A Cuban mother identified as Sisi Aguilera documented on Facebook the real cost of taking her daughter to a private playground during the school break, in a video that reflects the economic hardships faced by Cuban families to fulfill something as simple as a promise.
The park, called El Loco Lugar, is described by the author as a very well-organized private space, designed with care and attention, but also as a luxury within reach of few in today's Cuba.
In his testimony, Aguilera explains that going out for a walk with a child on the Island is not something that can be done frequently.
"In Cuba, you can't go out for a walk every week or every month," he states, although he clarifies that he decided to do so to fulfill a promise to his daughter during the school break.
The mother points out that for her daughter, this type of park is the closest thing to a real recreational experience, as she has not even had access to a traditional public park.
"This is the closest thing," he/she comments.
During the visit, he detailed some of the prices he encountered: a stuffed animal store with products ranging from 500 to 10,000 Cuban pesos, more affordable toys around 800 pesos, and a snack that cost them 2,600 pesos.
Although he acknowledges that it is a matter of taste rather than necessity, he admits that the prices make these outings exceptional.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that the main goal was to see his daughter happy, who only wanted small things like getting a temporary tattoo and receiving a simple toy.
"I took a little longer, but I made it. And seeing her happy, that is priceless," concludes the mother in a narrative that highlights the everyday challenges many Cuban families face in accessing basic children's entertainment options.
Similarly, an experience that seemed to be a simple weekend plan ended up revealing a reality that is becoming increasingly common for many Cubans, which is the issue of access to hotels in Havana, turning into a hurdle race characterized by restrictions, long lines, and prices beyond the reach of most.
Facebook user Yaraidi Rodríguez shared a video of her journey through several hotels in the capital in search of a promotional offer. What she found was frustration after frustration.
Similar, a Cuban identified as Leuryz Garcia published a video on Facebook sharing her experience of a day at the Terraza Miravana, located in the Iberostar Parque Central hotel in Havana, where the entrance fee to the pool costs 10,000 Cuban pesos, of which 7,000 can be used for food and beverages.
"The best day trip in Havana right now is this hotel, and I won't argue about it with anyone," the author stated in the video, describing the pool located on the hotel's top floor as "super clean, a very family-friendly place, and very quiet."
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