Sun, ocean, drinks, and tan skin, approximately 1,8 millions foreign visitors, of which 42% were Quebecers, went to that common destination in 2025. Cuba is an ideal place to visit when you want to run away from the cold and boring winter, but at the beginning of this year, Cuba is one of the worst destinations to visit.
The country has been in an economic crisis since 1990 and had a major intensification that began in 2020 following the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, Cuba has had problems with their economy, and their important source of income, tourism, is decreasing more and more.
Classes have been suspended at many schools, and workers have been furloughed to save energy. Near vacant hotels have been shuttered and flights from Russia and Canada canceled as there is not enough jet fuel on the island for longer international flights.
Cuba has been under a U.S.-led embargo for nearly 70 years, but the situation has worsened since January, when the United States attacked Venezuela and arrested its president. Since then, all oil shipments from Venezuela, Cuba’s main supplier, have been stopped. Mexico also suspended shipments after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on any country that sends oil to Cuba.
“I need gas to be able to work, I need tourists to be able to work,” said a citizen.
The government of Canada had strongly suggested that Canadians avoid non-essential travel to Cuba due to its worsening fuel shortages. Later, on Feb. 9, 2026, Canada Airlines suspended its flights and sent repatriation planes to bring citizens home.
On Monday, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said that Canada plans to send aid to Cuba, though it’s not yet clear what might be included.
“We are preparing a plan to assist. We are not prepared at this point to provide any details of the announcement,” Anand said.
On March 16, the country experienced its third biggest blackout in the past four months. The source of this problem has not been found, but the Minister of Energy and Mines is working on it.
The country is experiencing many power outages, leaving millions without power, water and food refrigeration. Blackouts often last 22 hours a day, driven by falling infrastructure, severe fuel shortage and U.S oil embargo. Daily life is severely disrupted. Hospitals and clinics are operating under severe pressure, with shortages affecting patient care and causing the postponement of surgeries.
Cuba remains a beautiful and culturally rich destination, but the current crisis highlights how fragile its economy and infrastructure have become. Until conditions improve, travelers may need to reconsider their plans and stay informed about the situation.
