From the United States, a first-time mother from Camagüey is facing a tough decision: traveling to the island with her two-month-old baby to introduce them to their grandparents. In a video she shared on TikTok, she sought advice from other mothers on what to bring and how to prepare for the conditions in the country.
"I would like to ask if there are any moms who have traveled to Cuba who could give me advice on what I should bring, whether I need to take medications, what kind of medications, or if I should bring diapers from here," explained @madelincita20, who also expressed concern about hygiene products for her baby due to her sensitive skin.
The video sparked a flood of reactions and comments, with the majority advising against the trip due to the risks for such a small baby. One user commented, "Recommendation #1: don’t go. Don’t take your baby anywhere without the 3-month vaccines, and you need to bring everything, everything, everything, and then some." Another comment noted, "I advise you to wait until she's a bit bigger, and if you do take her, bring everything because there’s nothing in Cuba."
Some users shared their experiences: “I went two months ago with a 4-year-old, and it was difficult; the mosquitoes were overwhelming.” “I took my child for five days and brought everything from here.” Others pointed out the risks: “Don’t take her when she’s so small; there are many diseases in Cuba, wait until she’s older.” There were also clear warnings: “Bring everything; I went in July with my 8-year-old daughter, and she didn’t want to eat anything from there, so just imagine with a baby.”
Among the most frequently given advice is to bring absolutely everything the baby might need. "Bring everything, literally everything: fever and allergy medications, a rechargeable fan, food, and hygiene products"; "You should carry fever and pain medication, diapers, a fan, a solar-powered lamp, a mosquito net, and her usual food—basically, everything your little girl uses regularly." One comment was emphatic: "You have to bring everything to take care of your baby, antibiotics, something for fever, antihistamines, something for mosquitoes, a rechargeable fan, her hygiene items, her food—literally everything."
There were also those who expressed concern about basic necessities: "You need to bring all those things you mentioned—diapers, milk, water, soap, medicine… literally everything." Another person added, "Bring hygiene products, all the medicines needed for fever, diarrhea, hydration salts, the milk he/she drinks, things for a cold, fans, diapers."
Some users simply requested that she reconsider: "Don't travel, that's the sad reality, especially with a baby"; "In my opinion, you shouldn't take your daughter to Cuba. There’s nothing there. Don't expose your young daughter to that risk." One mother was more straightforward: "I think you should take everything except the baby."
Despite the warnings and advice received, @madelincita20 expressed gratitude for the comments and explained that, although it is a difficult decision, her intention is for her family in Cuba to meet her baby. "It's a soul-enriching experience to be with our loved ones," she stated, showing her determination to ensure her baby gets to know her grandparents in Camagüey, despite the challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Cuba with a Baby
Is it safe to travel to Cuba with a two-month-old baby?
Most of the comments advise against traveling to Cuba with such a small baby due to the risks associated with the lack of medicine and basic necessities. Furthermore, health conditions and frequent blackouts can pose a danger to the baby's well-being.
What should I bring if I decide to travel to Cuba with a baby?
It is crucial that you bring everything your baby might need, including medication for fever and allergies, diapers, hygiene products, a rechargeable fan, a mosquito net, and their usual food. The scarcity in Cuba makes it difficult to find these items once you are on the island.
What are the main risks of traveling to Cuba with a baby?
The main risks include lack of access to basic goods and medications, prolonged blackouts, diseases, and inadequate sanitary conditions. Additionally, heat and mosquitoes are factors that need to be taken into serious consideration.
How does the current situation in Cuba affect family travel?
The current situation in Cuba, marked by extensive power outages and shortages of products, complicates family travel, especially with young children. The challenging living conditions demand careful preparation and the necessity to bring all essential supplies from abroad.
Filed under:
