Refrain from handing out money or anything else to children or beggars on the street. Cubans are not allowed to beg from tourists, and plainclothes police are on duty in most places where tourists and Cubans mix. It may be gratifying to hand out trinkets to people you view as needy, but these people could be questioned as soon as you disappear from sight, and you may be personally responsible for sending someone to prison.

As of 8 November, 2004, US Dollars are no longer legal tender in Cuba. Travellers must now use 'convertible pesos'; travellers cheques and credit cards drawn on American banks are also no longer acceptable. Exchanging US Dollars incurs a 20% charge. Cuban pesos, or moneda nacional , can be used at local venta libre stores, cafeterias and street stands, cinemas, and many other businesses away from popular tourist destinations. Cadeca, with kiosks throughout Cuba, changes currency at fair rates.

Cash is your best bet, and the best form is Canadian dollars, GBP or Euros. Credit cards (issued by a non-US bank), which incur a commission of 11.25%, are OK as a back-up though travellers cheques, which incur a commission of between 4-6%, are more economical.

For a Caribbean destination, Cuba is still reasonably affordable, though not cheap. A double room in a medium-priced beachside resort runs to the equivalent of about US$70.00 , US$100 all-inclusive. The same room in a state-run hotel costs around US$35.00 , and in a private residence US$15.00 - US$25.00 . Rooms are more expensive in the high season, which runs from December to April.

A meal in a state-run restaurant is US$10.00 - US$15.00 , while dinner for one at a paladar (privately owned restaurant) averages US$7.00 - US$10.00 . Taking the bus or train costs about US$4.00 for 100km (160mi), while a rental car cost between US$50.00 - US$85.00 a day, depending on the size and the length of time you use it for.

Cuban tourism workers rely on tips. People who deserve a tip (the minimum tip would be the equivalent of US$1.00 include museum staff who give you a complete tour, hotel guards who watch your rental car all night, helpful bus drivers, attentive waitstaff or anyone in the service industry who goes beyond the call of duty. Do not offer money to officials to obtain preferential treatment; governmental corruption is rare in Cuba and attempted bribery will only make things worse.

Paladars may or may not add 10-20% onto your bill as a 'tax' or 'service charge'. If you suspect a scam, ask to keep the bill and see what happens. All private businesses are heavily taxed to discourage competition with state-run entities, and the added costs are, of course, passed on to you. Avoid jineteros (touts) who offer to lead you to a room or restaurant, unless you don't mind having an extra US$5.00 or so tacked onto your bill.

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