Related videos:
A Mexican tourist who recently visited Cuba with his family confessed on social media that prolonged blackouts and shortages are part of the experience in the country, and that despite this, "Cuba is not for the demanding," a statement that sparked numerous criticisms from Cubans.
The testimony published in the Facebook group “Tips for Traveling to Cuba” by the user identified as Cristopher Ar acknowledged that power outages are part of the everyday reality of the country.
“Blackouts are a reality; we spend more time without electricity than with it,” emphasized the visitor, who accompanied his narrative with a photo featuring a Cuban flag in the Plaza de la Revolución in Havana, with the effigy of the guerrilla fighter Ernesto Che Guevara appearing in the background.
However, as he recounted, the situation did not pose a problem for his family because they were prepared.
“We are used to it; we would bring batteries and only return to the lodging to sleep. If you find a place where the power doesn’t go out, or one that has a generator, then you’ve already solved half the problem,” he added.
The tourist also mentioned the difficulties associated with the fuel shortage, which raises transportation costs and causes the temporary closure of some museums, restaurants, or shops. Additionally, he noted the lack of certain ingredients in the culinary offerings.
Despite these limitations, he stated that his experience in the country was positive and highlighted the attitude of the Cubans.
“Even if some ingredients are missing, even if the power goes out, even if there is no fuel, the Cuban people truly find a way to solve things,” he asserted, praising the population's adaptability.
The visitor explained that during their stay they took trips to Varadero and Viñales, as well as tours around Havana, accompanied by a local guide whom they recommended for making the journey easier despite the logistical challenges.
However, the publication generated numerous reactions from Cubans who questioned its view of the country and pointed out that the tourist experience does not reflect the daily reality of the population.
Several commentators warned other travelers about the current living conditions on the island.
"Everything is extremely expensive, there is no electricity, there is no water, dirt and diseases," wrote one of the users.
Others pointed out that tourism helps to circumvent some difficulties that directly affect residents.
"Cuba is very good for those who carry euros or dollars in their pockets, but for the people who earn a salary in pesos, it is a struggle," commented another participant in the debate.
Some Cubans also criticized that the tourist experience might idealize the situation in the country without considering the economic and social crisis affecting the population.
Filed under: