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Top Cuba Apps: 8 Essential apps for Traveling in Cuba

When looking for travel apps for Cuba the one main thing to think about is do they work off-line? Finding an internet connection can be tricky, and it makes your trip easier and less stressful finding apps that work without an internet connection will help you immensely. Lucky for you I’ve narrowed it down to 8 Cuba apps you need to download before your trip.

Cuba Apps for Travelers

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While most of the time when I’m traveling I use Google Maps, that app does not work in Cuba. The Maps Me app does.

Maps.Me is like Google Maps, but better. With a simple download of a map, you’ll not only get the map itself, but also the location of restaurants, museums, attractions, and more.

In addition to the location of various destinations, it also gives you the ratings other users gave those places. This alone makes it one of the best Cuba apps out there.

Download Maps.Me for iOS and Android for free

Read More: Airport Arrival in Havana, Cuba

Cuba apps: google translate.

Spanish is the primary language in Cuba and unless you’re fluent you’ll need to download Google Translate to help you get around.

Before going to Cuba make sure to download Spanish on to your phone. Once you do that you’ll be able to use functions on the app including the translator and the photo translate to help translate things like signs and restaurant menus.

Google Translate is always on my phone no matter where I go, and is one of the best travel apps I have.

Download Google Translate for iOS and Android for free

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Babbel is an app to download and use before your trip. It is my favorite language learning software as it is actually helping me learn Spanish.

I find learning new languages very challenging because of my dyslexia. With Babbel I’ve started learning common phrases and during my second trip to Cuba I was actually able to have short conversations with locals!

This app is amazing, however, it does not work off-line so you won’t be able to go through new lessons while in Cuba without a good internet connection.

Download the Babbel app for iOS and Android (fees apply)

Cuba Apps: AirBnB

AirBnB is one of the best ways to find non-government accommodation in Cuba. If you are a United State citizen this is how you will find lodging that is appropriate for the most common Cuban VISA, support of the Cuban people.

On AirBnB there will be plenty of Casa Particulars , which translate to Private Home. These are usually larger homes that offer rooms, most of which will have private bathrooms.

By using this app in Cuba and staying at Casa Particulars you’ll get to meet some amazing people and get a glimpse of what real life is like in Cuba.

Download AirBab for iOS and Android for free

Triposo Travel Guide

This app is great for helping to plan your trip to Cuba and for use during your trip.

Another app that is part on-line part off-line, Triposo lets your book hotels and experiences and same the directly to the app. Making it easy to organize all of that information.

You can also download guides to your smartphone for access to maps, local tips, and personalized suggestions all without the internet.

Download Triposo Travel Guide App for iOS and Android for free

If you don’t already use WhatsApp when you’re traveling you need to start!

WhatsApp is a messaging app that while it needs an internet connect to work, you can message, make calls, and do video calls anywhere in the world.

Everyone I knew who is a frequent – and even infrequent travel – uses this app. And the best part is, that it’s free!

Download WhatsApp for iOS and Android for free

Alamesa is a must have app when visiting Cuba because it has the most up-to-date information on restaurants, cafes, bars and more in Cuba all without having to connect to the Internet.

The app has information on where to eat and drink in Havana, Varadero, Viñales and other destinations throughout the country.

Make sure you update your app before going, they make updates to the system every 15 days.

You can even book food experiences from the app when you’re traveling like food pairing meals with cigars, and learning how to make classic Cuban cocktails.

Download AlaMesa for iOS and Android of Free

Of all the Cuba apps out there this is the best pre-trip planner.

With so much valuable information on the internet for trip planning – think things to do in Trinidad and Best Restaurants in Havana – it can be challenging to keep it all organized.

Once you’ve saved articles, videos, and various notes into the Pocket app it allows users to access them offline making in perfect for planning your trip in Cuba. You’ll never forget about that perfect restaurant to visit or best beach town again!

Download Pocket for iOS and Android for free.

What other Cuba apps should I add to this list? Let me know in the comments.

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2 thoughts on “Top Cuba Apps: 8 Essential apps for Traveling in Cuba”

I’ve never been to Cuba, but I would absolutely love to visit. It’s on my top five countries I have to visit in the next five years. I have heard of most of these, but there’s a couple I haven’t so thanks very much for sharing xo

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Cuba is amazing! Reach out with any question you might have or if you want to join one of the trips I lead.

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Top 8 Cuban Travel Apps You Must Download Before Your Trip

The digital age has revolutionized the way we travel. Whether booking flights, finding the perfect accommodation, or looking for the best local restaurants, there’s an app for practically everything. When it comes to Cuba, a country rich with cultural history and breathtaking landscapes, having the right Cuban travel apps can help navigate this beautiful but sometimes complicated country. 

Here are some of the best Cuban travel apps that you should download before embarking on your Cuban adventure:

The Importance of Downloading Travel Apps

Before we delve into the list, let’s understand why you should download travel apps when planning a trip to Cuba.

• Efficiency – Travel apps make trip planning efficient. With them, you can find flights, book accommodation , or arrange transport with just a few taps.
• Real-time updates – Apps provide real-time updates. From flight delays to weather updates, you stay informed and prepared.
• Navigating the local scene – These apps provide insight into local culture , popular attractions, restaurants, and more. They make discovering hidden gems easier.
• Language barriers – Apps can help overcome language barriers through translation features. This is crucial in a country like Cuba, where English isn’t widely spoken.

Top 8 apps for your trip to Cuba

Now, let’s dive into the top travel apps for your trip to Cuba.

1. Cuba Junky

Cuba Junky is an all-in-one resource designed specifically for travel in Cuba.

• Accommodation – The app provides a comprehensive list of casa particulares (private homes that have been converted to bed and breakfasts) throughout the country. You can easily search based on location, price, and amenities.
• Rentals – Cuba Junky also offers information about car rentals, a great resource if you’re planning to travel around the island.
• Restaurants – The app has an extensive list of restaurants, offering something for every palette and budget.
• Travel Guides – Cuba Junky provides detailed travel guides for different Cuban cities. Each guide includes key attractions, tips for navigating the local area, and other handy information.

AlaMesa is your go-to app for dining in Cuba. It includes the following features:

• Restaurant Guide – AlaMesa provides a comprehensive list of restaurants across the country. You can filter by cuisine, location, price, and even specific dishes.
• Reviews and Ratings – This feature lets you make informed decisions based on reviews and ratings by previous visitors.
• Reservations – AlaMesa offers the ability to make reservations directly through the app at some restaurants, a feature that’s incredibly helpful during peak dining times.

3. Habana Trans

Navigating Cuban public transportation can be tricky, but Habana Trans makes it simpler. Some of the highlights are as follows:

• Routes – Habana Trans offers detailed routes and schedules of public buses in Havana, making it easier for you to plan your day.
• Offline Access – The app works offline, a crucial feature given Cuba’s spotty internet connectivity.
• Transport Options – Apart from buses, Habana Trans also provides information about other modes of transport, such as taxis and bicycle taxis.

In Cuba, internet access is not always guaranteed, making offline maps crucial. Maps.me is a robust mapping app that works offline.

• Detailed Maps – Maps.me offers detailed maps of Cuba that can be downloaded for offline use.
• Navigation – The app provides turn-by-turn navigation, helping you explore Cuba without getting lost.
• Point of Interest – You can find points of interest such as restaurants, attractions, hotels, and more using Maps.me.

5. Google Translate

While it’s not Cuba-specific, Google Translate is an invaluable tool in a country where English isn’t widely spoken. Here are some of the reasons why:

• Translation – Google Translate can translate text, spoken words, and even signs via the camera feature.
• Offline Access – The app allows you to download the Spanish language pack for offline translation.
• Conversation Mode – This feature translates live speech, facilitating real-time conversation with locals.

6. Currency Converter Plus

Cuba’s dual-currency system can be confusing. Currency Converter Plus makes managing your money easier.

• Currency Conversion – The app converts between the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC), the Cuban Peso (CUP), and your home currency.
• Offline Mode – The app stores the last updated rates so it can work offline.
• Calculator – A built-in calculator allows for quick calculation of prices.

