Top Frequently Asked Questions
| Travels Top Frequently Asked Questions |
| 1. What is the phrase Casa Particular? |
Casa Particular - Spanish for "Private House"; plural Casas Particulares - is a phrase meaning Private Accommodation or Private Homestays in Cuba, very similar to Bed and Breakfast although it can also take the form of Home Vacation Rental.
A casa particular is basically a private family establishment that provides paid lodging, usually on a short-term basis. In general under this term you can find full apartment and houses, rooms inside people homes, mini-apartments or rooms with separate entrance (studio or efficiency type rooms) and Villas.
The cost and quality of casas particulares are usually indicative of the accommodation type and type of services available. Most of the casas particulares are rented for short term to travellers. Long term accommodation is also provided by some casas, especially for foreign students. In Havana, the Casas Particulares are usually family apartments and a number of them are houses.
TYPES OF CASAS PARTICULARES RENTALS:
•Guesthouses or Private Room: It is an accommodation typically operated by a single family residence where guests can be accommodated in private bedrooms (which may or may not be equipped with private baths) and where breakfast, in some houses, is served in the morning. The business may be operated either as a primary occupation or as a secondary source of income, and the staff often consists of the house's owner(s) and members of their family who live there. A key to the apartment/house is usually given to the guest.
•Apartment: The guest can enjoy the privacy and independence of a full furnished apartment for his/her vacations. Sometimes this apartment is part of house being split by a wall usually with a connecting door.
•Studio or mini-apartment: it is not an apartment with several rooms but just the bedroom, a kitchen-living-dining room and a bathroom.
•Penthouse: an apartment located on the top floors of a building. It could be complete independent or share with the owner of the property.
•Villa-type or Independent House: it is independent property with several rooms like bedrooms, a kitchen, living-dining room and a bathroom (some have swimming pool)
NOTE ABOUT TYPES OF ROOM:
•Double Rooms are for two travelers sleeping in the same Bed (Double-Bed) - they can come with one big bed or with two separate beds
•Twin rooms have two separate Single Beds (twin-beds)
•Triple rooms have either three separate Bed, or a Double Bed plus a Single Bed.
•Quads rooms are designed for 4 people or more.
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| 2. Why you should go to Cuba now ? |
Cuba is different. It’s nothing like you can see and experience anywhere else. It’s not overridden with McDonald’s and locals seem to live the most relaxed lifestyle ever. You need to experience it to understand how fascinating Cuba really is. The time to visit Cuba is now.
After 50 years of being the same old true bastion of Communism, Cuba is bound to change. It’s gonna happen one way or another. And when it changes, there will be no difference between a vacation in Cuba and a vacation in Mexico.
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| 3. The HavanaCasaParticular.com Best Price Guarantee |
When you book with us, we want you to get exactly what you want - at the best possible price rate. That's why we created the HavanaCasaParticular.com Best Price Guarantee.
What is the Best Price Guarantee?
It’s simple! HavanaCasaParticular.com guarantees you’re getting the best price. If you should find a better price online for the same property before arriving, HavanaCasaParticular.com will match the price.
What does the Best Price Guarantee apply to?
The Best Price Guarantee covers virtually Property Rentals in Havana City
Best Price Guarantee: In the unlikely event that you find a lower rate on HavanaCasaParticular.com or on another website within 24 hours of booking with HavanaCasaParticular.com, we will match the price. This Best Price Guarantee is subject to the terms and conditions listed below.
Notifying HavanaCasaParticular.com of a Claim. You must contact us within before your arrival time. The lower rate must be available for booking at the time you contact us, as determined by our customer service representatives.
The Best Price Guarantee is available only for exact itinerary matches, for example, specific carrier or provider (including class of service), Property (including room type), applicable refund policy, and the exact same dates and times of travel or service as booked through HavanaCasaParticular.com. For any stand-alone product booking (for example, a property room) the comparison must be to the same product purchased stand-alone through another website (i.e., not part of a property). Except as noted below, the Best Price Guarantee applies only to the cost of booked travel, as presented in the HavanaCasaParticular.com.com search results. The Best Price Guarantee is not available for bookings on websites where the carrier, property, itinerary or similar booking details are unknown until after purchase. You must meet all requirements imposed on the lower price (if any), including, without limitation, residency, regional and age-related requirements.
How do I take advantage of the Best Price Guarantee?
Just call HAVANACASAPARTICULAR.COM o send E-mail to us within 24 hours of booking and tell our customer support representative where you found the lower price. All requests, including receipts, are subject to verification by HavanaCasaParticular.com. HavanaCasaParticular.com will not accept screenshots or other purported evidence of a lower price that cannot be independently confirmed by HavanaCasaParticular.com personnel. Nor will HavanaCasaParticular.com verify any request that it believes, in its sole discretion, is the result of a printing or other error or is made fraudulently or in bad faith. For verification of stand alone and non-prepaid property bookings, the customer service representative will instruct you to mail a copy of your property receipt to HavanaCasaParticular.com
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| 4. Do I need a Visa to enter in Cuba? |
Yes all the persons will need a valid visa or tourist card to enter into Cuba. The visa can be obtained in any Cuban Embassy or Consulate in your country or your travel agent or airline will give it to you when you buy your flight ticket. You need to pay around US $20 for the Visa. This allows a stay of 30 days in the country, and usually could be extended for 30 extra days. IMPORTANT: Cuba does not stamp passports.
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| 5. Why do you need an address of the Private House before arriving? |
In the airplane or when arriving at the airport, you need to fill out an entry form. This form in the police control you will be asked to provide the name of the hotel you will be staying in. You will write your “Private House” address without problems.
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| 6. Do I need Medical Insurance? |
The Cuban government has announced that as of May 1, 2010, tourists, foreigners with temporary residence in Cuba, and Cubans living abroad who visit Cuba will have to purchase medical insurance. The insurance will be sold by your travel agent or airline when you buy your flight ticket or by Cuban firms at the ports of entry in Cuba according to Cuba’s Official Gazette.
