A Cuban identified on TikTok as @migdreysiperez explained in a viral video the reasons why she decided not to rent a car during her recent trip to Cuba, despite many of her followers asking about her experience with vehicle rentals on the island.
"I went to Cuba and I'll tell you why I decided not to rent a car," the young woman said at the beginning of the video. As she explained, although she had a contact from the previous year with whom she was satisfied, she chose not to repeat the experience due to the current issues with fuel and electricity in the country.
"Cuba is facing challenges with electricity; even finding fuel has become an issue. You have to go to the gas stations when there is power, and sometimes you're resting or doing something else," he reported.
The Cuban also mentioned safety concerns and stress when driving on the island. “I don’t like driving in Cuba. There’s a lot of danger because the streets are dark and filled with motorbikes, horse-drawn carriages, and bicycles. Where I live, there’s a lot of that kind of traffic,” she explained, highlighting that she traveled alone with her young son and preferred not to take that risk.
Another reason was financial. “The money I was going to spend on a car, I used for something else that was better. I wasn't going to leave the province or go to hotels, so it was the best option,” he noted.
Instead, he mentioned that he used taxis to travel between the airport and his home, highlighting the professionalism of the drivers. “I loved the gentleman who took me, very professional and careful,” he said.
The creator concluded that using a taxi occasionally was much more economical than renting a vehicle to have it parked most of the time. "I went out about three times, and it turned out to be much cheaper than having a car just sitting there," she stated.
His testimony adds to the numerous criticisms regarding the transportation conditions in Cuba, where the lack of fuel, power outages, and the deterioration of the roads make driving increasingly difficult and dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Cuba and Car Rentals
Why did the Cuban mother decide not to rent a car in Cuba?
The Cuban mother decided not to rent a car due to the current issues with fuel and electricity in the country. She mentioned that the difficulties in obtaining fuel, combined with power outages, made renting a car impractical. Additionally, she expressed concerns about safety and stress when driving on dark roads filled with obstacles such as motorbikes and horse-drawn carriages.
What are the alternatives to car rentals in Cuba?
An alternative to car rentals in Cuba is the use of taxis, which can be more economical and convenient for occasional trips. The Cuban mother highlighted that using taxis to travel between the airport and her home was a more cost-effective and safer option, as she did not have to worry about the stress of driving in difficult conditions.
What problems do drivers face in Cuba currently?
Drivers in Cuba face challenges such as fuel shortages, frequent blackouts, and the deterioration of roadways. These factors make driving a difficult and dangerous task. Dark streets, the presence of vehicles such as bicycles and horse-drawn carriages, and traffic in general further complicate the driving experience on the island.
Why do some travelers prefer not to rent cars during their trips to Cuba?
Some travelers prefer not to rent cars in Cuba due to insecurity, cost, and current logistical difficulties. The lack of electricity and fuel, along with the insecurity on the roads, are factors that deter many from renting a vehicle. Additionally, the cost of keeping a rented car mostly idle can be high.
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