Your highest priority should be travel safety when you visit Cuba, closely followed by having the trip of a lifetime.

Cuba is a safe country though, and most travel advisories from foreign ministries state that there are no particular dangers involved in going to Cuba.

Nevertheless, note that as a foreigner you will stand out and as such be a target for thieves and tricksters. So be alert.

NEVER show off your wealth in public and try not to withdraw too much cash at any one time from the cash point. Whilst the people in Cuba can be incredibly friendly and generous, they are also very poor in comparison and rich foreigners are prime targets for thieves.

If you are travelling alone, leave a copy of your planned itinerary with friends or family and ensure you follow up with them every few days so that they know you are safe and well.

Recommendations from fellow travellers or your hotel or hostel receptionist are a great way to find out which areas to go to, and which places to avoid.

When travelling by taxi, use reputable companies and negotiate the price in advance as it is not uncommon for taxi drivers to add a hefty 'tourist supplement' to people with a map in their hand and a lost look on their face. Unfortunately, as a tourist you simply are an easy target for these annoying but relatively innocent swindles.

Before you travel, ensure that your travel vaccinations are up to date. Make a photocopy of your passport to leave behind and take a copy with you and keep it separate from your original passport. It is also a good idea to make a paper list of your most important contacts and phone numbers, including the phone number of your embassy or consulate.

We also recommend making notes of the serial numbers of valuable electrical devices you carry along on your trip and having photographs of these items, in case of any need to make an insurance claim.

Tap water should not be drunk. Care should be taken when ordering drinks with ice and you should check hygiene conditions when purchasing food from street vendors.

Water purifying tablets are useful when heading to villages and tablets for stomach upsets may be needed until your stomach acclimatizes to the local diet and natural bacteria.

Remember: Although you are on holiday, safety must be your priority.