The Cuban influencer known as Carlos Makeup (@carlos_makeup_official), a professional makeup artist and content creator with over 196 thousand followers on Instagram, shared a video showcasing his experience at the Iberostar Selection La Habana, the tallest and most controversial hotel in Cuba.
Torre K-23 is the most popular name of the building. It is located in the heart of El Vedado, and Carlos stayed there with his partner in a Junior Suite on the 16th floor.
He explained that all the rooms offer spectacular views of the city, but particularly highlighted the 41st floor of the building, from where "you can see all of Havana".
The influencer revealed that they paid $157 per couple for one night. The stay included breakfast, but any other services had to be paid separately. Guests only had access to the main pool located on the third floor of the building.
Carlos highlighted his visit to the bar on the top floor of the hotel, which offers a 360-degree view of the capital. "All Cubans should see this and that's why I made this video for them," he stated in his post, anticipating that its content would generate diverse reactions.
His video received both messages of support and criticism from those who believe that staying in a luxury hotel in Cuba is unattainable for the majority of citizens, and paying for it is a way to fill the regime's coffers.
Carlos defended his right to enjoy his money by doing what he loves and stated that negative comments do not affect him.
" I work very hard every day to do the things I enjoy in Cuba," the influencer stated in an Instagram story and warned his haters that he will continue posting more images from his stay at the controversial Torre K-23 hotel.
The post has sparked debate on social media, with users split between those praising the influencer's effort and those criticizing the cost of the experience in a country where the average salary is significantly lower than the price of a night at the K-23 Tower.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Torre K-23 and its Impact on Havana
Why is the Hotel Torre K-23 in Cuba controversial?
The Torre K-23 Hotel is controversial because it symbolizes inequality in a country facing a severe economic crisis. The investment in its construction contrasts with the unmet basic needs of the population, such as the repair of infrastructure, hospitals, and the energy system. Many criticize the government for prioritizing luxury tourism over the urgent needs of the Cuban people.
What do Cubans think about the cost and design of the Torre K-23 Hotel?
Cubans express discontent with the cost and design of the Torre K-23 Hotel. They criticize that the money spent on its construction could have been allocated to improving the electrical infrastructure and hospitals. Moreover, the design of the building has been described as a "dagger in the landscape" that does not adhere to the urban planning regulations of Vedado.
How has the population reacted to the street repairs around the Hotel Torre K-23?
The repair of streets around the Hotel Torre K-23 has sparked outrage among citizens. They believe that these works only beautify the area for tourists, while the rest of Havana suffers from poor road conditions and lack of maintenance. The perception is that resources are being allocated to tourist projects, neglecting the needs of the population.
What alternative names have been proposed for the Hotel Torre K-23?
On social media, Cubans have renamed the Hotel Torre K-23 with titles such as "The Lookout of Misery" and "The Tower of Arrogance". These names reflect public discontent and the perception that the hotel is a symbol of the government's misplaced priorities in a context of shortages and unmet needs on the island.
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