A must-visit island in the Caribbean and the largest in the region. Cuba entices visitors with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and its rich history tied to Spanish colonial heritage and the revolution of 1959.
Cuba’s fascinating culture is steeped in African, Spanish and Caribbean influences. Salsa, rumba and mambo punctuate daily life, and the varied landscapes stretch from the seaside resorts of Varadero to the fertile valleys of Viñales.
Renowned for the excellence of its Cohiba cigars and the distinct flavour of its rum, Cuba possesses a far more precious treasure: the warmth and authenticity of its people who, despite economic difficulties, welcome visitors with remarkable generosity.
Following an invitation to the FITCuba 2025 international tourism festival last April, I had the privilege of exploring this destination on a press trip. I’d like to share my experience with you, with an overview of the main destinations, activities and practical tips for making the most of this fascinating island.
Travel to Cuba Using Reward Points
Cuba has been a favourite sunny destination for Canadians for many years. In less than a 4-hour flight from Montreal or Toronto, you’ll be greeted by palm trees and Cuban warmth (from both the people and the climate!)
Already renowned for being an affordable country, it’s possible to save even more on a trip to Cuba with reward points.
Flights
Cuba’ s main airports are Varadero (VAR), Havana (HAV), Cayo Coco (CCC) and Holguín (HOL).
Airlines operating flights between Canada and these airports include WestJet (formerly Sunwing),Air Transatand Air Canada.
Most flights are seasonal, with a large increase in winter service between November and April.
For flights operated by Air Canada, you can use your Aeroplan points to fly to Cuba. Expect to use between 30,000 and 50,000 Aeroplan points and around $150 in taxes for a round-trip flight during the high season from Toronto or Montreal, depending on the dates.
With WestJet, it’s the WestJet Rewards points that will reduce your flight bill. A round-trip between Toronto or Montreal and Varadero costs about 50,000 WestJet Rewards points and $100 in taxes during the high season.
Sunwing has been acquired by WestJet, which will take over flights to sunny destinations. All Sunwing flights will be operated by WestJet starting from May 29, 2025.
Finally, you can also shop for your flights via National Bank À la carte Travel, then use your NBC Rewards points to cover all or part of the cost of your ticket.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,000Annual fee rebated$139Total$1,139Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this offer for the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you can get up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†.
Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card†
Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,000 within 90 days of Account opening†.
Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening†
This card also allows you to enjoy travel benefits, such as a free first checked bag for you and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation†, as well as a rebate on the NEXUS program application fee (up to $100 CAD per eligible cardholder) every 48 months†.
With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn 1.5 points† per $1 spent on:
Grocery purchases
Gas and electric vehicle charging purchases
Purchases made directly with Air Canada® (including Air Canada Vacations®)
You also earn 1 point† per dollar on all other eligible purchases made with your card.
Legal
†Terms and conditions apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$75
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1.5xGas
1.5xGroceries
1.5xAir Canada flights
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,714
2nd Year Value$425
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$700Total$700Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡, you can earn up to 70,000 WestJet points as a welcome bonus:
30,000 WestJet points as a welcome bonus with your first purchase
30,000 WestJet points when you charge at least $5,000 in eligible purchases to your card within the first three months
10,000 additional WestJet points after your credit card account’s first anniversary
The offer ends on November 18, 2026.
An annual companion voucher from $119
Charge at least $5,000 in purchases to your card each year and you receive a World Elite Companion Voucher for a round-trip flight, starting at a $119 base fare, plus taxes, fees, surcharges and other air transportation charges. You can exchange it instead for a 30% flight discount for one traveller, a $200 credit towards a WestJet Vacations or Sunwing Vacations package, or two airport lounge passes.
A free first checked bag for up to nine people
The first checked bag is free for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation, on WestJet flights. For a family of four, that is four bags on every leg.
Status Lift: $200 in tier qualifying spend per $5,000
Your everyday purchases move you towards Silver, Gold and even Platinum status. You earn $200 in tier qualifying spend for every $5,000 in purchases charged to the card, up to 50 times per year.
Up to 2 WestJet points per dollar
2 points per dollar on WestJet flights, WestJet Vacations and Sunwing Vacations packages
2 points per dollar at grocery stores and on transportation, including gas, EV charging, public transit and rideshare
1.5 points per dollar on all other everyday purchases
The annual fee is $139, plus $59 per additional card.
Finally, you benefit from extensive insurance coverage: out-of-province or out-of-country emergency medical insurance, travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, flight delay and delayed baggage insurance, hotel or motel burglary insurance, rental vehicle collision and damage insurance.
Legal
® / MC Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.
‡ All other trademarks are the property of their respective owner(s).
1 To benefit from this offer, your application must be received and approved by Royal Bank of Canada (“Royal Bank”) between June 16, 2026 and November 18, 2026 (“Offer Period”). This offer only applies to new applications for a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard.
You will receive up to 30,000 welcome WestJet points upon your first purchase (“Welcome WestJet Points”) distributed as follows: (i) 25,000 Welcome WestJet Points up to six (6) weeks after your first purchase transaction date; and (ii) 5,000 Welcome WestJet Points up to twelve (12) weeks after your first purchase transaction date, provided your first purchase gets posted to your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard credit card account (“Credit Card Account”) within the first three (3) months of your Credit Card Account opening date (“Period”).
