Toronto-Havana flights boost opportunities for Canadian tourists

WestJet will begin operating the Toronto-Havana route on December 18, with services on Thursdays and Sundays until April 23. Canadian media outlets have been reporting the good news.

An article on www.travelpress.com highlights the statements of Gihana Galindo, Cuba’s Tourism Counsellor in Toronto: “Havana, the country’s capital, is Cuba’s main historical, cultural, and heritage destination. Recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Music and declared a World Heritage site, it will foster educational and academic exchanges, as well as participation in cultural, sporting, scientific, and academic events.

WestJet Vacations, Hola Sun, and The Special Travel are promoting the route, which will use B737-800 aircraft with a capacity of 174 passengers.

“The new route will attract a mix of segments: businesspeople, academics, students, and tourists. Many will enjoy the experience in city hotels, while others will choose direct contact with Cuban families through private accommodations,” Galindo explained.

Air Transat and Air Canada flew to Havana in the past, but more recently, Canadian airlines have been transporting passengers directly to Cuba’s beach destinations.

“However, Canadian visitors increasingly seek authentic cultural experiences: entertainment programs filled with Cuban music and traditions, excursions to heritage cities, and direct contact with the local population. Additionally, segments such as golf, diving, weddings, and honeymoons have grown significantly in recent years,” Galindo added.

Canadian tourists now have the opportunity to combine Havana and Varadero in their travel plans and take excursions to the Viñales Valley. “This experience, blending culture, beach, and nature, will undoubtedly be a memory for a lifetime,” the Cuban Ministry of Tourism representative emphasized.