I can't answer the specific things you are asking about but I have been to Cuba. You are fortunate to be going now as it is still an opportunity to see a largely old school communist economy in action. It is changing fast though and won't stay this way long. If you do nothing else, spend at least 2 days in Havana. The people are friendly and kind but the food terrible. Ask about and get a handle on the tipping, it is confusing because of the two currencies they use.