Pointing to new air routes from Canada and arrivals from this country up 15% since November over the same period the previous year, the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto is countering the recent narrative that the island’s tourism industry has become unstable under the gaze of Donald Trump.
The rebuttal comes even as the Canadian government updated its own travel advisory for Cuba on Wednesday, telling travellers to exercise “a high degree of caution” when visiting and being aware of the country’s ongoing shortages of power, fuel and food. The statement, posted on X also warned, “The situation is unpredictable and could deteriorate, disrupting flight availability on short notice.”
In contrast, Gihana Galindo, Canadian director of the Cuba Tourist Board, stated, “Tourism operations are progressing normally, with all services functioning as usual in resort areas.”
According to the board, the Canadian market remains Cuba’s primary source of tourism and boasted an increase of more than 30,000 additional visitors from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31 compared to the same period last year.
Additionally, the board, which sent a delegation to Toronto last month to offer reassurance to the trade, claims:
Operational readiness and guaranteed supplies: The Ministry of Tourism took proactive measures throughout the fall to ensure a seamless winter peak. Supplies of fuel, food, and essential goods were secured well in advance through strategic reserves and the approval of new importing companies. Furthermore, innovative marketing partnerships with wholesalers and the private sector have bolstered the supply chain.
Energy autonomy and infrastructure: Cuba’s hotel infrastructure maintains full energy autonomy to ensure an uninterrupted guest experience. All major resorts are equipped with independent power systems and backup generators, with fuel supplies strictly reserved and secured for their continuous operation.
Expanded flight capacity from Atlantic Canada: Air operations remain fully guaranteed, including the launch of several new routes from Atlantic Canada this week: Moncton to Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Holguín; Fredericton to Cayo Coco and Santa Clara; and Halifax to Santa Clara.
As such, the tourist board says Cuba “remains committed to providing pristine beaches, a sunny, warm climate, and world-class hospitality that Canadians have enjoyed for decades.”
Galindo added, “We are incredibly grateful to our valued travel partners and the Canadian public for their continued support. The positive feedback from returning visitors is the driving force behind our double-digit growth.”
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