Cuba

Violent crime

Foreigners may experience violent crimes, such as assault, sexual assault and robbery.

Petty crime

Pickpocketing, bag snatching and other petty crime is common, especially on public transport and intercity buses.

It also happens at major tourist areas such as:

• Old Havana
• El Centro
• Vedado
• the Malecon
• the beaches of Playa del Este, Varadero and Santiago de Cuba

Power outages are common and can last from minutes to several hours. The opportunity for theft increases during these outages.

Thefts from hotels and guesthouses occur. Keep the doors and windows at your accommodation locked.

Airport-based crime

People have reported thefts from checked baggage at Cuban airports.

When travelling through airports, keep a close eye on your valuables, including during security screening.

On flights, keep your valuables on you or place them in your carry-on baggage. Don’t check-in:

• jewellery
• cameras
• electronics

Criminals posing as tour agents or taxi drivers operate at the airport and in Havana.

Road-based crime

Road-based crime is increasing. Thieves may slash car tyres and then help with repairs while an accomplice steals from the vehicle.

Thieves who pose as hitchhikers are also common.

To protect yourself from road-based crime:

• only use established tour operators and registered taxis
• keep doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• don’t pick up hitchhikers
• be wary of people who offer to help if your car is damaged

If you’re a victim of crime or theft, get a written police report (Comprobante de Denuncia) from the Cuban police (Policia Nacional) before you leave Cuba.

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government