'s away and present our passports. When I said that as an American wasn't I permitted to enter with my lic. & b.c. as I did from The States, the self-righteous little prick yanked us out of the line and brought us to a customs officer and made sure that he stamped all of our passports. Luckily, US Customs only glanced at the photo page of my passport upon re-entry. I did sweat a lot though worrying if I'd be questioned about the entry stamp back into Mexico.
Just got back from seeing my girlfriend down in Santiago. This is not a mongering report, just a report to help some old and new mongers.
The good news. I usually go through Cancun but because of the Hurricane the airport was still closed a couple of days before I was to fly. I spoke to the airline, and the hotel. They changed both my reservations to Mexico City without any hassles and no added charges. That was the good news.
The bad news. When I arrived in Mexico City I gave the immigration officer my birth certificate. The officer looked up at me and asked why I don't have a passport. I told him when I go to Cancun it is never a problem and I didn't see where the Mex. govt. had change the requirements to get in. He stamped the visa and said next time you better have a passport.
If this is true. Mexico may not be a good choice anymore. I may have to go through Canada. Second bad news. The 10% right off the top on the usd.. But not only that, but their exchange rate is 8.93 to 1 cuc. With this exchange rate, it came out to almost 19%. This was at the int. airport in Havana. At the Santiago airport, they took a flat 20% fee. It seems they are doing their best to either stock pile their bank account or discourage American tourist.
Bad news number 3. The flight from Mx to Havana arrives when three other planes are coming in. I waited in line for about an hour and a half. From Cancun on the late flight. Normally the people who were on the plane were the only ones going through custom. Also, does anyone know who the person is while waiting in line that casually goes up by random and starts to ask questions before you get to the booths? He is usually dressed in reg. clothes and not a uniform. One person approached me last year and started to asked question like why are you here? It's bad enough going through the booths. Anyways, this person picked a guy in front of me and I overheard him ask, why are you here? Is it for the girls? The guy in front kept to his guns and said he was there to sightsee and nothing else. The other guy kept pursuing it by saying, it's okay, I know with the internet you want to pick up our beautiful women.
After about 5 minutes of getting grilled, the plain-clothes guy told the guy in front of me to follow him to another office. Not sure what happened to the guy but I hope that never happens to me.
Q
Anyone heard of Duales?
www.duales.com
Southern120
11-04-05, 13:56
Bad news number 3. The flight from Mx to Havana arrives when three other planes are coming in. I waited in line for about an hour and a half. From Cancun on the late flight. Normally the people who were on the plane were the only ones going through custom. Also, does anyone know who the person is while waiting in line that casually goes up by random and starts to ask questions before you get to the booths? He is usually dressed in reg. clothes and not a uniform. One person approached me last year and started to asked question like why are you here? It's bad enough going through the booths. Anyways, this person picked a guy in front of me and I overheard him ask, why are you here? Is it for the girls? The guy in front kept to his guns and said he was there to sightsee and nothing else. The other guy kept pursuing it by saying, it's okay, I know with the internet you want to pick up our beautiful women.
After about 5 minutes of getting grilled, the plain-clothes guy told the guy in front of me to follow him to another office. Not sure what happened to the guy but I hope that never happens to me.
QI had a sort of similar experience, where the immigration booth mujer asked me if I was planning to work while I was in Cuba. I felt like saying, 'what, for a wage of like CUC 6 per month, WTF?
I then had some customs guy (in uniform) stop me just as I was wheeling my bag into the arrivals hall - the point where you are usually home free - and ask to see my onward ticket, and then asked me how long I was going to stay. This was after immigration had let me through the booths and stamped my tourist card. I offered to show customs guy the tourist card, but he wasn't interested and just wanted my onward ticket. Then he repeated the question you always get at immigration about which hotel are you staying in - like he was trying to trip me up in case I had fogotten whatever shit I told immigration (which I almost had, by the way).
The worst was when I left Cuba - I have never seen an immigration official take so long to process me through to departures - he just kept leafing through my passport like he was trying to find something wrong with it, and all the while giving me the most evil stare I have ever seen.
Either they are just all over the place, or they are trying to rattle you into spilling the beans. I think the former, but I'm not sure. In any case, always play it cool and don't ever try to be smart them - coming or going. Don't ever mention chicas, politics etc, and don't try to joke about anything. You are just there as joe tourist on holiday, nothing more. Just keep repeating the line no matter what they ask. If you have Chica gifts in your bag, just say they are for whichever country you are going to next.
Rebel Monger
11-06-05, 01:11
The 10% right off the top on the usd.. But not only that, but their exchange rate is 8.93 to 1 cuc. With this exchange rate, it came out to almost 19%. This was at the int. airport in Havana. At the Santiago airport, they took a flat 20% fee. It seems they are doing their best to either stock pile their bank account or discourage American tourist.They want to discourage the use of US dollars. It has to do with the Swiss Bank that was fined because they allowed Cuba to launder money through them, as they can't do that anymore, now they want you to use other currencies.
does anyone know who the person is while waiting in line that casually goes up by random and starts to ask questions before you get to the booths? He is usually dressed in reg. clothes and not a uniform.That guy works for "Seguridad del Estado" (State Security). He's function is like that of a CIA/FBI combined. They are very well trained and get results at any cost.
