Cuba Confirms Record 3 Million Tourists in 2014

HAVANA, Cuba, Jan 29 (acn) Cuba's efforts to set a record in the arrival of international visitors were finally achieved at the end of 2014 with the arrival of 3 002 745 tourists and a 5.3 percent of growth.

Following the announcement in late December by the Ministry of Tourism, the National Bureau of Statistics and Information (ONEI by its Spanish acronym) confirmed the expected figure in its latest report on the sector.

Based on data from the Bureau of Immigration and Foreigners the report also shows that Canada continues as the undisputed leader among the countries with the highest arrivals globally, with 1 175 077 passengers and an increase of 6.3 percent compared to 2013.

Statistics show that the North American country is followed by Germany, England, Italy and France, all with notable increases in arrivals, except the English nation, which declined by nearly 17 percent.

On that particular issue, some officials predicted the decline in the flow of British vacationers, after the departure of their main tour operator from the island.

The report also highlights the rise of non-traditional markets like China, with 28 239 passengers and an increase of more than 27 percent; trend that will continue this year with the start of direct flights between Beijing and Havana.

Another nontraditional market that excelled was Venezuela, with more than 70 percent increase.

The document includes among its data of interest that 8 085 foreigners came to the Island on cruisers, mode which greatly revives its activities, despite the limitations caused by the blockade imposed by the Government of the United States.

In fact, the current cruise season promises to be one of the most dynamic in recent years, as 212 stopovers of 13 ships are confirmed until April 10, according to Norberto Perez, CEO of Aries Transporte SA.

ONEI´s report also reflects that for fourth consecutive year it is maintained an upward trend in visitor arrivals to Cuba, destination determined to boost tourism flows and thus increasing revenues for the country.

The news transcends when foreign press agencies also confirm the interest of several US airlines such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and JetBlue Airways to establish flight operations in Cuban as soon as legally permitted.