Canadian Money in Cuba?

by Victor Tomiczek
(Cape Breton, Nova Scotia , Canada)

Should I bring Canadian money to exchange at the bank or American dollars?
WHAT IS THE NORMAL TIPPING RATE?

Answer by Vic webmaster Havana-guide.com


Bring Canadian money(CAD) to Cuba. American dollars are a bad option, because you are obliged to pay an extra 10% tax before the money is exchanged in Cuban Pesos Convertible (CUC). When you want to exchange 100 USD (American dollar) you start in fact with 90 USD dollars.
Normal tipping rate in Cuba is 10 - 15% but when I feel cheated I don't tip. Watch out, several restaurants and bars will be tampering with the bill. A classic "mistake" they make is to count an extra drink, so check the bill each time. When I feel cheated I don't tip!
More info about Cuban exchange rates, Cuban bank adresses, where to exchange your money
Money in Cuba
Enjoy your stay!