On Sun, 18 Jan 2004 15:35:57 -0000 Carol Reid wrote:

> Hi folks,
> Can I ask if anyone out there has been to Cuba
>  either diving or snorkelling?

Yes.. twice recently (Santa Lucia- NE coast & Cienfuegos-south coast)
and in the 1980's before Varadero was developed.

> I have been given to understand that its very good
> especially for snorkelling.

Like most places that depends on where in Cuba you go. Varadero is not
so good.
Are you hoping to do shore or boat snorkeling?
The reefs tend to be fringing so to get to anything good is a bit of a
swim.
The north east end of Cuba is good, as is much of the south coast side.

Of course if you want to be near Havana then you will have to travel or
downgrade your expectations for snorkeling.

If you want to do the cultural visits as well it may make more sense to
stay at two different locations to satisfy the best of both. Though on
the south coast Santiago de Cuba offers both.

> We're thinking of going there in May when its rainy season.
> How rainy is rainy?

Rainy means rain most days for an hour or more.
You are at the start of the season so should not be too bad.

Look at these links to get a feel of what there is to 'tourist' in Cuba.

http://www.wowcuba.com/welcome.html
http://www.wowcuba.com/cuba2.html

Hope this helps....

Michael Levy