That’s the main feeling deriving from statements by Cuban Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García, recently quoted on Granma newspaper, as he stressed the spirit of renewal currently gripping the sector, so critical to revive the national economy.

As he expounded on the topic, García mentioned that over 80.000 hotel rooms have been added to previously available accommodation, 75 % of which belong to four- or five-stars facilities, many of them under management by 18 world renown hotel chains.

In his words, all tourist facilities that were damaged by hurricanes Oscar and Rafael, and two consecutive earthquakes, should be back in service for the high season in 2025.

García stressed that in Cayo Largo del Sur repairing teams are currently working round the clock, so as to bring it back to life by November 30 and accommodate the first visitors by December 4. Campsites areas in western province of Artemisa, should follow suit.

The tremors that shook the eastern municipality of Pilón wreak havoc in the Marea del Portillo Hotel facilities.

Notwithstanding, it should be back to normal by December 15.

With the purpose in coming back to normal as soon as possible, Cuban tourism authorities are training new staff, always ready to offer tourists the best service.

All these efforts, however, won’t suffice to overturn the fact that Cuba will be unable to meet its original goal of accommodating three million visitors in 2024, given woes affecting the local economy this year.

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