For over two days, Varadero, a prime tourist hotspot in Cuba, experienced a widespread power outage. This beloved destination, overseen by the Ministry of Tourism, found its hotels, streets, and homes plunged into darkness.
Social media platforms were flooded with criticisms and astonishment from Cubans bewildered by the unexpected blackout in a place that boasts of being the most beautiful, cleanest, and well-lit area of the nation. "We've been without power for 50 continuous hours in Varadero. Many people came here for a vacation, and they've had to evacuate some hotels due to the lack of generators. How can other provinces be fully restored, while we remain without power? It's inhumane," lamented one individual on the Cuban Presidency's social media post.
Despite its reputation, Cuba's premier tourist region is apparently not as prepared for energy crises as the government claims. "Tourism in Cuba is like dining by candlelight," quipped some users online, sharing images of makeshift dinners, with hotel staff navigating dimly lit dining areas.
"Foreigners can't grasp the situation," noted one resident, while another retorted, "Neither can we Cubans."
The recent collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) laid bare the country's shortcomings. While some hotels, like the Iberostar Selection Varadero, managed to keep lights on using generators, others were left completely dark, unable to serve guests. This issue wasn't confined to Varadero; places like Jibacoa also suffered blackouts, affecting the Villa Trópico hotel.
The energy crisis extended beyond tourist sites. Varadero's streets, shops, and eateries were all shrouded in darkness.
Last Monday, Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed gratitude to Cubans for their "understanding" following the electrical collapse that impacted several provinces for more than 48 hours. "Thank you, Cuba, for your understanding during these uncertain and frustrating times due to the SEN disconnect. We still face shortages, but we're connected again," he posted on his X account.
Cubans quickly responded, venting their pent-up frustration: "You're a puppet placed in power. We endured 48 hours without electricity. No thanks!" remarked one user.
Others took a sarcastic stance on the island's social disparities: "We may lack power plants, but we have grand hotels brimming with electricity and resources that aren't available to the people."
Authorities have acknowledged that power outages will persist due to the country's ongoing energy shortfall. Meanwhile, the patience of the Cuban people remains stretched to its limits.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What caused the power outage in Varadero?
The power outage in Varadero was due to the collapse of Cuba's National Electric System (SEN), highlighting the country's ongoing energy crisis and infrastructure challenges.
How did the blackout affect tourism in Varadero?
The blackout severely impacted tourism as many hotels were left without power, forcing some to evacuate guests. Dining experiences were reduced to candlelit meals, and the overall tourist experience was significantly disrupted.
What was the public's reaction to the power outage?
The public reaction was one of frustration and criticism, with many Cubans expressing their discontent on social media and highlighting the disparity between the resources available to the public versus those reserved for tourism.