A Cuban influencer has shared on social media what it's like to stay at the cheapest three-star hotel she found in Varadero. It is the Hotel Palma Real, where she spent a night with her partner for 16,500 Cuban pesos (CUP), around 43 dollars, in an all-inclusive format.
In a video posted on TikTok, the user @kary_y_jony takes a tour of the room she describes as simple yet functional: it features a double bed, a television, a closet, a minibar, a dresser with a mirror, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a balcony "with no interesting view."
"The most affordable three-star hotel we found in the travel agencies," says the young woman in the video, which has already garnered thousands of views on her profile. She also remarks, in a humorous tone, that the TV "hopes it doesn't have the Caribbean channel," and clarifies that the price may be high for most Cubans.
According to his explanation, the stay—which he acknowledges is unaffordable for many Cubans—was a gift from his supporters for the anniversary of his channel.
The price of 16,500 CUP per night, on the other hand, contrasts sharply with the economic reality of most Cubans. According to official data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), the average monthly salary in April 2025 was 6,506.5 Cuban pesos, which amounts to just about 17 US dollars at the current informal exchange rate.
This figure is clearly insufficient given the high cost of living on the island. Professionals such as doctors, teachers, and engineers have reported on social media that their salaries are not enough to cover basic needs, making access to tourist services unattainable for many, even in the most affordable hotels in the country.
Similar testimonies and a tourism in crisis
The testimony adds to other content published by Cuban creators that showcases the real conditions of tourism on the island. The same TikTok account documented last week deserted streets in Varadero, during the height of summer, claiming that “we didn’t see a single foreigner” during a tour of the boulevard and nearby hotel areas.
Additionally, in May, another Cuban TikToker showcased her room at the Iberostar Bella Costa hotel, also in Varadero, where she highlighted the lack of cleanliness in the towels, the absence of basic amenities such as a stocked minibar, and a decoration she described as "modern," although she was questioned by some users in the comments.
Reports align with official data: between January and April 2025, Cuba received 27% fewer tourists compared to the same period in 2024, and hotel occupancy fell below 25%, according to figures from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI).
Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism in Varadero and the Economic Situation in Cuba
How much does a night cost at the cheapest hotel in Varadero?
The cheapest three-star hotel in Varadero, the Hotel Palma Real, costs 16,500 Cuban pesos per night, which is approximately 43 dollars. This price includes an all-inclusive option, but it remains unaffordable for many Cubans whose average monthly salary is only 6,506.5 Cuban pesos.
What is the current situation of tourism in Varadero, Cuba?
Tourism in Varadero is in crisis, with empty streets and a significant drop in the number of visitors. Between January and April 2025, Cuba received 27% fewer tourists compared to the same period the previous year. Hotel occupancy has fallen below 25%, severely impacting the sector.
Why is tourism in their own country inaccessible for many Cubans?
The high prices of hotels and tourist services, compared to the low salaries in Cuba, make tourism inaccessible for the majority of Cubans. With an average monthly salary of only 6,506.5 Cuban pesos, many cannot afford a night in a hotel, which can far exceed this income.
How does the economic crisis affect the quality of tourism services in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has deteriorated the quality of tourist services, reflected in issues such as lack of cleanliness, shortages of food, and basic services in hotels. These problems have led to cancellations of bookings and a poor international image of tourism on the island.
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