4 Misconceptions and 6 tips from a Tour Organizer in Havana (Updated for April 2015)

DRAFT

Myth 1:  "There is a set price for tourists and a set price for locals"
Reality:  If you know how to talk with the locals, you can get the lower price.  

Myth 2:  "There is a going rate for tour guides."
Rality:  Guides will charge what they feel they are worth.   A celebrity photographer will have a different fee than a taxi driver.


Myth 3:  "It's cheaper to rent a car than to take taxis."
Perhaps in New York or other cities in USA.   It costs around $150 a day to rent a car and a driver.  You might spend $30 an hour for a taxi tour of Old Havana.

Spend an hour, then walk around, then take a cab back to your hotel.  That's less than $60.  You'll have a fine experience.

Get a list of things to
leave when you visit.

Myth 4:  "You can't buy anything in Cuba."  
Reality:  You can bring back up to $400 in goods, with a maximum of $100 in liquor and cigars (for PERSONAL consumption).  Many people have recounted the confiscation of cigars (and it happened to me several years ago).  Until Congress acts, it is not lawful to sell items that you bring from Cuba.
TIPS 
1  Decide what you want to see....  Do your homework.  Bring your expertise and your interests.   Don't be a "highlights" tourist.  Bring your special personality and connect with locals.    When I work with visitors, I have them decide on what they really want to see, and I will provide them with unique info.

2  Bring notebooks.  You can share them with locals and you can take notes to share with friends when you return home.
Remember, you are part of the bridge to the world.  Most Cubans can't check their email daily.  It's too expensive. You might be asked to take a photo and then "Can you send that photo to my cousin in Miami when you return home?"  That's a nice service.    Be ready with a pen and paper to take down the email address.

3  If you need special guides, they can be found at lower costs.   There are hundreds of experts who are very willing to spend time with you to share the patriomony of the nation.   Now if you only need guidance thru the art world, the museums specialist would be happy with 10 dollars and they would provide info and even make phone calls to connect you with the next stop.

Students want to practice
English with you...

4.  Bring things to share.  Pens, medical supplies... there are websites that give lists of suggestions.  Bring books in English to share at the Cuba Libro bookstore in Vedado.  https://www.facebook.com/cubalibroHAV  is the link to the store's facebook page. 
One of my clients made a list of items to bring here


5.  Ask about the FLEX University building.  It's near the Plaza of the Revolution and the Bus Station.  Students there are hoping that you will stop by and let them practice with you.

6.  Read blogs before you go.  I recommend HereIsHavana.com by Connor Gorry.   A photographer posted some photos from her trip HERE.   

Mario Llorente has organized specialized tours for private groups since 1990.