Mike Fisher, a Canadian content creator known for promoting Cuba as a safe, affordable, and enjoyable tourist destination, recently fell victim to a robbery in the heart of Havana. According to his own Facebook post, a thief snatched a gold chain from around his neck while he was in the bustling Rampa area.
"They just took my chain, my neck is red," Fisher commented as he displayed the marks left by the assault.
He emphasized, "In Havana, in broad daylight," showcasing the busy 23rd Street where the incident occurred, and issued a bold declaration to the thief: "I will find you."
This event stands in stark contrast to the narrative Fisher has built online, where he often portrays an image of Cuba that thousands of locals challenge daily.
A Shattered Illusion
Through his channel "Finding Fish," active on Facebook and YouTube, Fisher—who has been visiting the island since 1985—habitually shares scenes of white sandy beaches, abundant buffets, cigars, rum, and low prices, painting Cuba as an accessible paradise for Western tourists.
However, this idyllic portrayal began to show cracks months earlier. In June, Fisher celebrated on social media a full lunch with mojito at the Dos Mares Hotel in Varadero for 3,100 Cuban pesos—about 7.75 Canadian dollars—without noting that this amount is nearly equivalent to the entire monthly minimum wage of a Cuban, set at 3,210 pesos.
Following the national blackout on July 6, which Fisher experienced while in Havana, he adjusted his narrative for the first time: "Cuba is not in good shape. Havana is struggling quite a bit, with daily electricity and water issues."
Yet, he concluded that chapter with the sentiment: "I just landed... and I already miss Cuba."
Rising Crime in Cuba
The question now is whether Fisher will continue to promote the image of a trouble-free Cuba after experiencing firsthand what many Cubans report every day.
The robbery of this tourist occurs amid an unprecedented surge in crime across Cuba. The Cuban Observatory for Citizen Audit recorded 2,833 verified crimes in 2025, marking a 115% increase compared to 2024, with theft being the most common category.
The area where Fisher was attacked is no stranger to such crimes. In El Vedado, numerous robberies were reported in 2026: in June alone, over 30 home burglaries occurred within a single week, and on the 4th of that same month, a woman was assaulted with a knife to steal her cellphone in that very Havana street.
Crime and Tourism in Cuba: Key Questions Answered
How has crime impacted tourism in Cuba recently?
The rise in crime, particularly theft, has raised concerns among tourists and has begun to challenge the previously held perception of Cuba as a safe tourist destination. Such incidents may deter future visitors.
What is the Cuban government's response to the increase in crime?
The Cuban authorities have not been able to effectively curb the rising crime rates, leaving many residents and tourists concerned about safety.
What measures can tourists take to stay safe in Cuba?
Tourists are advised to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables in public, travel in groups, and keep informed about the areas they plan to visit.