Hitchhiking Cuba: Fun, Friendly, and Kind

It’s not only ingenious - it’s environmentally friendly. You’ll love how they decide who gets to go to the front of the line.... Three reasons to try the “Cuban Way” of traveling: • The chance to talk to locals – people will speak honestly (even on controversial topics) if they know they won’t see you again • Have an exciting adventure! When was the last time you did something daring? • Save money Doctors hitchhike to work in Cuba. Young women hitchhike to a club. It’s not only safe (within reason), it’s official – government employees collect tickets and find you a ride. How to Hitchhike in Cuba 1. Start early! Crack of dawn. Not just to get a ride, but to avoid the scorching Cuban heat. 2. Figure out where to wait for your ride. 3. Limit your luggage. 4. Bring snack food to share (with both the drivers and other hitchhikers) 5. I hitchhike alone but if you’re worried, bring a companion. 6. Be funny or endearing. Play a musical instrument. Juggle. Write a funny sign. 7. Be careful where you get dropped off. Make sure it’s a good pickup point for your next ride. 8. Negotiate the price before you get in, or make it clear that you can’t pay. You’re a foreigner – they’ll assume you have more money than they do. And they’re probably right. 9. If you really need a ride, wave a 20 peso bill. 10. “Puntos Amarillos” (see video) are official hitchhiking locations. 11. Have fun! Tune in for a new video every week from the far corners of our Human Planet! Download our complete 2-hour PBS documentary series on Cuba: Subscribe to OUR HUMAN PLANET: #Travel #Adventure #Cuba Category: Travel