Discussions

I am planning to go all inclusive not too far from Havana. What things do I have to take with me? Should I take some food items like sauces and dressing, bottled water, dry fruit, soap, toilet paper, etc or these items are available there? I have read different things and not sure if I should take them or will be unnecessary?  
 
Also what places in havana is safe and good to visit for one day?  
Thanks

You definitely can't take bottled water. Citrus fruits are often prohibited in foreign countries.  
 
Take a look at the regulations here:  
 
https://www.authenticubatours.com/cuba-travel-formalities/customs-cuba-travel.htm

Go to the dollar store and buy a bunch of toys, crayons, coloring books etc.

-I would suggest taking TP or at least those Kleenex packs. Many washrooms around the resorts don't stock up that well and some places I've been off resort charge you. Your room and hotel lobby will be fine tho.  
-We've never taken bug spray but I heard some people do  
-Tylenol/Advil and Pepto are good to have on hand.  
-Condiments are hit and miss. I've only had 1/8 not have good catchup. No harm in taking tho. We also take crackers, granola bars and such but make sure you close them good or you'll attract bugs and the humidity will ruin them.  
-You might want an adapter just in case. We haven't been for a few years but I know we needed one a few times.  
-If you have kids clothes that don't fit anymore they like that  
One housekeeper told me once that they can only use so much hair stuff, pencils etc so I quit taking that and stick with Tylenol, gum, clothes. I did take a backpack full of stuff once tho and gave it to our regular server for her kid and we left clothes. She really appreciated that.  
We went on a day trip to Havana and saw a fort and drove under the ocean. We toured some important persons bldg (2 story) with stables, many rooms all furnished, it was interesting. There's an open area like a market and you walk down a small street where there's shops. Sorry it's been awhile but I think it's close to where the cruise ships come in. Be careful tho of pick pockets and stuff. If you give them something there they keep following you around.  
Cuba is great but remember a 5 star there is likely a 3 here. Have fun

If you go off resort take toilet paper as you will have to pay for toilet paper off resort at any bar/restaurant, even at the airport there is someone there with their hand out. If you are planning to go in December it is not as warm (low 20's) so make sure to pack accordingly. If you like condiment's Ketchup ect. pack them as most places do not offer.

For yourself definitely take extra TP! I just pop the cardboard out of the middle and flatten the rolls down to fit a few in my suitcase. I also take some of my favorite seasoning and Clamato juice in my checked bag (yeah it takes up a lot of space and weight but for me it's essential!)  
 
For gifts for the locals, last time I was there they loved our chewing gum and sunglasses.

Just wondering why you can't we take bottled water if we put some in checked bags? Is it not permitted to take some there? Or don't we really need as they are providing enough?

If you are using a credit card check the amount you are signing for. When we were there the total for the goods was $60.00, they tried to add a $50.00 surcharge on for using the credit card. They lost the business. I found out that the resort hotel shop was cheaper for souvenirs, cigars and polo shirts.  
Please be careful.

Hi. Sorry, I didn't realize you will be taking a checked bag. I usually just take a carryon for warm destinations.  
 
I guess you could put it in a checked bag if you really needed to. However I have never heard of people bringing their own water. It's quite heavy too if you are close to your weight limit.