can I use Canadian cash in Cuba

Dave Dvorak <dcd161@m> wrote:

>I just booked a last minute trip to Varadero and since I have never
>been to Cuba am wondering if I can exchange Canadian cash for
>Cuban convertible pesos?
>Can I use Canadian cash for tips, etc.

It would be about as well-appreciated as Canadian Tire money.
(Sadly that's the case for Canadian currency pretty much
anywhere outside Canada). You may be able to change it in
banks or cash cheques in Varadero, esp since the added US$
tax recently. I have no experience on either of those, just
know that to the man on the street, it has no use other than
the nice pictures on the back.

--
Ken Tough

Yes...you can exchange at the airport or hotel. But as far as I know you
cannont use Canadian currency for tips, etc.

Brian


"Dave Dvorak" <dcd161@m> wrote in message
news:girbs0tj8gj426tlpjfoion5bl8n8haorn@...
>I just booked a last minute trip to Varadero and since I have never
> been to Cuba am wondering if I can exchange Canadian cash for
> Cuban convertible pesos?
> Can I use Canadian cash for tips, etc.
> Thanks,
> Dave

Stockwell wrote:
>
> In article <girbs0tj8gj426tlpjfoion5bl8n8haorn@>, dcd161@m says...
> > I just booked a last minute trip to Varadero and since I have never
> > been to Cuba am wondering if I can exchange Canadian cash for
> > Cuban convertible pesos?
> > Can I use Canadian cash for tips, etc.
> > Thanks,
> > Dave
> >
> You can use Cndn notes but not coins. But it's no problem changing currency at the airport.
> There is a Convertable 1 peso note and coin. Be careful though, there were several attempts
> to shortchange us when using the CP.

We just got back from there.

Your hotel will give you same rate
as a bank and no waiting.

I waited 40 mins to change Canadian at a bank.

Would have waited longer to get cash
via a Visa card at another bank but my wife
bribed the guy in charge of the lineup
and it only took 20 mins.

Only ATM that worked in town is at Plaza
America and it can be difficult.

I tipped the bus driver a Tooney on arrival
and he said he could convert it.

Bought a CD in Havana with US dollars but paid
10 % more.

No money exchange in departure lounge at
airport. Any convertible pesos you have left
you have to spend at the Duty Free stores.

And you have to have 25 convertibles to
pay the exit tax.