7. Wi-Fi Cuba

In a country where internet access can be challenging to find, the Wi-Fi Cuba app is a lifesaver.

• Wi-Fi Hotspots – This app provides locations of Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, helping you stay connected with the world.
• Prices – It also informs you about the cost of internet cards and how to use them.
• Offline Map – The built-in offline map makes it easier to navigate to the nearest Wi-Fi hotspot.

8. Cuba Weather

Stay ahead of the weather during your Cuban adventure with the Cuba Weather app.

• Weather Updates – This app provides accurate weather forecasts for all provinces of Cuba.
• Tropical Weather includes information on tropical weather, crucial for those traveling during hurricane season.
• Real-time Alerts – Real-time alerts help you stay informed and prepared for any sudden weather changes.

Make your trip easier with these top Cuban travel apps

Traveling to Cuba can be an exciting and enchanting experience, filled with beautiful beaches, historic sites, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm, friendly people. However, traveling to a new country always presents challenges, and Cuba is no exception.

The Cuban lifestyle, especially regarding internet accessibility and the dual-currency system, is quite different from what most travelers are used to. These factors make travel apps particularly beneficial for those planning a trip to Cuba.

So, arm yourself with these Cuban travel apps, and you’ll not just survive but thrive during your Cuban getaway. You’ll find yourself navigating public transportation like a local, finding hidden gem eateries with ease, staying connected with the world, and maybe even speaking a bit of Spanish.

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5 essential travel apps to download for a trip to Cuba

Make sure you are digitally ready for a trip to Cuba! We have come up with a list of great offline travel apps to help you navigate your way around Cuba, its economy and culture.

When travelling abroad, smart phone apps have undeniably made the holiday experience much easier for travellers – booking trains, city maps, local tips about what to see and do – there seems to be an app for everything!

In Cuba however, as anyone who has ever travelled there will know, the distinct lack of internet access across the country with WiFi hot spots designated to public areas such as town squares makes many of these on-the-go travel apps rather useless. Whilst being free of internet and social media can be a very liberating experience in Cuba, when it comes to needing to find your hotel for example, it would be great to have a functional offline app.

The following recommendations are our top 5 picks of great travel apps which can function offline and come in handy when visiting Cuba.

You have arrived in Cuba and find yourself going round in circles in Old Havana trying to find your homestay accommodation? Maps.me is an offline world map service powered using your phone’s GPS location which is perfect in this kind of situation! Successful use of this app does require some preparation in advance as you do need to go online to select and download the offline maps you would like to use. It may not be able to give an exact location but it is certainly useful to orientate yourself and give you a good idea of where you are.

Free on android and iOS

2. XE currency

With two official currencies in Cuba, this peculiar money situation can make any visitor’s head spin. The national currency known as “moneda nacional” used by local Cubans is called CUP however most tourists will only use CUC (pronounced ‘cook’), the Cuban convertible peso. Neither currency is traded internationally so can only be purchased when in the country. If you think you can solve this problem by using your credit card- think again! Cash is king in Cuba so you will need to bring money to change at a local money exchange known as a “cadeca”. With a security guard on the door and reams of paper with the daily rates stuck to the walls, entering the cadeca can be a daunting experience so it is a good to have a rough idea of how much you expect to get for your money. XE currency has developed an app allowing travellers to convert any world currency meaning you can add the Cuban currencies and your native currency onto your phone before you leave. Be aware that to get the latest updated rates, you need to enter the app with internet access but the XE app also functions offline by saving the last updated rates.

3. Google Translate

Landed in Cuba but don’t understand a word of Spanish? No problem! With Google Translate , you can type words into the app to get the phrases you need to communicate on-the-go. Another great feature of this app is using your camera to hover over unfamiliar Spanish words. Dishes in a menu, sign posts will be automatically translated into the language of your choice.  If you want to be able to use this app offline in Cuba, you will need to download the Spanish language pack with internet access so best to do this before you leave. Bear in mind you are unlikely to become fluent through its use but this app is certainly a practical tool for any traveller lacking the lingo skills which can get you across the language barrier in many situations.

Music is an integral part of everyday Cuban life and will probably be one of the first things you notice when arriving in the country; live music venues,

With a wealth of information about Cuba available online giving us insights of things to see and do, homestay recommendations and good bars to try, a bit of pre-trip planning before jetting off is a great idea. Once you get to Cuba however, without regular internet how will you access all the useful information you found? Pocket app is a great organisational tool which allows you to save online articles, reservation emails, videos and notes all in one place. Once you have saved something from the internet into Pocket, it downloads into the app making it accessible offline. Now you have your very own personalised trip reference guide in the palm of your hand and as a bonus, it cuts down on the amount of paper print outs you take with you too.

If you would like more advice on Cuba and help planning a trip, please contact us on our  enquiry form  or call +44 131 621 7721 to speak with one of our experienced Cuba experts.   www.caledoniaworldwide.com

About the Author:

Caron Oag is a modern languages graduate with a background in tourism and Teaching English as a Foreign Language. She has worked in Spain and Germany and travelled widely throughout Europe as well as parts of North and Central America. With a passion for travel, adventure and language learning, she is always on the lookout for her next destination!

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4 Most Important Mobile Phone Apps For Cuba (2024)

Updated August 1, 2024

This article covers the four (4) most important mobile applications, to have on your phone when you visit Cuba. As ...

This article covers the four (4) most important mobile applications , to have on your phone when you visit Cuba. As a regular long term visitor to Cuba, these are the mobile apps I find invaluable when traveling to Cuba.

To be able to use the mobile apps covered below, you’ll need to get a mobile SIM card and phone number in Cuba . It’s an easy process and I’ve previously covered how I do it and what I pay for data. But with a phone connection, having these apps will make your holiday much more enjoyable. They do for me!

Without a VPN in Cuba, you will not be able to access the Apple App Store or Google Play , Netflix or most other popular mobile applications. And this is because Cuba is under US sanctions. If you do not arrive with a VPN pre-loaded onto your phone , you will likely need to pay someone to put a VPN onto your phone.

A VPN can be loaded onto a phone in Cuba , without paying for a service, though it is quite challenging and it took me 2-3hrs to work it out . Expect a high degree of difficulty to do it yourself in Cuba, if you do not load one onto your phone before arriving.

An article outlining the process for downloading a VPN in Cuba, or any other blocked country, can be found here . And you should also turn off all automatic software or app updates, to avoid losing your VPN while in Cuba.

With that said, I’ve personally used NordVPN   for 5 years, both at home and while traveling through the Middle East including Iran , Eastern Europe and Latin America including Argentina , Colombia and Cuba .

NordVPN works flawlessly in Cuba and has allowed me to access my bank accounts, the Apple App Store and even watch US Netflix while in Cuba, because Cuban television programs are awful.

Unlike other VPN’s I can confirm NordVPN works both on wifi and the cuban mobile phone network. Some of my Cuba based foreign friends found that their VPN’s worked perfectly on wifi but would fail on the mobile phone network.

With NordVPN I had a strong, fast and secure connection on both wifi and cellular services in Cuba . And we are now using NordVPN to upload videos to Youtube from Cuba .

La Nave is Cuba’s answer to Uber Ride sharing. Uber will not work in Cuba and Cuba has zero Uber drivers.

In order to get around you can either flag down a marked taxi, ask your host or hotel to call you a taxi using WhatsApp or you can use La Nave . In all cases La Nave will be cheaper and more efficient.

With La Nave the price is displayed on the screen before you accept the ride, the location of the vehicles and the time to pickup is displayed and you can choose one of four (4) vehicle types.

The options are basic, comfort, basic XL and comfort XL. The prices will reflect the vehicle type and category with a standard ‘Basic’ vehicle choice being the cheapest option.

The ‘basics’ vary between soviet era Lada’s and the cool old cars Cuba is known for. I always select basic when using La Nave .

For a longer explanation of La Nave check out my article here .

If La Nave is Cuba’s answer to Uber ride sharing, Mandao is Cuba’s answer to Uber Eats. Like conventional Uber, Uber Eats will not work in Cuba. With the Mandao app you can order food, drinks or groceries from almost any restaurant or store in Cuba.

