 "Cuba Advise"
Hello:I am not sure how long ago the question was posed, but I have been to Cuba many times, the last several times I went alone and then spent the trips with Cubans...No resorts. Overall, Cuba feel's much safer then any other Central or South American country. Crimes against tourists are not tolerated, and punishment twice as severe for committing a crime against a tourist as a compared to a local. I've never felt threatened, although the policia can make you nervous. However, as with anywhere, there are some precautions to take. Here are a few for you: Do not pack any valuables in your checked luggage, take them in a carry on. There is a better then 50/50 chance your luggage will get rifled through when it arrives in Cuba. Don't openly flaunt money or other valuables, even in the airports. Avoid Jineteras. These are guys and girls who will befriend you for dinner, dancing, etc and usually ends with a special treat. They can take you for a lot of money. Do not buy cigars from anywhere other then the gov't sanctioned operations. There are many fakes that are sold on the street. Be very, very careful driving if you rent a car. There are horse carts, slow moving trucks and bicycles in the strangest places, and if you hit one of them and injure or kill someone, you will be waiting in a prison for a long time before you get a trial. Also, aside from parts of the main highway, the auto pista, most of the roads are not that great. In addition, if you speed or pass where you shouldn't, and the police see it, you will be fined. As far as serious crimes, I have never heard of any at all in Cuba, but that doesn't mean they don't happen. Again As with anywhere, be aware of your surrondings. Cuba is a beautiful country with a lot of charm and beautiful people. Its like going back in time to a simpler period. If you go, enjoy!!!! | 
