Travel Expert Reports Cuba's Tourist Experience Deteriorating Amidst Deepening Crisis

A prominent travel specialist is advising caution for those considering a Cuban holiday, painting a stark picture of a destination grappling with severe shortages. Maya Kotlyar, founder of MAYEL Travel, shared her recent observations on her Telegram channel, describing the current reality for tourists as 'very scary.'

Kotlyar states conditions have worsened significantly since the pandemic. 'Prices have risen sharply, but simply finding basic goods is a challenge,' she explained. 'Shops are half-empty, the selection is poor, and you feel a shortage of literally everything.'

The crisis extends beyond store shelves. Frequent power cuts and fuel shortages create a persistent strain, directly impacting a visitor's stay. Kotlyar also noted a rise in crime, adding another layer of concern for travelers.

The core appeal of a vacation is now in question, according to the expert. After a grueling 14-hour flight, tourists are finding service levels diminished and hotels—regardless of their star rating—badly affected by widespread scarcity. 'A simple question arises: what for?' Kotlyar wrote.

Her warning follows reports of Russian tourists being relocated en masse from their booked hotels to cheaper accommodations with more reliable electricity, a direct result of the ongoing fuel crisis. The situation suggests that the island's tourist infrastructure is under unprecedented strain.