Hurricane Melissa was one of the strongest storms ever to cross the Atlantic. Meteorologists even describe it as the most powerful hurricane recorded so far. Jamaica was hit particularly hard. Entire neighbourhoods there are under water, many people have lost their homes and the power supply has collapsed in large parts of the country.
Cuba was, if you like, lucky in its misfortune. The storm didn’t hit the country with full force, because it had weakened slightly after making landfall in Jamaica. Before reaching Cuba’s south-east coast, it picked up some energy again over the sea, but remained at Category 3.
Santiago de Cuba and Holguín hit hardest
Melissa was felt most in Santiago de Cuba and in parts of Holguín province. Heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides there. Some roads became impassable and many houses suffered damage to roofs or windows.
The good news is that most tourist regions in Cuba are hardly affected. In Havana, Varadero, Viñales, Cayo Coco and Trinidad, everyday life goes on as normal. Even in Santiago de Cuba, people started cleaning up immediately after the storm. Everywhere, things are being repaired, patched up and secured.
Cubans rebuild quickly
Anyone who knows Cuba knows that people there don’t stand still for long. Even though the country doesn’t have unlimited resources, the will is strong. After the last major hurricane, Sandy in 2012, Santiago de Cuba was badly hit. Almost every building was damaged or destroyed, and yet the city was rebuilt only a short time later.
Many say that Santiago was more beautiful afterwards than before. The reconstruction was used to renovate old houses, renew streets and smarten up entire neighbourhoods. You can feel exactly this sense of solidarity and energy everywhere on the island again now.
Can you travel to Cuba right now?
Yes, you can. If you are planning a trip to Cuba, there is no need to worry.
The tourist infrastructure works without problems in almost all regions. Only the south-east was more severely affected by the storm; everywhere else, everything is running as usual.
Tourist infrastructure: Hotels, beaches and sights are open.
Safety: The authorities are working efficiently and providing regular updates.
Atmosphere: The typical Cuban zest for life can be felt everywhere. Music, laughter and warmth are part of everyday life as always.
If you travel to Cuba now, you will experience a country that, despite the aftermath of Melissa, has lost none of its warmth and composure. The weather is returning to normal, the skies are clear and the beaches are easy to reach again.
Direct flights to Cuba again from December
From December, direct flights from Germany to Cuba will resume. This makes getting there much easier and shorter. Nothing stands in the way of an unforgettable stay, whether you are looking for sun, culture or history.
When planning your trip, remember that you need a valid Cuba visa to enter the country. You can order it easily, securely and quickly at www.cuba-visa.com.
Conclusion
Hurricane Melissa has left its mark on Cuba, but the country is resilient and well organised. Most regions are habitable again and safe for tourists.
Once again, Cuba shows how strong its people are and how quickly they rebuild their homes. For travellers, this means: Cuba remains a safe, welcoming and fascinating destination.
If you are planning your holiday now, you will experience an authentic Cuba that, despite all its challenges, never loses its zest for life and hospitality. And with a valid e-visa for Cuba, nothing stands in the way of your trip.
