The tourism industry in Cuba faces increasing challenges as hurricanes strike, major travel agencies withdraw, and the nation grapples with energy issues causing frequent blackouts and shortages in hotels. This week, Reportur confirmed that the travel operator Proturs has removed Cuba from its list of Caribbean vacation destinations, leaving a significant gap in the Cuban tourism sector.
Sources interviewed by the outlet suggest that Cuba will struggle to achieve positive outcomes in the tourism sector in 2024. The island is up against strong competitors like Punta Cana and Cancún, which offer superior all-inclusive hotel experiences at similar prices.
The Impact of Energy Crisis on Cuban Tourism
Blackouts are another hurdle for tourism in Cuba. Economist Pedro Monreal recently highlighted how the government has prioritized investment in tourism while neglecting the country's energy infrastructure. During widespread outages, the government has sent generators to some hotels. However, many tourists have complained about poor service and the deteriorating condition of facilities, tarnishing the vacation experience on the island.
The combination of blackouts and the aftermath of Hurricane Oscar has led to a negative perception of Cuban tourism, especially in Canada, the island's primary source of visitors. Canadian travel agencies have advised their clients to delay trips to Cuba due to the energy crisis.
Hurricane Rafael: A New Threat to Cuban Tourism
The impending arrival of Hurricane Rafael poses a new threat. With category 2 winds, the storm could impact tourist hotspots like Havana and Varadero, exacerbating power outages and infrastructure issues. Authorities have issued alerts in several provinces, anticipating rain and flooding that might hinder access to key tourist destinations.
The future of tourism in Cuba is uncertain. The exit of travel operators, unreliable hotel services, and competition from destinations like Punta Cana and Cancún hinder the island's ability to attract visitors. The tourism sector is at risk, and Cuba might continue to lose its standing in the Caribbean, leaving luxury hotels empty while the local population lacks adequate healthcare facilities.