You will receive an additional 30,000 WestJet points (“Additional WestJet Points”) provided a total of $5,000 (“Qualifying Transaction Amount”) or more in qualifying net purchases and/or pre-authorized bill payment transactions (“Qualifying Transaction(s)”) are posted to your Credit Card Account within the Period. The Additional WestJet Points will be awarded approximately six (6) weeks after the date you reach the Qualifying Transaction Amount. Qualifying Transactions exclude cash advances (including balance transfers, cash-like transactions and bill payments that are not pre-authorized charges that you set up with a merchant), interest charges and fees, and credits for returns and adjustments posted to your Credit Card Account during the Period will reduce the amount of your Qualifying Transactions.
The transaction posting date of each Qualifying Transaction, not the transaction date, will determine whether the transaction will count towards the Qualifying Transaction Amount. This means that Qualifying Transactions that take place prior to the last day of the Period will not count towards the Qualifying Transaction Amount if they have not yet been posted or processed by the merchant, the payment network (Mastercard) or Royal Bank by the last day of the Period.
You will receive an additional 10,000 WestJet points (“Anniversary WestJet Points”) up to sixteen (16) weeks after your Credit Card Account has been open for one (1) year.
Welcome WestJet Points, Additional WestJet Points and Anniversary WestJet Points will be awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, accessible at westjet.com/account, and appear on your monthly credit card statement, provided your Credit Card Account is open and in good standing at the time they are awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, “good standing” meaning that your Credit Card Account must not be past due for more than two (2) consecutive Credit Card Account statement periods, closed, charged off or in credit revoked status at that time.
Only the primary cardholder on the Credit Card Account is eligible for this offer. Additional cardholders(s) (co-applicant and authorized user(s)), as well as existing cardholders on any RBC Royal Bank personal credit card account, transferring to a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard during the Offer Period, are not eligible for this offer.
If you close your Credit Card Account or change it for another type of RBC Royal Bank credit card before the Welcome WestJet points, Additional Welcome WestJet points or the Anniversary WestJet points have been awarded to your WestJet Rewards account, you may not receive the points. This offer may not be combined or used in conjunction with any other offer. Royal Bank and WestJet reserve the right to modify, cancel or withdraw this offer at any time without notice, even after your application has been approved, including if we suspect that you may be manipulating or abusing it, or engaging in any suspicious or fraudulent activity, as determined by us in our sole discretion.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueAnnual fee rebated$150Total$150Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With Milesopedia, take advantage of an exclusive offer: your first-year annual fees are refunded with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard. This offer is exclusively available on the Milesopedia network, from June 30 to November 4, 2026.
Refund of the first-year annual fee (a $150 value) for the primary cardholder. This fee is charged to your new card account, then refunded as a credit on your statement within five months of opening your account, provided it remains open and in good standing.
The National Bank World Elite Mastercard is the best Mastercard credit card offered by NBC.
With this card, you earn up to 5 points per dollar on your purchases:
5 points per dollar for groceries and restaurants
2 points per dollar on gas and electric recharge purchases
2 points per dollar on recurring bills
2 points per dollar on À la carte Travel
1 point per dollar for all other purchases
And since it’s a Mastercard, you can use it at Costco.
With this card, you have access to a $150 annual travel credit that you can use in any of these categories:
Airport parking
Baggage fees
Seat selection
Access to airport lounges
Airline ticket upgrades
What’s more, you can enjoy access to DragonPass airport lounges and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau.
Finally, Milesopedia has named the National Bank World Elite Mastercard as the Best Travel Credit Card in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Legal
® Mastercard and World Elite are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. National Bank is an authorized user.
® The À LA CARTE REWARDS logo is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA LOUNGE is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® À LA CARTE REWARDS PLAN is a registered trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® Apple Pay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple Inc. is not a sponsor of or participant in National Bank Mobile Banking Solutions.
® Google Pay is a registered trademark of Google LLC. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Inc. Permissions.
TM À LA CARTE TRAVEL is a trademark of National Bank of Canada. The À la carte Travel agency is owned by Transat Distribution Canada Inc. and holds a Quebec permit (No. 753141).
TM À LA CARTE REWARDS is a trademark of National Bank of Canada.
® THE TOTAL, THE CONNECTED and NATIONAL BANK are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
* Mastercard® World Elite®
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best Mastercard credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card was voted best travel credit card by Milesopedia in 2026, 2025 and 2024.
Every year, Milesopedia reviews credit card offers from major financial institutions and establishes its Ranking based on over 150 criteria such as fees, welcome offer, minimum income required, number of points per category, account credits, insurance, airport lounge access, etc.
Certain restrictions apply. For more information, see the Rewards Plan section or the Plan Rules applicable to point accumulation.
Grace period: No interest is charged on purchases made during the month if the cardholder pays the full balance of their account within twenty-one (21) days of the statement date. This grace period does not apply to cash advances and balance transfers. Minimum payment: if your account balance is less than $10, you must pay the balance in full. If you reside in the province of Quebec, your minimum payment is 5% of your account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. If you reside outside Quebec, your minimum payment is 2.5% of the credit card account balance plus any overdue amount, or $10, whichever is greater. Account statement: an account statement is sent monthly.
Table of examples of credit fees calculated over a 30-day period
Annual interest rate
$500
$3,000
22.49%
$9.24
$55.45
20.99%
$8.63
$51.76
13.2%
$5.53
$33.16
9.2%
$3.78
$22.68
*Variable interest rate in effect as of September 1, 2021.
Balance transfers and cash advances are subject to National Bank credit approval. Each amount transferred cannot be less than $250.
