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The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice for Cuba and warned about serious issues with the national power grid and fuel supply.
In a context of prolonged power outages—some lasting over 24 hours—and fuel shortages affecting transportation, leading to long lines at gas stations and impacting tourist centers and businesses, the United Kingdom includes recommendations for travelers to take precautions and prepare for significant disruptions.
In its notice, the FCDO states that power outages are "daily occurrences throughout the country" and that they impact essential services such as water supply, lighting, refrigeration, and communications.
At the same time, it describes that the lack of fuel affects transportation and that establishments, including tourist ones, often rely on generators powered by oil or diesel, which increases their vulnerability to shortages.
What does the United Kingdom recommend to travelers?
The document urges travelers to take specific precautions in light of the described situation.
Start saving fuel, water, and food; keep your mobile phone charged and prepare for communication disruptions.
Also be prepared for significant interruptions during your stay.
Additionally, the FCDO reminds us that “no journey can be guaranteed as safe” and recommends reading the entire official guide before traveling.
The notice emphasizes that anyone choosing to travel must research their destination and obtain suitable travel insurance that covers their itinerary, planned activities, and expenses in case of emergency, as part of the preparation for contingencies in the country.
The United Kingdom relates the warning to a combination of factors: prolonged blackouts affecting basic services and fuel shortages that strain transportation and the operation of businesses, including tourist areas.
Overall, the FCDO asserts that these conditions require travelers to plan ahead more extensively and take preventive measures to reduce risks during their stay.
The Argentine government also issued a warning about Cuba this Saturday due to the deterioration of living conditions on the island, including the lack of fuel, prolonged blackouts, and shortages of food and medicine.
These problems even affect tourist areas, making them less safe and reliable for visitors.
Several countries, such as Canada, have updated their travel alerts, advising caution when visiting Cuba.
Additionally, embassies and international companies are reviewing their evacuation protocols and contingency plans due to the deterioration of conditions on the island.
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