Cuba’s hotels sit empty as US pressure campaign drives tourists away

Cuba’s hotels sit empty as US pressure campaign drives tourists away

The Decline of Tourism

Cuba s hotels sit empty as US - Cuba, long celebrated for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, now finds itself grappling with a tourism crisis that has left its hotels eerily quiet. The island, which once thrived on the influx of international visitors, has seen a dramatic drop in foot traffic as the economic toll of U.S. sanctions intensifies. With shortages mounting and services faltering, the country’s vibrant tourism industry is struggling to recover, casting a shadow over its historical landmarks and natural beauty.

Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Cuba’s most iconic neighborhoods, stands as a symbol of this decline. Founded in the 16th century, the district remains a showcase of Spanish colonial architecture, yet it now appears like a forgotten relic. Local businesses, once bustling with activity, now face long stretches of emptiness, with tourists a rare sight. “There are no tourists,” said Elio, a musician in a historic plaza, who shared his perspective with CNN. He hesitated to reveal his full name, fearing potential consequences for engaging with foreign media. “Maybe they are at home. One comes by only every half hour or hour,” he added, capturing the desolation that has become the new norm.

Sanctions and Economic Strain

The crisis has deepened under the Trump administration’s relentless economic pressure. A series of sanctions targeting the Cuban government, which has been under communist rule for decades, has strained the island’s economy to the point of collapse. The loss of foreign investment and the reduction of essential imports have created a cycle of scarcity, affecting everything from food supplies to fuel for transportation.

In January, a U.S. military strike on Venezuela—a former ally of Cuba—disrupted a critical oil supply. This was followed by an oil embargo, which further crippled the island’s energy infrastructure. As a result, air carriers that once relied on Cuban refueling stations now face logistical challenges, leading to canceled flights and stranded travelers. The cumulative effect has been a sharp decline in international visitors, with many choosing to avoid the country due to uncertainty about travel conditions and the overall economic climate.

The latest round of sanctions has also targeted foreign companies that collaborate with the Cuban military, which plays a central role in the tourism sector. Major international hotel chains have withdrawn from the market, leaving behind a landscape of vacant resorts and shuttered restaurants. According to Cuban government statistics, the number of tourists in the first five months of 2026 dwindled to just 360,000—a 58% decrease from the same period in the prior year. This stark contrast highlights the severity of the situation, as neighboring countries like the Dominican Republic reported over 3.6 million visitors during the same timeframe.

Political Motives Behind the Sanctions

U.S. officials argue that these economic measures are designed to weaken Cuba’s political grip. By imposing pressure on the government, they aim to push for reforms that would allow greater foreign participation in the economy, including tourism. In an interview with Axios in June, former President Donald Trump likened Cuba’s tourism potential to Venezuela’s oil reserves, suggesting that the island could be coerced into concessions. “Cuba doesn’t have oil, but it has a nice property and they have nice shoreline,” he remarked, underscoring the strategic value of the country’s resources.

Trump’s rhetoric reflects a broader strategy of using economic leverage to influence Cuba’s leadership. While the goal is to open the door for direct investment, the reality is that many Cubans, both on the island and abroad, remain wary of U.S. policies. The administration’s focus on isolating the Cuban government has not only stifled tourism but also disrupted the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on the industry.

Aftermath of the Pandemic

The tourism sector’s struggles are compounded by the lingering effects of the pandemic, which had already dealt a severe blow to the industry. Even before the U.S. sanctions intensified, Cuba faced a prolonged recovery period, with hotels and resorts struggling to regain their former vibrancy. Now, the combination of economic isolation and pandemic-era setbacks has created a perfect storm, leaving the country in a precarious state.

For businesses like UK-based Cubania Travel, the situation has been particularly dire. The company has suspended all tours, citing the unsustainable conditions for travelers. Lucy Davies, the director, told CNN that the decision was driven by the lack of demand and the economic instability. “Who would want to travel to a country in such dire straits? People are prepared to accept some discomfort on vacation, but it becomes a form of dark tourism to visit Cuba right now,” she explained.

Davies has taken matters into her own hands, launching a food donation initiative to support Cubans affected by the crisis. By enlisting past clients and those concerned about the welfare of local residents, she is redirecting resources to address immediate needs. This effort not only provides aid but also creates employment for her local staff, who now lack the tourists to guide. “We’re not going to be able to help everyone, but this is what we can do,” she said, highlighting the community-driven response to the economic downturn.

Reforms and Uncertain Futures

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has acknowledged the urgency of the crisis, announcing a series of reforms aimed at revitalizing the economy. One such measure involves allowing Cubans—both on the island and living abroad—to manage hotels, a step that could foster private sector growth. “We are open to Cubans who want to invest and manage hotels,” Díaz-Canel stated, signaling a potential shift in the country’s economic strategy.