"It looks like a horror movie": This is how the entrance to Varadero International Airport appears

A TikTok video reveals the deterioration of the entrance to Varadero Airport in Cuba, highlighting the lack of lighting and signage, which raises concerns about safety and criticism of government neglect.


A video posted on TikTok has sparked outrage among users by showcasing the precarious condition of the entrance to Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero, one of the main tourist hubs in Cuba.

In the images shared by the user @jesusdecuba, there is a complete darkness at the entrance to the airport, with no public lighting, road signs, or visible indications.

"Nothing can be seen, there’s no lighting, there are no traffic signs, there’s nothing," comments the video’s author as he records the night journey.

The recording highlights the deterioration of the road infrastructure in a key area for international tourism on the island. Varadero Airport is the second most important in the country, after Havana, and welcomes thousands of foreign visitors each month.

The lack of basic conditions such as lighting and signage not only poses a risk to road safety but also projects a negative image to those arriving in the country through that airport terminal.

Social media users quickly reacted, describing the situation as a demonstration of state neglect and the lack of maintenance in key facilities.

Some expressed concern for the safety of travelers, while others questioned how a country that relies on tourism can offer such a welcome to its visitors.

So far, the Cuban authorities have not commented on the condition of the access road to the airport or on the lighting issues reported in the video.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Deterioration of the Varadero Airport and the Tourism Crisis in Cuba

How does the lack of lighting at the entrance of Varadero International Airport affect it?

The lack of lighting at the entrance to Varadero International Airport poses a significant risk to road safety and projects a negative image to tourists arriving in the country. The situation also reflects state neglect and the lack of maintenance of key infrastructures for tourism in Cuba.

What is the impact of the tourism crisis in Varadero?

The tourism crisis in Varadero is evident in the low hotel occupancy rates and the lack of tourists on its beaches and streets. This situation negatively impacts the local economy and highlights the Cuban government's inability to reverse the decline in the tourism sector, despite investments in hotel infrastructure.

What factors contribute to the decline of tourism in Cuba?

The decline of tourism in Cuba is attributed to multiple factors, such as the economic crisis, poor quality of services, frequent blackouts, and the deterioration of infrastructure. Additionally, the perception of insecurity and shortages have also contributed to deterring tourists from the island.

How is the lack of tourism affecting the Cuban economy?

The lack of tourism is severely affecting the Cuban economy, as tourism has historically been one of the country's main sources of income. The decline in tourist arrivals has deepened the economic crisis, impacting both the local population and the tourism infrastructure.

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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.