A collective effort between workers, tourists, and authorities has allowed for the rapid recovery of the Holguin tourist destination after Hurricane Melissa.
The Guardalavaca tourist area is showing its cleanest and most welcoming face today after an intense day of cleanup and recovery following the devastating hydrometeorological event along the northern coast of the province. With the beaches restored and the facilities in optimal condition, the destination is ready to receive the first groups of the winter high season starting this November, marking a successful restart of operations.
The response to the onslaught of nature was immediate and exemplary. Guardalavaca Beach, one of Cuba’s natural gems, underwent a meticulous cleanup to remove the debris and trash deposited by the winds and storm surge. In a remarkable display of unity, employees from all areas, including gardeners and kitchen staff, joined the effort.
“We were there for a week, everyone working together. Collecting all the debris and supporting the overall recovery of the areas. It was hard work, but it demonstrates our team’s commitment to this destination,” Luis Ángel Fernández, an employee of the Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Guardalavaca Hotel, told this publication.
Fortunately, the damage to the hotel infrastructure was minor. This situation allowed hotels like the Gran Muthu Almirante Beach to reopen in record time. The forced pause was also used to carry out maintenance and improvement work that enhances the beauty of the resort.
“We didn’t experience significant damage in any of the open areas. On the contrary, we’ve made some excellent improvements to the outdoor areas, the landscaping, our pool, and our beautiful beach,” said Rosalía Pupo, assistant director of the Club Amigo Atlántico Hotel, who detailed the mobilization.
For her part, Yuset Vargas, delegate of the Ministry of Tourism in Holguin, highlighted the preparations for the winter tourist season: “We have ensured that our season begins with complete confidence that the region is ready to welcome our guests with the same joy, the same energy, and the same beauty that characterize us.”
This favorable situation was confirmed during a tour by the highest authorities of the Provincial Defense Council. Who personally verified the conditions in Guardalavaca for the resumption of the summer season.
Top political and governmental authorities visited the Guardalavaca Tourist Resort to assess its recovery after the devastating passage of Hurricane Melissa.
Tourists who become family
A story that highlights the warmth of the destination took place at the Brisas Guardalavaca Hotel, which remained open throughout the storm for tourists who chose not to evacuate. These guests showed solidarity with the staff, becoming part of the extended hotel family.
Such is the case of Erico Deriu, an Italian tourist who has become a frequent visitor: “It was an experience that, rather than frightening us, brought us closer together. The staff is incredible; they’re like family. We wanted to stay and help in any way we could. Without a doubt, this demonstrates the spirit of resilience and the warmth of Cuba.”
With no significant damage and with a natural environment and facilities not only restored but improved, Guardalavaca is resuming operations with optimism. This important destination in eastern Cuba thus confirms that it is ready to consolidate itself once again as a magnet for international visitors. Offering the same beauty, now enhanced by the work and dedication of its people.
The Holguin Tourist Hub, with Guardalavaca as its emblem, constitutes a strategic pillar for the Cuban economy, being one of the main sources of foreign exchange for the country.
This destination, specializing in sun and beach tourism, not only generates direct and indirect employment for thousands of people in this eastern province. But also acts as an engine that energizes other related sectors such as agriculture, transportation, construction, and the local goods and services industry.
Its capacity to attract international tourists en masse. Especially during the crucial peak winter season, makes it a vital contributor to the nation’s financial sustainability, supporting the socioeconomic development of the entire region.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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