There was no rice! This is how the buffet of a 5-star hotel in Varadero looks during a crisis: The experience of a Cuban woman

A Cuban woman at the Iberostar Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero points out the absence of rice in their buffet, which is compensated for with spaghetti, sweets, and meats. The video on TikTok has sparked a debate about the quality of tourism in Cuba.


A Cuban woman shared on TikTok her culinary experience at the buffet of the five-star Iberostar Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero, where she stayed for several days with her partner.

In the video, posted on the account @sheyreyes03, the user showcases the variety of food available at the hotel buffet, commenting on the selection and the quality of the dishes.

"There were plenty of things, but what there wasn't was rice. The only day we could eat rice was the last day," the young woman recounted, noting that the main alternative available during her stay was spaghetti.

Among the highlighted products, it was noted that the buffet included "many sweets, chocolate ice cream, hamburgers, chicken, and beef". It was also emphasized that there was "a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and healthy options".

Despite the absence of rice, the Cuban assured that the food seemed well-prepared and tasty. "Honestly, I enjoyed the food. It was well made. This hotel is five stars and one of the best," she stated.

The video has generated interest on social media, with comments divided between those who believe the buffet offering is acceptable and those who question the absence of a staple food in Cuban cuisine, such as rice.

All-inclusive hotels in Varadero have been under scrutiny in recent months due to reports from tourists claiming deficiencies in the quality and variety of food, leading to a debate about the state of the tourism industry in Cuba.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Food and Hotel Situation in Varadero, Cuba

Why was there no rice at the buffet of the Iberostar Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero?

During a Cuban's stay at the Iberostar Laguna Azul hotel in Varadero, rice was absent from the buffet until the last day of her visit. In its place, spaghetti was offered as the main alternative. This situation reflects the lack of a staple food in Cuban cuisine, which has sparked debate on social media about the quality of services in hotels in Cuba.

What is the quality of the food like in the hotels in Varadero?

The quality of food in the hotels of Varadero has been the subject of both criticism and praise. Some tourists have found shortcomings in the variety and quality of the food. However, the Cuban who stayed at the Iberostar Laguna Azul hotel stated that the food was well-prepared and tasty, despite the lack of rice. Experiences vary, and opinions are divided regarding whether the offerings are adequate.

What is the current situation of tourism in Varadero?

Tourism in Varadero is facing a significant crisis, with a low influx of visitors and empty hotels. This situation is due to a combination of factors, including the quality of services, food shortages, and a lack of flight connections. Despite the Cuban government's efforts to promote the destination, the reality is that the tourism sector in Cuba is in decline.

How is the food shortage affecting the experience of tourists in Cuba?

The scarcity of food in Cuba has negatively impacted the experience of tourists. Many visitors have reported issues with the quality and variety of food in hotels, which has led to increasing dissatisfaction and caused travel agencies to reconsider their offerings on the island. This, in turn, has affected the image of Cuba as a travel destination.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.

Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.