Exclusive to World Elite Mastercard cardholders. Presentation of the physical credit card and boarding pass is required to access the lounge. The National Bank® Lounge is accessible to customers traveling on international flights only (excluding flights to Canada and the United States). You benefit from free and unlimited access with one guest and two children aged 12 and under. Until October 4, 2026 (date subject to change), customers can enter the National Bank Lounge three hours before their flight departure time. From October 5, 2026 (date subject to change), access will be authorized for a maximum duration of 2 hours (3 hours for customers who hold a Private Banking 1859® World Elite® Mastercard® credit card). National Bank customers who are not World Elite ® Mastercard ® cardholders can also access the current lounge based on current rates and benefit from a 25 % discount on these rates : 63,24 $ taxes included for adults (excluding discount) $40.24 taxes included for children aged 2 to 12 (excluding discount) free for children under 2 (excluding discount) The entry fee is subject to change without notice and is the responsibility of the lounge operator.
Subject to providing the required supporting documents in the manner and within the prescribed timeframe. Certain conditions may apply. Only the primary cardholder of a National Bank World Elite Mastercard (Cardholder) whose account is in good standing can request a « Travel Fee Reimbursement ». « Account in good standing » means an account linked to the credit card that does not violate the Credit Card Agreement in any way and on which no restrictions apply. For example, and without limitation, the associated annual fees must have been paid in full. The maximum reimbursement of $150 can be requested from January 1 to December 31 of each year. Eligible expenses are: airport parking baggage fees seat selection airport lounge access worldwide airline ticket upgrades A reimbursement request must be made within 60 days of the purchase date. Travel expenses must be charged to the National Bank World Elite Mastercard credit card account. The maximum reimbursement of $150 is applicable per account. Please allow up to 7 business days for the reimbursement to be processed from the date your request is submitted. National Bank reserves the right to request additional supporting documents for validation purposes (e.g., invoices). You must keep all receipts and supporting documents for a period of 12 months from the date you made your reimbursement request. An unused reimbursement in one year cannot be carried over to the next year. You can make your request online at rewards.nbc.ca or by calling 1-800-341-8083 (toll-free) for an agent to assist you with your travel fee reimbursement request.
Point accumulation on grocery and restaurant spending depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card account, across all categories. Earn 5 points per dollar spent on eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. The 5 points per dollar accumulation is valid for the first $2,500 of gross monthly purchases charged to the account. Beyond this amount, eligible grocery and restaurant spending will earn 2 points per dollar. The calculation of the gross monthly purchase amount is based on monthly billing. A grocery purchase means a purchase made at a merchant whose primary business is selling food, such as a grocery store, delicatessen, supermarket, fruit store, or specialty food store. Meal kit subscriptions and meal delivery services are eligible. Therefore, this definition excludes, among others, retail stores and big-box stores whose primary business is selling non-food items. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. A restaurant purchase means a purchase made at a restaurant, including quick-service restaurants, bars, discotheques, nightclubs, and taverns. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
These protections apply if the purchases or rental are paid for in part with the card before departure, except, if applicable, for out-of-province medical-hospital insurance for which it is not necessary to charge the purchase of an à la carte trip and for baggage delay protection where the full cost of transport must have been charged to the card. All these protections apply to the primary cardholder, their spouse and/or their dependent children when they (spouse and dependent children) travel with the cardholder. Extended warranties apply to most new items purchased with the card, in Canada or abroad, provided the manufacturer’s warranty exists and is valid in Canada. Certain conditions, limitations and restrictions apply. For more information and details regarding your insurance coverage, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Subject to credit approval by National Bank.
Certain conditions apply. Visit mastercard.ca for more information. See all credit card terms and conditions.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your gas or electric charging purchases at a gas station or certain big-box stores. Some merchants may sell products or services identical or similar to those of eligible merchants, or are separate merchants located on the same premises as eligible merchants, but are classified by Mastercard in different categories. Purchases made from other merchants only earn base reward points. To view the full list of Mastercard codes associated with eligible merchants, download the À la carte Rewards Plan® terms and conditions document.
Recurring bill payments are defined as payments made monthly or regularly that are automatically charged by the merchant to your National Bank World Elite Mastercard. Not all merchants offer recurring payments, and not all recurring payments are considered recurring bill payments. Therefore, some payments may not qualify for accelerated reward points.
To earn 2 points per dollar spent, you must pay for your eligible purchases through the À la carte TravelTM agency section of our À la carte RewardsTM site.
For example, if you spend $400 monthly on groceries, $200 on gas, $100 on recurring bills and $150 on other purchases, the $850 spent will generate 2,750 points, broken down as follows: 2,000 points for grocery spending (since the total gross monthly amount is $850, which is less than $2,500), 400 points for gas spending, 200 points for recurring bills and 150 points for other purchases.
Insurance up to $1,000 in case of breakage, loss or theft of mobile devices for a maximum period of 2 years following the date of purchase. Subject to purchasing the device with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard or a phone service subscription paid by recurring payments from your National Bank Platinum Mastercard starting September 1, 2022. For all conditions, please consult the insurance certificate linked to your card.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$80,000
Household$150,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
5xRestaurants
5xGroceries
2xGas
2xBills & recurring payments
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$745
2nd Year Value$923
Card benefits
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 60 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Travel AccidentIncluded
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Accommodation
There are no Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Cuba. The major international chains established on the island are mainly Meliá, Iberostar, Barceló and Gran Caribe.
You need to book these hotels directly on their website and pay in advance or on the spot. Then you can use the flexible points of your choice, such as those from Scene+, CIBC Aventura or NBC Rewards, to reimburse your accommodation.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$600Annual fee rebated$139Total$739Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
If you do not meet the income requirements of CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card, you can apply for CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card. The minimum annual income required for this card is $15,000 (household).
