While most Cubans are facing one of the worst economic crises in decades, with shortages of food, medicine, and transportation, the Cuban regime is banking on elite tourism and celebrated this weekend in Varadero a golf tournament exclusively for women, organized by the Meliá Las Américas hotel, as part of its strategy to promote foreign tourism with high purchasing power.
The event, which took place from August 1 to 3 at the exclusive Varadero Golf Club, included theoretical and practical classes, yoga at hole 18, and sessions at the Driving Range to perfect the swing, according to the official newspaper Trabajadores.
The facility, the only one of its kind in Cuba, recently celebrated its 31st anniversary and is a recognized destination on the international golf circuit.
Meliá Cuba has already announced that a second edition will be held in September, aimed at consolidating this market niche.
According to Maité Artieda, the Director of Communication and Marketing at Meliá Cuba, the goal is to “enhance this female segment” in a sport that has historically been dominated by men.
This type of tournament, the organizers explain, also aims to foster networks of "support among women with a shared passion for golf."
The prices for the event are no longer listed on the website of the Golf Club, but they could range between 120 and 370 euros per person.
Since its official inauguration in 1999, the Varadero Golf Club has hosted more than 500,000 rounds, with Canada as its main source market.
International figures such as Gary Player, Gregory John Norman, and Álvaro Quirós García have competed on their courses, as well as renowned tournaments like the Club Med Cup and the grand final of the European Challenge Tour.
However, the promotion of these events contrasts with the social reality of the country, where the population faces daily power outages, chronic inflation, and salaries in national currency that are unable to cover basic needs.
The golf tournaments, which only a few foreigners and officials can afford, are seen from both inside and outside the island as a symbol of an increasingly deepening dual economy.
Meanwhile, the golf courses in Varadero, surrounded by luxury and amenities, continue to attract high-end tourists in a Cuba where well-being remains a privilege for the few.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Women's Golf Tournament in Varadero
What was the purpose of the women's golf tournament in Varadero?
The women's golf tournament in Varadero aimed to promote foreign tourism with high purchasing power and enhance the female segment in a sport historically dominated by men. The event was organized by the Meliá Las Américas hotel and took place at the exclusive Varadero Golf Club.
How does the golf tournament contrast with the economic situation in Cuba?
The golf tournament in Varadero stands in stark contrast to the serious economic crisis faced by the majority of Cubans, who deal with shortages of food, medicine, and transportation. While luxury events for tourists are promoted, the local population endures blackouts, inflation, and salaries that do not meet their basic needs.
What impact does the promotion of luxury events have on the perception of the Cuban economy?
The promotion of luxury events such as the golf tournament reinforces the perception of a dual economy in Cuba, where only a privileged minority and tourists have access to luxuries, while the majority of the population faces daily shortages. This generates criticism both within and outside the island.
What is the current situation of tourism in Varadero?
Despite the efforts to promote Varadero as a luxury destination, tourism in the region has declined due to the economic and energy crisis in Cuba, reflected in frequent power outages and a lack of maintenance in tourist infrastructures. This has resulted in hotel occupancy rates falling below expectations.
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