A Cuban living abroad recently took to TikTok to share her experiences from a recent trip back to the island, aiming to caution potential tourists against visiting the country. "I went to Cuba and just returned a week ago. It was terrible. If you don't have a necessity or someone there, don't go. Save your money, don't go to Cuba," stated the woman, known on the platform as @ararodriguez97. Her message quickly gained traction across social media.
Her account paints a grim picture, claiming the situation in Cuba is deteriorating. She recounted being targeted by scams right upon arrival at the airport, and warned about the increasing street crime. "Our driver had to lock up the car, just like last year," she said. The economic crisis was another major point, as she noted that while food is available, the prices are exorbitant and salaries insufficient: "There’s food, but no money."
Additionally, she criticized the decaying infrastructure and lack of basic services, highlighting the precarious conditions many elderly and young people face, which has driven some into crime. "Cuba’s streets embarrass me, filled with filth. The youth are more criminal than ever. You can't go out like before," she asserted. She also condemned the unstable electricity service, observing that Cubans seem resigned to enduring long power outages.
The video sparked a heated debate online. Many users echoed her sentiments, sharing their personal experiences. Comments like "I’m desperate to see my kids and family, but I’m scared. Cuba is too violent, I prefer to help from here" and "Everything she says is true, I was shocked to see Havana in ruins," reflect the fears of recent travelers. However, some questioned her perspective, suggesting that "tourists have a different experience" or that "it's always been like this."
Amidst concern and resignation, reactions span a wide spectrum regarding Cuba's crisis. For some, the island remains an unavoidable destination due to familial ties, while others vow to stay away until conditions improve.
Understanding the Current Situation in Cuba
What are the major challenges faced by visitors to Cuba?
Visitors to Cuba are currently facing challenges such as scams at the airport, high food prices, insufficient salaries, decaying infrastructure, and unstable electricity services.
Why are some people still traveling to Cuba despite the crisis?
Many people continue to travel to Cuba because of family ties and the necessity to visit loved ones, despite the ongoing crisis.
How have social media users reacted to the Cuban expat's video?
The video sparked a wide range of reactions on social media, with many agreeing with her perspective and sharing similar experiences, while others argued that tourists have different experiences or that the situation has always been the same.