With this offer, get up to $1,900 in value, including a first-year annual fee rebate.
CIBC has a digital offer with which you can earn up to 60,000 Aventura points during your first year:
15,000 Aventura Points when you make your first purchase†
30,000 Aventura Points if you spend $3,000 or more in net purchases in the first 4 monthly statement periods†
15,000 Aventura Points if you have at least $5,000 in net purchases posted to your account in the same period†
In addition, you can benefit from a rebate on the first year’s annual fee for the primary card holder ($139 value) and up to three authorized users ($50 each).
With this CIBC Aventura Credit Card, you get:
2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
The CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card also offers:
Access to airport lounges: one Visa Airport Companion Program membership and 4 free visits
Reimbursement of NEXUS membership fees ( $160 value)
A free Skip+ membership (a $110 first-year value)
Legal
This is an exclusive digital offer†. To be eligible for this offer: 1) this offer must have been directly communicated to you from CIBC or from a partner or affiliate; 2) you must apply for the eligible card through the link provided in the CIBC or partner/affiliate communication to you†.
This offer is reserved for you. Please do not forward it to anyone else. CIBC may approve your application, but you are not eligible to receive this Offer if you have opened, transferred or cancelled another Aventura card within the last 12 months.†
† Conditions apply. To learn more, select the Apply Now option.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$15,000
Household$15,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1.5xPharmacy
1.5xGroceries
1.5xGas
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$957
2nd Year Value$359
Card benefits
Airport lounge access$160
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$600Annual fee rebated$139Total$739Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card is one of the best Visa credit cards with travel rewards.
With this offer, get up to $1,900 in value, including a first-year annual fee rebate.
CIBC has an offer with which you can earn up to 60,000 Aventura points:
15,000 Aventura Points when you make your first purchase†
30,000 Aventura Points if you spend $3,000 or more in the first 4 monthly statement periods†
15,000 Aventura Points if you have at least $5,000 in net purchases posted to your account in the first 4 monthly statement periods†
In addition, you can benefit from a rebate on the first year’s annual fee for the primary card holder ($139 value) and up to three authorized users ($50 each).
With this CIBC Aventura Credit Card, you get:
2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card also offers:
Airport lounges access: Visa Airport Companion Program membership with 4 complimentary visits
Reimbursement of NEXUS membership fees ( $160 value)
A free Skip+ membership (a $110 first-year value)
The minimum annual income required for this card is $60,000 (personal) or $100,000 (household).
Legal
This is an exclusive digital offer†. To be eligible for this offer: 1) this offer must have been directly communicated to you from CIBC or from a partner or affiliate; 2) you must apply for the eligible card through the link provided in the CIBC or partner/affiliate communication to you†.
This offer is reserved for you. Please do not forward it to anyone else. CIBC may approve your application, but you are not eligible to receive this Offer if you have opened, transferred or cancelled another Aventura card within the last 12 months.†
† Conditions apply. To learn more, select the Apply Now option.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
1.5xPharmacy
1.5xGroceries
1.5xGas
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$957
2nd Year Value$359
Card benefits
Airport lounge access$160
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite+* Card, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Savings at Shell
Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with an eligible Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:
Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power® gasoline, or V-Power® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 3 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 3 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.
Note: Highest value of 10 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.
Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)
Additional 3¢/L Fuel Discount Offer: Offer valid from October 5, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (“Promotional Period”), eligible Scotiabank credit and debit cardholders enrolled in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program who have linked an eligible Scotiabank payment card (an “Eligible Card”) to their Shell Go+ account will receive an additional instant fuel discount of 3 cents per litre on eligible fuel purchases at participating Shell-branded retail locations in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories (the “Eligible Provinces”) excluding Shell Flying J locations. Fuel purchases made outside the Eligible Provinces are not eligible for this offer.
To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.
The additional fuel discount is in addition to the fuel savings available through the Shell Fuel Benefits Program and may be combined with other eligible fuel discounts, rewards programs, and promotional fuel offers unless otherwise stated in the applicable offer terms and conditions.
The additional fuel discount is available on up to 1,000 litres of eligible fuel purchases per calendar month for each Eligible Card. The 1,000-litre limit resets at the beginning of each calendar month.
The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.
Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.
All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
3xWith the partner brand
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$604
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Cuba Beyond All-Inclusive Resorts: The Perfect 8-Day Itinerary
Here’s my proposed 8-day itinerary in Cuba, taking in the island’s main attractions with a mix of culture, nature and beaches:
Day 1: Arrival in Varadero and transfer to Havana
Day 2: Tour of Havana
Day 3: Excursion to Viñales
Day 4: Cienfuegos and surrounding area
Day 5: Trinidad
Day 6: Trinidad
Day 7: Varadero
Day 8: Return flight
Transport between towns is by private transfer or Viazul bus, the tourist bus service that links the island’s main destinations.
G Adventures also offers a similar organized tour for those who prefer to travel in a group and enjoy turnkey organization, with a local guide and all transport included:
Havana
Havana is an essential stop on any trip to Cuba. The Old Town (Habana Vieja), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features an impressive concentration of colourful colonial buildings and lively squares.
The famous American cars from the 50s now serve as cabs for tourists. To see the most beautiful and colourful models, head to Parque Central or Calle Obispo. You can also ask the cab driver to show you the city’s main attractions. If you choose a convertible cab, the experience will be even more fun!
Don’t miss a visit to the famous Hotel Nacional de Cuba, a hotel steeped in history. End your day sipping a cocktail on the panoramic rooftop terrace of Bar Capablanca, named after the Cuban chess champion, or in their courtyard, animated by lively peacocks (yes, real ones!).
