Yisell, a Cuban known on TikTok as YHR VLOGS, recently shared a revealing video on social media about the expenses involved in spending a few hours at Juan Francisco Beach, located in Villa Clara. Her experience sparked a lively discussion regarding the affordability of leisure activities on the island.
According to her video, the total expenditure for five hours was 5,420 Cuban pesos. Among her purchases were churros at 130 CUP, water bottles priced at 150 and 250 CUP, cheese and chorizo pizzas for 250 CUP, ice cream cones costing 70 CUP, and chocolate-covered popsicles at 100 CUP each. She also spent 600 CUP on popcorn and 2,000 CUP on horse-drawn carriage transportation.
"Let me know in the comments if you think I spent too much or too little," Yisell encouraged her followers after revealing these figures. Given the informal exchange rate on August 5, 2025, as reported by elTOQUE, her expenses amounted to approximately 13.7 USD or 25.2 MLC.
Rising Costs in Cuba
Yisell's account adds to a growing number of complaints about the soaring cost of living in Cuba. Recently, creator Zoilemis Arias disclosed spending over 10,000 pesos on basic groceries, a sum equivalent to several months' wages. Similarly, Sheyla Reyes shared a receipt totaling 18,000 CUP for essential items.
These experiences highlight findings from a survey conducted by the Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory (OCAC), which indicates that a Cuban needs at least 30,000 pesos monthly for food, while the minimum salary remains at 2,100 CUP and the minimum pension will only reach 3,056 CUP by September.
Everyday Luxuries Turned Lavish
This is not Yisell's first viral moment. Back in April, she posted a video about coping with power outages and cooking with charcoal, humorously captioning it, "Another morning waking up with huge bags under my eyes, thanks to my friend the blackout."
The stories shared by these content creators underscore a harsh reality: in today's Cuba, even simple activities like a trip to the beach have become extravagant, as the cost of food and services continues its relentless climb.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Challenges
Why is the cost of living so high in Cuba?
The high cost of living in Cuba is largely due to economic mismanagement, inflation, and supply shortages exacerbated by the socialist regime's policies.
What does the average Cuban spend on food monthly?
According to the OCAC, a Cuban needs at least 30,000 pesos per month just for food, far exceeding the average income.
How do Cubans manage with low salaries?
Many Cubans rely on remittances from relatives abroad, informal jobs, or cooperative efforts within communities to make ends meet.