using ATM machines in Havana Cuba

by Alix
(Devon U.K.)

If I use an ATM in Havana will I get the right type of tourist Peso back? how does the machine know what to give me?!!! Thanks!

ANSWER by Vic Webmaster Havana-guide.com

First this, I do NOT recommend the use of ATM's in Havana, there are also very few machines in Havana.
It's up to you, but imagine the problems when your card is swallowed, this is Cuba not London! I always prefer to go inside in a bank and talk to a "live" cashier.

The ATM's only provide CUC's, the "tourist money", the majority of the Cubans have no bank account or credit/debit cards and their salary is paid cash in CUP (the Cuban money,Peso Nacional also called Peso Cubano) Don't rely on ATM's in Havana and have always enough cash. In Havana cash is king, there are no pay terminals in Shops, restaurants etc. Only the major tourist hotels, airports and banks have pay terminals.
When exchanging money always ask for a receipt and count your money, cheating happens frequently.
Money in Havana