For those times when you’re using NordVPN to watch Netflix at home on your couch in Havana, Mandao is a lifesaver and allows you to order food from your favourite restaurant.

Maps.Me is exactly what it sounds like – a mobile map application. Google maps is pretty much useless in Cuba . If you want decent street directions and want to be able to find places quickly and easily, maps.me should be your go to app.

Google would continually send us the wrong way down one way streets or would be completely missing streets altogether. Maps.Me doesn’t have that problem and gives the best directions of all the navigational aids I’ve used in Cuba.

Use Maps.Me for directions and Google or Apple Maps for looking at reviews of restaurants and other establishments.

Where Can I Get More Information About Cuba?

I’ve made my  Cuba travel guide available on this website. And I recommend you read it, before traveling to Cuba . It will help you navigate Cuba and Cuban society.

My ultimate guide to Cuba   will save you a lot of time and a significant amount of money on your trip to Cuba. Read the most up to date guide to traveling in Cuba .

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5 Best Apps for Travel to Cuba

Published by CamDarling on May 27, 2021 May 27, 2021

Cuba is a special country for travelers because it’s not well connected to the digital age. Sure they have TV, radios and laptops… but so did people in 1995. Cuba is cut off from things like streaming, app development, video games, most eBooks & podcasts. It’s like going back to a landline phone after using a smartphone in a lot of ways. The idea of going back to traveling with just the basics like a paper map and a compass sounds nice, but rain is a thing… So I’ll take my phone please. 

The thing is you can’t get a SIM Card in Cuba, the only thing you can use to get on the internet are Wi-Fi hotspots where you need to connect with a pre-paid Wi-Fi Card. Check out our article on Cuban Wi-Fi . So take 10 minutes to download all the apps you’ll need before you leave. Having a few great apps can make traveling in Cuba way easier.

• Maps.me Offline Map
• SpanishDict Translator
• Triposo Travel Guide

1. Maps.me Offline Map App

Maps.me is almost essential for traveling in Cuba. This open source offline map has pin points added by other travelers to mark important places like banks, ATMs, shops, Wi-Fi locations, hotels and restaurants. I recommend maps.me all the time because it works offline. But do check out our other map app recommendations.

Maps.me is by far the best offline map app and one I use each time I travel.  You can download a map package for all of Cuba! 

• Price : Free
• Alternatives: Google Maps – Download Cuba , Offline Maps Cuba

2. SpanishDict Translator

The second most important app to have in Cuba is a Spanish Dictionary or Translator that works offline. The local Cubans do not speak English. Only the younger owners of the Casas and tour guides seem to speak any English. When the locals do speak Spanish, it is very quick! 

There are a lot of great translators apps but few that have downloadable dictionaries that work with full phrases. I tried a few and preferred Spanish Dict. because of the easily accessible phrase list. But I recommend picking up a Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook as your primary dictionary. 

• Price: Free
• Alternative:   Google Translate , Microsoft Translate

Cuba has thousands of family owned Casas that rent out rooms by the night like Airbnb. Casas range from $10 USD per night to $25 USD per night. 

Although internet access is difficult to get in Cuba, the local Cubans can respond to Airbnb messages and bookings using SMS on their phones.

There are a lot of listings, far more than booking.com or Hostelworld. So feel confident that you can book a casa for cheap through Airbnb.

• Price: In-App Bookings
• Alternatives: Booking.com,  Hostelworld .

4. Triposo Travel Guide

An offline travel guide is by no means a substitute for a good old fashion book. I recommend bringing a paperback like Lonely Planet Cuba . 

Triposo is a great travel guide app. You can download the guide to Cuba that includes information on sights, places to eat & drink, hotels & hostels, weather, currency and transportation. I like it because it provides some background on the different locations, the history and  reviews from other travelers. 

• Price:  Free

5. Duolingo

Spanish is a great language to learn for international travel. It’s considered the second most spoken native language in the world with 400 million+ speakers.

So learning a little bit of Spanish is great for any future trips to South, & Central America, Spain and even parts of the United States. Duolingo is one of my favorite language learning apps, I used Memrise a lot for Japanese too. However I found the lessons on Duolingo easier to load without internet.

• Alternative: Memrise

Cuba is a really cool country. The whole island is filled with cowboys, ranches, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, rum & cigars! What’s not to like! It’s not the most modern destination technologically, but offers travelers this authentic rustic experience. 

The 5 apps here will help make your next trip to Cuba easier, but bring a few paperbacks along too! We put together a  list of awesome books, movies and podcasts for Cuba  to help with your research before you go!

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Six Essential Tips for Your Trip to Cuba 2023

Traveler taking photos in Havana

Photo: Alamy

Six Things to Know Before You Go!

Let's be honest, major cities worldwide are becoming ever more identical. Whether you're in central London or downtown Bangkok, you're almost sure to stumble across the same major brands and outlets in malls worldwide.

Thankfully, we still have Cuba, undoubtedly one of the most culturally well-preserved travel destinations on Earth. Here, you'll discover a society like no other, surrounded by truly epic natural beauty. This singularity means that traveling to Cuba brings subtleties that you may not have encountered on previous trips.

Here are six Cuban travel tips for enjoying the uniqueness of the island without sacrificing comfort:

Interior view of a casa particular in Trinidad

1. Look for alternative accommodation: "Casas Particulares"

You're unlikely to have traveled to a place where the government plays such an active role in the day-to-day running of its economy. As a result, service to tourists can occasionally feel slightly choreographed and play to different standards than you might initially expect.

Fortunately, smaller, independent businesses offer a far better service and the chance to make genuine connections with locals. How? Book a homestay at a private home, known as a Casa Particular, rather than a state-owned hotel. Many of these are completely private or hostless. However, we highly recommend you choose one with a Cuban family.

And don't worry, when we say "stay with a Cuban family," we're not expecting you to top and tail with the grandparents. Many are grand colonial buildings with private courtyards and balconies. Cubans are incredibly respectful of visitors who choose to stay with them, so you'll have no privacy problems and have space to unwind.

Staying at a casa particular also offers the chance to eat home-cooked Cuban food, which will vary in the local region: If you're staying by the coast, expect to be served enormous succulent langosta (lobster), or if further in-land, slow-cooked lechón (pork) accompanied by juicy chunks of ripe platano (plantain).

Your Cuban hosts can help you access a wider variety of places to eat, drink, rent a bike, or book a tour - basically, more or less everything that the government provides but with a far more personal touch.

Taking this extra step to immerse yourself in Cuban culture will allow you to see beyond the stereotypes while making an enormous contribution to Cuba's local economies.

Cuban men surfing on the internet, Santa Clara

Photo: Shutterstock

2. Get a VPN

No doubt, when planning your trip, you may have heard about the heavy internet restrictions that make streaming platforms, online banking, and social networks unreachable. Fortunately, there is an easy workaround if you need to stay connected during your trip.

Before you head to the island, download a VPN onto your phone and any other devices you plan on taking. Psiphon is currently the most popular among Cubans; however, tons of companies out there offer free trials and cheap monthly subscriptions.

Once that's all sorted, you'll be free to access your sites and accounts with relative ease. Cuba's internet speed may be not on par with central Tokyo, but what's wrong with letting your photos upload while heading to the bar for a Cuba Libre ?

Cuban pesos and dollars

3. Keep a few USD tucked away

We've all been there at some point: Arrive in a new country, head over to the Currency Exchange desk, change up all of your money, and walk away with a sizable chunk missing, thanks to exchange rates and commission.

In recent years, companies such as Monzo have looked to bypass annoying overseas withdrawal and transaction fees. Sadly, this isn't an option in Cuba, as most places can't take payments from international debit cards.

The Cuban Peso can only be purchased on the island, so you’ll need to change money upon arrival – there's no escaping that!

Government-owned hotels and restaurants, as well as national transport companies, will only accept the Cuban Peso, so make sure you change up enough upon arrival to set you up for your trip around the island, and avoid wasting time in long ATM queues.

On the other hand, many smaller private businesses such as restaurants, stores, and guest houses are more than happy to accept American Dollars, British pounds, Euros, and Canadian dollars. They will offer you favorable rates, and you’ll also save on exchange rates and commissions.

