Mexican Tourist's Shocking Discovery Upon Arriving at a Havana Airbnb: "I Almost Had a Heart Attack"

A video recently shared on social media showcasing an Airbnb in Havana has captured widespread attention due to the stark contrast it reveals between the building's exterior and its interior. In the video, a young woman recounts her arrival at the tourist apartment nestled in the heart of Cuba's capital. Her initial impression is one of shock: a dilapidated entrance with rusted bars, dangling wires, and deteriorating stairs that would unsettle any first-time visitor.

The video's description succinctly captures her reaction: "I almost had a heart attack," clearly conveying the impact of the building's entrance on her. However, the real surprise unfolds once she steps inside the rental. The video showcases a completely renovated apartment featuring a modern and meticulous design, restored hydraulic floors, Caribbean decorative touches, and a balcony offering one of the most sought-after views in the city: Havana's Capitol Building and the streets of Old Havana.

The Viral Debate: A City of Contrasts

The striking disparity between the building's rundown exterior and the apartment's high-quality interior has sparked a lively debate on social media. Users are commenting on the contradiction that defines the city: the decay of infrastructure juxtaposed with the ingenuity and effort of those who refurbish spaces for tourism.

Havana's Dual Reality for Tourists

Amidst Cuba's housing crisis, tourist rentals continue to proliferate, offering visitors a dual experience: the stark reality of a city in decline and the carefully curated, profitable side of the real estate market in foreign currency. This phenomenon highlights the complex dynamics at play in Havana, where the façade often belies what lies within.