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| 7. Can I use my credit card in Cuba? |
You can as long as it's not issued by an American Bank. Unfortunately, it's part of the US embargo restrictions on Cuba. No US travelers cheques either. Americans have to carry cash. You can use MasterCard or Visa International. Travelers' checks are also accepted.
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| 8. How many beds in a rooms when I book for 2 people? |
Usually Double Bed: they can come with one big bed or with two separate beds. If you make us a note we will be more than glad to make the observation to the property in advance.
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| 9. What is the total cost of a property? |
The prices of the properties depend on the property; it could be 25 CUC/night and Up. We have shown in the web site the prices "We do not hide any price” You will pay a total that you have seen in our system. If you want to know the price in particular about some, please send us an e-mail oef@havanacasaparticular.com or you call us, we will be happy of being able to help you.
Important: All the prices included taxes; you do not pay extra money. We do not hide any price.
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| 10. What are HavanaCasaParticular.com's payment terms? |
You should be paid the price of the First Night in advance if you rent a villa with swimming pool or any property with prices $150 CUC/night and UP, this way you guarantee the reservation, in case that you didn't come. You will not be refunded for any of these circumstances. The other properties listed, you don't need to pay any money in advance.
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| 11. Can you organize the transfer from the airport to the property? |
If you would like us to arrange transport from the airport for your entire party, at cost, we will be happy to do so, provided you give us advance warning. A member of our group will go to the airport to pick you up and it will take you to the property. Price is around 30 CUC per transportation one way (Not per person). You can see prices here:
http://www.havanacasaparticular.com/transfers.asp
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| 12. How much does the concierge service cost? |
Absolutely nothing. HavanaCasaParticular.com concierge service is included in the cost of the property or any service. Please see the concierge section of the site for some innovative ideas on what you could be doing on your next holiday with Us.
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| 13. Is property rentals child friendly? |
Children and babies are welcome in almost all properties, and cots can be arranged if required. Babysitters and nannies can also be organised in advance.
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| 14. What is the cancellation policy on the properties? |
A Customer may cancel a property rental contract at any time providing the first named person on the booking notifies in writing. Any money or deposit paid if you rent a Villa with Swimming Pool or or any property with prices $150 CUC/night and UP , You will not be refunded for any of these circumstances.
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| 15. Do Locals "Cubans" are allowed in the Properties, Cars or Activities? |
Yes, sure! All people are allowed to enjoy any service that we offer on our web page like Private Property Rentals, Cars and Activities listed (Not Boat Rentals)
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| 16. Are properties clean? |
By and large, properties are fairly clean places. With the numbers of people coming through them they pretty much have to be. Now this doesn't mean the floors are waxed and the silverware is polished, but the basics have been done. Cleaning is a constant process at most property (price of the rental included cleaning)
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| 17. Can you check availability for me? |
Sure, we are here to help you. We check availability for you. Send us the list of the property name and location that you would like to check.
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| 18. Do I need to reconfirm my booking before arrival? |
Unless specified by the property directly on the proerty's page or on the conditions you have recieved you do not need to reconfirm. Please print out your booking confirmation and have ready for check in at the property booked.
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| 19. Why you should Rent a Casa Particular instead a Hotel Room ? |
Friendship – as a guest to a Casa Particular, you can develop a very nice friendship with the family as well as their relatives and friends and become deeply involved in the culture of the country. Before he/she knows it, the guest will be part of the family and be made to feel very special. Staying in a hotel, all you will meet are hotel staff and other tourists – you won’t make many local friends that way.
No Restrictions – hotels have many restrictions in place. Local Cubans feel very bad from visiting tourists in hotels. Cubans are genuinely nice people and you could easily make awesome new friends out in the street or on a beach. If you’re staying in a Casa particular, you can invite them over without problems. It would be impossible if you were staying in a hotel.
Freedom –The guest will enjoy the free and easy atmosphere, feel completely at home in the casa particular and will be able to invite friends over.
Less Expensive Trip – It is almost always cheaper to stay in a Casa Particular than in a hotel. The guest will have more money left to spend on taxis, restaurants, night life and museums.
Helping people directly – By renting a casa particular, the guest will be directly contributing to a person or family's standard of living which allow the family to help other relatives as well.
Knowledge – Cubans love to share knowledge about their country and their culture. In particular, Cubans love to discuss politics and share their views on the revolution - for good and for bad. In the comfort of a casa particular, the host may open up and share information that he/she might hesitate to share in public.
Price – Casas Particulares are cheaper per night than hotels. As a general rule, average hotel room prices range from CUC$ 50 – CUC$ 200 per night. Average casa particular prices range from CUC$ 25 – CUC$ 35 per night.
Food – when staying in a casa particular, you can pay extra to have the family cook for you. This type of homemade food is often times far more delicious and portions more generous than anything you’d get in a hotel.
Advice – if you opt for staying in a casa particular, you will be staying with normal people who live in the area. They’ll be happy to recommend places to visit and restaurants to eat in when you go exploring. Unlike hotel staff who will simply handle you a tour guide brochure or recommend the most touristy spots, casa particular owners could tell you where Cubans go to shop and eat so you can get regular price service and product. Touristy establishments price their services so as to make as much off of an unaware tourist as possible.
Support – by staying in a Casa particular you will be directly supporting a Cuban family, not an international multi million dollar company that’s there solely to make money on you. Hotel employees are paid very little by those multi million dollar international corporations that own hotels. You will get service equal to tips you leave. When staying in a Casa Particular, you are already directly supporting the family whose house you’re staying in. You will be treated like king by them; you will truly feel like your stay with them is appreciated. The inner feeling of putting your money to a really good cause can not be beat.
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| 20. What to do 7 Days Vacation in Havana ? |
Day 1
Arrival in Havana - Accommodation at Casa Particular (Private Homes, a unique Cuban experience)
At your arrival you'll be given orientation maps, touristic recommendations and some advices like where to eat and how to get around.
