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A Canadian tourist who recently spent her vacation in Cuba praised the abundance of food at the hotel where she stayed, on an island in the Jardines del Rey archipelago.
Debbie Schetagne shared on Facebook photos from her stay at the Gran Muthu Imperial Hotel in Cayo Guillermo, a 5-star facility where guests are very far from the hardships experienced by most of the population in Cuba.
"Someone is wondering about the food shortage... NOT HERE!!," he expressed.
The images leave no doubt: tables filled with meats prepared in various ways, different types of fish, chicken, turkey, rice dishes, Japanese food, fruits, cheeses…
Everything is done to make the customer feel like they are in a "paradise," rather than a country where people have to perform magic to put something on the table every day, and often go to bed without eating.
"There are no words to describe this complex," said a Canadian Portuguese visitor, who in the comments section suggested not to heed the negative criticisms regarding the situation in Cuba.
Canada is the main source market for tourists to Cuba, many of whom often visit the cays.
The tourism sector in Cuba is experiencing its worst moment in the last two decades. In 2024, only 2.2 million visitors were received, representing a decline of 9.6% compared to the previous year and the lowest number in two decades.
The decrease is attributed to several factors, among which the severe economic and energy crisis facing the country and the sanctions imposed by the United States stand out, making it difficult to obtain quick visas for travelers who have visited Cuba in the last ten years.
The Cuban government acknowledged issues in the sector, such as insufficient air connectivity, unpaid debts to suppliers disrupting the supply chain, and difficulties in accessing the international market, among others.
It was also acknowledged that there has been a depletion of capital in the sector, caused by a lack of staff to work in hotels and tourist facilities, and although the authorities do not mention it, this issue coincided with the exodus of Cubans in recent years.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism in Cuba and the Current Situation
What is the current situation of tourism in Cuba?
Tourism in Cuba is facing its worst crisis in decades, with a significant decrease in the number of visitors due to the economic and energy crisis, as well as international sanctions. The scarcity of resources and issues with infrastructure have severely impacted the tourist experience.
What contrasts exist between the experience of tourists and the reality of the Cuban population?
While some hotels in Cuba offer a luxurious and abundant experience for tourists, most Cubans face a deep shortage of food and basic resources. This reflects a significant disparity between tourist areas and the daily life of the local population.
Why is Canadian tourism still important for Cuba?
Canada continues to be the leading source of tourists to Cuba, making Canadian travelers a crucial market for the Cuban tourism economy, despite recommendations from some travel agents to refrain from visiting the island due to the energy crisis.
What impact do power outages have on the tourist experience in Cuba?
Power outages in Cuba severely impact the quality of the tourist experience, causing discomfort such as the lack of air conditioning and difficulties in preserving food, which has led tourists to reconsider their trips to the island.
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