General Information Cuba, the largest of the Antilles, is an archipelago consisting of a main island named Cuba, the Isle of Youth and about 4,195 keys and islets. Its elongated and narrow shape propitiates circulation of trade winds from the Atlantic, which cool its tropical, humid climate. Climate Cuba has a very pleasant average temperature of 24,6ºC (76,3ºF) yearround. However, knowing exact forecast will help you pack your suitcase for the specific dates of your trip. Average 24,6ºC (76,3ºF) Summer Average 26-27ºC (79-81ºF) Winter Average 22ºC (71,6ºF) Havana The city of Havana is the capital of the Republic of Cuba and was founded in 1515. Its founders called it Villa San Cristóbal, but the Indians of the area insisted on calling it Havana. Due to its geographical position and the excellent characteristics of its bay it was given the name Llave del Mundo (Key to the World). For centuries, it was an obligatory stop for Spanish fleets, conquerors and adventurers. During the wars of Independence in the latter half of the 19th century the city was untouched making today's Havana the finest surviving Spanish Complex in the Americas. Although it is today a sprawling metropolis of 2 million inhabitants, its old centre retains an interesting mix of Baroque and neoclassical monuments, and a homogeneous ensemble of private houses with arcades, balconies, wrought-iron gates and internal courtyards. "Old Havana and its Fortifications" was added to Unesco's World Heritage List in 1982. Visas It is necessary to have a visa to enter Cuba . Tourist Visa Cards will be OK for those attending the Oral Sessions of the International Congress Biotecnologia Habana 2012. Voltage The voltage in most residential and trade areas, offices and hotels is 110V / 60Hz, though most recently built hotels, have 220V / 60Hz. Wall outlets are for flat plugs. Currency The Official Cuban Currency is the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC). All payments in establishments operating in foreign exchange in Cuba must be made with CUC. While in Cuba, you may exchange Euros, Canadian dollars, Pounds sterling, Swiss francs or US dollars for CUC. For an updated list of CUC exchange rates, please visit the web site of the Banco Central de Cuba. Please, notice that it is still possible to exchange US dollars; however transactions with US dollars are subject to a 10% commission. Border Tax There is a departure tax of $25, payable in Cuban currency (CUC)