The bar at the Royalton Habana Paseo del Prado also flaunts stunning views of the sea and old Havana.
These are modern, renovated hotels (except for the Hotel Nacional, which is a historic building), with an excellent level of service.
Viñales
Two and a half hours from Havana, Viñales plunges you into authentic rural Cuba. This UNESCO-listed valley is famous for its rock formations and is the center of Cuban tobacco production.
Start by taking in the stunning views from the Mirador de Los Jazmines, which reminded me of northern Vietnam. Nearby, be sure to stop by the Mural de la Prehistoria to see this vibrant 120-metre-high mural painted on the mountainside.
Then visit the tobacco plantations, where local farmers will show you the art of making a genuine Cuban cigar. Don’t miss the Cueva del Indio, a natural cave where you can navigate an underground river in a small boat.
Nicknamed “The Pearl of the South,” Cienfuegos stands out for its unique French architecture in Cuba. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre is organized around Parque José Martí, featuring a magnificent cathedral.
Don’t miss the Palacio de Valle, an extravagant coastal palace combining Gothic and Moorish styles. Enjoy the view from the terrace, mojito in hand.
The town is also an ideal base for visiting the Bay of Pigs (for history buffs) or the El Nicho waterfalls. You can ask your accommodation to organize your excursion, or book it online with Civitatis.
I recommend a day to exploreCienfuegos before continuing on to Trinidad.
Trinidad
Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Cuba. Its historic centre is characterized by cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured houses, and the Plaza Mayor, surrounded by period buildings. The tour can be enjoyed on foot or by traditional horse-drawn carriage.
The Museo Nacional de la Lucha Contra Bandidos offers panoramic views from its tower. In the nearby Valle de los Ingenios, the Manaca Iznaga tower stands as a testament to the region’s sugar history and provides equally remarkable views.
If you have a little more time, the Topes de Collantes park is well worth a visit. Located in the Escambray mountains, some 20 km from Trinidad, this natural sanctuary is a popular destination for locals, with its lush jungle and waterfalls.
For a cultural break, head to La Canchanchara to try the local cocktail made with rum, honey, and lime. The nightlife comes alive at Casa de la Música and Disco Ayala, a nightclub set within a natural cave.
On the practical side, currency exchange services can be found near the Plaza Mayor, and there’s an ETECSA office where you can buy or recharge a SIM card. The Iberostar Grand Trinidad hotel is located in the heart of the old town, while the Meliá Trinidad Peninsula offers an all-inclusive option just a 25-minute drive away, near Ancón Beach. The modern complex has just opened and offers a magnificent setting.
Trinidad was my favourite part of this trip to Cuba. The city deserves at least two days’ exploration to appreciate its architecture, atmosphere and surroundings.
Varadero
Varadero boasts a 20-kilometer beach considered one of the most beautiful in the world, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect spot to relax after exploring some of Cuba‘s vibrant culture.
I recommend the Meliá Internacional Varadero (recently renovated), Meliá Varadero, Meliá Las Americas (adults only), Grand Aston Varadero, Royalton Hicacos (adults only), and Iberostar Laguna Azul for their exceptional service.
In the evening, the Club Los Beatles offers excellent live music, and the La Barbacoa restaurant serves tasty grilled meats.
Varadero fits perfectly at the end of your tour for a day or two of relaxation before returning home. Varadero International Airport (VAR) is about a 30-minute drive away. Your hotel will be happy to organize your transfer.
Must-Do Activities
Cuban culture is characterized by its passion for dance and colourful costumes. Here are a few activities to help you immerse yourself in the spirit of the island.
Havana’s Tropicana cabaret offers a dazzling open-air show featuring dancers in extravagant costumes and traditional Cuban music. Although a tourist attraction, this 1939 institution is well worth a visit for its artistic excellence. Standard admission is around USD 85, including a welcome drink. I don’t recommend the meal option, which is generally disappointing and more expensive.
Additionally, the Habana Café, located in the Meliá Cohiba Hotel in Havana, is a treat for jazz enthusiasts. Talented musicians perform in a setting adorned with vintage cars and objects, accompanied by excellent Cuban cocktails. You can book your tickets on-site at the hotel’s reception.
For diving enthusiasts, Cuba offers exceptional sites that are largely unspoiled and less crowded than other Caribbean destinations.
I had the pleasure of meeting Nathali, founder of Cuba Plus Travel. This young Canadian-Cuban living in Havana often compares her native country to Bali for its lush nature and pristine waterfalls.
The Dive and Revive program lets you adopt your own coral and help plant it in Cuban reefs. The touching aspect? Nathali regularly sends you photos and updates about your coral, creating a lasting connection with the Cuban ecosystem.
Through responsible tourism, she hopes to see Cuba become a major ecotourism destination, like Mexico or Costa Rica, while preserving its authenticity.
What to Eat and Drink?
Cuban cuisine is a blend of African, Spanish and Caribbean influences. Here are some emblematic Cuban dishes not to be missed on your trip:
Ropa Vieja: This traditional dish features shredded beef simmered with peppers, onions and spices. It is served with rice and beans.
Lechon Asado: Slow-roasted suckling pig on a spit. The meat is tender and juicy, and is often served with yuca (manioc) and fried plantains.
Moros y Cristianos: This dish is a mixture of rice and black beans cooked together. A classic accompaniment to Cuban cuisine.
Tostones: Tostones are fried, crushed slices of green plantain. They are often served as a side dish or snack.
