The number of Cubans living abroad who traveled to Cuba in 2024 saw a significant drop compared to previous years, according to preliminary data released by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI). By November 2024, there were 266,625 visitors from the Cuban diaspora, marking an 18% decline from the 325,292 visitors during the same period in 2023, as reported by ONEI.
This decrease is part of a broader trend of declining tourism to the island, with international visitor numbers down by 7.9%, equating to 172,451 fewer people than in 2023. Overall, up to November 2024, Cuba welcomed 2,005,390 international visitors, a figure that highlights the impact of economic, social, and political factors on travel to the country.
Additionally, there has been a drop in visitors from key countries such as the United States, Spain, and Italy, although some markets like Mexico and Russia showed modest increases. Generally, challenges such as Cuba's ongoing economic crisis, increased flight costs, the cancellation of direct flights by various airlines, and political tensions between expatriates and the Cuban government have all contributed to the decline in visits by Cuban expatriates and international tourists.
Numerous accounts illustrate the chaotic situation. In December 2024, a Cuban returning to the island shared his experience of a nighttime blackout in his neighborhood on social media, highlighting the complete darkness and difficulty in readjusting to such conditions. He stated, "It's hard to come back and have to live through this; I wouldn't wish it on anyone."
Another visitor, in October 2024, used irony to describe the situation in Santiago de Cuba, mentioning the lack of electricity and potable water and how these shortages affect both residents and visitors. Despite government promises to ensure electricity during certain months, the reality is that blackouts persist.
Understanding the Decline in Cuban Expatriate Visits
What are the main reasons for the decline in Cuban expatriate visits to the island?
The decline is largely due to Cuba's ongoing economic crisis, increased international flight costs, the cancellation of direct flights, and political tensions between expatriates and the Cuban government.
How significant was the drop in the number of Cuban expatriates visiting Cuba in 2024?
By November 2024, there was an 18% decrease in the number of Cuban expatriates visiting the island compared to the same period in 2023.
Which countries contributed to the decrease in international visitors to Cuba?
Countries like the United States, Spain, and Italy saw a decrease in visitors to Cuba, although Mexico and Russia showed slight increases.