April-May 2021 in Havana, Cuba (Photo Feature)
![](https://havanatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/187041034_609032427154179_4010901066070901160_n-800x533.jpg)
Photos by Juan Suarez
HAVANA TIMES – The first half of 2021 has been especially hard for Cubans. Since March, the major uptick in Covid-19 positives in Havana and most provinces has combined with even worse shortages of basic foods and medicines. It is not a pretty picture.
For almost two years the government has declared a “temporary” crisis instead of a Special Period II, taking the name of the 1990s crisis, full of bad memories. Back then the culprit was the Soviet Union calling it quits and now it is a combination of the decline of Venezuelan subsidies, the tightened US embargo, and the collapse of tourism due to the pandemic.
![](https://havanatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/186509996_606535807403841_8554086352850440787_n-600x400.jpg)
As repression steps up against any dissenting voices, life goes on for the general population. The undeclared dollarized economy, the sharp increase in prices, and the ever-increasing shortages are a potent cocktail.
Even the official TV news which usually presents a different reality to what’s on the street is becoming more somber.
Juan Suarez continues to be our eyes particularly in Centro Habana and neighboring areas. Today he gives us a look at what he’s been seeing on the street during April and May.
Love your work Juan.