More about Cienfuegos
Why go to Cienfuegos?
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is tops for art, architecture and cultural excursions
Excursions to famed Trinidad require long bus ride
Whether you shop locally or travel outside the city, Cienfuegos shows Cuba's quieter side
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Tourists in Cuba are required to use the CUC. The exchange rate is about 1 to 1 for all currencies, but there's a 10 percent surcharge on American dollars. You can exchange money at exchange booths at the port. As a rule, American bank cards and credit cards do not work in Cuba.
There's a 6 CUC tax on pieces of art that is collected by the Cuban government; customs officials will look for rolled-up paper tubes and pull you aside to pay the tax (it seemed to be randomly enforced, as not everyone with artwork was told to pay the fee).
For up-to-date currency exchange rates, visit www.xe.com.
Language?
Spanish. Only people in the tourist trade speak English and even then, it's pretty broken. Best to know a few phrases, particularly if you want to bargain.
Where You're Docked?
The Port of Cienfuegos looks out onto a concrete lot where tour buses park. To disembark, you'll need your passport and visa, as well as your keycard. A doctor is in the customs house and may randomly scan your head to make sure you don't have a fever. Once you go through security, there are several money exchange booths, as well as souvenir stands. If you aren't taking a tour and want to walk, Cienfuegos' main square is about four blocks away.
