Cuba. Cigars, Ol' Cadillacs, Habanera Music, it's what Keeps Canadians Hangin' 'round…
- CanadaSnowbirds.com
- Apr 4
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 6
For many Canadians, Cuba holds a golden ticket to ultimate happiness. A slow-paced lifestyle for seniors, retirees and professional remote workers with nary a worry to be found. Cuba's rich culture, blending Spanish and African influences, has a proud history of enjoying lively, soulful music, flavourful food and colourful art created by warm welcoming people who love to celebrate life in their peaceful, hospitable climate. Cuba is by far, the largest island in the Caribbean. It also has the 2nd largest economy in the Caribbean, just behind the Dominican.
Experience the Unique Qualities of Cuba's Culture and its Music
Cuba is much more than its picturesque views and its gorgeous beaches; the island offers seniors not only a safe haven, one of the world's safest countries for tourists, but also has no problem sharing with visitors, its warm, thumping heartbeat of culture and history woven through its art, music, and dance. The vibrant sounds of jazz, salsa, habanera, son and rumba resonate from street corners and lively dance clubs in the old city of Havana, the historic city of Trinidad and the Viñales Valley, world famous for its iconic tobacco farms.
For example, visitors can enjoy spontaneous performances in the iconic Plaza Vieja or the renowned Casa de la Música in Santiago de Cuba, where local talents showcase their skills. If you want to take it a step further, consider signing up for a local dance class in salsa or rumba. Imagine mastering the basics of salsa and then hitting the dance floor at a local venue—it’s a sure way to engage with the community.
The arts scene thrives here, too. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes displays works by Cuba's renowned painters such as Wilfredo Lam, Carmen Herrera and Ana Mendieta. While meandering through the streets, you'll encounter murals and street performers practically at every turn, making art and culture truly accessible.
Discover Cuba's Beaches and Islands
One of the top attractions for Canadians traveling to Cuba is its stunning coastline. Imagine sunbathing on the sandy shores of Varadero Beach or exploring the secluded beaches of Cayo Coco. These locations offer ample relaxation with turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling and diving.
Notably, Cayo Santa Maria is part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago, known for its stunning landscapes and tranquility. A day trip allows you to unwind in secluded settings, explore coral reefs filled with colorful fish, and spot starfish along the shores.
For those seeking adventure, scuba diving at sites like the Bay of Pigs reveals the wonders of underwater life, where divers can encounter rich coral ecosystems and various marine species.
Navigating Travel Requirements: Visas for Canadians
Seniors planning an extended winter getaway in Cuba will need to acquire a tourist visa, often called a tourist card. Canadian citizens can easily obtain this card through their airline or travel agency when booking flights. You can also secure it through the Cuban embassy. Remember to keep your visa safe to present it upon entry and exit.
Health insurance is not just advisable; it is mandatory in Cuba. You can find affordable options that fit various budget ranges. Be sure to keep your passport and a copy of your health insurance handy during your travels.
Understanding Access to Medical Facilities
Cuba offers a robust healthcare system, which is free for locals but requires payment from tourists. Major cities have hospitals and clinics where many doctors speak English, making quality medical care quite accessible during your stay.
For those with existing health conditions, knowing your healthcare options is crucial. Quick access to medical care is vital, and pharmacies are widely available, although some prescriptions may only be available through a doctor's appointment.
The Cuban Ministry of Health reports that about 90% of medical professionals are highly trained, ensuring a high level of care for tourists.
The Food
Dining in Cuba provides a unique blend of experiences, from local street food to upscale restaurants as well as private homes serving up their homemade family recipes. Popular Cuban dishes worth savouring include Ropa Vieja (shredded beef) and Vaca Frita (fried beef), with an approximate cost of $10-15 CAD per meal in a restaurant. Street vendors also offer delicious affordable options like tostones (fried plantains) and empanadas.
For those who prefer to cook, local markets are a goldmine of fresh produce. Fruits like mangoes and avocados and vegetables are available at prices significantly lower than in Canada. However, imported items tend to be costly, so adjusting your shopping habits can lead to better savings.
The average cost of living in tourist hotspots like Varadero or Havana remains affordable. For instance, the estimated monthly budget for groceries for one Canadian traveller may range between $100 to $200 CAD, making Cuba an enticing option for long-term stays.
Cost of Living in Cuba
Before committing to an extended stay in Cuba, it's helpful to understand the typical living costs. Generally, prices vary between tourist and local neighbourhoods, but overall, Cuba remains affordable for Canadians.
Renting a comfortable apartment in a tourist centre can range from $300 to $1,000 CAD per month, depending on the available amenities and location. Utility costs typically range from $50 to $100 CAD. Transportation is reasonably priced, with local buses and taxis offering budget-friendly options.
Recreational activities—like visiting national parks or booking guided tours—provide excellent value, with many activities costing under $20 CAD per person.
Exploring Property Ownership in Cuba
For those Canadians falling in love with the Cuban lifestyle and considering property ownership, be aware that the rules can be complex making renting much more appealing for many snowbirds. While it is possible for foreigners to buy property, the process involves purchasing through a Cuban national and things can sometimes be too troublesome to pursue. Although recent changes in Cuban law have opened up more opportunities for foreign investments. It’s essential to engage legal experts familiar with these regulations to avoid potential pitfalls and issues in the foreseeable future.
Enjoying Cuba's Warm Climate
Escaping from our northern winters is a no brainer when it comes to Cuba’s inviting tropical climate. From November to April, the average temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C, providing an excellent environment to explore the countryside, the cities and the coastlines of Cuba.
During this peak season, the humidity levels are low, allowing for comfortable adventures. May to October brings more rain, making winter the perfect time for snowbirds to enjoy Cuba's warm and sunny beaches.
Understanding Cuba's Political and Economic Landscape
Cuba operates under a unique socialist framework that influences its economy and daily life. While some cultural and political aspects may be unfamiliar to Canadians, recent efforts for economic reform show promise.
Understanding Cuba's political context is vital for long-term visitors. The economy may not mirror those in western nations, but it offers unique opportunities for those willing to adapt. Statistics indicate a GDP growth rate of around 2-3% annually, showing signs of gradual recovery.
Finding Flights from Major Canadian Cities
For Canadians eager to escape chilly weather, many flight options are provided from key cities. Here’s a quick overview:
Vancouver: Typically, flights require layovers in cities like Toronto or Calgary. Travel time is around 12-15 hours based on connections.
Calgary: Seasonal direct flights to various Cuban locations are available, taking approximately 5-6 hours.
Winnipeg: Charter flights to Cuba can be easily found, often connecting through larger cities like Toronto.
Toronto: Offers numerous direct flights to different Cuban cities, with a travel time of about 3-4 hours.
Montreal: Direct flights between Montreal and Havana are regular, with a quick journey taking around 4-5 hours.
Final Thoughts on Your Cuban Adventure
Whether you are fascinated by rollicking Cuban dance rhythms, enchanted by its stellar beaches, or simply attracted to its easy going, affordable lifestyle, 'snowbirding' in Cuba represents an unforgettable way to embrace this amazing island's unique, soul soothing culture. Book your tickets, pack your bags, don't forget to bring your sunscreen, and your spirit of adventure; Cuba's heartbeat will be thumping in your ears!
Commentaires