As Cuba grapples with a severe economic crisis characterized by chronic food shortages and daily blackouts affecting millions, a foreign tourist has highlighted the stark contrast by describing the plentiful food and unrestricted services at a hotel on the island. This revelation has reignited discussions about the regime's priorities.
A user named Chris Harvey shared a brief review and accompanying photos of his stay at the Sol Palmeras hotel in Varadero on the Facebook group Cuba Vacations & Resort Reviews.
According to his account, breakfast featured a chef preparing eggs on demand, and there was ample butter for the bread. Both lunch and dinner, which he described as similar, offered freshly prepared beef, pork, and chicken, along with fries and a variety of pizzas.
The tourist also noted the cleanliness of the rooms, an abundance of beach towels with daily exchange options, and plenty of beach chairs for all guests, eliminating the need to wake up early to reserve space. "No complaints," he concluded.
Disparity with Cuba's Reality
The images and account starkly contrast with the situation faced by most Cubans, who struggle with high prices, a lack of basic goods, and prolonged power outages that impact both food preservation and daily life.
While many neighborhoods endure hours—or even days—without electricity, the hotel sector catering to international tourism typically benefits from a stable power supply and access to goods that are unavailable to the general population.
Cuba's economic model prioritizes earning foreign currency through tourism, one of the state's primary revenue sources. However, critics argue that this strategy has exacerbated inequality between those with access to dollars and those reliant solely on national currency wages.
The stark contrast between the abundance in tourist facilities and the scarcity in Cuban homes has become one of the most sensitive issues of social discontent on the island.
Impact of Tourism on Cuba's Economy and Society
How does tourism affect the Cuban economy?
Tourism is one of Cuba's main sources of revenue, as it brings in foreign currency that the government heavily relies on. However, it also creates disparities, as resources are diverted away from the local population to maintain tourist facilities.
Why are there shortages in Cuba while hotels have plenty?
The Cuban government allocates resources to the tourism sector to attract foreign visitors, which often leaves the local population with fewer supplies. This priority leads to shortages for everyday Cubans while hotels maintain ample stocks for guests.