Impacts of ‘home stays’ on the protected urban landscape and the social environment (Viñales, Cuba)

Home stay tourism in Viñales Valley, Cuba, significantly alters the protected urban landscape and social dynamics. The study found that 392 rental homes contribute to the reduction of green spaces, introduction of modern building materials, and architectural changes, while also imposing labor burdens primarily on women, disrupting daily routines and exacerbating social inequalities. Researchers interviewed 74 landlords to assess these impacts, revealing both economic gains and social costs. This work highlights the dual-edged nature of tourism in heritage sites, where development benefits come at the expense of cultural integrity and equity.

Pérez Albert, Y., Muro Morales, J. I., & Nel-lo Andreu, M. (2020). Impacts of ‘home stays’ on the protected urban landscape and the social environment (Viñales, Cuba). Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change, 19(3), 277–294. https://doi.org/10.1080/14766825.2020.1722142