Is Cuba; specifically Havana, safe to visit?

Question

I am planning on travelling to havana at some point this year however nothing has been booked as yet. In view of the recent circumstances with guevera stepping down and his son taking over, the fact that they are a comminist nation plus so poor that guns are pretty much cheaper than some foods, do you think that it is a safe place for tourists. i have been advised by a friend, albeit quite an exagerator, that it is not safe to be there for long, and that if i turn down a wrong street expect to have people with AK.47s just standing there!!
Im not particularly faint hearted, and wouldnt usually mind going to a poor nation like this however my friend has made me a little concerned. we are planning travelling all inclusive therefore much of our time will be at the hotel, however we would love to see the old town etc. thanks in advance - sorry for the rambling.

Additional Details

Thomas R - didnt know that!!! thankfully am from UK though

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Cuba is very safe for visitors. Havana must be one of the safest cities of comparable size. It is also a fascintating, haunting place. Many people come here and get hooked - they just keep coming back.

As mentioned, the society is controlled, and it is not legal for the general populace to carry guns.

In the tourist areas, you will see lots of police.

There is some snatch and run theft, but very few muggings. Late at night, you should be careful not to wander into some deserted back areas - stay on the main streets.

Have a look at www.cuba-junky.com - that mentions a guy who works as a guide.

PS it was Castro who retired, and handed over to his brother.

Source(s):

I live in Havana (and am from the UK).

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thank you veyr much for your insight and advise. I certainly wont be missing out on this wonderful place, im booking tomorrow!!

(thanks for correcting me on the whole guevara/castro thing - apologies!!!!! got them confused)
thanks again

Answer 2

If comunism does not bother you, it is rather safe.
What are you saying about guevera stepping down and his son taking over ? Please explain

Guns cheaper ? You think you can buy guns in cuba ? Ha !

Nobody can buy guns in cuba. The guns are in the hands of the State and God forbids a civilian from being found with a gun !

Oh, yes, there are many people with AK - 47, that is true

Source(s):

Cuban

Answer 3

Just about every jinetero who spoke to me pointed out that there are two million secret Police in Havana. The only place I wouldn't go. day or night, is Centro. Most people who approach you in Havana will eventually ask for some pesos.

Answer 4

If you are from the US you will face problems if it is found out that you went to Cuba without one of the officially sanctioned groups/passes.

It is one of the few places you can't go.

Answer 5

Been and it's very safe.Just like anywhere use discretion.The only guns you
see are army(police)People have more here in the UK.Never saw one person(civilian)with a gun.

Answer 6

well there probably not going to go out and shoot you but just make sure theres alot of people around you don't get caught alone and dont provoke anyone

Answer 7

Put your fears aside. Cuba is probably the safest country in the Caribbean to visit. Use common sense of course, don't wear expensive jewelry or flash a wad of cash. I have visited many times , wandered around Havana and other cities with no trepidation whatsoever. I can assure you, you will see far fewer guns than you would in say the Dominican Republic where I lived for several years. Thomas r, with all due respect this is an English language page not an American page. by all means be sure to take a tour of Havana, most people agree it was the highlight of their visit. Cubans may be poor financially but they are some of the wealthiest people you will ever meet with their warm hearts and welcome to their country. Have a wonderful time, the links below may be of some help.
http://www.cuba-junky.com/cuba/what-to-b…

Source(s):

http://havana-video.blogspot.com/
http://www.gocuba.ca/en/index.asp
http://www.cuban-beaches.com/matanzas/va…
http://www.havana-guide.com/
http://www.oldhavanaweb.com/

Answer 8

If you are not travelling with a local, it's a good idea to get a guide, or someone like that to take you around, I expect.
but definitely go, why not?