Question 1

What is the "Carnaval Pickpocket Squeeze" scam in Santiago de Cuba?

Accepted Answer

During the late-July Carnaval (Cuba''s largest), organized pickpocket teams work the dense crowds along Avenida Garzón and Plaza de Marte. Phones, wallets, and over-shoulder bags are lifted in the press of the parade. Carry only what you need, in a front pocket or money belt. Leave your phone at the casa or use a wrist strap. Stay at the edges of the crowd rather than in the press.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit Cigar / Rum Souvenir" scam in Santiago de Cuba?

Accepted Answer

Counterfeit Cohiba and Montecristo cigars and refilled "Havana Club" rum bottles are sold by street vendors near Parque Céspedes at 1/3 the official price. Many contain banana-leaf filler or lower-grade rum. Buy cigars and rum only from official Habanos and state-run shops with sealed boxes and printed receipts. Genuine rum has a holographic seal under the cap.

Question 3

What is the "Mercado Municipal Pickpocket Crowd" scam in Santiago de Cuba?

Accepted Answer

Santiago de Cuba Mercado Municipal is a dense indoor market where pickpockets operate in coordinated pairs. One individual creates a distraction by bumping into the tourist or asking for directions, while a second lifts wallets, phones, or camera bags from pockets and unzipped bags. The market draws large crowds of locals and tourists making it difficult to notice the theft until well after it occurs. Keep valuables in a front pocket or a money belt worn under clothing. Use a bag that closes securely with a zipper rather than an open-top tote. Be especially alert when someone bumps into you or engages you in a conversation you did not initiate in a crowded space.

Question 4

What is the "Fake Music CD / Band Donation" scam in Santiago de Cuba?

Accepted Answer

After enjoying live music at Casa de la Trova or street performers, "the band" or a representative pressures tourists to buy a homemade CD for 20-30 USD that contains no music or generic recordings. Pay the venue, not roving collectors. If you want to support musicians, tip directly. Decline any pressure-sale CDs without the chance to verify content.

Street Scams in Santiago de Cuba

Carnaval Pickpocket Squeeze

Counterfeit Cigar / Rum Souvenir

Mercado Municipal Pickpocket Crowd

Fake Music CD / Band Donation

Experienced a scam here?