Seduced by Cuba
“You get seduced by Cuba, looking forward to coming back”, admitted on Wednesday the Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Taleb Rifai, during the presentations at the 36th International Tourism Fair, held at the Ambassadors Lounge of the Habana Libre Hotel.
During his keynote speech, Mr. Rifai labeled tourism as one of the most important industries for the economies of Cuba and the Caribbean. Likewise, he pointed out that the relation between such industry and culture is a key element to the UNWTO. “The history and culture of a country have to spread out. Tourism is the way to do it.”
“During my stay on the island, I’ve discovered the creativity of the Cuban people. This is the best 11-million-people group I’ve ever met. I love it, as well as the blend of past, present and future shown by Havana”, the Secretary General said.
On the other hand, Mr. Rifai highlighted the need to be more careful in terms of tourism management. “We must take care of sustainability in the sector. We are to help people be aware of it. We can’t forget about innovation and technology. In fact, we have to foster innovative financing methods, with our eyes glued on the future. We’re here today to show that everything can be done.”
