Lonely Planet helpful in Cuba

Having visited Cuba twice (once almost 15 years ago and again two years ago) — traveling all around the island, alone, independently by bus — I was happy to see Birute Skurdenis’ helpful advice in “Suggestions for filling some free time in Cuba” (Jan. ’17, pg. 44). She noted that “Traveling independently [in Cuba] can be a challenge.” 

My experience confirmed that, but it also revealed that traveling independently in Cuba was no more of a challenge than it was in some of the other 68 countries I’ve visited.

For my most recent trip, I made bus and hotel reservations on the Internet, and my biggest challenge was finding rooms. With the increase in the number of tourists visiting Cuba, the number of people sometimes exceeds the number of hotel rooms available. However, using Lonely Planet’s “Cuba” guide, I was always able to find acceptable accommodations, including in Santa Clara and Old Havana. 

Independent travelers should make reservations well in advance.

KENNETH CROSBY

Livingston, TX