Cuba and myths

Thought I'd share some experiences about a recent trip to Cuba, February 2015.

• The Americans can't visit Cuba.  Well, they can, under a research program.  You couldn't move for them in one hotel, and I did whisper FFS as I got pushed out of the way so a perfectly modern Otis lift could be photographed inside.  The state seems to get the last laugh, as the trips cost around 3 times that for Europeans
• the place is full of beggars.  Not really. Seen more in London.
• give toiletries from the hotels to the beggars.  Beggars will be desperate, but not desperate enough to eat soap.  What do you think they will do with soap?  Either give them 50c or ignore them.
• you must take US dollars. Well, if you earn in US dollars then it might make sense.  Otherwise take one of the currencies that the Cuban bank trades in.  They publish a full list and the state fixes the exchange rate.  
• the water isn't potable.  As a general rule, this may be true.  We didn't drink the tap water, but I'm pretty sure the ice cubes (crushed in some cocktails) and lettuce washing in some places wasn't bottled water.
• you tip everywhere.  Yep.  That one is true, particularly the loos.  Get some change in 25c pieces, but they won't chase you down the road if you don't tip.
• don't respond to whistles and 'taxi sir' which seem to occur all the time; they're just trying to make a living
• when looking for the tour bus in the airport car park, don't assume the smartly dressed guy that asks you for your tour company or bus number has anything to do with your tour.  Most likely a porter who will help you with your case and wants a tip.
• No wifi.  True, and little internet access too.  It's available in some hotels, but it's very expensive - £10/day
• ATMs are few and far between, and generally only in the bigger cities.  Make sure you take a card not issued by a US bank, or affiliation.  Some UK debit/credit cards worked, some didn't, according to various people I met.  Don't expect the machine to use English.
• I didn't see a single Visa/MC sign in a shop, so take cash.
• The classic old cars are in the minority, as they are difficult to repair and expensive to fuel.
• if you really can't live without wine, take plenty of money.  A bottle of wine will cost at least £15, probably more, and often is not available per glass.  You drink local beer or coffee; both are excellent.
• no real price mark up in hotels compared with shops on beer, wine, etc, but if you search out small outlets for lunch, you may get a beer for 75p vs £1.50.  Only rich Cubans eat out; average Cuban wage is £25-£35/month.  Those involved in tourism will earn considerably more - say £500/month.
• don't forget to enjoy yourself