Our advice: keep a few dollars tucked away in your backpack. That way, when the opportunity comes along, you get yourself a good price while avoiding lining the pockets of currency exchange businesses.

First aid kit

4. Bring a medical kit

No one wants to think about getting sick on vacation; however, it'd be wrong not to give you a quick heads up about the difficulties of finding medicine when in Cuba.

Sometimes many things that you would typically be able to buy at your average grocery store can be pretty tough to find here.

In case of an emergency, you're always welcome to try your luck with one of Cuba's many homemade alternatives known as medicinas caseras. If you want to avoid setbacks, it's best to have a backup supply of basic painkillers, repellent, band-aids, common antibiotics, antibacterial gel, and disinfectant wipes.

To keep yourself in the loop, you can contact your airline directly, or take a look at the Cuban Ministry of Health website.

A taxi in Santiago de Cuba

5. Alternative transport in Havana

Like any big city, Havana's public transport can be challenging for first-time visitors.

Tourist sites and travel blogs tend to lean towards government-owned taxis and pricey trips in classic cars. Fortunately, there are other viable alternatives that often slip under the radar!

Looking for an Urban taxi in Cuba? Download the La Nave , Bajanda and D' Taxi apps. These are linked to private taxi companies that offer a 24-hour service and fixed prices.

Government drivers are known for hiking the price to cream off a little extra from the "official" fee. Having these apps on your phone will help you avoid any awkward negotiations, especially if your Spanish is a work in progress.

If you prefer a more environmentally friendly way to travel, Velo Cuba , Ciclo Cuba , and Citykleta , will be your best bet for reasonably priced bike rental. All three companies offer an hourly service in addition to long rental periods.

Tourist at the Malecón, Havana

6. Keep an eye out

Cuba is one of the safest island nations in the Caribbean for tourists - but like most other countries, even the safest places can have dark sides with shady individuals.

Along your travels in Cuba, you might be coerced to eat at certain questionable restaurants, to drink at run-down bars, or buy souvenirs at particular stores on the busy avenues.  Be aware not to consume any foods that look unsanitary, be careful with non-name brand alcohol, and compare all prices you see around for comparison.

Try to hire an official or trusted local guide who knows all of the “tourist traps”, and can most likely take you to authentic locales where the music is blasting, and the prices are modest.  Also, negotiate any cost of services or products beforehand firmly. You don’t want any additional charges to start popping up all over the place.

Find out more about the best tips on How to Travel Safe in Cuba , and what other tricks to look out for!

Written by Gabriela Rey.

Published October 2022.

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Alternativa, trova-fusión, arquitectura, artes plásticas, food & drinks, coronavirus en cuba.

Diez aplicaciones imprescindibles si viajas a Cuba

Que no te engañen. Viajar a Cuba es algo de lo que nunca te arrepentirás. Eso sí, significa emplear tiempo y recursos localizando los mejores lugares para visitar y la mejor forma de trasladarte hacia ellos. Pero… ¡que no cunda el pánico! VISTAR te propone algunos trucos para sacarle máximo provecho a tu estancia en la Isla y convertirla en una experiencia maravillosa. Aunque sabemos de sobra que el verano ya terminó, estas apps. gratuitas que funcionan de forma offline pueden ser la salvación de los que logren darse una escapadita en octubre a Cuba. ¡Toma nota!

Conoce Cuba

Aunque no es cubana  esta app. gratuita, disponible para Android, iPhone y otros dispositivos, permite descargar mapas de cualquier parte del mundo (Cuba incluida) con el fin de que puedas usarlos más tarde cuando carezcas de internet. Disponible en App Store y Google Play .

Es algo así como un directorio de restaurantes privados y estatales de Cuba. Brinda este servicio a través de su página oficial y una aplicación móvil disponible para Android y iOS que puedes descargar en su sitio. Funciona offline . Disponible en la Play Store y App Store.

Como en otros rincones del globo, Facebook,Whatsapp e Instagram son apps. muy populares en Cuba, pero imo es un éxito rotundo en la Isla porque ocupa muy poco espacio en la memoria del teléfono, funciona en diferentes modelos de celulares y puede establecer videollamadas con velocidades de conexión bajas. Disponible en Google Play y AppStore.

¿Te gusta el Cubatón? Esta app. puede ser la mejor para ponerte a tono con la música que está de moda en la Isla. El software te permite explorar artistas y nuevos álbumes, seleccionar las canciones que te gustan y crear playlists con cantidad ilimitada de temas. Aunque Cubatoneo funciona de forma online , si activas el acceso Premium puedes descargar la música para escucharla luego cuando no dispongas de Internet. Disponible en Play Store y AppStore.

Aunque tampoco es “hecha en casita”, esta app. es imprescindible para los viajeros. Tripit, disponible para dispositivos con sistemas Android y iOS, guarda tus confirmaciones de vuelo, hospedaje, renta de autos, entre otras informaciones. Además, los agrega a un itinerario de viajes. Disponible en Play Store y AppStore.

SpanishDict

Si viajas a un país de habla hispana, tener un diccionario de español-inglés en tu teléfono que funcione de forma offline debe ser un must . SpanishDict es un traductor, diccionario y conjugador español-inglés con regionalismos e información contextual. Disponible en Play Store y AppStore .

Para qué mentirte. A veces, en Cuba suelen perderse los productos de uso básico. No es casual que ante tales impedimentos los programadores cubanos hayan creado una app., disponible para Android, que permite al cliente consultar información de los productos existentes en la red minorista del Grupo Empresarial CIMEX . Disponible en el sitio de apps. cubanas Cubapk .

Habana Trans

Se trata de una app., disponible para dispositivos con sistema Android, que puedes descargar en el sitio web Cubapk . Surgió con el propósito de que los habaneros o, quien visite la capital de Cuba, tenga pleno conocimiento de cuáles son las vías para moverse de un lugar a otro, utilizando medios de transporte: ómnibus, carros de alquiler, trenes y demás. Funciona offline, así que no es imprescindible que estés conectado a la Wifi. Disponible en Cubapk y Apkpure.

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Internet in Cuba: Ultimate Local’s Guide For Travelers

Is there internet in Cuba? YES… Cuba has internet! Internet in Cuba has been getting better and more easily accessible in the past few years , and although we’re still always asked if there is wifi in Cuba, internet access in Cuba for tourists and locals alike is easier now than it has ever been.

However, using Cuban internet and getting internet access in Cuba is still more challenging than you’re probably used to . If you’re planning a trip to Cuba, there are a few very important things to keep in mind about using the internet while in Cuba.

We put together this ultimate guide to Cuba’s internet use to help travelers navigate how to get wifi in Cuba and understand the Cuba internet situation before getting to the island. We’ve included everything from data roaming in Cuba to how to get Cuba wifi cards that will let you connect around the island.

Cuba Internet

When I first came to Cuba in 2013 on a trip as part of a college class, we were told to plan on not being able to access the internet in Cuba throughout the duration of our trip. Even just a decade ago, as the rest of the world was getting iPhones, it was a true nightmare to connect to the internet in Cuba.

Internet in Cuba for tourists was via a dusty desktop in a dark corner of a hotel lobby that – for an exorbitant fee – could maybe load one email. Internet for Cubans? Forget about it.

By the time I was back in Cuba, less than two years later, I was connecting to wifi in Havana via my iPhone , freely scrolling Facebook and sending emails. All this to say that, while the internet situation in Cuba isn’t perfect, it has (quickly) gotten much, much better.

Is There Internet in Cuba?

Yes – there is internet in Cuba! Internet is still not as fast or ever-present in Cuba as it is in most of the rest of the world.  You won’t find it for free in every cafe, restaurant, or hotel – not by a long shot. However, the internet in Cuba is accessible, and it is not bad.

When the internet first came to Cuba, internet access in Cuba for tourists was the main goal , as the internet was quite restricted in use for Cubans or entirely impossible to access. However, Cubans are now able to access the internet largely as they would anywhere else, though internet costs and access points are still limitations.

Today, Cuba internet access is much better, and users can pretty much do everything they’d want to do, but with some longer-than-average page loading speeds . While there is some degree of Cuba internet censorship (keep reading for more on this!), it will unlikely be something you’ll encounter as a traveler to Cuba (so long as you come prepared with a VPN for Cuba like NordVPN ) .

