Brazilian YouTuber Marina Guaragna, known for her leftist views and enthusiasm for exploring different cultures, has sparked a heated debate on social media following her decision to visit Cuba. The trip came as a response to followers who challenged her: "If communism is so great, why don't you go to Cuba?" Accepting the challenge, Marina's journey to the Caribbean nation has stirred more controversy than agreement among her audience.
Traveling with her partner Will, Marina portrayed Cuba as "an island that exists in the world's imagination, both for its positive and negative aspects" in her videos. The influencer aimed to normalize Cuba's situation, highlighting its status as "the only socialist country in Latin America." However, her perspective didn't reflect the typical experience of an average Cuban citizen.
During her month-long stay, Marina experienced Cuba from a tourist's vantage point, which allowed her to present an idealized version of the country to her followers. She did not face the shortages, economic struggles, and daily hardships that ordinary Cubans endure.
Ethical Concerns of Promoting Tourism in Cuba
Marina's visit not only sparked discussions about her view of Cuban reality but also raised ethical questions about promoting tourism in a country where much of the population lacks access to basic needs. Critics argue that "traveling to Cuba under these conditions supports the regime's coffers while the people continue to face deprivation," as expressed by several of her followers.
Despite the backlash, Marina used her trip to promote travel to Havana, marketing the Cuban capital as an exotic cultural destination. She highlighted travel packages that include flights and accommodations in four- or five-star hotels with all-inclusive options.
In one of her videos, she attempted to "debunk the myth that there's no Coca-Cola in Cuba." She explained that while the American-produced beverage is unavailable due to the economic embargo, Coca-Cola from countries like Mexico, which engage in trade with the Cuban regime, is available. However, she failed to mention that many Cuban children have never tasted Coca-Cola, as it is sold in dollars, and families must prioritize spending to secure basic meals.
Contrasting Realities: Tourist vs. Cuban Citizen
Marina also visited the Cuatro Caminos supermarket in Havana, where she was surprisingly allowed to film without restrictions. She expressed astonishment at some empty shelves but was impressed by the quality of certain products, such as Cuban rums.
The Brazilian YouTuber's tourist-centric approach starkly contrasts with the reality faced by Cubans, who lack access to the same privileges enjoyed by foreign visitors and struggle daily to make ends meet.
Marina Guaragna's case has reignited the debate over the role of tourism in countries with authoritarian regimes and the differences between living as a tourist and a citizen in Cuba. While some of her followers commend her effort to challenge stereotypes, others accuse her of romanticizing a political system synonymous with repression and poverty for many.
True to her style, Marina concluded her trip by stating that everyone should experience Cuba firsthand to grasp the complexity of its reality. Yet, the debate persists: Can one truly understand contemporary Cuba with dollars in hand, staying in hotels, and not experiencing the daily blackout?
Exploring the Complexities of Cuba through Tourism
What sparked the debate around Marina Guaragna's trip to Cuba?
The debate was sparked by Marina's decision to visit Cuba in response to critics who challenged her views on communism, leading to discussions about her portrayal of the country and the ethics of promoting tourism there.
How did Marina Guaragna present Cuba in her videos?
Marina portrayed Cuba as an island with both positive and negative aspects, aiming to normalize its situation, but her perspective was from a tourist's point of view, which did not reflect the struggles of everyday Cubans.
What ethical concerns were raised by Marina's visit to Cuba?
Critics raised concerns that promoting tourism in Cuba supports the regime's finances while the local population continues to face hardships and lacks access to basic necessities.