One person approached me last year and started to asked question like why are you here? It's bad enough going through the booths. Anyways, this person picked a guy in front of me and I overheard him ask, why are you here? Is it for the girls? The guy in front kept to his guns and said he was there to sightsee and nothing else. The other guy kept pursuing it by saying, it's okay, I know with the internet you want to pick up our beautiful women.I bet that agencies around the world monitor the internet for information, the Cuban governement does it too. Tourism, before the fall of the USSR, was kept at a minimum in the island, and there was no contact between the tourists and the population. Without any financial support coming from USSR, the goverment used tourism as revenue source, but they still hate the mingling of tourists and the general population.
After about 5 minutes of getting grilled, the plain-clothes guy told the guy in front of me to follow him to another office. Not sure what happened to the guy but I hope that never happens to me.Sexual tourism was never welcome in the island, it was tolarated because the regular tourism didn't picked up as expected. I don't know the "real' situation of the tourism now. I have heard of 2 million tourists a year visiting the island right now. Statistics there are not very reliable (they are based on "image needs" instead of reality). but if it's true, then regular tourism is picking up, and they don't need sexual tourism anymore, so they are trying to hint you (us) to stay away. We'll see sooner than later if that's the case because authorities there do not have much patience.
You're wise as to hoping that it never happens to you. It could be very unpleasant!
Member #3200
11-17-05, 01:46
If the old man is losing his mind & his health is deteriorating,i hope his brother Raul or whoever takes charge when Raul goes as Raul is very old as well,doesnt screw things up & lets the American into Cuba.The last thing we all want is for Cuba to be just like every other Caribbean destination,US hotels & resorts & even worse NYC jerks who will overspend on p***y,prime example,look on the Dominican board
Rebel Monger
11-17-05, 07:19
If the old man is losing his mind & his health is deteriorating,i hope his brother Raul or whoever takes charge when Raul goes as Raul is very old as well,doesnt screw things up & lets the American into Cuba.The last thing we all want is for Cuba to be just like every other Caribbean destination,US hotels & resorts & even worse NYC jerks who will overspend on p***y, prime example,look on the Dominican boardIsn't the USA the one keeping the Americans out of Cuba?
IMHO, things won't stay the same in Cuba after Fidel. They either befriend the USA (most likely) or close the island to all sexual tourism. Cubans are not really thrilled about the sexual destination label!
Member #3200
11-18-05, 00:57
Once Fidel & Raul die,Cuba will never be the same again
Mongering will be non-existant or North Americanized prices
I hope i have 3 more years of Cuba fun b4 the Americans ruin it for all of us
Member #3200
11-18-05, 13:58
I'm planning to leave for Cuba Nov 25th or 26th,I desperately need some mongering tips regarding any or if not all of the places mentioned above.As a cuba regular-I know the tricks of the trade & i do very well in havana & cienfuegos,but i want 2 try somewhere new.My Spanish is very poor,i always stay at resorts so i know that i have 2 go offsite for playtime,I desperately neeed everyboys help regarding which of the destinations mentioned above is the best choice for action & the availability of chicas are NOT an expensive cab drive or 30 minute+ bus drive away.
Many thanks to all for your help,if you ever need help regarding cienfuegos,I'm more than willing to help
Member #3200
GermanBoy 2
11-19-05, 22:15
Hi member,
If you stay in a ressort, you can forget about all. I will arive in Havana at 23 nd stay there for 4 or 5 days. So if you want, we can drink a beer togethet of you are there at 25 - and at his time I have the latest news.
Only problem: I will leave Germany and internet-contact at the 22, so you have to hurry up :-)
Good luck
Having been to several places in Cuba, my recommendation from your list is Santiago. The 4 times I have been there I have never been dissapointed by the availability of hot women. There are a couple of nice hotels in town, but I'm not sure if you can call them "resorts" - though I stayed in casas.
There are women in Holguin but there is a high level of paranoia and not nearly as many non-mongering activities. There don't seem to be too many hotels in Holguin, though I did stay at the Pernik for a night. Nice pool but that was about it. I went to Guardalavaca twice this year, staying at a nice resort both times. I rented a scooter and could usually find girls for a BBBJ in the area pretty easily but made the 1 hour scooter trip to Holguin for all nighters. I wouldn't expect much in Cayo Coco since it's so isolated - but I'm not sure. I haven't been to Santa Lucia yet but will probably go at some point.
I thought Havana was a fascinating place but with so many tourists my opinion was it's very different from the rest of Cuba. I had a nice couple of days in Cienfuegos a few years ago - but Santiago was much better.
Methos
Hello guys.
Can somebody recommend me a Casa/Apartment independant (no sharing with Cuban Family)
Please PM with phone and contact. No web reservation systems.
