Shopping center Galerías Paseo de La Habana in ruins: "Painful, unpleasant, humiliating"

Social media users reported this Friday on the state of neglect in which the iconic shopping center Galerías Paseo, in Vedado, finds itself, where the customer experience is currently "painful, unpleasant, humiliating."

The internet user Cesario Navas said on Facebook that what was once a vibrant meeting point is now facing a series of problems that have turned the space into a shadow of its former glory.

The published images show the place completely in ruins, with broken hallways and dilapidated stairs.

Navas recalled that it was previously a place of enjoyment for the people of Havana, offering a pleasant atmosphere with specialty shops, air conditioning, and the famous Jazz Café. From there, one could enjoy a beautiful view of the Malecón and the Riviera Hotel while customers savored a drink.

However, he describes the transformation of this iconic shopping center as a "shame against money."

It says that now the atmosphere is uncomfortable, with products stored in the aisles and a shortage of cashiers, resulting in long waits to make payments.

The interior ramp, once an open and safe space, is now cluttered with products and pallets, representing at least a risk to the safety of pedestrians due to the poor condition of the floor and stairs.

The Jazz Café, which used to be a popular meeting spot, is closed, and the outdoor café area, once a nice place to relax, is also blocked off with unsold merchandise.

Critics argue that the deterioration of the Paseo Gallery reflects the disinterest and lack of commitment from local and national authorities towards the conservation of the iconic spaces of Havana.

In addition, they claim that apparently the regime does not intend to invest in the repair and maintenance of the shopping center, when its profits over the years should have been reinvested in the conservation and functionality of the premises.

The criticism focuses not only on the physical deterioration of the place but also on the poor customer service, especially because the management and some employees are disrespectful to customers.

"Currently, it is painful, unpleasant, and humiliating to enter that great disaster of the so-called 'continuity'," said the internet user.