Havana, Cuba — A dream vacation for two young Russian tourists quickly soured into a traumatic experience when they were violently attacked during a stroll in Old Havana. The disturbing incident has raised alarm over the safety of foreign travelers in the vibrant, yet increasingly perilous, historic district.
The victims, named Olga and her companion, had recently embarked on a 12-day trip to Cuba, intending to bask in the beauty of Varadero, a renowned tourist hotspot. They invested approximately 360,000 rubles for their hotel accommodations and booked a private guided tour to Havana, expecting a safe and enjoyable experience. The package included transportation and a local guide, who assured the tourists that they would be perfectly safe, day or night.
Contrary to these assurances, the duo faced a harrowing ordeal as they walked through Old Havana’s colorful streets. Two assailants approached them, attempting to steal their belongings. When the women resisted, they were brutally assaulted. The attackers fled with one of the tourists’ bags, which contained cash, personal documents, and a passport.
After the attack, the women reported that bystanders offered no assistance, and no police were present to help. Returning to their lodging in shock and with visible injuries, they found no support from hotel staff regarding their injuries or how to proceed with filing a report.
Olga later had to obtain a special exit certificate to leave Cuba after her passport was stolen. Once back in Russia, she expressed relief at having survived the trauma but also shared her sense of vulnerability, advising future travelers to take precautions. She now recommends using taxis for all transport, minimizing valuable items carried, and limiting interactions with strangers.
The episode has generated significant outrage on social media, especially among Russian users who traditionally view Cuba as a safe destination. The growing insecurity in tourist areas, particularly in Havana, has reignited fears about the safety of travelers amid reports of increasing thefts and assaults targeting foreigners.
Despite assertions from Cuban authorities claiming the country remains one of the safest in Latin America, the spike in criminal incidents reflects the ongoing economic crisis affecting the island. As financial stability has declined, reports of theft and scams aimed at tourists have surged.
Currently, there has been no official word on the identification or apprehension of the attackers. The Russian embassy in Havana has not commented publicly on the incident, although local outlets confirm that both women are safe and recovering from their harrowing experience.
As concerns mount among tourists and locals alike regarding safety, the case shines a spotlight on the urgent need for effective measures to enhance tourist protection. The distressing event has prompted discussions about whether authorities are adequately prepared to respond to such crimes and ensure travelers feel secure during their visits.
As for Olga and her friend, they face the challenge of overcoming their traumatic experience while grappling with a changed perception of the island they once sought to enjoy.