Housing in Cuba: what actually matters to know

From real experience

• As of June 17, 2026, Cuba is implementing new transportation restrictions. National bus routes will be reduced to three times a week, and train services to once every 16 days. The APK Viajando ticket booking system will be suspended, and ticket sales through agencies will be prohibited. Despite these changes, some reports indicate that tourist conditions remain manageable, with some amenities like piña colada still available. There are concerns about potential withdrawal of major hotel operators like GAESA due to new sanctions, potentially affecting popular brands like Melia and Iberostar. Travelers should monitor the evolving situation regarding transportation and hotel availability.
• For tourists traveling independently to Cuba ('дикарем'), finding suitable accommodation with amenities is essential. Options include private houses equipped with solar panels, private wells, and swimming pools, available in all provinces. Nightly rates for these accommodations range from $10 to $20, depending on meal inclusions. Airbnb bookings have reportedly become problematic recently, even for non-Cuban accounts.
• Electricity supply in Cuba is currently highly unstable. There are no reliable power outage schedules. Residents face daily blackouts lasting up to 16-20 hours, with power restored at random intervals.
• Cuba is currently facing significant infrastructure challenges including fuel shortages and frequent electricity blackouts. Tourists are advised to opt for reputable all-inclusive resorts that have independent power generation capabilities. Independent travel involves higher risks regarding utility access and transport. Recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance and maintaining realistic expectations regarding service levels.
• While some anecdotal evidence suggests the Russian Mir payment system might be accepted at Melia hotels in Cuba, its widespread viability is questionable due to limited direct flights from Russia. Travelers should verify payment options directly with their accommodation.
• Discussions among expatriates and locals on Cuba reveal a polarized view on real estate investment. Some users highlight 'fantastic prices' for properties, particularly outside Havana, and express interest in purchasing homes and apartments, anticipating future value appreciation. Others strongly advise against it under the current government, citing weak protection of private property rights and the potential loss of invested funds. They also note that while current prices may seem low, they could surge if foreign ownership regulations are liberalized. There's a prevailing sentiment among Cubans to emigrate, making foreign investment in Cuban real estate seem like a questionable decision to some. Practical concerns are raised about theft, with suggestions to secure valuable assets like horses in safer locations while investing in less desirable areas. The overall sentiment indicates high risk but potential reward for daring investors.
• Cuba is experiencing chronic electricity shortages impacting major cities like Havana. Power outages are frequent in Vedado and Old Havana. Meliá Hotels International recently terminated management contracts for 15 hotels in Cuba, citing energy supply problems and declining demand as primary causes.
• Accommodation search in Santa Marta, Varadero: 1. Airbnb: best for contactless payment and official booking. 2. Facebook groups: effective for finding local casas, often cheaper, requires negotiation. Prices can be as low as ~150 EUR for two weeks.
• Hotels in Cuba generally offer higher comfort, including reliable electricity and prepared meals, at a higher cost. Staying in local accommodation can be cheaper but might involve experiencing typical local challenges such as power outages or food supply variations, offering a more 'authentic' experience.
• Video footage from May 17, 2016, shows Cuban hotels with a full occupancy, all sun loungers occupied. A new hotel is scheduled to open on May 22. Concerns are raised about the operational capacity of generators, staff, and dining services for potentially very few guests.
• During hotel closures in Cuba, local staff (e.g., in Varadero) actively seek alternative employment. The reintroduction of 'serviced transport' (служебная развозка) for hotel staff is an indicator of potential hotel reopenings. Current working conditions for some staff include 6/1 schedules, mandatory on-site living in hotels due to canceled transport, and restricted movement within the hotel premises.
• For travelers seeking reliable quality in food and service in Cuba, selecting specific international hotel chains, such as Melia, is recommended. These establishments are generally noted for maintaining higher standards compared to many local options, offering amenities and culinary experiences comparable to those found in other popular tourist destinations like Venezuela.
• Blue Diamond Resorts has officially ceased operations in Cuba, transferring management of its hotel brands (Royalton, Memories, Starfish, Mystique, Resonance) to the state-owned military conglomerate Gaviota. This move follows rising international sanctions and infrastructure collapse. Travelers should expect potential service disruptions and quality fluctuations at these properties as management transitions to state control.
• Some Meliá hotels, including Meliá Varadero in Cuba, allow booking without upfront payment, with the option to pay upon arrival (e.g., in USD). The booking confirmation letter typically does not specify payment details. This method has been successfully used for entry into Cuba and for Schengen visa applications, where on-site cash payment was accepted.
• As of May 2026, organized package tours to Cuba are reported as unavailable by some travelers. However, individual travel is possible, and hotels in Havana are confirmed to be operational. Travelers should plan independent trips.
• In Varadero (Cuba), sunbeds are available for rent at approximately 250 CUP per day near 30th Street. The region frequently experiences power outages. While hotels generally maintain electricity, private housing often relies on solar panels for consistent power supply.
• When booking hotels in Cuba from Canada, consider booking directly through the hotel's website or contacting them. Some hotels still accept Canadian credit cards for direct bookings or on-site payments. Varadero beaches are primarily sandy, not known for coral reefs.

Related topics