Day 2
Morning: 9.30 am - 1.00 pm
WALKING Tour of Old Havana by a professional Tour Guide. Visit the 4 oldest squares of Old Havana and the most representative colonial buildings:
•Plaza de Armas, XVI century with Royal Force Castle (1558- 1577), the Palacio del Segundo Cabo or Royal Post Office (1770- 1791), the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales (1776- 1791); the beautiful Santa Isabel hotel- where US President James Carter was lodged when he visited Cuba in 2002- the former residence of Count of Santovenia from 1784 and El Templete from 1828.
•Plaza Vieja where the restoration process is best explained with a stop at a special corner restaurant which is the museum of beer in Havana. Visit to the 1735 Casa de Condes de Jaruco with the most beautiful stained glass windows in Havana and walls with the original fiezes and a wonderful courtyard.
•Plaza de San Francisco de Asís from 1628 with the baroque Church and Convent of Saint Francis of Assisi from 1735 and the 1908 Stock Exchange of Havana built by the famous US company Purdy and Henderson in a record time of only 16 months; the Custom House of Havana by Barclay, Parsons and Klapp from 1914.
•Plaza de la Catedral. Visit the Casa de Condes de Bayona from 1725- currently the Museum of Colonial Art of Cuba- and the Casa del Marqués de Arcos, Casa del Conde de Lombillo and Casa del Marqués de Aguas Claras, all from XVIII Century and the Cathedral, the greatest example of Cuban Baroque from 1777.
Lunch suggestion: 1.00- 2.30 pm
La Bodeguita del Medio (La Bodeguita is also known as the birthplace of the Mojito cocktail, prepared in the bar since its opening in 1942) it offers a glimpse of Cuba’s typical atmosphere
Afternoon. 2.30 pm- 4.00 pm.
FREE, Shopping, Meet with locals, etc.
Dinner suggestion:
La Torre restaurant on top of FOCSA Building in El Vedado, overlooking the city and the sea.
Evening suggestions:
Meet with Locals at La Cecilia, Salon Rojo, Live Jazz Music at “La Zorra y El Cuervo” Nightclub in La Rampa, El Vedado. Watching the old traditional ceremony of the 9.00 o’ clock canyon shooting at the Fortress of San Carlos de la Cabaña across the bay. El Gato Tuerto Bar in Vedado or Dos Gardenias in Miramar.
Day 3
Morning: 9.30 am- 1.00 pm.
WALKING Tour of The Walls District (XIX century/ early XX century)
•Visit The Parque Central of Havana where the 1879 England hotel is, the Neo- Moorish 1908 Seville Hotel, the 1914 Casino Español, the 1915 Great Theater of Havana by Belgian architect Paul Belau who also designed the former Presidential Palace in 1920- currently the Museum of the Revolution; the 1925 Centro Asturiano designed by Spanish Architect Manuel del Busto- currently the Fine Arts Museum.
•Walk along the world wide famous 1929 promenade El Paseo del Prado, inspired in the elevated plaza concept and considered one of the best open spaces in the world by French Landscape designer J.C. N. Forestier who also designed the nearby Park of Fraternity and Avenida del Puerto (Harbor Avenue with its Malecon Habanero) and also the 1929 Capitolio gardens.
•A visit to the Rhum Museum with a specialized guide, you have the opportunity to know about the origins and development of the Havana Club rhum. Degustation in the style bar of the 50´s.
•Visit the former home of President José Miguel Gómez from 1915 designed by Cuban architect Hilario del Castillo.
•Visit the former Bacardi Headquarters Building from 1930 (the Jewel of Art Déco).
Lunch suggestion: 12.30- 2.00 pm
Prado y Neptuno Italian Restaurant across Parque Central, designed in 1999 by Italian architect Roberto Gottardi, author of the Drama School at the Schools of Art Campus.
Afternoon 2.30- 4.00 pm.
Bus Tour of El Vedado district led:
•Visit the City Garden of El Vedado- planned in 1859-60 but not developed until early in the XX century- according to modern planning principles that introduced the green in the city for the first time.
•Visit the 1906- 40 University of Havana Campus, the 1926 Dolce Dimora mansion designed by Cuban architects Govantes and Cabarrocas, currently the Napoleon’s Museum, La Rampa district, the very heart of modern Havana where the famous 1966 Coppelia Ice Cream is and the1950s hotels, apartments, cinemas, restaurants and shops are.
•Panoramic Tour around Christopher Columbus Cemetery, National Monument , to see “La Milagrosa Grave”, Tobias Gallery, Funerary Art Museum and Count de La Mortera Grave among others;
•Panoramic tour around Vedado district to admire some beautiful mansions example of different architectural styles such as Art Deco, Art Nuoveau, Modernism, Eclecticism, Gothic, Baroque, which have now become Decorative Art Museum, UNEAC and ICAP Institutions, and others at Paseo and Presidents Ave. still remain as family houses;
•Visit to La Torre restaurant where you can enjoy a cocktail and the most attractive panoramic view of the city at a height of 121 meters
•Visit the 1930 National Hotel designed by US architects McKim, Mead & White designated best hotel all over the world in 2006.
Evening suggestion:
Optional drinks at the Hotel Nacional gardens and terraces.
Dinner suggestion:
Paladar "Private Restaurant" La Fontana in Miramar
Late evening suggestion:
Meet with Locals at La Cecilia, Salon Rojo, Discotheque at the Havana Café of the Melia Cohiba Hotel or Nightclub at the Riviera Hotel or Jazz café at Galerias Paseo.
Day 4
Morning: 9:30 - 1:00 pm.
BUS Tour of West Havana. The suburbs, the new hotels.
•Visit the Miramar District (planned in the early XX century) and the big city model at the Group for Integral Development of the Capital.
•Learn from the bus about important landmarks as the 1980 Soviet Embassy- tallest building in Miramar- and the Miramar Trade Center office park and the new hotels area.
