Italian influencer Dario Fattore, known on social media as a Social Media Manager and founder of the digital marketing agency Whosdigital.it, has publicly criticized the appalling conditions he faced during his stay at a hotel in Havana, Cuba. Through a series of videos shared on his platforms, Fattore recounted his unsettling experience at the Memories Miramar hotel, where he claims to have endured sleepless nights in rooms teeming with cockroaches.
"Hey everyone, this hotel in Cuba is like living a nightmare. I never expected to find myself in a four-star hotel sleeping in a room overrun by cockroaches. I counted more than 30, they were everywhere, and I couldn't sleep all night," he explained.
The digital content creator reported that despite requesting a room change, he was given another room that was just as insect-ridden and, additionally, had no running water. "We couldn't shower or use the bathroom. At breakfast, I even found a cockroach among the supposedly clean utensils," he added.
So far, he has not received any form of reimbursement, despite believing that in such situations, it should be mandatory.
A Glimpse into Cuba’s Hidden Reality
In a third video, the most viral of his series filmed in Cuba, the Italian influencer took a step further by offering a critical perspective on the country's reality. "This is the real Cuba, not the one you see on social media with colorful cars and salsa. Poverty is everywhere here. The streets are dirty, bathrooms often don't exist, and tourists are at risk of being scammed or robbed," he remarked.
He also pointed out the scarcity faced by Cubans, even when it comes to obtaining basic necessities such as food and soap, and described the healthcare system as "collapsed." "It wasn't an exotic trip; it was a harsh, suffocating reality, overshadowed by communist propaganda. Before being charmed by classic cars and street dances, one should know that the reality behind Cuba is entirely different," he concluded.
The Cuban government blames independent media for the poor international image of the Cuban tourism industry. However, countless accounts, like that of this Italian visitor, reveal the true reasons behind the crisis plaguing the country's hospitality and tourism sector.
Insights on Cuba's Tourism Challenges
What problems did Dario Fattore encounter during his stay in Cuba?
Dario Fattore experienced severe issues such as cockroach-infested rooms, lack of running water, and poor overall hotel conditions during his stay in Havana, Cuba.
How did the influencer describe Cuba's reality beyond tourism?
He described Cuba's reality as being marked by pervasive poverty, dirty streets, non-existent bathrooms, and a high risk of scams or theft, contrasting sharply with the idealized image often portrayed.
What criticism did Fattore express about Cuba's healthcare system?
Fattore criticized Cuba's healthcare system by labeling it as "collapsed," highlighting the severe shortages in basic supplies and services.