Cuba is a very safe place to vacation. One characteristic that profoundly affects the overall safety of the nation is the environment of the cities. As a general rule, travelers and Cuban citizens can enjoy an equal amount of security on the streets. This stands in contrast to most nations in which tourists are often targeted because of how much they stand out, and the assumption that some wealth surrounds them since they are capable of travelling. Another major aspect of safety on the streets of Cuba is the presence of police. In the average city, a police officer of some variety can be found with relative ease in the case of an emergency. This aspect of protection is only increased in popular tourist locations in which security officials can often be found only a block away.

Still, there are some concerns. Similar to many other vacation destinations, purse snatching and mugging can occur. Pickpockets are present in Cuba, especially in the more crowded parts of the city. These elements are present in Cuba; however these events are extremely rare by any global standards. For the most part, travelers can move around without worry by employing a small measure of street smarts. As a general rule the greatest concerns of vacationers to Cuba will be artifact peddlers and young people attempting to find employment for rather high prices, as guides.

However safe Cuba’s cities may be, before you arrive in Cuba you will need to be medically prepared. There are no mandatory inoculations, but it is still wise to check to make sure before you go. The most pressing ailment in Cuba is diarrhea. Basic precautions in terms of food and water intake should solve this problem. Antibiotics, in extreme circumstances, could become necessary. There is some risk of rabies, but only if the individual traveling wanders into an environment where animal bites or scratches are likely. Basic vaccinations should be up to date, but there are very few unorthodox medications that are required before traveling to Cuba.

Other common medical precautions that are often required when travelling in the Caribbean are related to mosquitoes. In Cuba there have been outbreaks of Dengue Fever in recent years, but these outbreaks are currently under control. This fever results in flu-like symptoms that may be complicated by shock, and there is no vaccine to fully prevent it. There is currently very low risk of this disease because of significant mosquito control regimens employed by the Cuban government.

There are a few general measures you can take in order to protect you from insects. Wearing long sleeves, long pants, closed toe shoes and hats will provide the most basic protection. Insect repellents are also effective. It is important to note that repellents with higher concentration of DEET will provide longer lasting protection, but will also have a higher potential of releasing toxins into the body. DEET should be avoided for young children since allergies are possible. Other basic precautions include keeping unscreened windows shut at night and using a bed-net. These measures are very commonly expected in tropical regions, and Cuba’s restrictions are generally less stringent then those of other nations.

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