•Visit to Jagüeyes Park at 5th Ave. and 42st and Santa Rita Church;
•Visit to Havana’s Metropolitan Park, one of the green lungs inside the city where you can admire beautiful landscapes of Cuban flora;
Lunch suggestion: 1.30- 2.30 pm
Paladar “ Private Restaurant” Vistamar, a 1950s architect’s home by the sea, in Miramar.
Afternoon 2.30- 5.00 pm.
From the bus see the westernmost suburbs inspired by the City beautiful movement from Frederick Law Olmstead with isolated villas in ample lots with huge gardens and eclectic and modern houses.
On the way back, drive along the tree- lined avenues of Paseo and G Street (Avenue of the Presidents) and visit the 1927 Florentine style Baró- Lasa mansion designed by Cuban architects Govantes and Cabarrocas with Art Déco interiors and the 1957 Riviera Hotel originally designed by Philip Johnson and formerly owned by mobster Meyer Lansky.
Evening suggestion:
Dinner at Paladar “Private Restaurant”: La Cocina de Lilian in Miramar district.
Late evening suggestion:
Meet with Locals at La Cecilia, Salon Rojo, Discotheque at the Havana Café of the Melia Cohiba Hotel or Nightclub at the Riviera Hotel or Jazz café at Galerias Paseo.
Day 5
Morning: 9:30 - 1:00 pm.
BUS Tour to Santa Maria del Mar “Best White Sandy Beach in Havana” - East Havana Beaches
Lunch suggestion: 1.30- 2.30 pm
Restaurant on the Beach – Santa Maria
Afternoon 2.30- 5.00 pm
• On the way back, Visit to El Cristo de La Habana outlook point, with a panoramic view of Havana City from the other side of the Bay and Morro Castle Spanish: Castillo de los Tres Reyes Magos del Morro) is a picturesque fortress guarding the entrance to Havana bay.
Evening suggestion:
Dinner at Paladar “Private Restaurant”: Los Guajiros in Old Havana district.
Late evening suggestion:
Meet with Locals at La Cecilia, Salon Rojo, Casa de La Música de Miramar or Diablo Tun-Tun
Day 6
Excursion to Viñales, Las Terrazas and Soroa
Pick up at the Casa Particular and departure towards Pinar del Río;
•Arrival at Villa Soroa where you will enjoy a cocktail;
•Walking tour towards a ceiba tree, the most ancient tree in the region with more than 650 years, brief explanation of its history and values on afrocuban religion;
•Visit to the Botanical Garden, Soroa's Orchids Garden including varieties of Cuba and the world as will as ornamental plants and trees;
•Visit to the waterfall where you can swim for a while;
•Continue the tour until “Complejo Las Terrazas”
•Welcoming cocktail al Rancho Curujey. Brief explanation of that nature wonder project.
•Visit to Buenavista coffee plantation a partially restored XIX century farm.
•Visit to Moka Hotel.
•A walking tour along the main streets of the community gives the visitors the opportunity of getting in touch with the warm and hospitable locals.
•Visit to Vegas Alejandro Robaina, where you will taste a welcoming cocktail and appreciate Tobacco plantations, traditional industry of the province;
•Visit to Viñales Valley lookout point which offers a beautiful general view of the Valley;
•Visit to the Indian Cave with a boat ride on the subterranean river which flows;
•Country lunch included in a restaurant in the area;
•Visit the Prehistoric Mural which illustrates the process of evolution in the Sierra de los Órganos from mollusk to the first human inhabitants of the region;
•Return to the Casa Particular.
Day 7
Varadero Excursion – Best Beach in Cuba
•Pick up at the Casa Particular;
•Departure to Varadero;
•Enjoy a day at the beach, with locker included;
•Lunch at a restaurant including one drink;
•Return to La Havana and stop on the way at Bacunayagua Bridge to admire the beautiful landscape of Yumuri Valley;
•Return to the Casa Particular.
Day 8
FREE DAY
Return to the Airport
NOTE: YOU CAN DO TOUR BY YOURSELF OR TAKE OUR EXCURSIONS AT:
http://www.havanacasaparticular.com/activities_list.asp
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| 21. Visa / Touristcard ? |
Cuban rules say: you have to book an accommodation for the first night. If you booked a flight, no accommodation and ready to fill in your visa, this visa will ask you in which hotel you are staying. Fill in any address of a Hotel or licensed Casa Particular.
If you don’t fill out the Tourist Card and Customs has a strict day they can demand to book a hotel, they will make a reservation for you.
You can order your visa through the Cuban Embassy or Consulate in your country and some travel agencies and flight companies.
Cuba Embassies & Consulates:
http://www.cubadiplomatica.cu/en/Home.aspx
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| 22. What to Take to Cuba? |
Dress for a tropical climate. Pack items that work in various combinations. White T-shirts are perfect for reflecting the harsh sunlight. A pair of shorts or pants. Pack a warm sweater and a windbreaker for winter visits, as brief spells of cold weather can occur. Eschew a raincoat for a breathable Gore-Tex jacket. A small umbrella is also a good idea at any time of year (they’re almost impossible to find in Cuba, so bring your own). In summer, the weather is hot and humid: You’ll want light, loose-fitting shirts and shorts. Knee-length shorts for men are acceptable almost everywhere. Save your shorter running shorts for the track. Don’t forget your bathing suit.
You may wish to take a dress jacket or cocktail dress for dinners in more expensive hotel restaurants. However, most Cubans dress informally, though neatly, for all occasions. A comfortable, well-fitting pair of sneakers will work for most occasions. Pack a pair of dress shoes for your evening ensemble. You’ll want lightweight canvas hiking boots with ankle protection for hiking muddy trails in the mountains.
Bring any specific medications you think you’ll need. If you bring prescription drugs, be sure the druggist’s identification label is on the container. Women should pack extra tampons.
Writing materials are hard to come by; take pens, pencils, and notepads (these make great gifts for children). An English/Spanish dictionary is handy and makes a good parting gift.
