My mates and I have been planning a trip to Cuba for early May 2005 - They really want to stay in 5* all inclusive accomadation which really isn't me!!! Has anyone got any suggestions on what to do? Is it safe to travel on your jacks and would you meet other travellers on the Island.

Hi there! I went to cuba a few yrs ago with a friend cycling.... we had a great time!! To see the real cuba dont do the all inclusive!! U can stay at paradors for roughly 10 - 25$US per night.. as for traveling alone I would drag a pal along, safety in numbers n all that!! Remember it is still a communist state where the average wage a month is 5$US... Enjoy!

All inclusive with good food, good beaches and good rum is fine in Cuba but, personally, visiting Cuban cities and meeting Cuban people as well as other travellers is great. Yes, people will be looking to make a few $ by having you stay at their house, eat at their home, or serve as your guide, but the town plazas (Holguin has many, Manzanillo is particularly beautiful, Santa Clara is great, etc. etc.) are wonderful places to start and with no trouble you can find bars with music, discos, restaurants or whatever. Take a bicycle taxi - the ones playing good salsa music are the most fun. And feel free to check out casa particulares - some are better than others, most are very good. But take a look and if you don't think you will be comfortable, just say gracias and look elsewhere. In cities there will always be a tourist hotel option as well.

RWSK