![]() “One of Obama’s policy goals is to inject money into Cuba’s private economy and this can be done through tourism and remittances,” said Richard Feinberg, a Cuba expert and former national security advisor to U.S. The administration has shown virtually no interest in prosecuting Americans for vacationing in Cuba and the tourism industry is preparing for an eventual lifting of the travel ban. Legislation to lift the travel ban appears to be blocked by the Republican majority in Congress, but the lobby in favor of engagement with Cuba believes Obama’s administration will do more to weaken restrictions and perhaps force the Republicans’ hand. ![]() “Hopefully when visitors return home they can say they saw more than beautiful beaches and classic cars hopefully they can say how well-mannered Cubans are.” “Keep voices low, don’t smoke, and don’t litter,” the newscaster said. In a clear sign of the changing times, state television news recently ran a segment informing Cubans of the proper etiquette for vacationing in the same resorts as foreigners. The government’s tourism officials have reported another increase this year, without providing figures.Įxperts say many of those visiting beaches and hotels are able to afford it because they receive money from relatives living abroad, especially in the United States. Since then, the industry has been shocked at how many Cubans check in: 1.2 million permanent Cuban residents last year, up 23 percent from 2013. Until 2008, the Communist government banned Cubans from tourist hotels. ![]() Retiree Madeline Barcelo (C) holds her granddaughter surrounded by relatives at the beach in Varadero, Cuba, August 26, 2015. ![]()
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