Internet in Cuba is mostly fine for any normal use – you might have a problem streaming videos or downloading large files, but you’ll likely be fine , especially if traveling for Cuba for just a short time.

• Ultimate Travel Guide to Cuba
• Varadero Beach, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• Where to Stay in Havana
• 15 Best Places to Visit in Cuba

Internet in Cuba

Most Cubans and visitors connect to the internet in Cuba through public hotspots in Havana and across Cuba . While internet access in Cuba for tourists is also offered through hotels or in some private apartment rentals like Airbnbs , these public hotspots are still the most common way to connect to the internet in Cuba.

Public internet hotspots in Cuba are mostly in parks or other gathering spots like the Malecón in Havana . You can check out a complete list of all locations for public wifi in Havana and throughout Cuba on the ETECSA website . You’re also welcome to sit in a hotel lobby or rooftop bar and use Wi-Fi here .

If you find yourself wandering around to suddenly be greeted by dozens of people entranced by their cell phones or laptops, you’ll know you’ve probably stumbled upon a wifi hotspot.

More and more, owners of Airbnbs and guesthouses for rent are purchasing their own wifi equipment and paying for their own wifi networks as in-home and private wifi access expands across the country . Make sure to check with your accommodation beforehand to inquire about what type of internet access you’ll have where you’re staying – if any.

Wifi in Havana

Of everywhere in Cuba, Havana is by far the most connected area of the country, and wifi in Havana is the easiest to come by . There are public wifi points across the city, as well as at the many hotels and guesthouses around the city that offer wifi access .

Private accommodations like apartment rentals or Airbnbs now regularly offer private wifi connections as well. Many neighborhoods in Havana are becoming some of the first in the country to have pilot programs for open internet access.

These are some of the most common or popular internet spots in Havana. Make sure to check out the complete list of locations on the ETECSA website !

• Plaza del Cristo, in Old Havana near the Capitolio Building
• Along the Malecón sea wall
• Next to the Coppelia ice cream shop in Vedado
• La Rampa – all of Avenida 23 between the Malecón and Coppelia

Cuba Internet Access

To access wifi at public hotspots like internet parks or gathering places, you’ll first have to purchase an internet card to connect to the internet . This is true even of spaces like hotel bars or lobbies – purchase an internet card before you can connect to the internet.

These Cuba internet cards include a password on the back that you’ll enter on your internet browser and will give you a certain time in which to use the internet – usually an hour per card.

If you’re staying at a hotel or private apartment rental that has its own internet network, you’ll have to check with your accommodation regarding how to connect. Some offer unlimited internet cards to guests, others don’t require the use of an internet card at all .

Cuba Wifi Cards

Nauta cards.

You’ll need to buy an internet access card called a NAUTA card to access the internet from any public wifi network. These NAUTA cards include a scratch-off section on the back of each card – these provide users with a numerical code that will allow them to access the internet.

To use Cuban internet, simply open any internet browser on your device. Once you open your internet browser, you’ll be taken to a website that will prompt you to enter the code on the back of the NAUTA card. Upon entering the code, you’ll be granted access for the amount of time the card is valid.

After entering the code on the back of the card, you can use the internet through any apps that you might have on your device rather than being restricted to just using your internet browser. Once your time is up, pages will no longer load and you’ll need to get another internet card .

These Nauta internet cards are available through ETECSA Cuba. ETECSA is Cuba’s state-owned telecommunications company. There are countless ETECSA locations around the island where you can purchase these cards. In addition, plenty of people buy Cuba wifi cards in bulk and resell them for a slight upcharge.

Ask at your casa particular or hotel where you can find the nearest ETECSA store or place to buy Cuba wifi cards and they’ll probably be able to direct you to several options . Make sure to ask for a couple of options (if they’re available), as the ETECSA stores can sometimes have long lines even for simple transactions.

Cuba Internet Cafes

While some “internet cafes” in Cuba exist, Cuba internet cafes are generally non-existent, and this is not a common way to connect to the internet. Nearly everyone connects their device through wifi at a hotspot or a private network in a home or business.

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

Where To Get Cuba Internet Cards

Etecsa cuba.

Visit any ETECSA Cuba store, and you’ll be able to get one of the NAUTA cards that you’ll need to access the internet – there are many in Havana and in major cities throughout Cuba .

However, be aware that lines at ETESCA locations can often be long, even for a simple transaction like purchasing an internet card . You may want to purchase several at a time if you plan on using them throughout your trip.

Individuals who buy internet cards and resell them in bulk at corner stores or homes for a small fee are a good bet if the lines at an ETECSA location are long. Ask your casa particular host or at your accommodation if they know of any spots to buy these Cuban internet cards.

Internet in Cuba Hotels

You can also sometimes purchase ETECSA cards from hotels or guesthouses directly . If you want to access wifi from a hotel lobby or bar, just make sure that you purchase your internet ETECSA card from the hotel itself or verify beforehand that you can use an internet card purchased somewhere else in that hotel .

I’ve brought internet cards I’d purchased from ETECSA Cuba locations or in parks into hotels to use the internet and been disappointed to learn that I’d only be able to connect with an internet card purchased from that hotel.

Internet Hotspots or Parks

In my opinion, if the line at ETECSA Cuba is long when you’re trying to buy an internet card, you can’t find one at a hotel, and you can’t find someone who resells them from their corner store, you can generally purchase one at a public wifi hotspot .

Once you’ve reached a public wifi hotspot, you’ll probably have someone come up to you and say “wifi?” and offer to sell you a card. This is quite common! People always resell internet cards in parks or internet hotspots – just make sure the card you’re buying hasn’t been used and the scratch-off section on the back is still intact.

I’ve purchased internet access cards from internet hotspots like parks many times – it’s really the easiest way to do it! You may be paying $0.50 or $1 more for an hour of internet , but it will save you the hassle of having to wait in line for one.

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

Cuba Internet Censorship

You may be wondering about Cuba internet censorship, and if or how this may impact you when traveling to Cuba. While there is some degree of internet censorship in Cuba, it is almost exclusively limited to political information , especially relating to online publications that have been critical of the Cuban government.

You may have heard that websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google are blocked in China – this is not the case in Cuba. While internet censorship in Cuba does occur and is certainly a concern, it most likely won’t impact the average visitor.

However, you may face certain internet usage restrictions you would not experience elsewhere, though this is not caused by internet censorship in Cuba. Due to the decades-long U.S. economic blockade of the island and sanctions against Cuba’s banking sector, certain websites and internet services aren’t usually accessible to internet users in Cuba .

PayPal, for example, can’t be accessed from Cuba due to U.S. sanctions and the decades-long embargo. Other payment transaction services or banking services are also generally blocked by the United States from being used in Cuba.

To avoid being unable to access certain websites, you can use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) while using the internet in Cuba . Using a VPN is extremely simple, and allows you to access the internet as you otherwise do at home. If you’re planning on using the internet in Cuba, having a speedy VPN for Cuba is really a must for the best internet safety and access while in Cuba.

Read More: Is Cuba Safe? Cuba Safety Guide + Local Tips

Using a VPN in Cuba

Due to restrictions and limitations on internet use and access in Cuba, I highly recommend using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) while in Cuba .

Using a VPN is an important internet safety measure to protect you and your personal data while online, whether you’re using Cuban internet or the internet anywhere. VPNs encrypt your data as you use the internet so that hackers can’t access your information while connecting to public Wi-Fi.

It is very easy for hackers to access others’ data when using a public wifi network, so it is particularly important to use a VPN when connecting to any unfamiliar wifi network … your only option in Cuba!

Not only does a VPN keep your information safe on the internet, but it allows you to set your browsing location to dozens of different countries, allowing you to use the internet as if you were there. This means you’ll have no issues when accessing websites from Cuba!

We use a VPN, specifically NordVPN , when traveling or at home, and love the benefits and the added layer of security they provide, most especially in Cuba.

