Shopping in Havana

Overview

Besides being the medical tourism capital of Cuba, Havana is also the shopping hub of the country… although in a land where the locals are barely able to indulge in non-essential shopping, that isn’t saying much.  Most shops offering anything that’s not a basic necessity target foreign tourists, making it difficult to find good local products at reasonable prices.  Tourist shops deal in American dollars or Euros and are run by the state.  Havana has not been immune to the shopping mall culture, and some of these have begun to sprout around town.  Not surprisingly, malls tend to attract tourists plus a small minority of locals who can afford to indulge.

Cigars

Needing little introduction, Cuban cigars are generally regarded to be the finest in the world.  These have a reputation for being expensive outside their homeland, but in Havana you can pick these up at much cheaper rates.  Locally known as habanos or puros, cigar making in the country too is regulated by the state.  There is an official cigar manufacturer who either produces or distributes the cigars that are available legally in the country.  You will find cigar shops at most high-end restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions.  Cigar factories also have their own in-house outlets.  There is also a black market for cigars, although these feature products that are machine-made, and therefore, of dubious quality.  Look for the Made in Cuba seal at the bottom of your cigar box to validate its authenticity.

Music

As the home of salsa, Havana is the place to pick up music CDs by renowned local bands. The variety of music on the island means that you can also pick up some excellent Afro Cuban music, jazz selections, mambo rhythms etc.  Remember to buy only from state-run shops on your medical tourism trip; there’s a thriving market for low quality pirated CDs here.

Other Products

Other great gifts to take home from your Havana medical tourism vacation are Cuban rum and coffee.  As with cigars, however, make sure you receive your doctor's permission before indulging in either of these fine beverages. 

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