CubaHeadlines

Cheapest Three-Star Hotel in Varadero: $43 a Night

Thursday, July 3, 2025 by Grace Ramos

A Cuban influencer recently shared her experience on social media about staying at the most affordable three-star hotel she found in Varadero. The establishment, known as the Hotel Palma Real, offered an all-inclusive night stay for 16,500 Cuban pesos (CUP), approximately $43, which she spent with her partner. In a TikTok video, user @kary_y_jony gives a tour of the room, describing it as basic yet practical. It includes a double bed, television, closet, minibar, dresser with mirror, a bathroom with a tub, and a balcony with "no noteworthy view." She mentions that her followers gifted the stay to her in celebration of her channel's anniversary.

"It's the cheapest three-star hotel we found through the travel agencies," the influencer states in the clip, which has garnered thousands of views. She humorously adds that she hopes the TV doesn’t feature the Caribbean channel, and acknowledges that the price could be steep for many Cubans.

Reality of Tourism in Cuba: Sparse Visitors and Unsatisfactory Conditions

This account aligns with other content shared by Cuban creators highlighting the actual state of tourism on the island. The same TikTok account documented eerily empty streets in Varadero last week during peak summer, noting they "didn't see a single foreigner" during a stroll along the boulevard and nearby hotel areas.

In May, another Cuban TikToker showcased her room at the Iberostar Bella Costa hotel in Varadero, pointing out dirty towels, lack of basic amenities like a stocked minibar, and a decor she labeled "modern," though it faced scrutiny from some commenters.

These reports reflect official statistics: Between January and April 2025, Cuba experienced a 27% drop in tourist arrivals compared to the same timeframe in 2024, with hotel occupancy falling below 25%, according to the Office of National Statistics and Information (ONEI).

Understanding Tourism Challenges in Varadero

Why is the Hotel Palma Real considered the cheapest in Varadero?

The Hotel Palma Real is deemed the cheapest due to its all-inclusive rate of 16,500 CUP, roughly $43, which is relatively low compared to other options in Varadero.

What are the current challenges facing Cuban tourism?

Cuban tourism is struggling with a significant decrease in visitors, poor hotel occupancy rates, and unsatisfactory conditions in accommodations, as highlighted by various social media reports.

How significant was the drop in tourist arrivals to Cuba in early 2025?

The number of tourists visiting Cuba dropped by 27% between January and April 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, impacting the island's tourism industry.

© CubaHeadlines 2025