Space on buses and planes is limited. Limit yourself to one bag or suitcase, plus a small daypack and/or camera bag. Avoid backpacks with external appendages; they catch and can easily break. A small daypack allows you to pack everything you need for a one- or two-day side-trip and leave the rest of your luggage in storage at a Havana Casa Particular.
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| 23. Havana City |
Havana (pop. 2.2 million), political, cultural, and industrial heart of the nation, lies 150 kilometers (93 miles) due south of Florida on Cuba’s northwest coast. It is built on the west side of a sweeping bay with a narrow funnel entrance—Bahía de la Habana—and extends west 12 kilometers to the Río Jaimanitas and south for an equal distance.
Countless writers have commented on the exhilarating sensation that engulfs visitors to this most beautiful and beguiling of Caribbean cities. The potency of Havana’s appeal is owed to a quality that “runs deeper than the stuff of which travel brochures are made. It is irresistible and intangible,” writes Juliet Barclay. The city’s ethereal mood is so pronounced that it is impossible to resist the city’s mysteries and contradictions. Setting foot one time in Havana and you can only succumb to its enigmatic allure.
Havana has a flavor all its own; a strange amalgam of colonialism, capitalism, and Communism merged into one. One of the great historical cities of the New World, Havana is a far cry from the Caribbean backwaters that call themselves capitals elsewhere in the Antilles. It is obvious that Cuba was wealthy years ago to a degree that most South American and Caribbean cities were not.
At the heart of the city is enchanting Habana Vieja (Old Havana), a living museum inhabited by 60,000 people and containing perhaps the finest collection of Spanish-colonial buildings in all the Americas. Baroque churches, convents, and castles that could have been transposed from Madrid or Cádiz still reign majestically over squares embraced by the former palaces of Cuba’s ruling gentry and cobbled streets still haunted by Ernest Hemingway’s ghost.
The heart of Habana Vieja has been in the midst of an impressive restoration for over a decade, and most of the historically important structures have been given facelifts, or better. Some have even metamorphosed into boutique hotels. Nor is there a shortage of 1950s-era modernist hotels steeped in Mafia associations.
And hundreds of casas particulares provide an opportunity to live life at least partially alongside the habaneros themselves. There’s something for every budget, although most hotels are overpriced, some outrageously so. As for food, Havana is the only place in Cuba where you can dine well every night of the week (for a price).
Then there’s the arts scene, perhaps unrivaled in Latin America. The city offers some first-rate museums and galleries. Not only formal galleries, but informal ones where contemporary artists produce unique works of amazing profundity and appeal. There are some tremendous crafts markets, and boutique stores selling hand-made Cuban perfumes.
Afro-Caribbean music is everywhere, quite literally on the streets. Lovers of sizzling salsa have dozens of venues from which to choose. Havana even has a hot jazz scene. Classical music and ballet is world class, with numerous venues to choose from.
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| 24. Arriving By Air to Havana? |
José Martí International Airport
José Martí International Airport (switchboard tel. 07/206-4644 or 07/33-5753) is 25 kilometers southwest of downtown Havana, in the Wajay district. It has five terminals spaced well apart and accessed by different roads (nor are they linked by a connecting bus service).
Terminal One: This terminal serves domestic flights.
Terminal Two: Charter flights originating in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York arrive at Terminal Two (tel. 07/33-5576 or 07/33-5577) carrying passengers with OFAC licenses. Occasionally other flights pull in here, although the outbound flight will invariably depart Terminal Three. There’s an Infotur information booth (tel. 07/55-8733) plus car rental outlets.
Terminal Three: All international flights except United States–Havana charters arrive at Terminal Three, on the north side of the airport. For information on arrivals and departures call 07/266-4133 or 07/33-5666.
Immigration and Customs: Immigration proceedings are slow. Travelers arriving without prebooked accommodations are usually made to book—and pay for—at least two nights’ hotel stay before being granted entry. You’ll be escorted to a tour desk where representatives sell hotel rooms at full price.
Beware porters who grab your bags as you exit the arrivals hall; they’ll expect a tip for hauling your bag the few yards to the taxi stands. Some may purposely drop your bag at the wrong tour bus or taxi so that a partner can get another tip for carrying your bags to the correct vehicle.
Terminal Four: This serves the military.
Terminal Five: Aero Caribbean and AeroTaxi flights arrive here.
-Getting into Town
There is no public bus service from either of the international terminals. A green-and-white public bus marked Aeropuerto departs from Terminal One (domestic flights) for Vedado and Parque Central about 15 minutes after the arrival of domestic flights (one Cuban peso). The bus is intended for Cubans, and foreigners may be refused. It only runs about once every two hours.
Alternately, you can catch a “camel bus” (M2 originating in Santiago de las Vegas) or Ómnibus #480 from the east side of Avenida de la Independencia, about a 20-minute walk east of the terminal—no fun with baggage. The bus goes to Parque de la Fraternidad on the edge of Habana Vieja. The journey takes about one hour, but the wait can be just as long; the bus gets incredibly crowded, is renowned for pickpockets, and is one heck of a hassle that will appeal to only the most seasoned, penny-pinching travelers. You’ll need 20 pesos for the fare.
Taxis are plentiful outside the arrivals lounges. You’ll be charged about 15-20 CUC by Cubataxi (yellow and black Ladas) and 25 – 30 CUC by Regular tourist taxis to downtown Casas Particulares (Private houses). Some taxi drivers will not want to use their meter and may ask you how much you’re prepared to pay (they reset their meter at a discount rate and pocket the difference), in which case always quote below the fares given here. Avoid private (and illegal) taxis, as several foreigners have been robbed.
Most people arriving on package tours will have been issued prepaid vouchers for a shuttle; drivers are often happy to shuttle individual travelers, too.
We offer pick up service at the Airport !!!!
