Cuba’s Struggles: Reporter Shares Experience at Half-Empty All-Inclusive Resort
Cuba, once a beloved destination for travelers, is facing significant challenges. From political tensions to energy shortages, the tourism landscape is changing rapidly. Recently, a visit to an all-inclusive resort in Varadero highlighted the stark realities of this crisis.
Cuba’s Tourism Struggles
On a January Saturday, the atmosphere at a five-star resort was strikingly quiet. Despite lively reggaeton music playing, very few tourists were present by the pool. According to hotel staff, only about 300 out of the 794 available rooms were occupied during this period. This was a notable decrease compared to previous weeks when occupancy was even lower.
Impact on Amenities and Activities
- Evening entertainment events were canceled due to low attendance.
- Several à la carte restaurants were closed on certain weekdays.
While the low occupancy created a strange ambiance, it also meant that amenities were more accessible. Beach loungers were readily available, and breakfast service was quick—no long waits for freshly cooked eggs. However, guests soon discovered the issues that plagued the country.
Food and Supply Shortages
Food shortages have been a persistent problem in Cuba. At the resort, popular menu items like fries and beef were unavailable, often replaced with canned pears for dessert. Although the cuisine left something to be desired, many visitors joked that culinary excellence was not the primary reason for their stay in Cuba.
Just days before the visit, the resort experienced a water outage lasting two consecutive days. These shortages underline the challenges faced by both tourists and locals.
Living Conditions for Locals
Encapsulating the day-to-day struggles of Cubans, a server named Luis shared his experiences of frequent power outages, highlighting that he had electricity for only three hours the previous day. This stark contrast to the luxury experienced in resorts is indicative of the underlying issues facing the nation.
Future of All-Inclusive Resorts
The Cuban government strives to maintain the allure of all-inclusive resorts, recognizing their importance in attracting foreign currency. However, uncertainties over oil supplies from Venezuela cast a shadow on the tourism industry’s future.
Despite the prevailing hardships, the operational staff maintained a facade of reassurance for tourists. A receptionist told a visitor, “Tranquila, it won’t happen to us here,” reflecting a sense of cautious optimism amidst dire circumstances.
Conclusion: A Question of Sustainability
As new tourists arrived from the airport, the contrast grew clearer. While many travelers lounged and enjoyed their vacations, the question remained: how long can this sustained facade in tourism last under such challenging conditions? Only time will reveal the resilience of Cuba’s tourism industry amidst its ongoing struggles.