Mojito: Although not a dish, the mojito is an iconic Cuban drink not to be missed. This refreshing blend of rum, mint, sugar, lime juice and sparkling water is the perfect way to end the day.
How is Cuba in 2025?
Visiting Cuba today means understanding the island’s day-to-day reality. Despite its undeniable charm, the country is going through a particularly difficult economic period, which is having a direct impact on tourism.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit Cuba hard and the island is still struggling to recover. Visitor numbers remain well below pre-pandemic levels, exacerbating an already precarious economic situation. This drop in tourism has direct repercussions on the local economy and the living conditions of Cubans who depend heavily on this sector.
Drinking water cuts are frequent in several regions, including tourist areas. Food supplies remain problematic, with shelves often empty in local supermarkets. Restaurants for tourists are generally well stocked, but at higher prices.
Access to drinking water is a challenge. Plan to buy or bring enough bottles of water before your excursions: a single bottle can cost up to USD 3.
Fuel shortages can occasionally disrupt travel, while power cuts are common in Havana and other tourist areas. However, major hotels are equipped with generators.
Milesopedia had the opportunity to participate in FITCuba 2025, the island’s international tourism festival, which allowed me to closely observe the efforts being made to revitalize Cuba’s tourism sector.
Despite these challenges, I thoroughly enjoyed my trip and the discoving an authentic Cuba. The island needs tourists more than ever to support its economy and its people.
By being well-prepared for local realities, Cuba reveals itself to be an extraordinary destination of adventure, cultural richness and remarkable landscapes, comparable to Colombia or Ecuador for travellers in search of authenticity.
The resilience and warmth of the Cuban people, their genuine hospitality, and contagious zest for life more than make up for the logistical challenges encountered along the way.
Travelling to Cuba: Practical Information
Where to Stay?
Cuba offers three main types of accommodation for travellers: All-inclusive resorts, conventional hotels and casas particulares (homestays).
All-inclusive resorts dominate seaside areas such as Varadero and Holguín, offering the typical experience of swimming pools, restaurants and unlimited activities. The Meliá and Iberostar chains are well established here, offering 3 to 5 star establishments. Note that Cuban standards are generally lower than in other Caribbean destinations, even for high-end establishments.
Conventional hotels, found in cities such as Havana, Cienfuegos and Trinidad, offer packages without meals included. Some occupy charming renovated colonial buildings.
Casas particulares (homestays) offer the most authentic experience. These affordable accommodations (USD 25 to 40 per night) offer a privileged contact with Cubans and their culture. These guesthouses usually offer hearty breakfasts and can sometimes organize transportation and excursions.
To book, use Airbnb or this site for casas particulares and the official websites of hotel chains (Meliá, Iberostar). Cuban accommodation is not available on standard platforms such as Booking.com or Expedia.
How to Get Around?
Getting around Cuba can be a challenge, requiring organization and flexibility. Here are the main options available:
Collective taxis (almendrones) are old American cars that follow fixed routes in the cities for a modest fare. To use them efficiently and avoid scams, ask your accommodation for advice on departure points, usual routes and current fares.
Viazul buses are the most practical option for long distances between cities. Although slightly slower than almendrones, these air-conditioned coaches offer far superior comfort and value for money. They do, however, require prior reservation, especially in high season.
I don’t recommend renting a car in Cuba. The often degraded state of the roads, limited signage, frequent fuel shortages and high costs (50-100 USD/day) make it a risky option that can complicate rather than facilitate your stay.
Currency, Tips and Credit Cards
Currency and Payment Methods
The official currency in Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUC), but the US dollar is also widely accepted. It is difficult to pay by credit card outside hotels and large stores. Make sure you have enough cash for the duration of your stay, as it’s almost impossible to withdraw money once you’re in Cuba, and banking options are very limited outside Havana and Varadero.
The Dual Exchange Rate System
Cuba operates with two exchange rates for the Cuban peso: the official rate and the “industry” rate (or street rate). The difference is considerable! In April 2025, the street rate was around CUP 370 to USD 1, while it was only CUP 120 at “official” exchange offices.
Never exchange your money at the hotel exchange office, as you will only receive a third of what you could get by exchanging on the street. Discreetly ask hotel employees or trusted locals where you can safely exchange your money.
Which Currency to Bring?
U.S. dollars are clearly preferable to Canadian dollars. Street exchangers, who offer much better rates than banks, rarely accept Canadian dollars. Make sure your bills are in perfect condition: damaged bills, even slightly, will be rejected.
Important: don’t bring coins, as Cubans can’t deposit them in banks.
How to Obtain USD Before Departure
To minimize withdrawal fees, use ATMs that dispense U.S. dollars in Canada. Scotiabank, CIBC, TD, and RBC have machines available throughout the country.
The Wealthsimple card is accepted at all Canadian ATMs, including Scotiabank, CIBC, TD and RBC. Withdrawal fees are automatically refunded to your account a few days later. That’s how I managed to withdraw U.S. dollars with minimal fees before my departure.
The Wise and Wealthsimple cards do not work in Cuba. The EQ Bank Card could potentially work, but I have not been able to verify this personally.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$25Total$25Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With the Wealthsimple Prepaid Visa Platinum* Card, you can access your available funds in your Wealthsimple chequing account.
With this welcome offer, you can get $25 cash back as a new Wealthsimple client. To do this, you simply need to open an account and then deposit at least $1 within 30 days.
You can invest your money in an investment account or a cryptocurrency of your choice. Also, you earn interest on your Wealthsimple chequing account balance! Clients who have at least $500,000 in assets with Wealthsimple can earn an interest rate of up to 2.25%.