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| 25. Are U.S. Citizens Welcome to Cuba? |
| The Cubans have no restrictions on U.S. tourists. The Cubans are savvy—they stamp your tourist card, not your passport. American are Very Welcome !!!! |
| 26. Food ? |
Havana has some fine restaurants, many in the top-class hotels. Also, you can eat in private restaurants (paladares) and Casa Particular that you rent.
If you rent a Casa Particular you are able to cook by yourself and safe a lot of money. You should buy the food in:
HAVANA'S FARMERS MARKETS
Farmers markets (agromercados or mercados agropecuarios) selling fresh produce exist throughout the city. State-run hard-currency groceries charge exorbitantly for packaged goods, but you have no other option.
Habana Vieja
•The agromercado is on Avenida de la Bélgica (Egido), e/ Apodada y Corrales.
•Imported meats are sold at La Monserrate (Monserrate, e/ Brasil y Muralles), an air-conditioned butcher shop; and at Harris Brothers (Monserrate #305, e/ O’Reilly y Progreso, Habana Vieja, tel. 07/861-1644), a department store with various foodstuff sections.
•Supermercado Isla de Cuba (Máximo Gómez #213, esq. Factoria, tel. 07/33-8793; Mon.– Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), on the south side of Parque de la Fraternidad, is reasonably well stocked.
CENTRO HABANA:
•Havana’s largest agromercado is Cuatro Caminos (Máximo Gómez, esq. Manglar, tel. 07/870-5934; Tues.–Sat. 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.–2 p.m.).
•Almacenes Ultra (Av. Simón Bolívar #109, esq. Rayo; Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.) is a reasonably well-stocked grocery. Similarly, try the basement supermarket in La Época (Galiano, esq. Neptuno; Mon.–Sat. 9:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.).
VEDADO:
•There are agromercados at Calle 15, esq. 10; at Calle 17, e/ K y L; at Calle 19, e/ F y Av. de los Presidentes; and at Calle 21, esq. J.
•There’s a grocery stocking Western goods, plus a bakery, on Calle 17, e/ M y N (Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.– 1 p.m.). Also try Supermercado Meridiano (1ra, esq. Paseo, in the Galería del Paseo; Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–2 p.m.).
•The Pescadería Especial (Calle 25 e/ N y O) sells fresh seafood.
MIRAMAR:
Supermercado 70 (3ra Av., e/ 62 y 70, Miramar, tel. 07/204-2890; Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.) is Cuba’s largest supermarket selling imported foodstuffs. The next best-stocked grocery is Diplo Mercado Miramar (Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), in the Havana Trade Center.
You can buy delicious pastries and breads at Doña Neli Panadería Dulcería (5ta Av., esq. 42; Mon.–Sat. 7 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.–1 p.m.), in the Quinta y 42 shopping complex; and at La Francesa del Pan (Calle 42, esq. 19, tel. 07/204-2211).
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| 27. Can I use my cell phone or other hand-held device to check in? |
HavanaCasaParticular.com Go Paperless -No Paper & No Worries : We read a lot about what is going on in the world with the Term “ Going Green “ and We are following that good idea to save our planet. HavanaCasaParticular.com was the first to do in Cuba. So, Go paperless by downloading the Confirmed Reservation on your mobile phone or PDA. Bring it with you to Cuba, we will accept it. You will display on your device the Confirmed Reservation in PDF format that we sent you plus a valid passport when you arrive at your Casa Particular "Private Property". Don’t assume that you can get Internet everywhere, even if you have a cellular with International data plan. Save as PDF or any format that you device can work.
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| 28. What is a "Paladar" in Cuba? |
Paladar mean Private restaurant. In 1994, Cubans were permitted to have private restaurants. They were allowed to convert part of their home into a small restaurant (no more than 12 seats) and serve Cuban home cooking. Since then, many of them have become commercialized and expensive. Look for the paladars that are in residential areas rather than tourist areas. Meals should be no more than $4 to $9 CUC per person but if you go to the famous will be from $10 to $20 CUC per person.
Top of Paladars in Havana:
"La Guarida" at Concordia #418, Central Havana, where the Oscar-nominated movie "Strawberry & Chocolate" was filmed, is worth a visit if only to look at the celebrity photo wall of movie stars like Jack Nicholson, Matt Dillon, and Danny Glover. (it is closed for redesign, ask if it is open)
“La Fontana” at Calle 3ra A esq. a 46 #305, Miramar. Set in the beautiful residential area of Cuba's capital Havana Miramar, offers a great Cuban restaurant with a wink to the Spanish kitchen. Restaurant Paladar La Fontana has a lovely half open garden and a nice Ranchón which is always full of people open for lunch and dinner. The restaurant has gained a high level of reputation and is frequented both by local and foreign artists, intellectuals and other people who love to have a good dinner in cozy surroundings.
“La Cocina de Lilliam” at Calle 48 No. 1311 entre 13 y 15. Miramar. The most beautiful garden restaurant in Havana with some of the best food you can find in the city. Lilliam Dominguez the cook has turned her house into a lush, romantically lighted garden where dinners sit on comfortable wrought-iron chairs.
“El Guajirito” at Zulueta #658 altos | e/ Gloria y Apodaca, Havana Vieja. It is a cool restaurant in Havana with some of the best traditional Cuban food you can find in the city. your food and you will find a nice atmosphere.
If you want to go to a private restaurant, remember that it is called “Paladar”
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| 29. How far is the nearest sandy beach from Havana? |
20 km. east of Havana, a half-hour drive from the city, is a beach called Santa Maria. Local taxis will take you there for $10 (regular taxis for $20). The other nice Beach is 30 Km from Havana - Downtown and it is Guanabo Beach where you will find Private Houses for Rent.
