A Cuban woman identified on TikTok as Yisell (YHR VLOGS Facebook) shared on social media how much it costs to spend a few hours at Juan Francisco beach in Villa Clara, and her testimony sparked a debate about the cost of recreation on the island.
According to @una.cubana.de.el in a video, the total expense amounted to 5,420 Cuban pesos for five hours of enjoyment. Among the products purchased, she mentioned churros for 130 CUP, bottles of water for 150 and 250 CUP, cheese and chorizo pizzas for 250 CUP, ice cream cones for 70 CUP, and chocolate-covered popsicles for 100 CUP. Additionally, she spent 600 CUP on popcorn and 2,000 CUP on car transportation.
Let me know in the comments if you think I spent too much or too little, she invited her followers after showing the figures.
At the current informal exchange rate (according to elTOQUE, August 5, 2025), the expenditure amounts to approximately 13.7 dollars or 25.2 MLC.
The post generated diverse reactions: some users felt that "at least they got distracted," while others reminisced about "when a pizza cost only 5 pesos... everything is so expensive now." Yisell clarified that the beach is called Juan Francisco, located in the province of Villa Clara.
Soaring prices in Cuba
Her testimony adds to other reports about the rising cost of living on the island. Just a few days ago, creator Zoilemis Arias revealed that she spent over 10,000 pesos on basic groceries, which is equivalent to several months' salary. Another recent case, that of Sheyla Reyes, showed a bill of 18,000 CUP for essential products.
These experiences reflect what is confirmed by a survey from the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory (OCAC): a Cuban needs at least 30,000 pesos per month for food, while the minimum wage remains at 2,100 CUP and the minimum pension will barely reach 3,056 CUP in September.
It’s not the first time Yisell has gone viral. In April, she shared a video about how she survives power outages and cooks with charcoal, with the phrase: “Another dawn with tremendous fatigue and raccoon-like dark circles thanks to my friend the blackout.”
The testimonies of these creators reveal how, in present-day Cuba, simple activities like going to the beach have become a luxury, while the prices of food and services continue to rise.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost of Living in Cuba and the Current Economic Situation
How much does it cost to enjoy a day at the beach in Cuba?
A recent testimony reveals that spending a few hours at Juan Francisco beach in Villa Clara can cost around 5,420 Cuban pesos. This amount includes expenses for food, drinks, and transportation, reflecting the high cost of what should be a simple recreational activity.
What is the minimum wage in Cuba and how does it compare to the cost of living?
The minimum wage in Cuba is 2,100 Cuban pesos, while it is estimated that a Cuban needs at least 30,000 pesos monthly just for basic food. This discrepancy reflects a severe economic crisis, where income does not cover basic needs.
What impact does inflation have on food prices in Cuba?
Inflation has skyrocketed food prices in Cuba, making basic products unaffordable for the majority of the population. For example, a survey revealed that the monthly cost of food could exceed 70,000 pesos, far above what most Cubans can afford.
How do retirees in Cuba survive on their pensions?
Retirees in Cuba live on minimum pensions of around 1,500 Cuban pesos, which is insufficient to cover their basic needs. Many rely on assistance from abroad or turn to the informal market to survive. Their situation is particularly precarious due to the high cost of food and other essential services.
Filed under:
