A Cuban woman living in Miami embarked on a journey to Havana intending to visit her family, bringing with her five rechargeable fans—an essential item for surviving the frequent power outages and sweltering nights in Cuba. Accompanied by another woman and a baby, making a total of three passengers, she encountered trouble at the customs inspection area. Officials refused to allow all five fans through and attempted to impose excess baggage fees.
Authorities informed her that each person could only bring in two fans, yet since the other passenger and the baby were not present during the customs process, she was not permitted to bring all five devices. What was supposed to be a simple family visit transformed into another episode of abuse and chaos at the General Customs of the Republic of Cuba. After enduring a lengthy wait and numerous disputes, customs officials seized three of the fans, citing alleged "import regulations."
The fans were held under official custody, with assurances they would be sent to the airport terminal from which she would return to Miami. However, upon her return to the airport for her flight back, the appliances were nowhere to be found.
"I refused to leave without my fans," the traveler recounted, visibly upset. "I went straight to the Customs offices and demanded their return. After an endless wait, it seemed they just wanted me to miss my flight."
The Cuban woman stood her ground: "If I can't travel today, I'll change my ticket, but my fans are coming back to Miami with me," she insisted. Ultimately, after hours of uncertainty, the officials relented and returned the devices, though they charged her 150 Cuban pesos for what they termed an "administrative procedure."
Back in the United States, the woman confirmed with relief, "I'm already at Miami airport, and the fans are here with me." The incident highlights yet again the arbitrary practices of Cuban Customs, which frequently impose barriers and exorbitant fees on travelers attempting to bring basic goods to their families amid the country's severe energy and health crisis.
Meanwhile, in Cuba, power outages and lack of ventilation worsen the plight of thousands of Cubans, who must endure the heat, mosquitoes, and exhaustion each night with very few resources to alleviate their suffering.
Understanding Cuban Customs Regulations and Challenges
Why did Cuban Customs seize the rechargeable fans?
Cuban Customs claimed that there were "import regulations" that only allowed two rechargeable fans per person. The woman was traveling with others, but they were not present during the customs process, leading officials to seize the extra fans.
What challenges do travelers face with Cuban Customs?
Travelers often encounter arbitrary and excessive fees, as well as restrictions on bringing essential goods into Cuba. The customs process can be unpredictable and burdensome, especially for those trying to support family members amid the ongoing crises in the country.