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| 30. Can I hire a full-time or part time chauffeur in Cuba? |
A vacation or holiday in Havana, Cuba, is a wonderful life experience. The beauty, the style, the culture, and the nature– it is all there for your enjoyment. When you travel to Havana, you'll want to enjoy every minute of the experience, taking in the sights and sounds of the local environment, or simply just to have an unforgettable night out and one of the best ways to do so is through a chauffeur car hire from our staff. Our professional, safe, and friendly drivers are at your service, and you can choose the car you'd prefer them to drive. The price is $50.00 CUC during all day as much as you can use - It is our Full time Driver, there are not limit of time. On the other hand, a Part Time Driver cost $25.00 CUC (only 4 hours), Our professional chauffeurs will drive for you and will escort you throughout your vacation in style and elegance.
Avoid Injuries: Car crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers. Protect yourself from these injuries by:
• Not drinking and driving.
• Following local traffic laws.
• Avoiding night driving.
Hiring a local driver, when possible. They know where to take you each day, They know the secrets, They know the Locals. And they will immerse you in the stories of Havana with spellbinding tales.
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| 31. Phone & Internet Access ? |
Telephone
Public telephones allow for direct-dialled calls, paid for either in Cuban pesos (for local calls – you’ll need 20 centavos and 1 peso) or with tarjetas or phone cards that are sold for convertible Cuban pesos. The phone cards come in denominations of 10 and 20 convertible Cuban pesos and are sold in hotels, conference centres, ETECSA’s offices and the telephone booths themselves. Or you can make your international calls from your hotel.
Online/internet
You may access the internet at larger hotels.
To dial Cuba directly
■Dial the prefix for international calls: 011
■Dial Cuba’s country code: 53
■Dial the code for the area you are calling
■Dial the telephone number of the person you are calling
Direct dialing (area) codes within Cuba
■Ancón 419
■Baconao 223
■Baracoa 21
■Caibarién 42
■Camagüey (city) 322
■Cayo Coco 33
■Cayo Largo del Sur 45
■Ciego de Ávila (city) 33
■Cienfuegos (city) 432
■Florida 32
■Granma (entire province) 23
■Havana 7
■Holguín (entire province) 24
■Las Tunas (city) 31
■Matanzas (city) 52
■Morón 335
■Pinar del Río (city) 82
■Playa Covarrubias 31
■Playa Girón and Playa Larga 59
■Remedios 42
■Sancti Spíritus 41
■Santa Clara (city) 422
■Santa Lucía beach 32
■Santiago de Cuba (city) 226
■Santiago de Cuba (province) 22
■Topes de Collantes 42
■Trinidad 419
■Varadero 45
■Viñales Valley 8
Mobile Telephones
Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. If your phone has GSM working in the 900 MHz band (Standard European) or TDMA (American standard), in the 800 mHz band, you may be able to use your own phone in Cuba. You may need to activate your phone with a local carrier; C_COM for GSM or CUBACEL for TDMA. You can also rent a cell phone in Cuba.
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| 32. Safety |
Cuba is very safe. The country is extremely family-friendly, and children are welcome virtually everywhere. Police are attentive and ever-present, keeping city streets remarkably safe at all hours of the day and night. Even a woman travelling alone can wander the cities and countryside freely, in complete confidence.
Common sense precautions should be taken to protect valuables:
-Hold on to your purse in crowded areas
-Keep your wallet in your front pocket
-Do not leave cameras or other valuables unattended in public areas
Police, Fire Department and Medical Contact Numbers:
The emergency phone number in Cuba is: 106
Medical insurance and Asistur:
Since May 1, 2010, travellers must present proof of health insurance in order to enter the country. Travellers without insurance may obtain coverage in Cuba through the ASISTUR SA travellers’ aid company which offers medical, financial, legal and car insurance; handles return travel in case of illness or death; provides help in finding lost luggage, obtaining new travel documents and making plane and hotel reservations. Its switchboard is open 24 hours a day.
Medical Services
Every major resort area also has an international medical clinic that handles more complex medical conditions. These clinics are located across the country.
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| 33. Do you know How to move from city to city around Cuba? |
The cheap and safe way is using a bus company called “VIAZUL” Traveling almost from one end to the other of the country, Viazul´s buses link Havana with a group of cities that may be of interest for the traveler - Nature and colonial cities, beaches, history, Natural Parks, etc. All the attractions of the island !!! It is the official web site:
http://www.viazul.cu/
Address: Avenida 26 y Zoológico, Nuevo Vedado, Ciudad de La Habana, Cuba
Phone: +53 7 81 1413
Email: viazul@transnet.cu
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| 34. Havana – Where is the Best area to stay? |
Havana is a great place - it's really a matter of preference and that may change over time as you gain more experience. Havana Cuba is a city of great beauty and vitality. Among Old Havana (Havana Vieja), Vedado, Miramar and Siboney— the tourist-friendly areas — sits the Habana, a nineteenth-century residential neighborhood that exemplifies the energy and pulse of the city - Caribbean waters splash against these central areas.
There are Three Selected Locations depend on what you want:
1-Havana Vieja & Centro Habana - Areas: If you prefer to be close to Tourists, Sights, Historical Buildings, Bars, Restaurants, Museum, Palaces, Castles, Street Scenes, etc. In these areas the Majority of the Home Vacation rentals are share with a family (usually do not like that you bring Cuban guest and sleep with them – you will be in a family house). You will rent a Private Room: A room is rented out most of the times with private bathroom and a key to the apartment/house is usually given to the guest.
2-Vedado, Miramar, Nuevo Vedado & Siboney - Areas: If you prefer to be close to the cultural heart of the modern capital, Night Life – Best Night Clubs: Many nightclubs and bars that you can hear the best of Cuban music. Many of the city’s best hotels and restaurants are also clustered in these neighborhoods. Also, if you have a Cuban girl/boyfriend or Meet locals in Havana and party with them in your house, select these areas. Majority of the Home Vacation rentals are independent. The guest can enjoy the privacy and independence of a full furnished apartment. Sometimes this apartment is part of house being split by a wall and you will have private entrance. These are the areas where used to be the rich Americans before Revolution of Castro – you will find Private Luxury Properties.
