Thanks for the great report, Peter. I knew exactly where your story was going as soon as you said he could stay with you that night. Rest assured, there is a highly proficient group of Cuban hackers who will make your phone very useful. My experience is that the straight hustlers are far more likely to be light fingered than the gay ones. While they are usually willing to hook up for money, they maintain a certain distain for men who prefer sex with men that makes it easier for them to rip off such men. There is also, sometimes, a sense of needing to punish the rich foreigner for exploiting their need for cash. Gay boys, on the other hand, hold out hope for longer term relationships that might lead to gifts, "emergency loans", return trips or even, eventually marriage and emigration. ( I read somewhere that 40% of the gay marriages in Spain involved a Cuban or a Brazilian.)
I usually book both a hotel and a casa particular. The hotel is where I sleep and keep my shit. I usually book both a hotel and a casa particular. The casa is where I fuck. I never leave anything in the casa that I would miss overmuch if it walked away and I NEVER bring anyone back to the hotel. Im glad your experience, overall was a pleasant one.
One suggestion: On your next trip, you might consider hiring an English speaking guide to serve as negotiator etc. In exchange for some cash, meals and entry to some clubs, such people are often happy to help you find what you want. University students are best as they tend not to be desperate and are more interested in your referrals than in your phone. I would suggest a few but all the ones I know have managed to leave the island and I haven't been down recently to replenish the stock. Perhaps using planetromero to identify someone who will serve that role for a generous fee might work out for you.
thanks again for the report.