Recent visitors from Russia to Cuba reported leaving the island a mere three days after their arrival, citing the conditions as "unbearable."
According to Reportur, the tourists highlighted several major issues: frequent power outages, water shortages, limited food availability, and a noticeable decline in customer service.
"The experience was intolerable," some travelers remarked, also pointing out the accumulation of trash on the streets, the spread of viruses and diseases, as well as a significant reduction in flight connections. "They went from having two daily flights to just three a week," they observed.
Discontent with their experience, many Russian tourists took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, which has further contributed to the sharp decline in tourism.
Recently, Russian tourist Anna S. shared a stark account of her stay in Cuba, underscoring the decline of the country's tourism. After staying at a hotel in Cayo Coco, she described the conditions as dirty, scarce, and generally deteriorated.
"There was no drinking water in the room, and towels were only replaced with a tip," she complained. Despite the Caribbean's natural beauty, she found herself amidst "ruins, mosquitoes, and frustration."
In Cuba, hotel occupancy has plummeted to 24%, and the arrival of Russian travelers has sharply decreased by 2025.
The ongoing crisis in the country is not only affecting its citizens but is now evident in the hospitality sector. Many hotels are understaffed and suffer from power and water outages, alongside limited food options.
The collapse of Cuba's tourism sector highlights the inefficiency of the state-controlled model and the regime's inability to sustain one of its most crucial industries.
Challenges in Cuban Tourism
What are the main issues faced by tourists in Cuba?
Tourists in Cuba have reported experiencing frequent power outages, water shortages, limited food availability, and poor customer service. Additionally, there are concerns about sanitation, viruses, and reduced flight connections.
How has the Cuban tourism industry been impacted?
The Cuban tourism industry has seen a dramatic decline, with hotel occupancy dropping to 24% and a significant decrease in the arrival of Russian tourists by 2025. This downturn exposes the inefficiencies of the state-run model.
What feedback have Russian tourists shared about their experience in Cuba?
Russian tourists have shared their dissatisfaction with the conditions in Cuba, including poor sanitation, lack of basic amenities, and deteriorating infrastructure, contributing to the decline in tourism.