The Cuban YouTuber Karina Sánchez Rodríguez (@kary_y_jonyyoutuber) showcased the alarming condition of Varadero, Cuba's main tourist destination, through a video posted on her Instagram account.
The streets of the resort city appear deserted, especially at night, reflecting an unprecedented crisis in the island's tourism. "There is no nightlife in Varadero anymore," says Sánchez in his video.
Accompanied by her camera, she wanders through the streets of this tourist destination and observes the absence of Cubans and travelers in public spaces. "The first thing that surprises you is that there are practically no people on the streets, let alone tourists," she notes.
According to his testimony, businesses start to close at 10 PM, and restaurants never manage to fill up. The lack of nighttime economic activity contrasts with the high prices of services, making the destination inaccessible to most Cubans.
"I don't think a worker with a minimum wage, nor a professional, can afford the luxury of visiting this place, unless they have a business or another source of income," comments the influencer.
Crisis in tourism in Cuba
The images shared by Sánchez reinforce the perception of the deterioration of the tourism sector in Cuba, a crisis that has intensified in recent years.
Despite the regime's efforts to promote the island as a go-to destination in the Caribbean, the lack of adequate infrastructure, the collapse of basic services, power outages, and the poor quality of medical care for visitors have discouraged tourists.
Despite this discouraging outlook, the government continues to invest in the construction of luxury hotels, while the population faces a serious housing deficit.
For at least five years, the social housing plan has been sidelined, leaving thousands of families in precarious conditions. In cities like Havana, the housing crisis worsens with buildings in ruins and people forced to live in makeshift shelters.
The paradox of a country that invests in hotels without tourists while neglecting fundamental sectors such as health, education, and housing is a testament to the failure of the Cuban regime's economic strategy.
Karina Sánchez Rodríguez's testimony is not just a chronicle of her visit to Varadero, but also a reflection of the reality that Cuba is experiencing: a nation that once invested in tourism as a source of development, but today confronts the decline of its industry without providing solutions for its people.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tourism and Economic Crisis in Varadero, Cuba
Why is there no nightlife in Varadero?
There is no nightlife in Varadero due to the lack of tourists and the early closure of businesses. The high prices of services make the destination inaccessible for most Cubans, resulting in deserted streets and an unprecedented economic crisis in the island's tourism.
What is the current situation of tourism in Cuba?
Tourism in Cuba is experiencing a significant crisis, with a notable decline in the number of visitors due to factors such as inadequate infrastructure, collapsed basic services, and frequent power outages. Despite the government's efforts to promote the island, the deterioration of the tourism sector is evident, especially in destinations like Varadero.
Why does the Cuban government continue to invest in luxury hotels?
The Cuban government continues to focus on the construction of luxury hotels as part of its economic strategy, despite the lack of tourists. This policy has been criticized because the population is facing serious issues with housing, health, and education, highlighting a mismanagement of resources.
How does the energy crisis affect tourists in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba directly impacts the experience of tourists, as power outages are frequent even in hotels located in tourist destinations like Varadero. This creates discomfort and limits recreational activities, negatively affecting the country's perception as a vacation destination.
What factors contribute to the decline of tourism in Cuba?
The decline of tourism in Cuba is due to multiple factors, including the lack of adequate infrastructure, frequent blackouts, poor quality of medical services, issues with air connectivity, and a widespread economic crisis. These problems have deterred tourists and severely impacted the country's tourism industry.
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