The testimony of a Chilean tourist about her experience in Cuba has sparked intense debate on social media. The content creator, known as @fannycosas, shared a series of videos on TikTok in which she recounted her trip to the island.
In his first video, he emphasized that upon arriving at the Havana airport, "it feels like you’re stepping back in time; there’s not much technology, and it’s very small." Then, while heading to his hotel, he noted "completely destroyed houses, and it was clear that people lived there," but in the hotels "everything is very nice, nothing is lacking."
He shared that when he went out for dinner, a waiter revealed to him: "I was a doctor, but I earn the same as a waiter. The job of a doctor there is very demanding and very stressful because it lacks the necessary supplies." The influencer expressed her surprise upon learning about this situation and reflected on the precariousness of the Cuban healthcare system. "He told us that he preferred this job because it was less stressful, even though the salary was similar. That really struck me," she commented.
He also mentioned that salaries in Cuba range between "7,000 and 20,000 pesos," and that some places prohibit entry to Cubans, "something that really shocked me."
Another situation that impacted her was the lack of products: "The Cuban mojito isn't made with lime; it's made with artificial juice. A kilo of lime costs 4,000 pesos." She also noticed that "there are many people on the street who speak English well and ask tourists to buy them soap and shampoo."
The testimony sparked a flood of comments: "That's communism, everyone is poor," "How could you not know the situation in Cuba?" some said; others, however, defended their stance: "Tourism is the only thing holding Cuba up; without tourists, it would be even worse."
A Cuban user commented: "I am a dentist, I now live in Chile and work as a server. Many doctors had to abandon our careers to escape that hell, and those who remain are looking for another way of life." Another user questioned: "What was the wonderful thing you saw? Destroyed houses being inhabited? A doctor working as a waiter?"
In response to some critical comments, the influencer shared another video where she claimed that "no book or video shows you the reality like listening to the people who live there." To those who opposed visiting the island, she argued that avoiding travel to Cuba would not change the situation: "If people didn't go to Cuba, everything would be much worse." "If tourism in Cuba didn't exist, people would be much worse off. It's not the same to watch videos as it is to be there and talk to the people," she defended.
In another video, he showed contrasting images of the island: on one side, the hotels and luxury enjoyed by tourists, and on the other, the streets and crumbling buildings where Cubans live.
The testimony of "fannycosas" adds to other travelers who have reported the crisis in Cuba. In 2024, the island welcomed only 2.2 million tourists, the lowest number in nearly two decades. A Spanish tourist published a viral video in which she stated: "I cry out of helplessness, because the Cubans do not deserve this."
Despite the crisis, the Cuban government continues to invest in hotels while the population faces shortages. The influencer concluded, "Cuba is a beautiful country, but you need to go with an open mind."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tourist Experience in Cuba
What is the situation of the healthcare system in Cuba according to tourists' testimonials?
The healthcare system in Cuba faces significant challenges, with professionals like doctors opting for less stressful jobs that offer similar salaries due to the lack of necessary supplies. This leads some doctors to prefer positions in the tourism sector, which are less demanding.
How does the shortage of products affect tourists in Cuba?
The scarcity affects both tourists and locals. Visitors have noticed that basic products like lemons are being replaced by artificial alternatives due to high prices, and that there are restrictions in certain tourist sites where entry is only allowed for foreigners.
Why do some tourists consider tourism to be crucial for Cuba?
Tourism is seen as an essential factor for sustaining the Cuban economy due to internal shortages and the lack of local resources. According to some testimonies, without tourism, the economic situation could worsen for the local population.
What contrasts have tourists observed during their stay in Cuba?
Tourists have observed significant contrasts between tourist areas and neighborhoods inhabited by Cubans. While hotels showcase luxury and abundance, residential areas reflect signs of deterioration and scarcity, creating a strong impact on visitors.
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