as a Canuck... and, having been to Cuba more than a few times - the country and the people are wonderful

While everyone's mileage may vary - my stories of the honesty and warmth of the people - would be difficult to equal in many (most) other places

I'm not surprised that the rental car is the most expensive portion of the trip. My experience - hopefully things have not changed - you will not have the "games" played on returning a rental car.. aka... Florida rentals

Bottom line - the only reason I could not live in Cuba for a year or two... is(was) the lack of proper internet connection - otherwise... I'd be making it the next opportunity