A Cuban woman has sparked a debate on social media after sharing on TikTok the high costs she faced during a trip from an interior province of Cuba to Havana.
“How much do you think it costs a Cuban who only earns 15 dollars a month to travel to Havana?” asks the young woman identified as Noelia Hernández Arias in her video, where she outlines what she considers an unaffordable expense for the majority of workers in the country.
According to the explanation, the price of the ticket consumes almost an entire monthly salary. In addition, there are other unavoidable expenses such as food, water, or some snacks during the journey. “You know you’re going to be spending approximately another salary,” he commented.
In total, the cost of his transfer amounted to about 60 dollars, which is equivalent to three months of the average salary in Cuba. "It's hard to believe that these trips, made out of necessity, are so expensive that a worker can't afford them," lamented Hernández Arias.
His testimony has generated numerous reactions from Cubans who agree on the impossibility of traveling within the country without relying on remittances or extra income.
Frequently asked questions about the cost of living and travel within Cuba
How much does it cost to travel within Cuba?
Traveling within Cuba can cost up to three months' worth of the average Cuban salary. According to the experience shared by Noelia Hernández Arias, a trip from an interior province to Havana can amount to around 60 dollars, considering the cost of the ticket and other necessary expenses such as food and drink during the journey. This figure is unaffordable for many Cubans whose monthly salary is around 15 dollars.
What are the most affordable alternatives for traveling in Cuba?
The train is one of the most economical options for traveling within Cuba. Kary, a young Cuban woman, shared her experience riding the "special train" from Havana to Artemisa, with a ticket costing only 50 Cuban pesos. However, one must consider the unhygienic conditions and the lack of on-board services, such as food and drinks.
Is it profitable to eat at home in Cuba?
It is not cost-effective to cook at home due to the high food prices in Cuba. According to a Cuban residing abroad, preparing a family meal can cost up to 150 euros, while taking 12 people to a state restaurant costs only 43 euros. This is due to the high prices of basic ingredients such as pork and beverages.
How does inflation affect the cost of living in Cuba?
Inflation in Cuba has skyrocketed prices and reduced the purchasing power of citizens. This is reflected in the limited access to basic and luxury products, with prices that are often unattainable for those relying on a local salary. The situation is worsened by the devaluation of the Cuban peso and the dependence on remittances or income in foreign currencies.
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