A Mexican tourist, known on TikTok as @lachelitaaa, caused a stir on the platform after sharing a video of the Airbnb she stayed at during her vacation in Havana. The apartment, boasting a sea view, modern decor, and designer furniture, surprised many viewers due to its stark contrast with the typical image of housing in Cuba.
In the video's description, @lachelitaaa expressed her love for the place. Comments quickly flooded in, with one user incredulously asking, "Is that in Cuba?" Another user chimed in, "Great question." Among those praising the accommodation, one person remarked, "I wish everyone in Cuba could live like this," to which another added, "And in Mexico, the U.S., and Colombia too."
The post not only drew admiration but also criticism. "Which military officer owns that apartment?" questioned one user. Another was more direct: "Better ask which Cuban military officer stole that apartment." Some users joked about the island's everyday challenges: "What about the electricity? Does it come with power outages?" someone quipped.
Several users tried to pinpoint the apartment's location, speculating it might be in the Vedado area of Havana. Some claimed to have stayed there and described the experience as "divine." Numerous questions also arose about how to book, the cost, and whether there was direct contact for staying there.
The video also sparked confusion due to the image of the sea without beachgoers. "Not a boat, not a ball. The beach is empty," commented one user. The clarification came swiftly: "That's not a beach, it's the Malecón. It's open sea, not for swimming." This detail sparked a brief debate on the geography and tourism realities in Cuba.
The reactions to the video highlight the stark contrast between the lodging options available to tourists and the harsh everyday reality faced by most Cubans. While some admire the luxury, others see it as an unattainable privilege and another example of the island's deep-rooted inequality.
Exploring Havana's Airbnb Scene
How do tourists react to luxury accommodations in Cuba?
Reactions are mixed; while some admire the luxury, others see it as a symbol of inequality in Cuba.
Where was the Airbnb featured in the TikTok video located?
The Airbnb is believed to be located in the Vedado area of Havana, offering stunning sea views.
Why did the video of the Airbnb in Havana cause a stir?
The luxurious appearance of the Airbnb contrasted sharply with the typical housing conditions in Cuba, sparking debate on social media.