Muchas Gracias.
Latinbull
The last time (and I mean last time!) I went through Cancun, on the way back from Cuba the prick at Mexican immigration demanded to see my passport, stamped it and handwrote in english: "Arrived from Havana." Fearing getting into some serious trouble upon my arrival in the US, I decided to rip that page out of my passport and throw it out in Mexico. I decided I'd rather say someone tried to take it from me and the page ripped than deal with questions about travelling to Cuba. Fortunately there were no questions in the US, and I got a new passport.
I decided to rip that page out of my passport and throw it out in Mexico.
very stupid. Regardless of what country, international DAS has all the info on their computers anyway when they scan your barcode it all can be seen, if the immigration agent gives a shit.
Cubalserito
12-12-05, 05:09
I saw in my last trip that now is mandatory to first stop at the secure plastic bag machine for your luggage when you leave Cuba (my flight was with CUBANA). This is good since one time I lost personal things (one pair of socks, some medecine and shaving cream when some people open my luggage arriving to the Jose martí airport.
This is strange since they not allow this secure system from Mexico to Havana.
Digital Curry
12-14-05, 17:18
Has anyone sold a Camcorder in Cuba? How much money did you get?
Was it easy to sell? Was there much demand?
DC,
Unless you sell it to another tourist you wont get much money. A normal Cubsan earns bout 15 $ a month.
Maybe you can trade it. I know a guy that was there with his bike and he had a girlfriend for two weeks that stayed with him only to get that bike when he left.
To buy an item;for example an ipod. I always have my ipod with me in Cuba. Cubans approach me all the time and ask how much; it's amazing but I've had several offerrs of more than $200 and it's a first generation ipod. It's true that most Cubans live meal to meal almost but some are able to save money to stuff like this.I had one guy who worked at the Inglaterra Hotel who was willing to pay $400 for it. I would of done it but I wanted to use my ipod while I was traveling. There is a big black market for all kinds of stuff and these folks make some good money.
very stupid. Regardless of what country, international DAS has all the info on their computers anyway when they scan your barcode it all can be seen, if the immigration agent gives a shit.I of course see the customs agents scanning my passport but dont know what data that system gives?
If I go to Cuba on a different passport (Argentina), can the USA still find out I was there? I am guessing not, since there is no recognition of dual citizenship between USA and Argentina and I doubt that their registries are linked. But can anyone confirm if this is safe?
I just want to minimize by chances of getting nailed with a big fine.
Rebel Monger
12-18-05, 19:47
I of course see the customs agents scanning my passport but dont know what data that system gives?
If I go to Cuba on a different passport (Argentina), can the USA still find out I was there? I am guessing not, since there is no recognition of dual citizenship between USA and Argentina and I doubt that their registries are linked. But can anyone confirm if this is safe?
I just want to minimize by chances of getting nailed with a big fine.I assume that as long as you use another passport, you're ok.
I don't understand what's the big deal about the restrictions, Cubans are supposed to go there once every three years, but they circumvent that by going through a third country and NOTHING happens to them. Once their permanent recidency is approved, they ask for a travel permit and go to Mexico, are the authorities so dumb that they do not know that they are going to CUBA!?
By the way, I don't think that going to Cuba for pussy is worthy. It's true that women are beautiful and cheap, but finding a place to take them is not easy.
Grey Soul 15
12-18-05, 22:29
"The last time (and I mean last time!) I went through Cancun, on the way back from Cuba the prick at Mexican immigration demanded to see my passport, stamped it and handwrote in english: 'Arrived from Havana.' "
Sounds like a disgruntled exile, I would have asked to speak to his supervisor and demanded to know why this customs official is defacing my property. Of course the possibility of him getting reprimanded or fired brings with it a higher chance of U.S. customs officials being alerted; but I’m hardheaded and shit like that makes my blood boil. Mexico is actually closer then Florida to the western tip of Cuba so I wouldn’t be surprised if they have their fair share of exiles that made a life there or try to get to the U.S. by crossing the Mexican-U.S. border. If you think that's bad try telling people here: http://www.babalublog.com that you like to vacation in Cuba for the booze, women, and beaches. People in Southern Florida have to deal with this kind of stuff all the time.
When the Miami Herald writes a story that the hard-line exile community doesn't agree with, you can bet that the next day Herald news stands will have dog shit smeared all over them. And if you tell a hard-line exile that you want to go to Cuba for some cheap R&R expect to be told that you're supporting a murdering dictator and you’re a communist in the best of circumstances. Expect a fist fight or worse if you’re unlucky. I think pretty hypocritical that the same people preaching about the evils of communist Cuba are buying cheap electronics and clothes that are made in Communist china that routinely tortures and murders religious practitioners and pro democracy dissidents. And are also filling their gas tanks with gas from Yemen, Oman, Egypt, Syria, and Sudan [which is supporting an ongoing genocide] countries that have some of the worse human rights records in the world. Not to mention that the large group of U.S. residents visiting Cuba and breaking the embargo are Cuban Exiles, which are also by far the largest and most dedicated group of people supporting the embargo.
