The Cuban Ministry of Tourism recently made an assertion on social media, declaring that one of the world's top five hotels is located on the island, even though the tourism sector is experiencing its worst downturn since 2003. In a Facebook post, the government highlighted that the Iberostar Grand Packard hotel was included in the Travellers' Choice – Best of the Best 2024 by Tripadvisor. It ranked second in the World Luxury category and secured the fifth position in the Top World category.
Alongside the Iberostar Grand Packard in Havana, the Mystique Trinidad La Popa, part of the Royalton chain, also made it to the list, ranking 19th among the world's best hotels. Both establishments were featured in a selection of 25 venues compiled by Tripadvisor after a survey.
"The Iberostar Grand Packard hotel shines brightly on its own!" the regime boasted on Facebook, in a bid to boost tourism amidst a severe crisis impacting the hospitality sector. The five-star Iberostar Grand Packard in Havana was launched in September 2018 with 312 rooms offering top-tier services and premium finishes. At the time of its market debut, the Suite Star Prestige Packard could fetch prices up to 1,300 euros.
Despite the picturesque location in Old Havana, where this luxury hotel is situated, the area is currently suffering from a lack of tourists. Nevertheless, the regime continues its efforts to enhance Cuba's international appeal as a tourist destination by improving services for tour operators and revitalizing the country's image in the global market.
In January, there was a 25% drop in international visitor arrivals compared to the same month the previous year. This downturn is largely attributed to a decrease in Canadian tourists, who have historically been the largest group of foreign visitors to the island. There was also a slight decline in travelers from the United States and the Cuban diaspora abroad. One of the most significant drops came from Russia, a market that had recently been crucial in offsetting the tourism crisis.
In January, the number of Russian visitors was halved compared to January 2024, indicating Cuba's waning appeal even among this group. Nonetheless, the government remains focused on rejuvenating the tourism sector, a vital component of the national economy. In February, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero stressed the importance of collaborative efforts across various sectors to restore tourism as the "locomotive of the Cuban economy."
Understanding Cuba's Tourism Challenges
Why has tourism declined in Cuba recently?
The decline in tourism in Cuba is primarily due to a reduction in Canadian visitors, who have traditionally been the largest group of foreign tourists. Other factors include a decrease in travelers from the United States and the Cuban diaspora, as well as a significant drop in visitors from Russia.
How is the Cuban government responding to the tourism crisis?
The Cuban government is focusing on enhancing the country's international appeal as a tourist destination, improving services for tour operators, and revitalizing its image in the global market. They emphasize the need for a collaborative effort across sectors to restore tourism's critical role in the economy.
What makes the Iberostar Grand Packard hotel notable?
The Iberostar Grand Packard hotel is notable for being included in the Travellers' Choice – Best of the Best 2024 by Tripadvisor, ranking high in the World Luxury and Top World categories. It is a five-star establishment offering high-end services and amenities, located in the historic area of Old Havana.