It’s fun and helpful to try your hand at the local language, Spanish! The Cuban accent is notoriously difficult to understand and locals love to drop the ends of words, but the basics remain the same. Try out some of these popular words and phrases:

• Hello: Hola
• How are you? ¿Cómo estás?
• Goodbye: Adiós
• Thank you: Gracias
• Please: Por favor
• How much? Cuánto cuesta?
• Where is the..?: Dónde está...?

With embargoes limiting supplies and cellular connectivity, traveling to Cuba is bound to be a unique experience. This is bolstered by the welcoming, expressive locals who will show you the depths of their rich culture.

• Cubans tend to have less of a sense of personal space than you may be used to. They often stand close and pat arms or backs for emphasis in a conversation.
• Baseball may be America's pastime, but it's just as (if not more) popular in Cuba.
• Don't worry about dressing up. Unlike more posh European destinations, locals tend to dress rather casually.
• It's not respectful to take pictures of any locals without asking, but it's illegal take pictures of military or police.
• Salsa, rumba, mambo - Cubans love to dance and the lively music you'll encounter will be so infectious that you'll immediately understand why.
• Avoid talking politics or religion. These are complicated subjects that locals generally won't want to discuss with visitors they've just met.

As a result of Spain’s historical colonization of the country, Cuban cuisine is known for its Spanish influences, as well as African and Caribbean flavors. That being said, embargos have made culinary innovation difficult, so you may find yourself eating some bland or repetitive meals.

• Vegetarians and vegans in particular can struggle in Cuba. Some people recommend bringing a little hot sauce or seasonings to bolster meals.
• Rice and beans: Rice and beans are a staple served as an accompaniment to most meals.
• Ropa vieja: Named "old clothes" for the tattered appearance of the shredded beef braised in tomato sauce.
• Ajiaco: This hearty stew varies by region but typically contains a meat, corn, and some green vegetables.
• Tostones: Smashed and double-fried green plantains often enjoyed with a garlicky mojo sauce.
• Tamales: The Cuban variation of this classic cornhusk package is typically filled with pork, garlic, and tomato paste.
• Lechon asado: Roasted pork with a mojo marinade usually consisting of sour oranges, garlic, oregano and cumin.
• Rum: The national drink of Cuba. Enjoy it straight or in a variety of cocktails, like a mojito or cuba libre.