Get ready, travelers! 🌍 Cuba has just announced that it's rolling out the red carpet for Chinese citizens by adopting a visa-free policy starting this month!
Tourism Minister Juan Carlos Garcia spilled the exciting news during the 42nd Cuban International Tourism Fair (FITCuba 2024), held at the stunning seaside resort of Cayo Coco.
But wait, there's more! 😲 China is set to be the guest of honor at Cuba's Tourism Festival 2025, and guess what? Direct flights between China and Cuba are back on, resuming on May 17! ✈️
Air China confirmed this at a press conference in Beijing on April 23, marking a significant step in strengthening the ties between the two nations.
\"Both sides agreed on the need to create conditions and atmosphere for strengthening relations in all areas, including tourism,\" Garcia said.
Last November, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero visited China, expressing high hopes for the resumption of direct flights in 2024. He anticipated a record-breaking number of Chinese tourists flocking to Cuba once the flights are back.
And the numbers are already looking up! As of April 26, Cuba has welcomed over 1 million international tourists this year. 🇨🇺 The Cuban government is eyeing 3.5 million international visitors in 2024.
Before the pandemic, Chinese tourists were exploring Cuba in greater numbers, with an average annual growth rate of about 23% from 2010 to 2019. 📈
Tourism isn't just about fun in the sun for Cuba; it's a driving force of the country's economy. President Miguel Diaz-Canel emphasized that tourism is set to be one of the main economic activities in Cuba's 2030 development plan. He expects the sector to achieve even greater results than in 2019.
China is not just a key tourist market for Cuba; it's also Cuba's largest trading partner in goods, trading around $862 million in 2023. The two countries have been strengthening their ties, with mutual visa exemptions for certain passport holders and agreements to boost tourism cooperation.
So, what's on your Cuban bucket list? 📝 According to Lonely Planet, some must-visit spots include the vibrant streets of Havana, the dramatic landscapes of Valle de Viñales, the beach paradise of Varadero, and the historical treasures of Santiago de Cuba.
With visa-free travel and direct flights back on the table, there's no better time for Chinese travelers to explore the wonders of Cuba! 🎉
Reference(s):
Cuba announces unilateral visa exemption for Chinese citizens
cgtn.com