Of course not all exiles are so extreme and a large majority quite nice. Only a minority of hard-liners pull this kind of shit. Sorry for the long rant, I’m just tired of a group of hard-line disgruntled foreigners pissing all over our right to travel [guaranteed by the constitution & the U.N. human rights charter signed by the U.S. government] and hurting our economy by not allowing U.S. citizens to engage in free commerce. After all I thought that a government controlled economy and lack of freedom to travel where hallmarks of a communist government not a democratic one.
Organicgrowth
12-20-05, 17:28
"After all I thought that a government controlled economy and lack of freedom to travel where hallmarks of a communist government not a democratic one.
I agree with what you say. I agree and would suggest that so many of the European mongers here also agree. The question is: As an American, what are you going to do about it?
Regards, Havanaman
Grey Soul 15
12-23-05, 18:57
I'm keep doing what I’ve been doing. Writing to my congressmen and educating my fellow citizens about how the embargo is inefficient, morally wrong, unlawful, and a bad economic decision. But the problem is there is a small group of pro travel & economic rights people, a larger group of anti travel & economic rights foreigners who don't give a shit about America or American citizens, are granted blanket residence in a politically vital state [a privilege not extended to illegal immigrants of any other nationality], and a shit-load of 'I don't cares' who agree with ending the embargo in principal but don’t see it as a particularly important issue. That's the problem in America apathy an issue really has to directly effect people to get them to get of their ass and write a few letters. And this problem isn’t going to get any better either.
It seems that all the anti Castro Cubans are only interested in running away from their problem and interested in fixing it for themselves. So nothing changes on the island and nothing changes in Miami. All the Cubans pissed off enough at Castro run off to America to exploit it for all it’s worth, and all the Cubans satisfied with Fidels form of government stay at home. Thus there’s no one to challenge Fidel or create a meaningful change because they all abandoned their countrymen. Nothing in Miami changes because the anti Castro hypocrites [I use the word hypocrite because I can’t think of any other way to describe someone who promotes an embargo against the Cuban government while legally breaking it by traveling to Cuba or sending money to Cubans which ends up in government coffers] continue to migrate to Florida and maintain the status quo. In other words the Cubans numbers keep growing and this gives them the political power to keep unfair cold war policies in place not extended any other nationality [such as wetfoot/dryfoot & the embargo], and these policies increase their numbers in a politically vital state which in turn gives them more political power.
It’s a continuing cycle and one that I fear won’t be stopped until a Democrat is in office for two terms. That way he won’t have to worry about getting re-elected and he won’t have to tip toe around a group that didn’t vote for him in the first place. Quite frankly I’m disappointed that Clinton didn’t put an end to this madness a long time ago. Oh well, I guess he was too busy getting his dick sucked. Everyone has their priorities I guess.
Rebel Monger
12-24-05, 22:31
It’s a continuing cycle and one that I fear won’t be stopped until a Democrat is in office for two terms. That way he won’t have to worry about getting re-elected and he won’t have to tip toe around a group that didn’t vote for him in the first place. Quite frankly I’m disappointed that Clinton didn’t put an end to this madness a long time ago. Oh well, I guess he was too busy getting his dick sucked. Everyone has their priorities I guess.He did try, and was very close to lifting the embargo, but then the Cuban government shot down two Brothers to the Rescue's airplanes. Doesn't it make you wonder why!?
The embargo has been in place for some 40 years but you didn't hear about it until (after) the USSR colapsed and with it, castro's cash flow;then, and in order to survive, Cuba was opened to tourisms. Now, foreigners could see the real situation in the island, and the embargo was the perfect excuse to justify it! What would happen if the embargo were lifted? Nothing! The cuban government would have to find a different excuse, because the only thing that could bring Cuba out of the hole is free enterprise, and that's not going to happen without a democracy.
Gray Soul, have you asked yourself for whom those "hardliners" in Miami are really working for? Who's really getting the benefit of their actions?
I consider myself anti-castro and I don't give a damn if the embargo is lifted tomorrow. If American businessmen are stupid enough to do business with a government that doesn't pay its debts, that is their problem. Cuba owes money to every country in the world, except USA!
El Cubanito
01-06-06, 21:18
Rebel Monger and Grey Soul, do you really know why the embargo is still alive? Even though the Embargo goes against any rationale? The answer is simple, money. The Anti-Castro folks in Miami get from uncle sam $550 million dollars to keep the embargo going. Do you really think these folks want the embargo to end? Do you know who the leader is? Lincoln Diaz-Balart!!!! Mr Diaz-Balart family is related to Castro. You got it now, you can do the math right? I thought so. Well there is your answer why the embargo is still on. Money
Saw the girls on this website havanacubaconection and was wondering what the story is? Some real hot chicks. Is this site legit? Are the pictures for real? Are they pros? any info would be appreciated. I would like to set up dates with some of the girls but not sure if this is just a big ripoff.
