Money in Cuba
For now, because of our embargo, US credit cards don't work. So -- for the time being -- for the American traveler, it's cash only. (Europeans and Canadians are free to use local ATMs -- just not Yankees.) Estimate the cash you'll need, and then bring more -- as there are plenty of temptations, surprise expenses, and locals who know what Americans can really afford. This was my major stress point for this vacation, as I underestimated how much cash I'd need and had to scramble to cover expenses to the end. To keep a little extra hard cash, I ended up paying my guide after getting home via Western Union. (Guides are in the tourist economy and charge far more than the local standards. I paid $100 a day -- still a great value.)
More...