Souvenirs and handcraft Cuba

 Shopping

Cuban craftsmanship is nothing exceptional. You can find all sorts of craft objects, as well as paintings, in all busy tourist areas such as near the cathedral in Old Havana. The embroidery work found around the central square of Trinidad is more creative. Look out for the beautiful use of black coral in jewellery. And of course, no one should leave the island without buying a bottle of rum and a box of cigars. The best rum is indisputably Havana Club, aged by 3, 5 or 7 years.

As for cigars, avoid buying them off the street. Be careful when offered cigars from strangers, they are often of a lesser quality than indicated on the box. The best cigars can be found in the grand hotels, or in the casas del tabacco, which are plentiful in all the tourist spots of the major cities. Be aware that even in Cuba, a good make of cigar is worth well over a Dollar (so if someone tries to sell you a box of 25 Montechristo n°4 for $25, just say no!) The cheapest are around $40 or $50. On the other hand,official guides should be able to recommend good private salesmen. To avoid being duped, buy your cigars directly from the shops.

The tiendas (shops) are open all week from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm except on Sundays.