In addition, there are no foreign transaction fees for any purchase made in a currency other than the Canadian dollar and no annual fees.
Legal
* Trademark of Visa Int., used under license. Terms and conditions apply. For the most up-to-date product details, please visit Wealthsimple.com.
Annual fee
Primary card$0
Value
1st Year Value$295
Tipping
Tipping is highly appreciated in Cuba, where it serves as an important source of additional income for locals. Make sure to have small denomination bills for guides, drivers, servers, and hotel staff. A tip of 1-2 USD per service is generally appreciated.
You can also give Canadian bills for tips, as Cubans can exchange them at the bank.
Gifts and Items to Bring to Cuba
Cubans face chronic shortages. Here’s what you can bring as gifts that will be greatly appreciated:
Over-the-counter medicines and first-aid products (antihistamines, vitamins, analgesics, disinfectant wipes). Tylenol and Advil are considered gold in Cuba!
Mosquito repellent
Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads)
Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes
Tissues and wet wipes
Children’s clothing, socks, caps, hats
School supplies (pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers)
Kitchen utensils and dishcloths
Non-perishable foods such as juice powder, milk powder, candy, instant noodles, etc.
Basic spices such as salt, pepper, paprika and others
Internet and Cell Phones
Internet access in Cuba has improved considerably in recent years. While the connection is not yet up to North American standards, it is now fully functional, particularly in tourist areas.
Wi-Fi connection in hotels is now decent and allows for web browsing, video calls and photo sharing without any problems. On arrival, the hotel will usually provide you with a Wi-Fi code valid for the duration of your stay.
To stay connected on the move, the Airalo eSIM remains the most practical solution for travellers. You can also opt for a SIM card from Cuban national operator ETECSA, available from their offices in town for around USD 7. Avoid buying one at the airport, where the same service will cost you up to USD 20.
Mobile network quality varies according to your location. In major cities and tourist areas, coverage is generally good, but becomes patchy in rural areas.
Despite these improvements, certain restrictions remain. Many popular services such as TikTok, Spotify and streaming applications are not accessible in Cuba. Using a VPN is therefore recommended to access all your usual services.
Before you leave, download maps, translations and travel guides in offline mode for added peace of mind. Also, let your loved ones know that your connection will be limited and irregular. Finally, take this opportunity to disconnect and live the Cuban experience to the fullest!
Health and Safety
Cuba is generally a safe destination, but a few precautions should be taken to protect your health.
There is a risk of tropical diseases such as dengue fever, particularly during the rainy season. Before you leave, make sure your vaccinations are up to date (tetanus, hepatitis A and B, typhoid). If necessary, consult a health professional.
Bring a good mosquito repellent and use it frequently, day and night. Malaria is not transmitted in Cuba.
Drug shortages are common in Cuba. Bring all your usual medicines in sufficient quantities, as well as a first-aid kit including painkillers and remedies for digestive disorders (loperamide, calcium carbonate, antibiotics, electrolyte sachets), as you probably won’t find any on site. Your pharmacist is your best resource for advice on a complete travel kit adapted to your situation.
Tap water is not drinkable. Drink only bottled water or water filtered by your hotel.
As far as personal safety is concerned, the major risks are pickpocketing and tourist scams. Keep your valuables in a safe place, and beware of improvised “guides” or offers that are too good to be true.
Finally, don’t leave home without travel insurance! Check your credit card coverage or purchase insurance before you travel. I personally use soNomad, a Canadian company that offers the best prices on the market.
Visa, Customs, and Entry Requirements
The formalities for entering Cuba have recently changed. From July 1, 2025, the tourist card will be replaced by an electronic visa system (eVisa).
Canadians are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays, but must complete an entry form. This form is available online, free of charge, on the government website D’Viajeros. This form should be completed no earlier than 48 hours before departure.
Next, you’ll receive a QR code that will be required at the airport before boarding. Without this proof, you won’t be able to board your flight to Cuba. Remember to keep a copy of the QR code (digital or printed) easily accessible, as you may also be asked for it on arrival.
Bottom Line
Cuba offers a unique travel experience, both culturally rich and exotic. With its enchanting music, idyllic beaches, colonial architecture and friendly people, the island has left me with unforgettable memories.
Don’t forget that travelling in Cuba also means adapting to a different rhythm and accepting a few unforeseen events with grace. Flexibility and patience are your best allies in making the most of this destination.
So pack your bags, slip in a few gifts for your Cuban hosts and set off to discover this pearl of the Caribbean.
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$800Annual fee rebated$139Total$939Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you can earn up to 160,000 TD Rewards Points† as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†:
20,000 TD Rewards Points for the first purchase made with your card†
140,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of account opening†
A Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points†
Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD, and enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277)†.
With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn:
8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
6 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on your grocery, dining and public transit purchases
4 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on your recurring bill payments and purchases of streaming services as well as digital games and media
2 TD Rewards Points† per dollar on all other purchases made with your card
This card also allows you to enjoy a range of travel benefits, including an annual travel credit, complimentary airport lounge visits, and a birthday bonus that boosts your points each year†.
Legal
†Terms and conditions apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$139
Additional card$50
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
2.5%
Earning rate
6xGroceries
6xRestaurants
6xTransit
4xBills & recurring payments
4xStreaming
2xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$1,430
2nd Year Value$531
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$160
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite+* Card, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.
Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.
With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.
