A Mexican tourist, identified on TikTok as @lachelitaaa, sparked a stir on the social media platform after sharing a video of the Airbnb where she stayed during her vacation in Havana. The apartment, featuring a sea view, modern decor, and designer furniture, surprised many due to its contrast with the typical image of housing in Cuba.
In the video description, @lachelitaaa expressed that she had fallen in love with the place. Quickly, comments started flooding the post. “Is that in Cuba?” asked a skeptical user. Another responded, “Great question.” Among those who praised the accommodation, one internet user commented, “I wish everyone in Cuba could live like this,” to which another added, “And in Mexico, the U.S., and Colombia too.”
The post not only sparked admiration but also criticism. “Whose military apartment could that be?” questioned one user. Another was more direct: “Better to ask whom a Cuban soldier stole that apartment from.” There were also those who made light of the everyday issues on the island: “And the electricity? Does it come with a blackout included?” wrote someone.
Several tried to identify the location of the apartment, which is said to be in Havana's Vedado. Some claimed to have been there and described the experience as "divine." Dozens of questions also arose regarding how to make a reservation, the cost, or if there is direct contact to book a stay there.
The image of the sea without bathers in the video caused confusion among some users. "Not a boat, not a ball. The beach is empty," commented one internet user. The response was quick: "That's not a beach, it's the malecón. It's open sea, not for swimming." This detail sparked a brief debate about geography and the realities of tourism in Cuba.
The reactions to the video reflect the stark contrast between the accommodation options available to tourists and the harsh everyday reality faced by most Cubans. While some admire the luxury, others view it as an inaccessible privilege and yet another manifestation of the inequality that permeates the island.
Frequently asked questions about the contrast in tourist accommodation in Cuba
Is it common to find luxurious accommodations in Cuba, like the Airbnb shown on TikTok?
In Cuba, there is a marked contrast between accommodations for tourists and residences of the local population. While some tourists may find luxury apartments with modern decor and sea views, most Cubans live in conditions of deteriorated infrastructure. These luxurious accommodations are typically aimed at tourists or individuals with high purchasing power, which does not reflect the reality of the average Cuban.
Why are there criticisms of luxury tourist accommodations in Cuba?
The criticism of luxury accommodations in Cuba focuses on the inequality they reflect. Images of luxury and comfort stand in stark contrast to the reality faced by most Cubans, who grapple with issues such as power outages, food shortages, and inadequate services. This disparity is perceived as a manifestation of the economic and social inequality that exists in the country.
How does the political and economic situation in Cuba affect the tourist experience?
The political and economic situation in Cuba significantly impacts the tourism experience on the island. Issues such as frequent blackouts and a lack of adequate infrastructure affect the quality of tourism. Despite having luxury hotels, basic services can be intermittent due to the ongoing energy and economic crisis the country is facing. Additionally, the disparity in access to certain resources between tourists and locals generates debate and criticism.
How is tourism perceived in Cuba from both inside and outside the island?
Tourism in Cuba is perceived in contrasting ways both inside and outside the island. For tourists, Cuba may seem like an exotic destination with luxury options, but for Cubans, these facilities represent an inaccessible privilege due to the economic crisis and government policies. Additionally, tourism is criticized by some for supporting a system that does not reflect the true living conditions of most Cubans.
Filed under:
