Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/621051
HOW STRICT IS THE ITINERARY? U.S. law requires that you follow the full-time schedule of your escorted tour itinerary. Deviation from your itinerary is not permitted. There will be little free time on most days of this tour, in order to fully experience the destination through its people. You may have some down time in the evenings when dinner is not included. Please note that it may be necessary to substitute specific itinerary inclusions, visits, meetings with individuals and organizations, etc. with alternatives of equal relevance and interest. CAN I USE MY CREDIT/DEBIT/ATM CARD IN CUBA? U.S. financial institutions and Cuban vendors are NOT set up to process credit card, debit card and ATM transactions in Cuba. Bring a sufficient amount of cash (prices are similar to the U.S.) for purchases and services. U.S. currency is NOT accepted in Cuba. We strongly recommend that you exchange your U.S. dollars for CUC's upon arrival, though you may want to keep some U.S. singles for tipping. Traveler's Checks may be difficult to cash and are not recommended. HOW DO I EXCHANGE U.S. DOLLARS? U.S. dollars can be exchanged for CUC (Cuban Convertible Peso) at any airport, hotel, exchange bureau in town centers and some banks. The CUC is equal to the U.S. dollar, but there is a currency transaction fee of 13% (so for 100 USD you will get 87 CUC). The same fee applies regardless of where the money is exchanged, and you must present your passport to make the conversion. Bills that are torn or written will not be on accepted. WILL MY CELL PHONE WORK IN CUBA? U.S. cell phones do not work in Cuba, even if you have an international plan. It is possible to call home from your hotel by visiting the business center or dialing direct from your room, however rates can be very expensive. Emergency contact numbers to leave with your relatives at home will be provided with your documentation. IS INTERNET AVAILABLE IN CUBA? WiFi is not available throughout Cuba except at some hotels. Please keep in mind that because of the limited technology in Cuba, it is common to have slower service than you are used to or even full internet outages. CAN I BUY SOUVENIRS? Per U.S. regulations, you are allowed to bring back $400 worth of goods for personal use, of which $100 of that can be brought back in tobacco and alcohol products. Informational materials, such as books, art (including handicrafts, ceramics, sculptures), music and videos, are not included in this amount and do not count towards the $400 limit. You may be asked to show U.S. Customs officials your receipts or a copy of the authorization letter you are traveling on (located in your travel documents). WHAT IS THE CUBA MEDICAL INSURANCE? There will be an Asistur stamp on the back of your charter flight ticket, indicating that Cuban medical insurance is included for emergencies. Havanatur reps on the ground will assist if any medical services are needed while on tour.