A young Dominican woman, known on TikTok as @gerz.rd, recently posted a video on the platform showcasing her experience as a tourist in Cuba. Throughout her trip, she explored Havana, Cayo Santa María, and Varadero, describing her stay on the island as "a cultural experience you can't miss."
However, her account of the visit has sparked a wave of criticisms and negative comments. In her video, @gerz.rd highlighted her tourist journey, emphasizing details such as her stay in hotels, the quality of the beaches, and the excursions in classic cars around Havana. "We realized that eating these types of dishes in Cuba is a privilege, given the severe food shortages," she noted, addressing the country's situation. Despite her observations, many users questioned her perspective of the country, labeling her approach as superficial and lacking empathy for the struggles of the Cuban people.
She also praised the hotel where she stayed in the Cuban capital, describing it as "very comfortable with a spectacular view." She admired "the ingenuity" of Cubans regarding transportation, noting how they make their own bicycle taxis and use horse-drawn carts.
Among the hundreds of comments her video has received, which also included supportive remarks, there were harsh critiques of her decision to travel to Cuba and her portrayal of the tourist side rather than the reality faced by Cubans. "If you go and live like the locals, you will see what poverty and pain are," one user commented, while another remarked, "You romanticize Cuba but don't show what the people suffer."
"I wouldn't have the morality to vacation in a dictatorship," another user said, adding, "I don't support what that government does to its people, and by going there, I'd be indirectly supporting it." She responded, "To the government? Are you saying that all those people working in hotels, restaurants, and excursions don't count as the population? Does the tip go to the government or the person you are giving it to?"
In response to the backlash, @gerz.rd commented, "It's a shame that a video meant to highlight Cuba's beauty is filled with offensive comments. Tourism is a way to contribute to the country's development." She added that she had brought "medicine and supplies to donate." "We tipped every person we could, and in significant amounts. Before judging, people should analyze a bit," she concluded.
The reactions to her video, which continue to grow, reflect the divided opinions on tourism in Cuba. While some see traveling as a means to aid the local economy, others view it as complicity with the government, a facade to the world, and a way to sustain the regime that keeps the Cuban people in severe hardship.
Controversy Surrounding Tourism in Cuba
The debate over tourism in Cuba has sparked numerous questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to shed light on this complex issue.
Why is tourism in Cuba controversial?
Tourism in Cuba is controversial because while it can provide economic benefits to locals, it is also seen by many as supporting the communist regime that imposes harsh conditions on its citizens.
How do tourists impact the local economy in Cuba?
Tourists can impact the local economy by spending money on accommodations, food, and activities, which can help local businesses and workers. However, much of the revenue can also end up supporting the government.
What are the ethical considerations for traveling to Cuba?
Ethical considerations include whether traveling to Cuba indirectly supports the government, the impact of tourism on local communities, and whether tourists are aware of and sensitive to the living conditions of the Cuban people.