Cuba Focused On Strengthening Tourism Services

HAVANA, Cuba. Cuba is set to increase the quality of its leisure industry with new deals and investments in the face of the world’s economic crises, said tourism minister at the 29th International Tourism Fair underway in Havana.

Varadero Beach, Cuba

In a presentation of Destination Cuba and its patrimonial cities, minister Manuel Marrero said promoting tours and tourism for locals are currently top priorities in the sector, while patrimonial facilities including hotels will be restored as part of a policy to boost tourism, which is one of the nation’s major sources of income.

Marrero emphasized the need to diversify the island’s tourism market by further promotion in Europe and Latin America, though an avalanche of tourists is not expected. He said in spite of
limitations, Cuba will continue to offer its tourist attributes to other countries on equal conditions.

He also noted that even though Cuba is better known worldwide as a Sun and Beach destination, it has other potentials that can be further exploited such as its patrimonial wealth, culture and natural values.

This year’s International Tourism Fair, FITCUBA’09, is dedicated to Germany and to patrimonial cities and circuit tourism and tours.

Cay Sabinal, to the north of Camaguey

Participants in the event will have the possibility to explore other important cities and villages around the island outside Havana like Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus, Camagüey, Baracoa, Bayamo and Santiago de Cuba.

Before the presentation, a postage stamp dedicated to Cuban patrimonial cities was issued as part of the fair that is taking place at the Morro-Cabaña Fortress with nearly 900 tourism professionals from 58 countries in attendance.

(Desarrollo del turismo constituye prioridad para Cuba)