Many frequent travellers to Cuba cite a special allure that keeps drawing them back year after year.
They praise the stunning beaches, the feeling of security, and the warmth exuded not only by the tropical climate but also by the local people.
“You fall in love,” remarked Monique Belliveau, a 53-year-old from Winnipeg, expressing her deep affection for the country despite its economic challenges.
Belliveau has made approximately 80 visits to Cuba in the past two decades. Initially, she visited Varadero with her family, later embarking on solo trips post-divorce. Presently, she journeys to Cuba four to five times annually with her Cuban husband and their son.
The family owns a house in Holguín, near her husband’s relatives. During their recent month-long stay in Guardalavaca in January, they encountered no shortages, power outages, or other significant problems.
“This travel advisory… has only spread fear,” Belliveau expressed her discontent to CBC News.
The Canadian government recently heightened its travel advisory for Cuba, cautioning about escalating shortages of electricity, fuel, and essential supplies like food, water, and medicine that could impact resorts.
The advisory advises Canadians to exercise a high level of caution while in Cuba.
Cuba faces frequent blackouts attributed to fuel scarcities and deteriorating infrastructure. These power disruptions exacerbate the existing economic crisis due to reduced tourism, increased U.S. sanctions, and struggles in unifying the dual-currency system, as reported by The Associated Press.
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Following the government’s updated warning, numerous travellers have either canceled their trips or anticipate potential challenges during their visits this year.
Despite concerns raised by some travellers, like Belliveau, who dismisses the advisory as unhelpful and detrimental to Cuba’s struggling tourism industry, visitor numbers to Cuba have plummeted by almost 70% since 2018, according to The Associated Press.
“Cancelling your trip to Cuba right now is the worst thing you can do because they need us more than ever,” emphasized Belliveau.