The Canadian Government raised its official notice for the entire Island and called on its citizens to take extreme precautions in the face of shortages of food, medicine and fuel.
MADRID, Spain.- The Government of Canada updated its official travel advisory to Cuba and recommended its citizens “exercise a high degree of caution” throughout the national territory, due to the deterioration of living conditions and basic services, according to the information published on its website. Travel.gc.ca.
The warning, in force since January 15, indicates that the Island faces a persistent shortage of food, drinking water, medicine, fuel and foreign currency, a situation that also impacts hotels, resorts and other services used by tourists. The document highlights that these deficiencies can occur unpredictably and affect both urban areas and destinations traditionally oriented toward tourism.
One of the central factors of the alert are the prolonged blackouts. Canada warns that scheduled and unscheduled power outages can last more than 24 hours and affect water supply, air conditioning and other essential services. Although many tourist facilities have generators, a lack of fuel can limit their operation.
The notice also refers to the difficulties for mobility within the country, derived from fuel shortages and irregular public transport. The Canadian Government recalls that there have been cases of travelers who have been temporarily stranded due to the lack of availability of taxis or problems with vehicle rentals.
In terms of security, the update maintains the warning about crimes such as theft and scams, especially in busy areas, beaches, markets and means of transportation.
The alert also includes references to the instability of telecommunications, with limited or intermittent access to the Internet and possible restrictions in situations of social tension, as well as to health risks associated with diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
Canada recommends that its citizens, if traveling to the Island, carry medicines, hygiene items, water and other essential products, keep their electronic devices charged and stay informed about the evolution of local conditions.
The official statement eliminates any distinction between tourist areas and the rest of the country, considering that the deterioration of basic services is national in scope and can affect residents and visitors alike.
The Canadian update also occurs in a context in which other governments have issued similar recommendations to their citizens, including Spain, and after Ottawa added to its notice in November a health alert due to a chikungunya outbreak on the Island. These warnings coincide with a particularly critical moment for Cuban tourism, which shows signs of stagnation and decline while the international tourism industry advances in its recovery after the pandemic.
