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

Cuba’s Tourism Sector in Crisis: Empty Hotels and Dwindling Visitors

Cuba s hotels sit empty as US – Cuba’s once-bustling tourism industry is now a stark contrast to its former self, with hotels standing vacant and the island’s vibrant cultural attractions largely untoured. The decline has been dramatic, driven by relentless economic pressure from the United States, which has targeted the communist-run government with a series of sanctions. These measures have created a cascade of challenges, from deteriorating infrastructure to critical shortages, eroding the confidence of foreign visitors who once flocked to the island for its historic charm and natural beauty.

The Sanctions’ Impact on Cuba’s Economy

As the U.S. tightened its grip on Cuba’s economy, the consequences became increasingly visible. In the first half of 2026, fewer than 360,000 tourists visited the island, marking a 58% drop compared to the previous year. This staggering decline has left iconic destinations like Old Havana—Cuba’s 16th-century capital, famed for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture—transformed into quiet backdrops for empty streets and shuttered storefronts. Elio, a local musician in the historic district, described the scene with a mix of resignation and disbelief. “There are no tourists,” he said, hesitating before revealing his last name out of fear of repercussions from engaging with foreign media. “Maybe they are at home. One comes by only every half hour or hour.”

The crisis was accelerated by the Trump administration’s military strike on Venezuela in January 2026, which disrupted a vital oil supply to Cuba. This was soon followed by an oil embargo, further straining the nation’s resources. Air carriers, unable to refuel their planes on the island, canceled flights en masse, cutting off a key lifeline for travelers. The situation has only worsened as international hotel chains withdrew from the market, citing the growing economic uncertainty.

Trump’s Strategy: Economic Pressure as a Political Tool

According to the U.S. government, the sanctions are part of a broader campaign to push Cuba toward political reform. The administration argues that by limiting foreign investment, it can force the Cuban government to open up its tightly controlled system. In a June interview with Axios, Trump emphasized this point, drawing a direct comparison between Cuba’s tourism potential and Venezuela’s oil reserves. “Venezuela has oil. Cuba doesn’t,” he told the outlet. “Cuba has a nice property and they have nice shoreline, but they need to let in more investment.”

However, for many Cubans, the impact of these measures has been deeply personal. The pandemic had already dealt a blow to the sector, but the ongoing sanctions have compounded the problem, creating a climate of uncertainty that deters both new and returning visitors. “Who would want to travel to a country in such dire straits?” asked Lucy Davies, director of UK-based Cubania Travel, which has suspended all trips. “People are prepared to have some discomfort on their holiday, but it becomes kind of dark tourism to go somewhere like Cuba at the moment.”

Adapting to the Crisis: Reforms and Resilience

In response to the crisis, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel introduced a series of reforms in June 2026, offering Cubans—both on the island and abroad—a chance to take over hotel management. “We are open to Cubans who want to invest and manage hotels,” he stated. “We have also offered these business opportunities to Cubans residing abroad.” While this move signals a shift toward privatization, the current legal framework still grants the government full ownership of these properties.

Despite these efforts, the private sector faces significant hurdles. Pedro Monreal, a Spanish-based Cuban economist, expressed skepticism about the viability of this strategy. “It is unrealistic to expect that Cubans—whether in exile or on the island—could replace the hotel chains,” he said. “The government’s control over critical infrastructure remains a major obstacle.” Yet, for some, the crisis has sparked creative solutions. Davies, who has redirected her business toward humanitarian efforts, explained how she is now organizing food donations for those affected by the economic downturn. “We’re not going to be able to help everyone,” she said, “but this is what we can do.”

The ripple effects of the U.S. pressure campaign are evident across the island. With fewer tourists, local businesses have seen a sharp decline in revenue, and residents are struggling to access basic necessities. The once-thriving hotels, which were built as part of a decade-long plan to boost the economy, now sit idle, their doors closed to the very visitors they were meant to serve. This has created a paradox: an island with a rich history and natural wonders is being left behind by the world, all due to the persistent strain of U.S. economic policies.

Historical and Cultural Contrast: A Once-Prized Destination

Cuba’s tourism appeal has long been rooted in its cultural heritage and natural landscapes. The Spanish colonial forts, white sandy beaches, and lively music scene have drawn millions of visitors since the 1990s. Yet, as the economic situation deteriorates, these attractions are no longer enough to attract crowds. “The island has everything a tourist could want,” said one local, “but the experience feels different now—like a museum of what used to be.”

The decline has also affected the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism. For example, musicians like Elio have had to adjust their schedules, performing fewer shows as the number of attendees dwindles. Similarly, tour guides and hospitality workers face uncertain futures, with some resorting to alternative income sources. Davies’ initiative, which relies on past clients and advocates for Cubans, highlights the community’s resilience in the face of adversity.

While the U.S. continues to assert its influence, the long-term effects on Cuba’s economy remain unclear. The government’s reliance on tourism as a cornerstone of its development strategy has left it vulnerable to external shocks. The recent reforms, though promising, may not be sufficient to reverse the tide without substantial support from international partners. Meanwhile, the island’s residents brace for a new chapter in their history, one marked by scarcity and the slow fading of a once-thriving industry.

Looking Ahead: A Fragile Future

As the summer season approaches, the question remains: will Cuba find a way to recover, or will the current crisis deepen? The Dominican Republic, a neighboring country, has seen more than ten times the number of tourists Cuba recorded in the same period, underscoring the stark contrast in economic fortunes. For now, the island’s hotels remain empty, their potential untapped, as the pressure from the U.S. continues to shape Cuba’s path forward. The outcome of this struggle will determine not only the fate of the tourism sector but also the broader resilience of Cuba’s economy and society in the face of sustained international pressure.