I wrote an entire guide to using VPNs in Cuba and the best VPN to use in Cuba, so make sure to check it out if you’re interested in learning more about which VPNs are the best for a trip to Cuba. I personally recommend and love NordVPN , which we’ve used for years, and love for its super fast speed .

Plan a Trip to Cuba

• How to Get Cuba’s Tourist Visa
• Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance for Cuba (It’s Required!)
• Viñales, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Holguin, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide

Data Roaming in Cuba

It is now possible to use data roaming from international cell phone plans for internet access in Cuba for tourists! This is true even for those traveling from the United States with AT&T, Verizon, or Sprint cell phone service . You may want to check with your cell phone company prior to arriving to verify specifically, but you shouldn’t have an issue if you want to roam data here.

However, roaming data in Cuba will be slow and costly. I almost shudder to think how expensive it would be, and I don’t recommend relying on it as your sole method of accessing the internet in Cuba.

My recommendation is – both in terms of the internet speed you’ll get and cost-effectiveness – to build a chunk of time into your day to spend connecting to wifi in Cuba via an ETECSA internet card than trying to roam data while out and about.

Cuba SIM Card

Many well-seasoned travelers and digital nomads know that often one of the cheapest ways to stay connected while traveling is to purchase a SIM card from the country you’re visiting and add it to your unlocked cellphone.

A few years ago, Cuba began allowing mobile internet access to Cubans by allowing Cuba SIM cards to include data packages . However, SIM cards in Cuba are expensive (around the equivalent of $40 USD each) and require some paperwork . The combination of long lines at ETECSA Cuba stores, the cost, and the paperwork required to get one have never justified it for those simply on short trips.

In February 2020, Cuba’s phone carrier, Cubacel , launched a new “Tourist SIM Card” program that fills this mobile accessibility gap for temporary visitors. You can now pre-order a 30-day SIM card with 1GB of data, which you can pick up at the airport in Havana when you arrive. You may also be able to pick one up from the airport without pre-ordering

The CubaCel Tourist SIM Card costs $26, and more data can be added if needed for an additional charge. However, the lifetime of the SIM card is only 30 days – for most travelers, this is perfect.

This is a great new option for those looking for mobile data access while traveling to Cuba . It seems quite expensive to me, honestly – you could probably get by on an hour of internet access at ~$1 per hour per day and for the duration of your trip still probably not spend that much.

Again, if you’re traveling to Cuba for a short period of time, I generally recommend that you build out a chunk of your day for using the internet rather than jumping through the hoops of getting a local SIM card or roaming data. However, CubaCel’s Tourist SIM card is a great option if you really want to stay connected while in Cuba!

While it’s easier than ever to get internet access in Cuba, it’s important to remember that in Cuba internet isn’t everywhere like you may be used to . Because of this, when we travel in Cuba we like to prepare as if we’re mostly not going to have wifi and then act pleasantly surprised when we do have wifi.

While NordVPN will allow you to use the internet in Cuba as you would at home, it is a must to access the App Store in Cuba. Therefore, I always recommend downloading everything you may need ahead of time.

Make sure you download apps you think you might need while in Cuba ahead of time , including any banking apps you may need to use, mapping apps (Maps.Me!), or anything else you could use. Check out our guide to the Top 10 Apps for Cuba Travel to see the exact apps we use to make Cuba travel easy.

Another favorite recommendation – take a screenshot of things you might need to reference on your trip . In case you can’t access important web pages, you can check back in your photos on your phone to reference important phone numbers, the address of your hotel or casa particular, and more.

Whether you have easy access to these details on the internet when you need them later or not, you’ll be happy you have a copy saved for reference.

Does Cuba Have Internet?

Yes – Cuba has internet. It may be harder to access the internet in Cuba than it is in other countries, but Cuba is getting online more and more with each passing day. This is great for travelers and locals alike.

It may no longer be true that you can’t access the internet in Cuba, but that doesn’t mean Cuban internet doesn’t have its challenges. Come armed with NordVPN and the knowledge we’ve shared about how to get online in Cuba and you’ll be ready to navigate the internet in Cuba like a pro.

Even if you have internet while in Cuba, try to embrace being disconnected more than usual while you travel through Cuba! Internet or no internet, one of the things that I have always loved about spending long chunks of time in Cuba is being more “off-grid” than usual – you’ll quickly grow to live it!

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

DimeCuba Travel: Trips to Cuba 4+

Book flights & cars & hotels, designed for iphone.

• 3.3 • 8 Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

DimeCuba Travel's booking app is the best solution for your travel to Cuba and the rest of the world. Find the best deals on tickets and charters to Cuba, buy your flight, check your schedules and use all your details and payment methods with ease. In addition, you can book hotels all over Cuba, rent cars, make the necessary pre-trip arrangements and book vacation packages. The MOST COMPLETE application for your trips to Cuba is here! Install the DimeCuba Travel app and be part of the BIG DimeCuba FAMILY. Need help? Contact us by any of these ways: 1- The web chat: https://www.dimecuba.com/viajes 2- Our phones: + 1 786-465-7887 or +1 786-408-2088 3- Write to [email protected] 4- WhatsApp chat https://wa.me/13053402637

Version 1.8

Improvements, bug fixes, optimization of flows and navigation

Ratings and Reviews

I bought a ticket from this app and after I bought the ticket told me that i was going to receive an email with my receipt and guess what never received an email receipt. Do not download this app.

This app does not work and stole my email and phone number

App Privacy

The developer, Ringmi , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• Identifiers

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

More By This Developer

DimeCuba: Recharges & Calls

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10 Apps That Will Make The Most Of Your Vacation In 2024

I f you've ever spent time at a networking event, made small talk at your kids' soccer games, or scrolled through a dating app, you'll know that "travel" is something almost everyone will tell you they enjoy. Couple that with an attachment to our smartphones that borders on co-dependent, and it's no surprise to learn that travel apps are a hot commodity. Some of the best innovations in travel come in the form of apps. Staying in touch with people at home, travel planning, staying organized on the road, or connecting with other travelers? Not only is there an app for that, there are many apps for that. 

To help you sort through the plethora of what's out there, here are some travel-ready apps to make your vacation a blast. We've sourced suggestions from people who travel for a living and those who leave their local area only rarely, so no matter how often you jet-set, there is an app for you.

Read more: 12 Smart Gadgets You Didn't Know Existed

If your cell plan doesn't include international roaming, you can get slammed with steep fees for using mobile data outside your own country.

There are a few ways to get around roaming charges, including buying a local SIM card for the country you are traveling in, using a Wi-Fi stick , or investing in a dual SIM phone, like those from Samsung, Apple, or Google. One of the easiest and cheapest options though, is an eSIM app like Airalo . Airalo was one of the first in the eSIM game and continues to be popular with travelers. Fans of the app point to how easy it is to download and get started quickly, and how much it saves in fees. On the other hand, some users have noticed a discrepancy in how well it works in different countries. One reviewer on TrustPilot states "We do NOT recommend this plan given the extremely poor performance in Vietnam" despite noting excellent service in Hong Kong. 

Airalo is a paid service, available on the App Store and on Google Play.

Google Maps is often the default app travelers reach for when navigating new territory. It's a trusted resource for a lot of reasons, including the ease of finding reviews and info for even very small businesses. But it's not the only map app out there, nor is it the best in every situation. The main advantage of Maps.me over Google Maps is that it is based on user-generated information. Particularly for folks who are getting around on foot, this "boots on the ground" approach is excellent and more direct than reporting problems to Google Maps . It also means that if you find a cool place on your travels and want to make sure other travelers can find it, you can add it to a map.

Like Google Maps and other useful way-finding apps, you can download maps and bookmark points of interest for offline use, although the background information on locations is not as robust as on Google Maps. Maps.me also allows you to access various modes of transportation while offline, which Google doesn't. 

Maps.me is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Cash's position as king is increasingly precarious. On your travels, you'll find cashless options in places you might not expect. The mass availability of mobile payment platforms like Square means you may be able to whip out your phone or card at Swiss coffee carts or Mexican street vendors. Wise (formerly Transferwise) lets you move between currencies seamlessly. Wise lets you operate in 40 currencies, which is particularly handy if you are traveling to several different countries. They advertise charges that are less than the major banks. However, some users have complained about complications with money transfers, so be forewarned if you intend to use this app for sending money. 

