Minister foresees rapid recovery of tourism in eastern Cuba

Following Hurricane Melissa’s passage through eastern Cuba, tourist destinations in the region activated their protection and recovery protocols. “When we say that Cuba is a safe destination, it includes the construction and defense against natural phenomena of this magnitude,” stated Cuban Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda.

During his appearance on the television program Mesa Redonda, the minister emphasized that, “We were able to demonstrate to the world that we are trained and that we take the protection of human lives very seriously.” He stressed that the main objective of the ministry he represents was to safeguard the lives of tourists, domestic clients and workers, followed by the protection of material resources and hotel infrastructure.

Holguín: Preventive evacuation and international coordination

Holguín, the country’s third most popular tourist destination, had a high number of foreign visitors when the hurricane’s impact on the eastern part of the archipelago was forecast. Prior to Melissa’s arrival, tourist activity was suspended and both tourists and domestic residents were evacuated, including those staying in private accomodation. “We are also responsible for the tourists staying in private homes. We have to locate them and offer them safe shelter,” explained the minister.

Thanks to coordination with tour operators and airlines, 1,807 Canadian tourists returned to their country, while others were transferred to hotels in Ciego de Ávila.

Work teams led by Deputy Minister Yamily Aldama and the Vice President of Servitur are in the area to assess the damage and coordinate recovery efforts.

The damage to tourist facilities in Holguín was concentrated on false ceilings, lightweight roofs, and thatched-roof structures. However, García Granda assured that, “The destination is in a position to quickly recover.”

The first flight of the season from Moscow was scheduled to land on October 30. Although Holguín Airport is already operational and there are hotels that could accommodate travelers, Cuban authorities decided to postpone air operations until all conditions in the road, communications, and electricity systems are functioning normally and visitors can enjoy the country’s attractions.

Incidentally, the Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Hotel, located in Guardalavaca, has indicated on its official social media profile that it is ready to reopen and continue offering the memorable experiences that distinguish it.

Minor damage to tourist properties in Santiago de Cuba

In Santiago de Cuba, tourist activity was suspended, but not services. Workers and officials who arrived in the eastern part of the country to provide support in this complex situation were hosted at sector facilities.

In coordination with the Territorial Defense Council, the appropriate moment for accommodation facilities to resume providing services to guests involved in productive activities is being evaluated.

On social media, the Cubanacan Hotel Group reported that it is working on the recovery and that the Imperial, Casa Granda and Meliá Santiago hotels are now ready to receive their guests.

An organized recovery without impacting the high season

Although access to all affected areas, such as Santo Domingo in Granma province, has not yet been possible, García Granda assured that there is already information from Marea del Portillo and that it “did not suffer too much damage.”

Also present in the affected areas are the main executives of Campismo Popular and the Islazul Hotel Group, companies with the largest number of facilities in this region.

“We believe we can recover quickly based on the preliminary assessment we have conducted,” García Granda stated, explaining that it is also necessary to evaluate contracted and insured properties used for tourism. A methodology exists for this, and it is carried out in an organized manner, starting with the preparation of documentation.

The minister acknowledged the discipline of the tourism sector workers who remained at their posts while Melissa affected their families and homes.