ABSTRACT

This chapter identifies the economic and social impact of tourism on the Cuban society in the Special Period, with special reference to the socio-economic change undergone by Havana in years. It investigates the relationship between the reforms and the appearance of civil activities during the Special Period. The chapter reviews the growing social inequalities in Cuba following the flourishing development of the tourism-related dollar economy. It considers the economic implications of the reforms on the Cuban capital. The research examines the changing nature of Havana's economic structure as a direct outcome of the new economic opportunities generated by tourism. The chapter deals with the appraisal of the spatial consequences of tourism development at the household, neighbourhood and city levels. The promotion of tourism during the Special Period has generated a sharp economic and social impact on Cuban society.