The announcement of the 44th International Tourism Fair of Cuba (FITCuba 2026), slated for May 6-10 in Varadero, has sparked a wave of criticism and satire on social media following a broadcast by TV Yumurí.
The network described the event as "a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the Cuban archipelago, whose beauty remains vibrant despite economic hardships and various political issues." It was noted that the fair will emphasize Sun and Beach tourism, with Canada as the primary source of visitors.
However, once the news hit Facebook, many users questioned the feasibility of such an event given the current circumstances in the country. One user bluntly asked, "With what tourism?" Another commented, "Is this a joke? Talking about a fair in our current situation, how absurd." Comments like "Fairs without tourists, that's a good one" and "You definitely live in another galaxy" echoed the general sentiment.
The fuel shortage was a frequently mentioned concern. One person queried, "With what fuel?" Another added, "With what fuel? With which resources? I don't get it. Better yet: with what tourists?" A user sarcastically chimed in, "If tourists have wings... that's fine."
Several comments pointed out the closure of hotels in the nation’s top tourist spot. "They're shutting down hotels in Varadero one by one," one person stated. Another shared, "I work in Varadero and next week I'll be out of a job because the hotel is closing, there are no tourists, and there won't be any for at least two months... I really don't understand."
Some questioned the actual accessibility of such events for Cubans: "A question, can the hardworking and honest people attend these parties with their national currency salary between 1,600 and 5,000 pesos?" Others summarized the overall tone with remarks like "This must be a meme" and "The best joke of the week."
The reactions are unfolding against a backdrop of significant downturn in the tourism sector. Fuel shortages have led to the cancellation of over 1,700 flights and hotel closures during peak season, according to Reuters.
Furthermore, the tour operator Travelplan, part of the Ávoris Group, has halted operations to destinations such as Varadero and Cayo Santa María due to "serious supply issues, mainly in fuel," as stated by an executive to Turisver.
In Matanzas, workers in the industry are being reassigned to "priority areas" due to facility closures and transportation challenges to the Hicacos Peninsula, part of a labor reorganization prompted by energy constraints, as detailed in reports on the tourism halt in the province.
Amidst this backdrop of cancellations, hotel shutdowns, and reduced operations, the announcement of an international fair in the country's main beach resort has been met with widespread skepticism and ridicule on social media.
Key Questions About the Varadero Tourism Fair
What are the main criticisms of the Varadero Tourism Fair announcement?
Critics have questioned the viability of the event due to the current economic conditions and fuel shortages in Cuba, leading to skepticism about the availability of tourists and resources.
Why is fuel shortage a concern for the tourism sector in Cuba?
Fuel shortages have resulted in the cancellation of flights and the closure of hotels, severely impacting the tourism industry and raising doubts about the feasibility of large-scale events like the tourism fair.
How have hotel closures in Varadero affected local workers?
Hotel closures have led to job losses and reassignment of workers to different areas, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the local workforce in Varadero.