I wouldn't spend money on havanacubaconnection.
I think that the girls, thier pictures and profiles have not been updated for the last two years.
http://www.havanacubaconnection.com/
I think you're better off with amigos.com - you can obviously see that they have logged on recently.
Grey Soul 15
01-18-06, 05:46
"Rebel Monger and Grey Soul, do you really know why the embargo is still alive? Even though the Embargo goes against any rationale? The answer is simple, money. The Anti-Castro folks in Miami get from uncle sam $550 million dollars to keep the embargo going. Do you really think these folks want the embargo to end? Do you know who the leader is? Lincoln Diaz-Balart!!!! Mr Diaz-Balart family is related to Castro. You got it now, you can do the math right? I thought so. Well there is your answer why the embargo is still on. Money."
Money is one of the reasons the embargo is still there, but not the only reason. The U.S. Government gives millions of dollars to anti-Castro organizations to research the effects of the embargo. These organizations recommend to keeping the embargo in place and giving more money to the anti-Castro organizations. Big surprise.
But the embargo wouldn't be in place unless it had widespread support. If a large majority of voters wanted the embargo gone tomorrow and there was no opposition, then the embargo wouldn't stay in place. The embargo is supported by large numbers of Cuban exiles that aren't receiving any government money. I know plenty of them personally.
The fact remains that the embargo is still in place in order to pander to a group of voters in a politically important state. And this group of voters shouldn't be here in the first place! Why is it that when migrants from South & Central America are intercepted by the border patrol they are turned back, but when migrants from Cuba are intercepted by the border patrol and cost guard they are allowed to stay as long as they have made it to dry land?
The answer is simple. They are allowed to stay for the same reason the embargo is still in place. Politics. A politician running for office can't afford to alienate a large group with political clout in a politically important state.
Don't get me wrong. I don't support Castro at all. I think he’s a ruthless dictator. But it's not the place of the United States government to tell Cuba how it's country should be run. The fate in Cuba should rightly lie in the hands of Cuban citizens not politicians from the United States. It is the citizens of Cuba who bear the responsibility of deciding Cuba’s fate. With votes and non-violent tactics if possible or with bullets if necessary. I also don't support the U.S. government pandering to a group of [not all] Cuban immigrants and trampling all over American citizens' rights to travel freely and to engage in free market trade. I find it shocking that so many exiles support these governmental measures. Especially after immigrating from an authoritarian country that denies it's citizens' the right to travel and the right to engage in commerce. I would have thought that Cuban exiles would know better then most people how important it is to allow everyone to live their life free from authoritarian governmental interference.
RubMeister100
02-04-06, 03:09
Anyone recall where I might have seen a cheat sheet of spanish phrases useful for mongering?
I booked a flight to Havana and was told by the travel agent that Cubana requires that you provide a local contact number if you book air-only. It apparently went through either today or yesterday. Anybody know about this?
Has anyone gone to Cuba by boat like from Miami?
I've been doing my research because, while I have nothing to contribute at this time, I dont want to ask a question that has already been answered.
I have not seen any posts by guys who have been fined for visiting Cuba. I checked out the treasury department's website and saw that the number of fines issued has increased with the new regulations.
Has any been fined or heard of anyone getting fined? I would greatly appreciate a description of what happened. I'm guessing that these press releases are a way of scaring off Americans. If the numbers are true, I am wondering who is getting caught and how the US government finds out about their visit.
Also, I am thinking about visiting via the DR. I have seen posts saying Mexico and Canada share flight manifests with the US government. Does anyone know if the DR does this as well? Thanks for any info you can share.
Upon Rubmeister request:
Cuanto cuesta por ir contigo al cuarto?
How much does it cost to go with you to the room?
Quieres hacer el amor?
Do you want to make love?
Quieres hacerlo?
Do you want to do it?
Lo haces de perrito?
You do it like doggie?
Me lo vas a hacer por la boca?
Will you do it to me by the mouth?
Me lo chupas?
Will you suck me?
Lo chupas sin condon?
Do you suck it without a condom?
Te puedo chupar la vagina?
Can I suck your vagina?
Hacemos el sesenta y nueve?
Shall we do the 69?
Lo haces por el ano?
You do it by the anus?
Lo haces por el culo?
You do it by the ass?
Me puedo venir encima de ti?
Can I come on top of you?
Me puedo venir en…?
Can I come on…?
tus pechos
your breasts.
tu cara
your face
tu boca
your mouth
tus nalgas
your buttocks
tu espalda
your back
Cuanto cuesta por toda la noche?
How much does it cost for the entire night?
Mejor después
Later would be better
Gracias, pero, estoy un poco cansado
Thanks, but, I'm a little bit tired.
Ya casi no tengo dinero
I have almost no money
Gustaria una cerbeza?
Do you want a beer?
Cuanto años tienes?
How old are you?
Tus ojos me hacen loco.
Your eyes drive me crazy.
