I have heard Cuban tend to be quite racist against Non white travelors.I really would like to visit Havanna and Varadero for a few days and just enjoy myself.Is it likely I will be harrased by the Police because Im staying in Nice hotels and with my white Tourist friends?any tips on how not to get harrased?will bribes or dressing nicely work/help?

I actually think there's much less racism in Cuba than in the US or Canada. Blacks and whites seem to get along much better. And anyway, almost everyone there is at least part African (even if they don't look it). There are many, many mixed race couples. I have black friends in Cuba but I've never had a black friend in the US. I actually think there is alot more genuine "color blindness" in Cuba than in most other countries I've been to. I really don't think you need to worry, even if you're weighed down by huge gold chains and talk like a rapper. That's not to say that discrimination does not exist there. It exists even in Africa where the lighter skinned blacks look down on the darker skinned ones. I have met many white Cubans who told me to stay away from blacks. That they are thieves and can't be trusted. Nevertheless whites are the minority in Cuba. Some Cubans may mistake you for a Cuban until you open your mouth, but that is usually an advantage. Not being black I can't give you too much advice on trying to dress or look more "white" so that you won't get harassed.

Poster #1, Why are you able to hit it off with black folks in Cuba, while you don't have black friends in the U.S. ? Black folks in Cuba must be more exotic than your fellow countrymen who have fought and died in every war the U.S. has fought. Are black Cubans more docile and less bitter? Or maybe you feel like you have a clean historical slate with them. Please, leave your racist chain-wearing stereotypes at the U.S boarder. By the way, I've seen plenty of pimped-out white Cubans--big gold chains and all. To dress white, maybe the orginial poster should go to Old Navy or the Gap and get some "white" clothes. But, personally, I think the original poster is a TROLL!! So your racist drivel has been wasted.

suparorange@hotmail.com

if you are going to troll, at least make it original.

Go and have a great time! I am African American, and on my last trip, I was never bothered by any police. My friend was stopped by a cop when we were walking, they asked to see his ID and that was it. They knew I was a tourist. Never was I bothered, Then again I do not look like I spent time in a ration line. As much as I tried to blend in, I could not. Besides that I have probably had to deal with more crap here than in Cuba on the racial level.I hope you find friends like I did,and learn explore the rich heritage, and culture of our afro sisters, and brothers. Go have a great time, drink some Havana club, and get your fun on.

I don't give a #^%$ if you think I'm a racist. I was being sarcastic with the chains comment. I know that not all blacks are alike (duh).

My not having ever had a black friend has a lot less to do with me and alot more to do with them. Generally they have been the ones to avoid me. Not the reverse. I don't particularly care what a male friend of mine looks like and that includes skin color. I don't know what country you're from but I'm from the states and things are pretty seperatist around here. I've warned some Cubans who wanted to come to the US about this phenomenen. There are white neighborhoods and black neighborhoods. There are not many mixed race couples either. The Cubans I have told this to found this strange. I think it is too, but I'm used to it.

I am white, but I've got eyes, & it was brilliant to see all the ethnic groups in Cuba mixing genuinely - real solid friendship between all ethnic groups - Castro outlawed it in principal - & although I wouldn't claim to say it is 100% everywhere it is certainly one of the most refreshing things about Cuba, Enjoy!

Yes racism in Cuba exists. However it is illegal to display it. Cuban might end up in jail if found gilty of it.
If you make genuine friend with Cubans they will tell you.
You won't see it on the street.
Do not be afraid to go there. You are a TOURIST therefore you are a KING.
Unless you look like typical US black person police will not bother you. It is unlikely that they will stop you to check your ID.
Go there and enjoy your stay. I'm sure it will an eye opener. Good luck.

If you must go to Cuba go to Santiago. There is more Blacks there and you will feel more at home.

I think in general the cops will recognize you as a foreigner by your clothes and mannerisms and leave you alone. If they mistake you for a black Cuban, they might ask you for ID. Just look them right in the eye and in a loud voice say, "Excuse me?" They'll leave you alone after that.

In general Cuba has much less racial tension than in the US. Blacks and whites live together, marry, and and are friendly with each other. Cops, (many of whom are black themselves) still do give blacks more of a hard time. Tourists never get trouble from the police, and once they figure out your not Cuban, they'll go away quickly.