Travellers who visit Cuba repeatedly often express a deep connection to the country, citing its stunning beaches, sense of security, and the warmth of its people. Monique Belliveau, a 53-year-old from Winnipeg, has visited Cuba around 80 times in the past two decades. She initially visited Varadero with her family, later made solo trips post-divorce, and currently visits about four to five times annually with her Cuban husband and son. During their recent four-week stay in Guardalavaca, Belliveau highlighted the absence of shortages or power outages, contradicting recent travel advisories.
The Canadian government recently raised its travel advisory level for Cuba, cautioning about worsening shortages of electricity, fuel, and basic necessities that could impact resorts. Cuba faces daily widespread outages due to fuel shortages and deteriorating infrastructure, exacerbating its economic crisis. This situation has led to a significant decline in tourism, with visitor numbers dropping by nearly 70% since 2018, as per The Associated Press.
Despite the travel advisory, some travellers like Belliveau believe it is unfounded and detrimental to Cuba’s struggling tourism industry. The decline in Canadian visits to Cuba, once a top destination generating billions in tourism revenue, reflects shifting travel patterns. While the pandemic initially disrupted travel, Canadian visits to Cuba saw a resurgence in 2024 but dropped by 38% in 2025.
Katherine Hill from Bowmanville, Ont., canceled her trip to Cayo Santa Maria due to concerns over the fuel crisis, travel advisories, and reported issues at the resort. As Cuba grapples with ongoing challenges, there are conflicting views among travellers on the safety and viability of visiting the country. The Cuba Tourist Board assures that resort operations are functioning normally and securely for the current winter season, emphasizing proactive measures to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.
Despite the uncertainties, some travellers like Zelia Saliu, scheduled to travel to Cayo Coco in February, are apprehensive about the situation in Cuba. Sunwing, a major travel company, is following standard policies regarding cancellations, prompting concerns among travellers facing limited options. Saliu expressed fear about traveling under current conditions, echoing the sentiments of those wary of embarking on trips to Cuba.
While the travel landscape to Cuba remains complex, travellers like Belliveau remain optimistic, encouraging others to proceed with their vacation plans while acknowledging the need to prepare for potential challenges. Belliveau, planning a return trip to Varadero in March, believes Cuba remains a safe and welcoming destination for travellers willing to adapt to the current environment.