A Spanish tourist who decided to visit Varadero shared on social media a tour of the hotel where she is staying, and what caught her attention the most was not the beauty of the place, but the complete emptiness she found in every corner.
From the lobby, through the pool areas, the restaurant, the buffet, and even the beach area, the young woman showcased the hotel's facilities, and they all appeared deserted, with hardly any tourists in sight. Only a few workers or isolated customers appeared during her walk.
In another shot, while showing the sunset from the terrace, the scene was postcard perfect, but without a single guest enjoying it.
Not even at the beach, which is usually the busiest spot in Varadero, were there any visitors present. This situation sparked various reactions on TikTok, many of them critical and filled with frustration.
"There are no tourists anymore"; "Empty"; "Tell a Cuban to indulge in that hotel you keep promoting, which can only be enjoyed by leaders and foreigners"; "If you go to Cuba, you can't enter the United States afterward, it's better not to go as it supports the dictatorship of the country"; "How was the food? I was there a few months ago and there was nothing... The people working there were extremely unenthusiastic, poorly cared for, and it was dirty... well, given the situation in the country, that’s normal," commented some users.
Other people shared similar experiences: “My partner is from there, believe me, it's not worth it. Unfortunately, there’s nothing available. You only see people struggling. It’s a shame… For the same price, I recommend the Dominican Republic or Mexico.”
Despite the evident decline of the sector, the Cuban regime continues to allocate large sums of money to investments in the tourism sector, building hotels and renovating facilities, even amidst a deep economic crisis. However, these investments contrast sharply with the sustained decline in international tourism, which has been experiencing a downward trend for years, far from the official goals.
The contrast between the tourist infrastructure and the reality of the country is increasingly provoking mixed reactions. While some continue to share idyllic images of Varadero, others remember that behind those landscapes lies a deep economic crisis that has drained not only the hotels but also the hope of many Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Tourism Situation in Cuba
Why are the hotels in Varadero empty?
Hotels in Varadero are empty due to the sustained decline in international tourism in Cuba, caused by the economic crisis, the low quality of services, food shortages, and the energy situation. This has resulted in even during peak season, the facilities remain deserted.
What is the current situation of tourism in Cuba?
Tourism in Cuba is undergoing a deep crisis, with a significant decline in the arrival of international tourists. Factors such as the energy crisis, lack of basic services, and deteriorating infrastructure have impacted the country's appeal as a tourist destination.
What do tourists think about their experience in Cuba?
Tourists have shared negative experiences, pointing out the lack of hygiene, the poor condition of hotels, and the shortage of food. Many have warned about the lack of services and the critical situation in the country, causing doubts about the feasibility of traveling to Cuba.
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