3-Guanabo Beach: If you prefer to be close to a Sandy white Beach, Hunt crabs on the beach at night, Having a drink on the beach with friends, Relax, Feel the sun warm your skin and the pleasant breeze distance you from the world, Build a Sand Castle, and much more. Majority of the Home Vacation rentals are independent. The guest can enjoy the privacy and independence of a full furnished apartment. Sometimes this apartment is part of house being split by a wall. It is around 30 km from Downtown Habana. You’ll enjoy the Guanabo-hometown where you will feel of the less commercialized setting.
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| 35. What Could Happen if You Stay at an Illegal Casa Particular? |
Cuba has officers who are especially appointed to bust illegal Casas Particulares. If you get caught sleeping in an illegal casa particular, you could get kicked out in the middle of the night.
All legal casas particulares have signs on their font door or other highly visible place. If a casa doesn’t have it, it’s likely illegal. All legal casas pay high fees for their license and a sign and wear it proudly and visibly. The sign is their front line advertising that attracts people from the street. Every legal casa will strive to have it as visible as possible. If you can’t see it, chances are good that casa particular is illegal.
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| 36. How To Pay for Casa Particular? |
| The only method of payment for a Casa Particular is by cash. Remember that Casas Particulares are owned primarily by actual Cuban families. They don’t have the means to process credit cards or to exchange travellers’ checks. Make sure you have enough cash available and higher % of the private houses accept that you pay in foreign currency. Be a nice tourist and pay the owner of a Casa Particular where you have stayed in Cash. |
| 37. Cuban Currency Information |
The Cuban convertible pesos is the only currency accepted in business establishments throughout the country, for the purchase of service and goods, so you will need to exchange your Canadian dollars or sterling pounds or any other foreign currency into convertible pesos at the hotel reception or at the cuban banks.
Canadian dollars and foreign currency may be converted with an 8% fee. Canadian (and any other foreign) credit card purchases will be processed with an 11.24% fee. US dollars is applied the same 8% Fee. So, you can bring USD or Canadian Dollar.
Credit cards and travellers cheques issued by American financial institutions are not accepted in Cuba.
You cannot use your Canadian bank card (Debit Cards) at ATM's to retrieve local currency. You can however use your credit card for a cash advance.
There is also a "local" (non-convertible) peso used by Cubans. The banknotes look quite different and do not say "convertible".
The currency exchange service will be provided at the airports, hotels, banks and exchange houses. See here Today rate exchange:
http://www.bc.gov.cu/english/home.asp
International credit (not issued by American banks) will continue to be accepted in Cuba, either to pay for services or to draw cash from ATM machines.
Departure tax will be paid in Cuban convertible pesos which at present is $25.00 CUC. This is paid at the airport and must be paid in cash.
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| 38. Cuba Climate - Weather |
Cuba has fairly distinct seasons: a relatively dry and mild winter (November–April) and hot and wet summer (May–October). Early spring is the ideal time to travel. Christmas and New Year’s are the busiest periods, and many accommodations and car rental agencies sell out during this period, while finding a domestic flight is near impossible.
The eastern part of the country has a warmer climate than the western part.
Average temperature 24,6º C (76,3º F)
Summer average 25º C (77º F)
Winter average 22º C (71,6º F)
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| 39. My Question is not answered here |
| If the above FAQ does not answer your question, please Contact us and We will be happy to help. You can reach us by Phone: +53 5 268 7295 or by E-mail: oef@havanacasaparticular.com |
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| Owners Top Frequently Asked Questions |
| 40. Would you like your site to work with HavanaCasaParticular.com? |
If you have a website or manager some service which focuses on the travel or leisure markets you can partner with HavanaCasaParticular.com by joining your product with us and start earning some extra clients today. The HavanaCasaParticular.com booking engine can be integrated to fit into any website and you can then offer your customers online confirmed reservations in over 150 countries worldwide. Our booking engine powers some of the largest travel websites worldwide Sign-up today and start working with us to offer this unique product.
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| 41. Would you like to have your property featured on HavanaCasaParticular.com? |
If you are a Property Owner or Marketing Manager, you should consider featuring your property on the Havana's busiest booking website system. HavanaCasaParticular.com has been in operation since 2009 and currently works with almost 1000 travel agency worldwide. We are an online reservations provider to the travel industry, working with properties, Boat Rentals Company, Activities suppliers, Car Rentals, etc. You can find out more about working with HavanaCasaParticular.com or sign-up your property by filling in all your information on our sign-up form Once you have filled in all your information one of our representatives will be in touch with you within 24 hours to explain how to add availability and information to our site.
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| 42. Tour or Activity Providers: Would you like to have your tour featured with us? |
If you are a Tour or Activity Provider or Marketing Manager, you should consider featuring your product on the Havana's busiest booking system. HavanaCasaParticular.com has been in operation since 2009 and currently works with almost 1000 Travel agency. You can find out more about working with HavanaCasaParticular.com or sign-up your tour or activity by filling in all your information on our sign-up form Once you have filled in all your information one of our representatives will be in touch with you within 48 hours to explain how to add availability and information to our site.
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| 43. What is an annual subscription? |
The annual, or year-long, subscription is FREE. You do not need to pay any cent.
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| 44. I received a suspicious email, what do I do? |
Usually emails with poor grammar, spelling, odd use of capital letters and/or asking you to wire money or participate in an unusual bank transaction is a scam. The sender is usually attempting to obtain money, personal information or your email address. We recommend that you let us know you received this through our service and delete the message without responding.
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| 45. Another owner copied my photo(s) and put them on their listing, what can I do? |
If you believe that your work has been plagiarized, please inform us.
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| 46. How do I report Abuse/Fraud? |
If you are the victim of Fraud/Abuse from a listing found on HavanaCasaParticular.com please report it to us.
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| 47. Can you list or modify my home for me? |
We can help you to list or modify your home for you. Also, you can do by yourself: To edit your listing, simply log in and click Edit on your owner administration that you'd like to make changes to. If you require help with changes or photos, we can help you.
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