Everyday encounters: tourists in Cuban casas particulares

Abstract

ABSTRACTThrough the operation of casas particulares (bed-and-breakfasts) tourists in Cuba are provided with the opportunity to stay in local homes. Casas particulares are government regulated small-scale accommodation alternatives that can be found throughout the island. They starkly contrast with more familiar large-scale and standardized accommodations in Cuba such as resorts and hotels. By electing to stay in casas particulares, visitors to Cuba are exposed to the seemingly more everyday spaces of Cuban daily life. Based on ethnographic research conducted in the city of Trinidad, this article examines the tourist experience in the “everyday” landscape of Cuban homes. The research reveals that while tourists cross into the spaces of everyday life, stays in casas particulares are generally short and in a span of few days it is difficult for the tourist to understand the nuances of daily life.