According to forum posts, Viazul is a popular bus service for intercity travel in Cuba, with an online reservation system displaying the number of available seats for each journey. Travelers have mentioned that the buses generally run on schedule and are quite reliable, though the air conditioning is often set very high.

Some travelers have discussed the Transtur/Conectando bus services, which are public transport options that can be booked through hotel tour desks. These buses offer the convenience of picking up passengers at their hotels, but this can add significant time to the journey as the bus visits multiple hotels.

For many users, private taxis appear to be a common choice for direct and faster travel between cities, albeit at a higher cost. Shared taxis, known as collectivos, are also mentioned as a cost-effective way to travel, allowing payment per seat, which can be as low as $1 to $3 for shorter trips.

Travelers have called out the option of renting cars through agencies like Via Renta A Car, though it's noted that rental costs can be quite high, ranging from $75 to $110 CUC per day, and availability can be limited. It's suggested that for longer distances, hiring a car with a driver might be more practical and safer, considering the conditions of the roads and the scarcity of services like roadside assistance.

According to forum posts, both credit and debit cards are accepted in Cuba, particularly those issued by Canadian banks. However, some travelers have reported issues with certain cards not working. It is recommended to confirm with your bank before traveling to ensure your card is operational in Cuba.

Many travelers emphasize that cash is still the primary mode of payment, especially for smaller purchases and in places that do not accept cards. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted, and having cash on hand is advised due to occasional issues with card transactions.

Posts indicate that prepaid CUP cards are available but are restricted to Cuban nationals or residents. These cards are used for a variety of services including tax payments and purchases in stores.

Travelers also mentioned alternative methods such as sending top-ups to mobile phones, which can then be converted into cash by locals. This method is particularly highlighted for sending funds to individuals in Cuba.

According to forum posts, the best currency to take to Cuba is the British Pound (Sterling) for those traveling from the UK. Euros are also a viable option, especially because US dollars face a 10% penalty on cash exchanges.

Travelers have noted that while in Cuba, it's advisable to exchange foreign currency into Cuban pesos (CUP) once you arrive rather than beforehand, as Cuban currency is a closed currency and cannot be bought outside of Cuba.

Some users mentioned that while US dollars are often accepted and can be favorable for tipping, Euros might offer better exchange rates and are widely accepted. Despite some conflicting information, US dollars, Euros, and Canadian dollars are all used in various transactions in Cuba.

For many users, credit card acceptance is limited, and it's important to ensure that the card is not issued by a bank with US affiliations due to restrictions. Therefore, carrying sufficient cash in the recommended currencies is essential for convenience.

According to forum posts, travelers can purchase a Cuban visa, also known as a tourist card, at their departure airport. This is particularly common for flights departing from the US.

Some users indicated that if you are flying directly from the US, the cost of the required Cuban health insurance is included in the airline ticket price.

Travelers have called out that you can also apply for visas online for travel from the UK, with delivery by post, though there may be postal delays, especially near holiday seasons. Additionally, some airlines operating from Canada to Cuba include the tourist card in the ticket price, simplifying the process for travelers from Canada.

For American travelers, no specific US government approval is needed to travel to Cuba, but a valid passport and the Cuban tourist card are essential. When purchasing the tourist card, travelers are asked to declare a reason for their visit, commonly selected as Support for the Cuban people.

According to forum posts, the NH Capri in Vedado is recommended for its central location, good restaurants, and rooftop pool, offering reasonable rates. The Iberostar Parque Central is praised for its ideal location, great rooftop pool, and lobby area, along with a quality cigar shop on the property, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for a mix of luxury and convenience.

Some travelers suggested staying in casa particulares like Casa Obispo 307, which is highly recommended and seems to be open for guests. These options are favored by those seeking a more authentic Cuban experience, often providing personalized services and a cozy atmosphere.

The Hostal Balcones Muralla in Old Havana is highlighted for its rooftop bar and central location, though it is noted as being pricier than some casa particulares but cheaper than typical hotels. This type of accommodation is suitable for travelers looking for charming, boutique-style lodging with convenient access to local attractions.

According to forum posts, travelers can bring gifts to Cuba under specific customs regulations. There is a tax-free importation allowance of 50 CUC for gifts. Items exceeding this value may be subject to taxation at customs.

Travelers have called out that bringing common items like toys, clothes, and personal hygiene products usually does not attract much attention unless they are in large quantities that suggest commercial intent. Electronics and multiple identical items are more likely to be flagged and taxed.

Some travelers suggested distributing gifts through local organizations such as churches or charities to ensure they reach those in need. This method also helps in avoiding potential complications at customs.

For many users, experiences with Cuban customs vary. Some reported smooth entries with personal gifts, while others faced strict checks and were required to pay duties on items that exceeded the allowed value or quantity limits.

According to forum posts, some UK mobile networks like Vodafone and EE offer roaming services in Cuba, but they are costly. For instance, Vodafone charges £2.40 per minute for calls and £1.80 to receive calls, while EE charges £3.13 per minute for calls. Data services on these networks are generally not available.

For many users, purchasing a local SIM card appears to be a popular choice. Posts indicate that Cubacel offers various data packages, such as 600 MB for 7.00 USD and up to 4GB for 30.00 USD. These SIM cards can be pre-ordered or bought upon arrival at stores like Etecsa.

Travelers have called out the availability of Wi-Fi in most hotels and some public areas, although the quality can be inconsistent. Wi-Fi cards are also mentioned as a cost-effective way to access the internet, with prices around 1 CUC for 1 hour of use.

Some travelers suggested using communication apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger when connected to Wi-Fi to avoid high roaming charges. This allows for free calls and messages over the internet.

According to forum posts, for travelers interested in beaches that offer additional activities such as snorkeling, Jibacoa Beach is highly recommended. It is praised for its offshore snorkeling opportunities and is located about an hour from Varadero, hosting two resorts right on the beach.

For first-time visitors to Cuba, several travelers have called out Varadero as an ideal destination. It's noted for its beautiful stretch of beach and accessibility to Havana for day trips or nightlife experiences. The area hosts several adult-only resorts, which are favored for their location on one of the nicest parts of the Varadero beach.

Some users suggested exploring Cayo Santa Maria for its pristine beaches, although it is noted that it's a bit more isolated, being 1.5 hours from the airport with less off-resort activity available. Cayo Coco was also mentioned for its excellent beaches and proximity to the airport, though similarly, it offers limited activities outside the resort area.