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2021
21
November
Can we use Canadian cash or credit cards to exchange for CUC at Varadero resorts in December?
21
November
Question:
Humans say...
Mark
We went a couple years ago. You can exchange at the airport or the resort. The exchange rate is pretty terrible when you're buying CUC but when they buy it back when you leave you make the same rate back. The resorts we stayed at had safes in each room. We were in Havana and Veradero and never felt anything but safe and welcomed.
Just as a heads up... Internet at the resort wasn't cheap or reliable.
Tapz
I took cash with me and exchanged at hotel. Tried to get some extra cash out of bank machine in town with mastercard and debit card but no luck. They did however except visa.
Kanan
Canadian cash works there.
Viv
I find it easiest to get some pesos before you go. Most resorts have bank machines that you can withdraw as you need it
Lisa
Viv you can take pesos to Cuba? Thought u could only get their currency there
Viv
Lisa Baaahhh. Very Sorry, thought you were going to Mexico!
Allison
Things may have changed but when we went the hotels and banks are steep and changed it to $us then cuban convertble kinda odd and double charged for 2 exchanges can to us then us to cc. I cant recall if we could get cc at the bank but they did take it when we got home.
Jennifer
Be careful what currency you tip with, I believe it is best to to with Cuban $. Also lots of people take things down to leave for various staff as it is very hard for them to buy anything (check out a local grocery store and see how empty).
Ken
When returning we were approached by a guy who, on the side, offered to buy our spare CUCs with CAD$ at a much higher rate than the official airport desk. We took a chance, but need to be watchful, and was a very good deal.
The locals are very keen to get hold of CUCs as they officially can't get them and have to normally use their own lower value currency. Win-win.
Deb
CUCs are no longer a Cuban currency as of January 1, 2021. Tip with Canadian paper money - no loonies or twonies. They will also take US paper money, but it is harder for Cubans to exchange. You can use your Canadian credit card at the hotel or bigger restaurants. Flea markets will take Canadian paper money. Do not expect to get Canadian change back from there.
Darryle
Deb is correct about the CUC
Janice
Just make sure you double count it before you leave the counter. We were almost “short changed”
A.I. says...
Exchanging Currency at Your Varadero Resort: A Canadian Traveler's Guide
Planning a December trip to Varadero and wondering about the best way to handle your money? It's a common question for Canadian travelers. Here's a breakdown of your options for exchanging currency at your resort.
Canadian Cash vs. Debit/Credit Cards
While you can take Canadian cash to exchange for Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUC) at your resort's front desk, it's generally not the most recommended option. Here's why:
Exchanging Canadian Cash:
- Less Favourable Exchange Rates: Resorts often offer less competitive exchange rates for cash compared to using a credit/debit card. You'll likely get a better deal at a CADECA (Cuban exchange house) or a bank in town, but venturing off the resort might not be your priority, especially upon arrival.
- Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Bringing a significant amount of Canadian cash poses a security risk.
Using Your Canadian Debit/Credit Card:
- Generally Better Exchange Rates: Using your Canadian debit or credit card directly usually provides a more advantageous exchange rate compared to exchanging cash at the resort.
- Convenience: It's much more convenient to use your card than to carry large amounts of cash.
- Important Note about Visa vs. Mastercard: While both Visa and Mastercard are accepted in Cuba, it's crucial to confirm with your specific bank or credit card provider about their policies regarding transactions in Cuba. Some Canadian financial institutions may have restrictions. Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard in Cuba. If you have both, bring your Visa.
Best Practices for Currency Exchange in Varadero:
- Contact Your Bank/Credit Card Provider: Before you leave, inform your bank and credit card company of your travel dates and destination. This will help avoid any issues with your cards being blocked for suspicious activity.
- Check for Fees: Inquire about any foreign transaction fees or other charges your bank or credit card company might apply to transactions in Cuba.
- Consider a Prepaid Travel Card: Another option is to load a prepaid travel card with Canadian dollars before your trip. This can help you budget and avoid any surprises with fees.
- Small Amount of Cash: Bring a small amount of Canadian cash for tips, small purchases at local markets, or in case of emergencies. You can exchange this smaller amount at the resort or a CADECA if needed.
In Conclusion:
For most Canadian travelers heading to Varadero, using a Canadian debit/credit card (particularly Visa) directly at the resort is the most convenient and often cost-effective way to get CUC. Remember to check with your bank or credit card company beforehand to avoid any potential issues. Bringing a small amount of Canadian cash for incidentals is a good idea but avoid exchanging large sums at the resort. Enjoy your trip!
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Veronica
Hello, we are traveling to Varadero in December and I am wondering about currency exchange at the resort. Do we take Canadian cash or can we use our debit/credit cards to get CUC at the front desk? Canadian credit/debit cards of course.