Eres la mayor bonita que todas otras chicas aqui.
You are the most beautiful girl here.
Me gusta tu sonrisa.
I like your smile.
Tienes una cuerpa bonita.
You have a wonderful body
Que pelo bonita!
what pretty hair!
Tienes hijos?
Do you have children?
Puedo ducharme?
Can I take a shower?
Quiero que vengas en la ducha conmigo por favor.
I want you to come in the shower with me.
Check also my usefull Latina Chica guide for dummies from the Sint Maarten section:
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=349588&postcount=36
Grand Pollo
02-14-06, 02:35
Once again, this list is provided with a mix of things you'd never say or the use of almost medical terms. Geting into the position of having to ask these questions opens you up to this reply:
"No."
So don't ask.
If you cannot speak adequate Spanish using this list and I can imagine the horror of printing it out and reading from it, makes you look like you are not calling the shots and using terms that are laughable at best.
See the following improvements. And learn Spanish. Take a class.
Cuanto cuesta por ir contigo al cuarto?
How much does it cost to go with you to the room?
Nobody would say this. Try: Cuanto quieres ir conmigo por la noche (or) por pocos horas. To soften the blow for non-pros this: Quieres un regalo para ir conmigo? Gustarias cuanto pesos? (Do you want a gift to come with me? How much would you like?)
Quieres hacer el amor?
Do you want to make love?
Or this.
Quieres hacerlo?
Do you want to do it?
Lo haces de perrito?
You do it like doggie?
Or this.
Me lo vas a hacer por la boca?
Will you do it to me by the mouth?
Or this.
Me lo chupas?
Will you suck me?
This says will you suck it to me (shades of Laugh-In). Try the imperative. Chupame. Ahora.
Lo chupas sin condon?
Do you suck it without a condom?
Ask this and you get a "no". Point the saber at the mouth and off she goes.
Te puedo chupar la vagina?
Can I suck your vagina?
Puedo chupar tu chocho/bicho/chocha/etc. Unless you want to be the first to actually use the word "vagina" with a hooker. Or ask this at all.
Hacemos el sesenta y nueve?
Shall we do the 69?
Los "69" , plural, though I cannot imagine asking anyone this. Just move her in the right direction.
Lo haces por el ano?
You do it by the anus?
NOBODY would say this. E.g. use of the word anus is up there with vagina. Maybe with a nurse or scientist.
Lo haces por el culo?
You do it by the ass?
Me puedo venir (*) encima de ti?
Can I come on top of you?
Or this. This literally implies you are on top not coming on her body. Just do it, don't ask. (*) See following.
Me puedo venir en…?
Can I come on…?
In a lot of locations "venir" (to "come") will not be understood vs. terminar (to finish). Also who asks? Really? All you give is a chance to say no. Or say you want to put your leche somewhere. Point .Just do it. Some girls freaky types respond well to "Donde quieres mi leche?" Where do you want my come? Watch the number of mouths , faces , breasts, etc, pointed at.
tus pechos
your breasts.
Rare vs. just using tetas or the local slang for boobs.
tu cara
your face
tu boca
your mouth
tus nalgas
your buttocks
Cula is much more common. The noun is culo , often feminized to cula, just like cuerpo is the noun for body regardless of gender and is sometimes said as cuerpa. It's cuerpo though.
tu espalda
your back
Cuanto cuesta por toda la noche?
How much does it cost for the entire night?
Switch gustaria or quieres for cuesta - turn it from a cash sale like a liqour store to an offer for company.
Mejor después
Later would be better
There is no verb here. Use Después estaria mejor.
Gracias, pero, estoy un poco cansado
Thanks, but, I'm a little bit tired.
Ya casi no tengo dinero
I have almost no money
Tha "ya" means already or yet and doesn't belong here.
Gustaria una cerbeza?
Do you want a beer?
Gustarias unless you don't know her and since you want to screw, "tu" is allowed. Also it is pronounced cerbeza but spelled cerveza.
Cuanto años tienes?
How old are you?
Tus ojos me hacen loco.
Your eyes drive me crazy.
Eres la mayor bonita que todas otras chicas aqui.
You are the most beautiful girl here.
This says you are the best than other girls here. Better to avoid the comparitive as it implies she is not compared to girls not here. Something the like: Eres la mayo chica en todo el mu ndo. (In the world).
Note the odd spelling of the word for 'world' is due to the board software thinking it is a bad word somehow. Join the mu with the ndo.
Me gusta tu sonrisa.
I like your smile.
Tienes una cuerpa bonita.
You have a wonderful body
really cuerpo bonito. See above.
Que pelo bonita!
what pretty hair!
Tienes hijos?
Do you have children?
Puedo ducharme?
Can I take a shower?
No need to ask here this at all. Your room ,your shower, your rules. Don't ask.
Quiero que vengas en la ducha conmigo por favor.
I want you to come in the shower with me.
tell her vs. ask, E.g.: Vamos a la ducha. Nos ducharmos en junto.
