There are a few things to know for a fantastic family trip to Cuba. Taking a family trip to Cuba means you and your kids are bound to have a barrel of fun. This might not seem like the case at first glance. But rest assured there are many activities and attractions just for the little ones!
The thing about Cuba is that there are so many things that both you and your children will enjoy. But there’s not the child/adult segregation that seems to be a selling point of so many family holiday destinations.
So what do you need to know about taking the family to Cuba for an unforgettable holiday?
Things for Kids to Do in Cuba
Callejon de HamelChildren are included in almost all aspects of Cuban family life. In Cuba you might see young children out with their families quite late at night. Many activities that Cuban children so often take part in will revolve around family life. Therefore recreational facilities aimed directly at children can be hard to find.
Fortunately there are a few options!
- At an all-inclusive resort, there will be a number of “Kids Club” style of activities to choose from.
- In Havana, take your kids to Parque La Maestranza. It’s a fun park located on El Malecón, the boardwalk that runs along the waters edge and the entry price is very reasonable. There are a huge number of attractions to keep the younger members of your family happy here!
- Your kids will appreciate Callejon de Hammel and so will you. It’s an alleyway in Central Havana where local live and work. The whole area is garishly and wonderfully coloured. It’s like something out of a storybook. Callejon de Hammel can be found between Calle Espada and Calle Aramburu Havana Central.
- It’s no shock to learn that salsa dancing is rather popular in Cuba. Some of the larger towns and cities will have dance schools that offer classes for children. It’s really just a fun dance afternoon that kids will love. But it also gives you a chance to chill out and watch your kids have fun. Ask at your hotel for nearby dance schools.
Budgeting When Traveling with Kids
Regardless of whether you are taking a family trip to Cuba or are flying solo, you need to budget. You can’t rely purely on plastic for purchases in Cuba, as credit cards are not widely accepted. Cards issued by US-based banks are not accepted at all.
ATMs are as rare as hen’s teeth in Cuba, even in a large city like Havana. As adults we can go without refreshments until we’re able to withdraw cash. But it can be a different case with children. Make sure you have enough pesos or dollars for drinks and other assorted treats to keep the little ones happy.
What to Pack For Your Family Trip to Cuba
What to pack for Cuba? Stock up on certain items before you come to Cuba. Bring band-aids and pain relief designed especially for children. As well as anything else your kids might need. These items are rather hard to track down in Cuba. You don’t want to be wandering the streets looking for children’s painkiller to soothe a child-sized headache.
The same goes for basic sanitary items, such as toothpaste and toothbrushes. Getting your little ones to brush is a struggle at the best of times. So be sure to bring their favourite brand of toothpaste since you definitely won’t be able to find it while on your family trip to Cuba. And don’t forget the sunscreen!
The climate in Cuba is glorious, but the sun can be particularly harsh on young, sensitive skin.
A family trip to Cuba will create memories that you and your family will cherish forever. Keep an eye on the older children though, since many stores in Cuba will happily sell beer to teenagers!
Here’s to an amazing family trip to Cuba!