North and Central America and Caribbean

Cuba is increasingly being used as a transit country for drugs destined for Europe.  Cuban courts are handing out very severe penalties (in excess of twenty years) for drugs related offences.  Pack all luggage yourself and don’t carry any items that do not belong to you.

 

Cuba prohibits the import of all meat products.  The import of fruit is normally banned too.  If you arrive in Cuba with any of the above you will have your goods confiscated and destroyed on arrival.

 

Avoid military zones and other restricted areas that are not always well sign-posted.  Be particularly careful when taking photographs or video film.

 

The Cuban Authorities take a serious view of any breach of their immigration rules, in some cases those who overstay are detained by Immigration on departure and held in custody until reports are received on their activities whilst in the country.

 

Acceptance of gay relationships is more widespread than in the past.  However, there are few places where gays can socialise openly and same-sex couples - particularly if one partner is Cuban - should be careful about public displays of affection, which can lead to unwelcome attention from the police and local authorities.

 

For more general information for different types of travellers see our Your trip page.