Let's go to the shower. We will shower together.
Grand Pollo
02-14-06, 02:41
Anyone recall where I might have seen a cheat sheet of spanish phrases useful for mongering?
See the edited list at the top. Really you will look totally uber-gringo-like unless you can memorize a few, please don't carry a computer print out and read from it like a script. Frankly, sex is an easy form of non-verbal com unication past the payment part which I have edited to make it less of a commerce transaction and more like a present for company.
EVERYTHING you ask for opens the door to say no. Vs. doing it at best gets a frown, no response or a slap and who cares?
Note it is the three letters m u n that it thinks is bad. What is m u n supposed to be in terms of a bad word?
Grand Pollo
02-14-06, 02:43
Has anyone gone to Cuba by boat like from Miami?
They do it a lot the other way around. Doubtful the US approves much US to Cuba boat travel.
Many Americans go by boat to Marina Hemingway near Habana. I was there 4 years ago and was surprised by the number of US boats. There is also a pizza bar and night club there. It is legal to travel to Cuba, just illegal to buy things there...Trading with the Enemy Act.
I leaving at the end of the week a Cuban friend has asked me to bring him some items and I've never had to bring anything with me before. Does anyone know what the import duties are and how they work in Cuba.
Thanks
Many Americans go by boat to Marina Hemingway near Habana. I was there 4 years ago and was surprised by the number of US boats. There is also a pizza bar and night club there. It is legal to travel to Cuba, just illegal to buy things there...Trading with the Enemy Act.How is the hazzle to go in and coming back, if you get caught?
How is the ride, is it only by a couple of hour long?
Ivon, I've gone through customs tons of times with stuff for my friends. The key is to pack everything in your luggage. Also don't declare anything and just brazenly walk out, preferably in a group.
If they hail you, feign ignorance and reply in polish,greek or something bizarre. They won't bother with the hassle. They'd rather spend their time hassling latin-looking returnees!
Thanks, my friend wants some computer parts and I wasn't sure how to get them through. The last time I went through customs, I pretended not to be able to speak Spanish. With the most recent report from Rub Master 100 saying that Havana was a drag, I don't need any more aggravation. I don't mind doing the odd favor for my Cuban friends, but there is a line between friendship and exploitation. I am not Wal-Mart. In case it has been mentioned before, foreign friends and the ability to bring stuff into Cuba is a form of currency for Cubans, it can give you (Cubans) leverage in the daily grind if you can hook someone up.
its only 60 miles from Key West. Alot of boats in dock were from there. I have only gone by air from Nassau. Take a flight to Nassau and by a ticket to Habana on Cubana. There is a Canadian agency on the internet called Nash Travel. Call them, they will sell you a ticket with a credit card and have the ticket ready for you at the Cubana ticket counter in Nassau. I have done it many, many times.
Everyone should go before the embargo gets lifted.
I've been doing my research because, while I have nothing to contribute at this time, I dont want to ask a question that has already been answered.
I have not seen any posts by guys who have been arrested and fined for visiting Cuba. I checked out the treasury department's website and saw that the number of fines issued has increased with the new regulations.
Has any been fined or heard of anyone getting fined? I would greatly appreciate a description of what happened. I'm guessing that these press releases are a way of scaring off Americans. If the numbers are true, I am wondering who is getting caught and how the US government finds out about their visit.
Also, I am thinking about visiting via the DR. I have seen posts saying Mexico and Canada share flight manifests with the US government. Does anyone know if the DR does this as well? Thanks for any info you can share.
I know a guy who I met on the Nassau flight to Havana. He travelled every month to visit his fiancee. He told me once they stopped him on his re-entry into the US customs in the Nassau airport because he had a "Fedor's on Cuba" sticking out of his jacket pocket and they asked him for his address.
A few months later he got a letter from the US government saying he had violated the law and they would settle with him for $7,500 or he could demand a hearing.
He sent he letter back demanding a hearing with a Judge. Nothing more happened. I heard that the government did not have enough federal judges to hear the matters because their dockets are already too crowded, so nothing happens.
Once, on one of my 5 trips, I had a can of cuban cola in my hand carryon suitcase. The brand name is "Tucola". The agents in Nassau had a sign saying they were searching for hoof and mouth disease reasons. They searched my bag but either did not see the can or did not say anything about the can.
There is a Canadian agency on the internet called Nash Travel. Call them, they will sell you a ticket with a credit card and have the ticket ready for you at the Cubana ticket counter in Nassau.
NGP, I'd greatly appreciate it if you would respond to a few more questions.
How did you pay for the ticket on Cubana? Did you use a US credit card? I checked out the Cubana website and went through the entire flight reservation procedure except for making payment. All they ask for is your name so I figure as long as you don't pay for the flight with your own US credit card, there is no way to connect you other than your first and last name. Do you think this is true? If so, all I have to do is to find a canadian who will let me charge the ticket to their credit card.
I heard that flying through Canada was not safe anymore because the canadian airport officials share their flight manifests with the US authorities. Do you think it is safe to use a canadian travel agency?