Of note to travelers is the option to get an actual bank card that can function as an international debit card with a nominal conversion fee (not all bank cards can pay by debit in countries other than your home base.) Or, save a step and scan your phone to pay from your Wise account. 

Wise is available on the App Store and from Google Play. There is no charge to download the app, but fees are charged for some banking activities.

If you are going to be traveling from place to place on your vacation, you will want the Rome2Rio app on your phone. Enter your destination and departure location, and the app spits out the options and approximate costs for each leg of your journey. For instance, if you are in Edmonton, Canada, and want to get to the Thai island of Ko Yao Yai, the app will suggest six options, labeling the best, cheapest, and fastest combination of flight, minibus, and ferry. You can't purchase tickets through the app, although there are links to book accommodation that take you to Booking.com. Being able to purchase travel fares through the app would make things easier, especially if they were offered in a package, but the absence of that feature means you can investigate and compare prices from different booking operators , so we are putting it in the win column.

Rome2Rio is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Rick Steves Audio Europe

Rick Steves is recognized as a top voice in travel guides. His down-to-earth approach to travel has endeared multitudes of followers to him, spawning an industry of books, television shows, and a sprawling web presence that features how-to guides, articles, and an active travelers' forum. On top of all that, he has a free app for self-guided walking tours through many of Europe's top sights called Rick Steves Audio Europe . Reviewers of the app give it a high rating (4.7 on Google Play and 4.3 on the App Store) using superlatives like "This app is GOLD," and comparing the quality of the tours to paid audio tours. On the downside, it is difficult to sync the app on multiple devices, so if you are in a group you may all be at slightly different parts of the tour, which can be mildly annoying. There are a bunch of tour sites, with more added periodically.

The audio tours and accompanying maps are downloadable, so you don't need to worry about burning through mobile data or needing to rely on Wi-Fi. Rick Steve Audio Europe is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

How many trips come vividly back to life in your mind just by thinking about that one excellent bowl of Cacio e Pepe pasta or sun-drenched sip of a Paloma? Exploring a place through its flavors and discovering new spots to eat is a beloved part of travel. In Europe, TheFork (the French version is called LaForchette) is the go-to app for crowd-sourced restaurant reviews. Previously, the app also covered Australia, but at the start of 2024, it was announced they will be pulling out of Oz.

You can find Michelin-starred restaurants with months-long wait lists or little hole-in-the-wall spots by searching the name of the eating establishment, the city or neighborhood you want to eat in, or the kind of cuisine you are craving.

The app is worthy of its space on your phone just for the restaurant listings and reviews, but if you want to explore more of the capabilities, there are ways to expand its usefulness. You can make reservations, register to collect points, access discounts and specials at select spots, and pay through the app. TheFork is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Looking for a little love on the road? The Fairytrail app might be the ticket to romance (or ROAMance) you are looking for. Aimed at digital nomads and van life devotees, the app is a nice addition to the dating lives of travelers of all stripes. Members are evaluated and assigned a fairytale character similar to enneagram-slash-Myers-Briggs personality types, which is a new and novel approach compared with other iPhone dating apps or Android dating apps .

Because the app is focused on people with nomadic lifestyles, matches are location-independent. The idea is that users of the app will be willing to travel to each other to meet and date. There is a setting that allows an extra layer of matching: dream places to visit. If you so choose, before chatting with a match you need to have an overlapping "bucket-list" destination. Previously, this was an unavoidable step but became an optional setting after it was changed in response to frustration expressed by reviewers. The app is being redesigned in 2024 and soliciting feedback from users. Stay tuned, it seems more happy endings are in store! Fairytrails is free to download with in-app purchases and is available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Price Scanner And Converter

A very unpleasant aspect of vacationing in another country is coming home to a shocking credit card bill. Part of the problem is the tendency of holidaymakers to spend like money isn't real, but the other problem is how difficult it is to calculate prices into your own currency. Sure, you can come up with shortcuts to do quick math, but that gives you an estimate rather than an exact cost. To help, there are many different currency converter apps out there, with features like real-time rate calculation and offline capability. The somewhat clunky-named Price Scanner and Converter takes it one step further by using your phone's camera to scan prices and display them automatically in your preferred currency (out of 150 global currencies.) New iPhone cameras also have a similar capability, but it isn't as seamless a process as using this app.

This price scanning app isn't presently available on Google Play, although there are similar apps to be found. The reviews are pretty overwhelmingly mediocre, so if you are on team Android, your best bet may be to download a regular currency converter and enter in prices the old-fashioned way.

Downloading the Price Scanner and Converter is free from the App Store.

Searching through your emails for confirmations and itineraries isn't an efficient way to access your travel information. And good luck if you have used your work email for some of your planning and your personal email for others. What if you are offline when you need to find your tour details? Nightmare fuel. Tripit has created a simple user experience, allowing you to forward all those endless travel planning emails to be arranged into an easily accessible itinerary in a single spot, which you can access from any of your devices.

Other features of this include the ability to load PDFs, QR codes, and other travel documents to your Tripit travel folder. There are helpful navigation tools, like airport maps, neighborhood safety ratings, and nearby places. You can share your travel plans and sync them to your calendar. For $49 a year (or a free 30-day trial) you can upgrade to Tripit Pro for enhanced travel aid, including notifications to help keep you on track and on time. 

Tripit is free to download from the App Store and from Google Play, and you can upgrade to the premium Tripit Pro on the Tripit website or in the app.

Mobile Passport Control

The latest app from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol goes by the wildly creative name, " Mobile Passport Control ." It's a no-nonsense app with a no-nonsense name that allows users to streamline the customs experience. Rather than filling out declarations forms, users enter their information into the app and send it to border officials so they can access it as soon as they get to customs. You can do this immediately upon arrival, say as your plane is taxiing to the gate.

The app is for United States citizens and Canadians with a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa who are entering the USA at one of 33 American airports, 11 preclearance sites, and four seaports. It works in tandem with your passport, but it doesn't replace it.

As a bonus, some sites allow those with the Mobile Passport Control app to use their own (almost always shorter!) line or expedited Global Entry lines at passport control. You can enter family members on the same app and there is no approval process, just download and go.

A previous iteration of the app had a premium, paid version, but this is no longer the case. The app is free on the App Store and Google Play.

Read the original article on SlashGear .

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Is a Disney Theme Park Vacation Still Worth the Price?

As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves if they should rethink their vacations.

By Tariro Mzezewa

Earlier this year, Jake Williams, a filmmaker and content creator in Toronto, made his long-awaited return to one of his favorite places on earth: Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. After traveling to Disney World and Disneyland multiple times a year since childhood and becoming an annual pass holder as an adult, Mr. Williams hadn’t been to a Disney park since 2019.

“As someone who went all the time, it’s crazy to me that I hadn’t gone to a Disney park in that long,” he said in a phone interview. “It’s a special place. ”

Before his trip, Mr. Williams heard about some changes at Disney World, but he didn’t anticipate how different things would be, starting at the airport. Since his last visit, the company had gotten rid of the Magical Express, a free bus that for more than 15 years shuttled people from Orlando International Airport to their Disney resorts. Guests must now take a shuttle that costs between $23 and $30 per adult each way, depending on the time of year, use a ride share service or rent a car.

To Disney-goers, the end of the Magical Express speaks to a larger issue: The cost of being at the happiest place on earth is going up while the perks are going away. As the company has raised the price of tickets and hotel rooms, and added costly, difficult-to-navigate tools to book rides as replacements for previously free products, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves if it’s still worth it.

Mr. Williams said that a day in the Orlando parks and a one-night stay at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort cost a “jaw-dropping” $886.34 for two adults. He decided to calculate how much the same trip cost in 2017 — a year when he visited the park several times. The cost: $567.90. Even accounting for inflation, he was stunned.

“It’s hard to justify going to Orlando rather than, like, Iceland,” he said. “When you have a budget like this, you can go a lot of places and see and do a lot of things. You could even do a Disney cruise for less than that.”

Epcot’s Italy, or Italy?