These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:
No fees for foreign currency transactions
6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
Visa Infinite* Concierge Services
Legal
* The potential value of savings and rewards during the first 12 months includes the value of the welcome offer, the potential value of points earned in the first year, the value of savings on foreign currency transaction fees and the cost of airport lounge access as of May 22, 2026:
$250 in travel rewards (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Cardholders who charge $2,000 in purchases to their account within the first three (3) months;
$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) for cardholders who charge $40,000 in purchases to their account;
$50 in savings from the annual fee waiver on the first additional card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card account holders;
$132 in savings on foreign currency transaction fees based on the average amount of foreign currency purchases made per active account over the past 24 months (by saving on the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fees typically charged by other credit card issuers);
$364 representing the potential value of points earned in the first year (36,400 Scene+ points) based on the average amount of purchases made per active account over the past 24 months, assuming an average spend of 21% of purchases in categories eligible for accelerated earn rates of 2X and 3X points;
$358 representing the value of complimentary membership in the Visa Airport Companion program which includes 6 airport lounge passes (based on « Preferred » membership valued at approximately $357 CAD/$259 USD). Based on the exchange rate in effect on May 22, 2026.
Maximum potential value after the first year = $1,254 (rounded to $1,250)
The actual value of offers, savings realized and points earned will vary depending on card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.
1 Offer description and conditions: The 25,000 Scene+ points offer (the « offer ») applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit card accounts (the « accounts ») opened between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026 (regardless of the date you apply for the account) subject to the conditions below. The offer may be modified, cancelled or extended at any time without notice, and it cannot be combined with any other offer.
In addition, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Cardholder, you are eligible for an annual bonus of 10,000 Scene+ points if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible everyday purchases to your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account over the course of one year. Conditions apply; see below for more details.
Description and conditions of the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer: To be eligible for the 25,000 bonus Scene+ points offer (« 25,000 bonus points »), you must charge at least $2,000 in total eligible purchases to your account within the first three months following the account opening date.
Conditions for the annual 10,000 Scene+ points bonus: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card credit cardholder, you can earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points (the « annual points bonus ») if you charge at least $40,000 in eligible purchases to your account over the course of one year (12-month period). The annual period begins on the account opening date; a new period starts again every twelve months thereafter. If you replace another Scene+-eligible credit card with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card (i.e., it is not a new card or an additional card), the opening date of your original account will be carried over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card account and your annual period under this offer will begin on the next anniversary date of your original account opening. For example, if you originally opened a Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card account on January 15, 2022 and you switch to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025, your annual period under the 10,000 Scene+ points annual bonus offer will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next anniversary date) and a new period will start again on January 15 each year thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for each additional $10,000 in purchases made during the same year once you have reached the $40,000 annual purchase threshold.
Eligible purchases means purchases, less refunds, returns and any other similar credits, and excludes payments, cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions), interest charges, as well as card fees and other fees.
Fulfillment of the annual points bonus: Bonus points will be credited within approximately eight weeks after you become eligible for a bonus, provided the account is open and in good standing. In the case of a joint account with a primary borrower and a co-borrower, bonus points will be credited as follows: (i) the 25,000 bonus points and the annual points bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the account of the borrower who made the transaction that reached the eligible purchase threshold ($2,000, or $40,000) within the appropriate timeframe (the first three months, or the first 12 months). If an additional cardholder makes the transaction that reaches the eligible purchase threshold for the 25,000 bonus points, or the annual points bonus, the bonus points will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the primary borrower’s account. It is possible to transfer points between the Scene+ accounts of a primary borrower, a co-borrower or an additional cardholder by contacting Scene+. An account is in good standing if it is not past due, there is no over-limit, and the cardholder(s) have complied with the terms of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the account. All other program conditions continue to apply during the offer period.
Offer eligibility and exclusions: You cannot take advantage of the offer if you are currently a primary or secondary cardholder of a Scotiabank personal credit card or have been one in the past two years, including if you transfer your balance from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card account, and if you are a Scotiabank employee. Subject to the exclusions mentioned above, small business credit cardholders are eligible for this offer.
Rates and fees: The annual fees are $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to joint account holders and additional cardholders). The preferred annual interest rates applicable to the account are as follows: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and quasi-cash transactions). The rates, fees, and features and benefits, which are described in the disclosure statement accompanying the application, may be changed.
Savings at Shell
Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with an eligible Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:
Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power® gasoline, or V-Power® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 3 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 3 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.
Note: Highest value of 10 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.
Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)
Additional 3¢/L Fuel Discount Offer: Offer valid from October 5, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (“Promotional Period”), eligible Scotiabank credit and debit cardholders enrolled in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program who have linked an eligible Scotiabank payment card (an “Eligible Card”) to their Shell Go+ account will receive an additional instant fuel discount of 3 cents per litre on eligible fuel purchases at participating Shell-branded retail locations in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories (the “Eligible Provinces”) excluding Shell Flying J locations. Fuel purchases made outside the Eligible Provinces are not eligible for this offer.
To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.
The additional fuel discount is in addition to the fuel savings available through the Shell Fuel Benefits Program and may be combined with other eligible fuel discounts, rewards programs, and promotional fuel offers unless otherwise stated in the applicable offer terms and conditions.
The additional fuel discount is available on up to 1,000 litres of eligible fuel purchases per calendar month for each Eligible Card. The 1,000-litre limit resets at the beginning of each calendar month.
The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.
Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.
All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.
Annual fee
Primary card$150
Additional card$0
Annual income required
Individual$60,000
Household$100,000
Conversion fees
0%
Earning rate
3xWith the partner brand
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending
Value
1st Year Value$604
2nd Year Value$397
Card benefits
Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240
Travel insurance
Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000
Purchase protection
Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days
Our editorial integrity
Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.