Thanks for the info. I will share my experience if everything works out.
Organicgrowth
02-21-06, 22:39
Maxx,
I believe that the sinister USA SS (secret service) have access to the manifesto of every flight in the inhabited world. I further believe that this is done at a national level agreement between governments and being as it is probable a part of T.W.A.T. the information is very easily and very readily supplied by all nations to each other. This can be either as a request or as routine. Even as a European, I now have a 24 digit number in my passport after my last visit to NY when I was accosted by one of the USA-SS.
The bottom line here being: they known where we go!
I still sleep safe knowing that SS are “on the wall” protecting me form excesses of women & alcohol…
Regards, Havanaman
Member #2001
02-21-06, 22:57
Maxx,
I believe that the sinister USA SS (secret service) have access to the manifesto of every flight in the inhabited world. I further believe that this is done at a national level agreement between governments and being as it is probable a part of T.W.A.T. the information is very easily and very readily supplied by all nations to each other. This can be either as a request or as routine. Even as a European, I now have a 24 digit number in my passport after my last visit to NY when I was accosted by one of the USA-SS.
The bottom line here being: they known where we go!
I still sleep safe knowing that SS are “on the wall” protecting me form excesses of women & alcohol…
Regards, Havanaman
Yea I guess that is true but if you have another passport other then american I dont think they can keep track of this. Expecially if you have duel citizenship.
First of all not all counties would be willing to or will give thier permission to do this. I am speaking about countries that are not freindly to America and they're numbers are growing. Countries like Cuba, Venezuealla, and China.
Personally, the next time I plan to travel I will only use my american passport to enter the country and will not allow any stamp to be put into my passport, even if it means having to purchace a visa. I have duel citezenship.
I think its also not difficult to get deul citizenship from what ever country you want. Just marry a girl from the country you want to get citizenship or pay someone to marry you. I guess its easy.
I suggest all others duel citizens to do the same!!!. Same as when ever makeing a phone call. Never use your phone, but better to use a program like Skype (skype.com). They use encription which is nearly impossible to decode, and even if it was decoded the time and trouble to decode it is not worth it to find out about where I am calling from or who I am talking to, or about my monger habits.
About surcumventing the internet: There are special ways to do this also and they are posted in this forum, either by way of a proxie server or programs like TOR that allows you to serf it complete annomity.
Where there is a will, there is a way to defeat big brother and the SS. Rmember the movie 1984?
Cheers
How did you pay for the ticket on Cubana? I charged it on a Credit Card with Nash Travel. I picked it up in Nassau at the Cubana ticket counter where it was waiting for me, after my connecting flight to Bahamas.
Did you use a US credit card? Yes
I heard that flying through Canada was not safe anymore because the canadian airport officials share their flight manifests with the US authorities.
I do not know but went thru the Bahamas. Cubana Airlines does not share info with American authorities.
Do you think it is safe to use a canadian travel agency?
Yes. Call Nash Travel in Toronto and ask them.
Member #2001
02-21-06, 23:24
I have never been to cuba but I would never pay by credit card as it an easy way to track your whereabouts. Better to pay cast in the country you will be leaving from.
TO find out the i information contact a local travel agengy or consulate in the country you will be leaving from. Maybe Columbia, Veneswuala. or Canada.
Never, never let the govermet know any more then you want them to know!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Even when entering or exiting the country, any country. Keep your answers as short as possible. When entering the states assume you will be searched and if they threaten detainment ask them whats for lunch or dinner. Its just a threat and a ploy to get you to say something. A form of interagation. By the way I use to go through this shit all the time. about 50 percent of the time before 9-11. There is nothing they can do do you.
Nash travel is a Canadian company and the charge appears on your bill as charged to them, not Cubana.
Big Bro AJ
02-27-06, 13:47
I am an active monger in Moscow and Istanbul sections.
My buddy and I were planning to arrange 5-7 days long tour to Cuba or Brazil in following months.
We read previous reports, but still have Qs.
Our budget will be approximately $2500(accomodation included) per person.
We only speak Russian, English, German and Turkish. None of us speak or understand Spanish or Portuguese.
We are at the parting of the ways.
We were planning to explore the beauties of Latino chicas. (I had a chance to taste some in Miami but nothing compare to homeland girls).
I sense that mongers keep complaining about the police and reminisce the good old days.
Are we in dream for Cuba and change our route to Brazil?
Either way,
Is our budget enough for such trip?
We are aware that speaking the language is very important, but even though do we have a chance to monger?
Is it possible to rent secure and clean apartments? Or just stay at hotel?
Thanks in advance,
AJ
PS: This message posted in both Brazil and Cuba sections.
Hey BB AJ,
I've been there about 8 times now and still enjoy it. But although Cuba is still a great spot for vets its getting harder and harder for newbies. Especially if you don't speak any spanish. Cuba is cheaper than Brazil but i'd think about going to Brazil if I were you. Things are easier there nowaday.
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