He’s not alone. Len Testa, president of Touring Plans , a site that helps travelers organize Disney trips, and a co-author of “The Unofficial Guides to Walt Disney World and Disneyland,” said that he increasingly hears from Disney lovers who are now planning other types of vacations.

“At some point a Disney vacation starts competing with ‘Let’s go see Europe’ and I think that’s what a lot of people are doing,” Mr. Testa said. “I’ve had a number of people in the last few years say, ‘We priced it out and we could take our children to eat pizza in the Italy pavilion in Epcot or for the same money we could actually go to Italy for two weeks. We’re going to go to Italy for two weeks.’”

For Mr. Testa, collecting data about Disney is a passion. In the late ’90s, as a graduate student in computer science he decided he wanted to build a computer program that could help people navigate Disney World as efficiently as possible. That research continued through his Ph.D and the program he created turned into Touring Plans. His team of developers and data scientists model what’s going on at Walt Disney World on a minute-by-minute basis every day. The data they’ve collected in recent years shows that the cost of a Disney World trip, on average, has gone up almost 25 percent since 2019. Seventy percent of that increase is for services that used to be free.

The prices of parking and entry tickets have consistently risen in recent years. In 2022 ticket prices went up two times. In 2023 annual passes saw a $30 to $50 increase, depending on the tier, while multiday tickets also went up. A one-day ticket to either of Disney’s U.S. parks now costs $109 for anyone over the age of 10.

One analysis concluded that between 2014 and 2025, the base price for tickets has gone up 32 percent and increased by 90 percent for the highest-priced tickets. In 2025 the base price for an adult one-day ticket will be $119 and the higher tickets will be $199. Hotel prices have also risen. The cheapest hotels at Disney World now cost an average of $187 per night, according to Disney Magic Guides , a resource for planning trips to the parks.

In an earnings call this week , Disney’s leaders acknowledged that they’ve seen a slowdown at the parks and that, because of the economy, lower-income visitors are financially stressed, while higher-income guests are traveling internationally. And Disney is not alone: Tickets for Universal Studios in Florida and in California often cost as much as Disney tickets. In July, Comcast said Universal’s revenue fell by 11 percent in the prior quarter, with visitors turning to cruises and international travel.

In an email, a spokeswoman for Disney said the company is always trying to offer guests an array of tickets and experiences. To the company, and its most loyal fans, she said, the value of the experiences is worth the price.

“We are purposeful about creating more ticket and hotel price points than ever before to provide guests a variety of opportunities to visit our parks,” she said, adding that “a visit to a Disney theme park is a 10- to 16-hour experience with attractions, entertainment and more.”

Apps overload

For many guests, price isn’t the only hurdle. Visitors now have to navigate several new apps and tools if they want the best chance at getting on the most popular rides. In the past, they could get a free FastPass, which allowed them to go to the front of a line for a ride. In 2021, Disney replaced the FastPass with a digital feature called Genie+ that park goers had to pay for and that was supposed to make booking rides more efficient. Instead, it caused so much confusion that content creators started making videos that showed viewers how to “hack” the tool.

To get the best out of Genie+ guests had to buy the app early in the morning ( avid park-goers recommended doing so at 6 a.m.) and then, at 7 a.m., they would book rides for the day. They could only book more rides after they’d completed their first activity or two hours after making their first reservation. And they couldn’t choose what time they wanted to get on a ride — Genie+ would do it for them. Mr. Testa said all of this led to “Disney complexity fatigue.”

“ God forbid on your vacation, you want to go back to your hotel and take a nap,” Mr. Testa said. Others said having to always be on their phones took away from the experience of being on vacation.

Disney heard the complaints. In July, Genie+ became Lightning Lane Multi Pass, which makes it possible for people to reserve rides ahead of time, instead of on the day they are in the park. The new system, which starts at $30 a day, is an attempt at mixing Genie+ and FastPass, but only those willing to pay extra can use all the features. The Disney spokeswoman said that so far, guests are “very pleased” with Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Reviews on social media show that it may be too soon to tell. On Reddit, reviewers lamented the different prices for Lightning Lane passes, with one person saying she “despised the process” of booking in the new system so much she felt like throwing her phone.

Jeremy Sonkin, a Chicago-based content creator who makes videos about theme parks, was at Disney World on the first day the new system was available. He said the new app is less confusing than Genie+, but it doesn’t feel like an upgrade.

“The idea and thought behind trying to bring back the ‘Fast Pass plus’ system is correct, but it’s not a level playing field and I can see this causing just as much, if not more, frustration from guests,” he said.

Greg Antonelle, the managing director of MickeyTravels , a travel agency that focuses on booking Disney trips, said his company is having a great year, with travelers looking to experience new rides like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure , which replaced the old Splash Mountain ride. He said that complaining about Disney is par for the course.

“We’ve been in business for 13 years and we’ve heard complaints about cost for 13 years,” Mr. Antonelle said. “It’s nothing new.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the starting month of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Disney World. It started in July, not June.

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Tariro Mzezewa, a former national correspondent at The Times, is a reporter who writes about culture and style. More about Tariro Mzezewa

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

Salzburg, Austria:  The compact Austrian city of medieval alleys, majestic Alpine views and just 150,000 residents bursts to life in the summer .

Elon Musk is super mad at Mark Cuban again

• Elon Musk sent a jab Mark Cuban's way on Wednesday.
• Cuban went on Jon Stewart's show on Monday, where he made some comments about X's algorithm.
• In response, Musk flung an insult at Cuban, complete with a poop emoji.

Elon Musk is beefing with Mark Cuban on X again.

After the "Shark Tank" star posited that Musk may have adjusted X's algorithm to show content based on the Tesla chief's own preferences, Musk responded with an insult.

It started when Cuban went on "The Daily Show," speaking to Jon Stewart in an interview that aired on Monday.

"When you write an algorithm — I haven't written a lot, it's been a while — but when you write one, you get to set the parameters of what you want to see happen," Cuban told Stewart.

"And he certainly has done that to the things he likes," he added, referencing Musk.

"That was hilarious," Musk wrote on X on Wednesday in response to the clip.

"Unlike the other platforms, our algorithm is open source! And if you interact and argue with 'right wing' accounts, which Cuban does a lot, the algorithm will assume that's what you *want* to do and give you more of it lmao," he added.

Cuban did not provide any evidence to back up his claims that Musk has manipulated X's algorithm. Cuban has been known to respond to a wide variety of accounts on X.

Then came the "poop" emoji, with Musk calling Cuban a giant turd in human form. Cuban, for his part, responded to Musk's insult with a series of heart hands emojis.

🫶🫶🫶 https://t.co/ByayAZlB7q — Mark Cuban (@mcuban) August 14, 2024

Cuban also took some shots at Silicon Valley's billionaires in Monday's interview with Stewart.

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"Watching what's happening in Silicon Valley is insane. It's not so much a support thing. It's more like a takeover thing, trying to put themselves in a position to have as much control as possible," Cuban said of the tech and business titans backing former President Donald Trump .

Silicon Valley's elite, Cuban said, wants to become a pseudo board of directors to Trump, who they've begun to envision as "CEO of the United States of America."

"You get to that point sometimes where I think they've lost a connection to real world," Cuban said of Silicon Valley's tech billionaires.

Musk, for one, has endorsed Trump . Earlier this week, he held a live stream in support of Trump's 2024 presidential run.

To be sure, Cuban isn't exactly against Musk's ownership of X. Cuban is an avid X user . In a September GQ interview , he said a Musk-led X could succeed if Musk "can get out of his own way."

"I think he's on the right track to make it a good business. Unless he fucks it up himself with his posts on X," Cuban told GQ.

This isn't the first time Musk has snapped at Cuban over their differences.

Musk ridiculed Cuban when the latter said he would still vote for President Joe Biden over Trump even if the sitting president " was being given last rites. "

In June, Cuban told Business Insider he has no issues with Musk despite their disagreements.

"I have fun sparring with Elon. He likes to troll and so do I," Cuban said at the time.

Cuban and representatives for Musk didn't immediately respond to requests for comment for this story from BI sent outside regular business hours.

Watch: Crowd boos Elon Musk at Dave Chappelle's comedy show

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