The roaming service Digicel in Cuba will no longer be available to local users from April 9. Company said in a statement that there were “changes in trade agreements with Cuba”.

Digicel sent an email to their customers:

“Dear customer, we inform you that the Digicel Cuba Roaming service will be available until April 9, due to changes in trade agreements with Cuba. From February 15, Cuba SIM cards will no longer be available to activate , however you can continue to recharge until April 9. You should only bear in mind that regardless of the date on which you recharge, your SIM will expire on April 9, 2018 at midnight.”

READ MORE: Cuba authorizes sending text messages to US phones

The firm offered until now SIM cards that can be activated in Cuba for 25 dollars, with monthly recharge plans of up to 500 MB, available for 100 dollars which is actually a reasonable investment if one takes into account the high amount of roaming services from the US companies such as AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon.

SIM card was offered in conjunction with Cuban telecoms provider, ETECSA.

Digicel Group is a leading global communications provider with operations in 31 markets in the Caribbean, Central America and Asia Pacific.

For those planning trips there, alternatives like eSIM solutions or local Cuban telecom options could offer valuable substitutes.

Here are a few options to consider as alternatives for staying connected in Cuba:

1. Local Cuban SIM Card (ETECSA)

• Details: ETECSA, Cuba’s national telecom provider, offers prepaid SIM cards that you can purchase upon arrival. These are available at ETECSA offices, airports, and some hotels.
• Pros: Local rates are generally cheaper for calls and data compared to international roaming.
• Cons: High demand can lead to availability issues, and you’ll need your passport to purchase one. Coverage is limited outside urban areas.

2. eSIM Services digicel cuba

• Examples: Providers like Airalo, which has been highly recommended for travelers offer eSIM options with coverage in Cuba. Buy Airalo Cuba eSIM with 1 GB valid for 7 days.
• Pros: Easy to set up before your trip, allowing instant connectivity when you arrive. These can often offer flexible data packages.
• Cons: eSIM data rates in Cuba may be limited or more expensive compared to other countries due to roaming agreements.

3. Wi-Fi Access Cards

• Details: ETECSA provides Wi-Fi access cards that can be used at Wi-Fi hotspots across Cuba, often in parks, hotels, and some public areas.
• Pros: Affordable and widely available, though the internet speed is basic.
• Cons: Connectivity is limited to designated zones, so it’s less flexible than cellular service.

4. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots (if available)

• Details: Some international providers offer portable Wi-Fi hotspots for rent that work in Cuba. These provide internet access on a fixed daily plan.
• Pros: Portable and usable by multiple devices.
• Cons: Often limited by availability and higher costs; speeds can be slow.

Each option has pros and cons, but an eSIM like Airalo or a local ETECSA SIM card might give you the best balance of coverage and convenience.